Middlebury Bee January 2017

“Welcome, winter. Your late dawns and chilled breath make me lazy, but I love you nonetheless.” ~ Terri Guillemets

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Volume XIII, No. 1

January 2017

P&Z approves car wash

By TERRENCE S. MCAULIFFE The Middlebury Planning and Zoning Commission (P&Z) at its Dec.1 meeting approved a car wash on Straits Turnpike and a sign for the new Alltown gas station on Middlebury Road. It also continued a hearing for revisions to the Senior Residential District regulations.

The commission unanimously approved permits for a new car wash to be built in front of the existing County Line Wholesale building at 2160 Straits Turnpike. The project had come before the commission in August and had been criticized at public hearings by the Middlebury Land Trust and a car wash owner farther up the road in Watertown.

They expressed concerns about water runoff onto Straits Turnpike (where it would freeze in the winter), stacking of waiting vehicles onto the road, and the lack of a bypass lane for waiting cars to leave. The approved plan addresses those concerns with a turnoff just after the payment kiosk that will allow vehicles to exit onto Straits Turnpike, by longer drying distances and by 20-foot heated concrete pads at the entrance and exit.

The project was proposed by Maxxwell Sunshine LLC and County Line Carriage Inc. as a viable taxpaying business to replace the former Suzuki and Mitsubishi franchises, which owner Patrick Bayliss said were lost due to current economics. It was approved with stipulations for performance and landscaping bonds.

An oversize sign for the new Alltown gas station at 504 Middlebury Road was unanimously approved after members eventually agreed with Attorney Michael McVerry that the proposed 14-foot-by-4-foot sign was a normal size sign for the business.

The size was initially questioned by alternate Jeffrey Grosberg, who said, “Driving by this location, motorists can’t miss that this is a gas station. I don’t think the sign is necessary being bigger. I think it should be according to the regulations.”

Commissioner Paul Babarik disagreed, “I don’t think it’s out of place for the size of the property or the location of the property. It’s just a sign we’re accustomed to see for gas stations of this nature.” Both Babarik and Grosberg complimented the architecture and look of the building, with Babarik saying, “They did such a professional job, and not to have a professional sign would be a disservice.”

In approving the sign, Commissioner William Stowell said, “Once again, this just shows how much we as a commission need to get our sign regulations in order.” Commissioner Matt Robison agreed with Stowell. He said,

“I don’t think our hardships support this (special exception), but because we have such inadequate regulations we’re really between a rock and a hard place on these things.”

In other business, a public hearing to consider a text amendment to address setback consistency issues in the Senior Residential District in Section 24.7.2 of the zoning regulations was continued until Jan. 5, 2017, so the Naugatuck Valley Council of Governments and neighboring towns could comment, as required by state statutes.

Frank Perrella of 25 Edgar Road brought the matter to P&Z’s attention at the October and November meetings when he complained the setbacks were too close. Chairman Terry Smith asked Commissioner Stowell to draft an amendment when Stowell stated, “It was brought to our attention that setbacks were only 20 feet to existing property lines, and I took a look at what was in our other two, Section 22 and Section 23, to get a comparison. Both of those have 50-foot setbacks.” Stowell added, “In Section 24 we also require, even though we only have a 20-foot setback, we require a 30-foot landscape buffer.”

Attorney Michael McVerry spoke on behalf of David Theroux, d/b/a 2455 LLC, owner of the Senior Residential District property in question. He said the 11.6-acre property between Stevens and Regan Road had been approved years ago as a result of a court action, but the 24 units in the plan were not built because of the poor economy.

McVerry used a color-coded map to describe the impact of the proposed amendment, agreeing with the 50-foot buffer to residential properties but not with an increased buffer to commercial properties, which already have a 50-foot buffer and landscaping requirement. “This would be a buffer of a buffer,” he said, pointing out that five of the proposed homes would be eliminated if an increased buffer to commercial property were required.

In public comments, Alice Hallaran of South Street, Richard Mollica of Edgar Road, and Robert Swan of Nutmeg Road spoke in favor of the amendment, and Perrella submitted a petition in favor of it that had 106 signatures, 71 of which were from people living in the adjacent area. Jill Fisher of Regan Road questioned the wetlands and the potential impact on the flood zone on Regan Road and was told by Smith it was a wetlands issue that would require a permit from the Conservation Commission.

The next regular P&Z meeting was to be Thursday, Jan. 5, 2017, at 7:30 p.m. at Shepardson Community Center.

The February 2017 Middlebury Bee-Intelligencer will be out Friday, Feb. 3, 2017 Inside this Issue Puzzles.......................7 Senior News Line.........2 Sports Quiz..................6 Sporting View...............6 To Your Good Health....4 Veterans Post..............5 Winning Ways.............7

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Middlebury Land Trust properties offer winter fun

By JANINE SULLIVAN-WILEY Many favorite activities on Middlebury Land Trust (MLT) properties aren’t really well suited (or even possible) in mid-winter, but other opportunities open up. Through the mid-1900s, ice skating was an integral part of winter on most of the ponds in town.

Skating then often was a group or family activity, with the skaters trying out their figure skating moves or playing hockey. Around the ponds, people built small fires for warmth and served hot chocolate on station wagon tailgates. On Fenn Pond in its heyday, hockey games had hundreds of people watching.

These days, Fenn Pond is rarely crowded, which is good as there are sections where the ice now remains quite thin throughout the winter. After an extended period of cold you might still find hardy souls out there clearing the pond of snow and skating.

While not nearly as well known, Turtle Pond also is a spot favored by some for ice

skating when the weather is just right and the leaves stay out of the way.

Skating at any of these locations is always at your own risk, and you should always make certain the ice is thick and strong enough to bear your weight and that of anyone with you. In case of a fall (ice is slippery!) or mishap, you should always have someone with you in case you need help.

When snow has deeply blanketed the trails on MLT properties, it’s time to break out the cross-country skis and snowshoes.

The rustic ungroomed trails are not heavily used and thus are quiet and peaceful.

While many might think only of cross-country skis for some of the lovely trails, snowshoes are a wonderful way to enjoy the winter landscape as well. They can be tricky to get the hang of at first, (I can testify to that), but they require less financial investment to get started, and can be used in even deep snow virtually anywhere walking is possible.

If you get out while the snow is freshly fallen, it is fun to look for tracks and see which of the area’s small animals have been out and about in winter. The library has quite a few books on animal tracks if you want to learn to tell the difference between a squirrel and a rabbit bounding along. You might even find weasel tracks or those of a fox or coyote.

For both cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, the easily navigated trails in the Juniper Hill Reserve (Sperry Pond) would be good. The trails around Lake Elise are easy to follow, and have fans among the town’s snowshoeing aficionados. The lake under a blanket of snow is beautiful. The trails in the Flanders Whittemore Sanctuary are more extensive, but a good source advises me they also are easy to get lost in when the trails and everything else is snowcovered.

To find the locations of these properties, visit the MLT website, middleburylandtrust. org and look under “Holdings.”

Middlebury Police Department K9 Jay to get body armor

Middlebury’s K9 officer, Jay, shown here with a U.S. flag, will be getting a protective vest. Joyce Errichetti donated funds for the vest.

(Submitted photo)

Middlebury Police Department’s K9, Jay, will receive a bullet and stab protective vest thanks to a charitable donation from nonprofit organization Vested Interest in K9s Inc. K9 Jay’s vest is sponsored by Joyce Errichetti of Middlebury, Conn., and will be embroidered with the sentiment “Thanks for your work.” Delivery is expected within eight to 10 weeks.

Vested Interest in K9s Inc. is a 501c (3) charity in East Taunton, Mass., whose mission is to provide bullet and stab protective vests and other assistance to dogs of law enforcement and related agencies throughout the United States. The nonprofit was established in 2009 to assist law enforcement agencies with this potentially lifesaving body armor for their four-legged K9 officers. Since its inception, Vested Interest in K9s Inc. has provided over 2,100 protective vests in 50 states through private and corporate donations at a cost of over $1.9

million. All vests are custom made in the USA by Armor Express in Central Lake, Mich.

The program is open to dogs actively employed in the U.S. with law enforcement or related agencies who are certified and at least 20 months of age. New K9 graduates, as well as K9s with expired vests, are eligible to participate.

The donation to provide one protective vest for a law-enforcement K9 is $1,050.

Each vest has a value of $1,795 to $2,234, a five-year warranty, and an average weight of 4 to 5 lbs. There are an estimated 30,000 law enforcement K9s throughout the United States. For more information or to learn about volunteer opportunities, please call 508-824-6978. Vested Interest in K9s Inc. provides information, lists events, and accepts tax-deductible donations of any denomination at www.vik9s.org or by mail at P.O. Box 9, East Taunton, MA 02718.

MONday Martin Luther King Jr. Day Jan. 16

Town offices, state offices and post offices will be closed.

Upcoming Events

Adoptable Pets............8 Classifieds...................7 Diversified Tax Tidbits... 4 Here’s a Tip...........................8 It Happened in Middlebury... 5 Obituaries...................5 Paws Corner.................8

Kate Krecker and her dog, Boon, enjoy a snowy walk around Lake Elise. Each winter finds cross country skiers and snowshoers on Middlebury Land Trust properties. Some properties also welcome ice skaters. (Curtiss Clark photo)

Students win fire poster contest Page 2

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Middlebury Senior Center Events

Students win fire poster contest

Refreshments will be served Holiday closing Middlebury Fire Marshal Jack and all are welcome.

The Middlebury Senior Center Proulx announced the winners will be closed Monday, Jan. 16, of the 2016-2017 Annual Fire PreConnecticut Mobile for the Martin Luther King Jr. vention Poster Contest. Cash Food Pantry Day. prizes were donated by the MidThe Connecticut Mobile Food dlebury Volunteer Fire DepartDriver safety program Pantry offers food to anyone who ment (MVFD) and presented to The next AARP Driver Safety needs it. The truck comes to two the winners by Chief Anthony Course will be Monday, Jan. 9, locations near us: First Congre- Bruno in a Dec. 12 awards cerefrom 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the senior gational Church at 40 Deforest mony at MVFD headquarters. center. The course is the nation’s St. in Watertown the first The $125 first-place winners first and largest driver-refresher Wednesday of the month at 2 are Hannah Vitali, a fourth-gradp.m. and the Southbury Senior er at Long Meadow Elementary course.

Drivers who attend the class Center at 561 Main St. S. in School (LMES), and Katherine will receive a completion cer- Southbury the third Friday of the Mombo, a fifth-grader at LMES. tificate and may be entitled to a month at 11 a.m.

The $75 second-place winners discount on automobile insurare Hannah Ali, a fourth-grader Ask a pharmacist ance (contact your insurance at LMES, and Emma Coelho, a company for details).

Matt Carrano, a Middlebury fifth-grader at LMES. AARP membership is not re- resident who is a pharmacist at Students from both Middlequired, and drivers of all ages are Market Basket in Oxford, will bury Elementary and Long invited to attend. The cost to visit the senior center Tuesday, Meadow Elementary schools participate is $15 for AARP mem- Jan. 31, from 10 a.m. to noon and participated in the contest, which bers and $20 for nonmembers. will meet with individuals to dis- yielded a total of 135 participants.

All checks must be made out to cuss health topics such as medThe posters by the fourth- and “AARP.” Call 203-577-4166 to reg- ication safety and compliance. fifth-grade first-place winners ister. from participating towns across Free tax help Connecticut will be submitted Hollywood film and talk Starting Monday, Feb. 6, free for judging at the county level.

Thursday, Jan. 12, from 12:30 income tax assistance will pro- Four winners will be selected to 2:30 p.m., Tom Rosa will show vided at the Middlebury Senior from each county, two from and discuss the movie, “Holiday Center at 1172 Whittemore Road, fourth grade and two from fifth Inn.” Rosa, a retired art teacher, Middlebury, by the AARP Tax grade, and each will receive a is an expert on old Hollywood Aide program for low- to mod- $150 check. movies. erate-income taxpayers of all The county winners will then This 1942 American musical ages, with special attention to become eligible for the state confilm was directed by Mark San- those 60 and older. test. One of the 32 finalists will drich and stars Bing Crosby and Call 203-577-4166 to obtain be selected as the state winner.

Fred Astaire. Music is by Irving additional information or sched- The state winner will receive an Berlin, who wrote 12 songs spe- ule an appointment with a certi- additional $750 check, and their cifically for the film. fied AARP Tax Aide counselor. school will receive a $750 grant.

Jim Hardy (Bing Crosby), Ted The state winner will be anHanover (Fred Astaire), and Lila Commission on Aging nounced in March at an awards Dixon (Virginia Dale) have a muThe Commission on Aging will luncheon attended by the 32 fisical act popular in the New York meet Tuesday, Feb. 21, at 9:30 nalists, their parents, teachers, City nightlife scene. On Christ- a.m. All who are interested are principals and fire marshals. mas Eve, Jim prepares to give his welcome to attend.

The winning poster will be last performance as part of the reproduced and distributed as act before marrying Lila and retiring with her to a farm in Connecticut. At the last minute, Lila Flower and decides she is not ready to stop Garden Show performing, and that she has Join us as we venture to the fallen in love with Ted. She tells Jim that she will stay on as Ted’s Connecticut Convention Center By TERRENCE S. MCAULIFFE dancing partner. While heartbro- in Hartford to enjoy this specThe Middlebury Land Preserken, Jim follows through with his tacular flower show Thursday, plan and bids the act goodbye. Feb. 23. The fee of $20 per person vation and Open Space AcquisiThe film received a 1943 Acad- includes admission and trans- tion Committee (LPOS) at its Dec. emy Award for Best Original Song portation. If you are interested, 7 meeting updated members on (Irving Berlin for “White Christ- call the Middlebury Senior Cen- the year’s accomplishments at mas”), as well as Academy Award ter at 203-577-4166 to reserve Fenn Farm and work still to be nominations for Best Score (Rob- your seat and find out times of done.

Chairman Ray Pietrorazio ert Emmett Dolan) and Best departure and return. noted the resignation of member Original Story (Irving Berlin).

Kris Jacobi and reminded members to call the farm Brookdale Farm now that a sign with that name sits on farm property at the corner of Artillery Road and Charcoal Avenue. The 60-inch-by-30inch sign was installed in August.

Brookdale Farm is the original name of the property commonly When is the last time you referred to as “Fenn Farm” belooked at the bottom of your cause of its ownership by lifetime shoes? If it’s been more than a farm resident Robert Fenn and year, you might be surprised. You his family. could discover uneven wear or Pietrorazio said reroofing of spots that are nearly worn the large historic cow barn is through. Both of those can cause complete as is reroofing of the balance problems and lead to slips or falls. there are shoes Medicare may much smaller corn crib and wagThe fix, however, isn’t as sim- pay for if you have diabetes. If it on shed. He said the original esple as going out to buy another turns out that you need a little timate of $33,743.50 grew to pair of whatever you’re current- arch support, a podiatrist will be $42,460.03 due to change orders ly wearing. If, like some of us, you able to advise you on what will for unforeseen work, explaining some of additional cost was extra haven’t bought new shoes in work best. many years, you’ll be surprised One walking shoe that comes plywood for full coverage of the at how your feet have changed to mind is the New Balance 577. and what’s available now.

It comes in all sizes and three If you have any problems with widths. Not only is it a popular your feet or don’t know what type walking shoe for all ages, but it of shoe to buy, your first step comes with both laces and tab should be to ask your doctor for closures. a referral to a podiatrist. There, When you go to buy shoes, Each of the February book you’ll be examined and have a shop at a regular shoe store club choices has ties to reality shoe type suggested. where trained clerks will know that can be explored in the sugIf you have your doctor or po- how to measure and fit you for gested additional reading. diatrist recommend a shoe type, the right shoe. This is not the The Brown Bag Book Group you’ll know that you’re getting time to try to grab a bargain at a will meet Wednesday, Feb. 1, at something that will help instead big-box store.

1 p.m. to discuss “The Painted (c) 2016 King Features Synd. Inc. of hurt you. At the same time, Girls” by Cathy Marie Buchanan.

This novel revolves around the lives of two sisters living in 1878 Online 24/7 at Paris. The van Goethem sisters find their lives upended by their father’s sudden death. Their

Trip

January 2017

The 2016-2017 Fire Prevention Poster Contest winners, shown with Fire Chief Tony Bruno, are, left to right, Katherine Mombo, Emma Coelho, Bruno, Hannah Vitali, and Hannah Ali. (Submitted photo) Connecticut’s official Year 20162017 Fire Prevention Poster and will be displayed at the state Capitol building during October 2017 (National Fire Prevention Month).

The annual Connecticut Fire Prevention Poster Contest is a cooperative effort of the Bureau of State Fire Marshal, the Connecticut Fire Marshal’s Association, the Connecticut Public Fire Education Association and the Connecticut FAIR Plan. It is an annual event that attracts thousands of students throughout the state. Last year, more than 30,000

students from more than 135 communities participated. The theme for the contest is “Fire Prevention Everyone/Everyday.

Fire continues to be a leading cause of death and injury in the United States. Every 2½ hours, someone is killed in a home fire, and thousands more are injured each year. Children are often victims of residential fires that most often happen at night. Through fire prevention education and community participation, many of these fires can be prevented.

Children are likely to retain a fire safety message. They are a

valuable link in the chain of communication as they take the lesson home and promote fire prevention measures to the family.

It is hoped that fire safety and prevention awareness will be increased through this educational program.

Fire Marshal Proulx and the poster contest committee thank Region 15, the fourth- and fifthgrade principals and teachers, and all the participating students for their enthusiastic artwork and creative thinking in this very important fire prevention awareness program.

LPOS reviews Fenn Farm Matters

Worn shoes can cause problems

roof when only partial coverage was estimated, shimming for nailing surfaces and to eliminate waviness, and replacement of hidden rotted boards.

Other completed farm repairs included excavation and cleaning of a ditch along Artillery Road to protect nearby septic fields, work Pietrorazio said Fenn did in the past but can no longer do due to his bad back. He said the ditches worked well during November rains and Fenn was thankful for it.

In legal matters, Pietrorazio said a revocable license agreement had been signed between the town and the Middlebury Cemetery Association (MCA) allowing grave site preparation and burial vehicles to travel over a 15-foot strip of Fenn farm property, the result of numerous discussions since August 2015 on complaints by Fenn about dumping and debris. Pietrorazio said signs had been posted and he had walked the property with MCA president Brian Dwyer.

In new items, Pietrorazio said wet boards had been observed in the horse barn roof, likely due to wide plank spacing and sagging

shingles, and trim along the cupola also needed repair. He said Fenn requested installation of gutter leaf guards since he no longer can climb a ladder to clean them out.

Regarding weathered siding on the farmhouse where Fenn lives, Pietrorazio said the more they deal with it, the more of a problem it becomes. Repainting was discussed as far back as May 2013, but no decision was made due to the high cost of removing linseed oil from the clapboards before they could be painted.

He said Oct. 5 he would discuss the matter with Middlebury Land Trust (MLT) President Dr. W. Scott Peterson and try to gain his approval for the use of vinyl siding. The house is not on the National Historic Registry but the MLT has a conservation easement on alterations to the house and barns.

Over the last four years the commission discussed the use of the Rhino Shield™ ceramic coating, which could not be guaranteed to adhere, and HardiePlank® cement lap siding, which was deemed too expensive. Consultants from both Benjamin Moore

and Sherman Williams recommended against painting the building because of linseed oil adhesion issues.

Member Ted Mannello suggested replacing all the clapboard Dec. 7, saying, “The house is not that big.” Pietrorazio said, “You’re not going to go through all that work without replacing the windows; they’re hardly functional.”

Member James Crocicchia said, “Who knows what insulation is under there.” Pietrorazio said vinyl could be applied over the existing clapboards, but not the railings and trim. They would have to be scraped down, primed and painted.

Instead of forming a 501(c)(3) non-profit for fund raising, Pietrorazio said he would follow the advice of CPA David Cappelletti, who told commissioners Nov. 2 it would be easier to set up a “Friends of the Farm” trust using the town’s tax number. He said it would require Board of Selectmen approval, and Pietrorazio said he would follow up.

The next regular LPOS meeting was to be Wednesday Jan. 4, 2017, at 6 p.m. at Shepardson Community Center.

Middlebury Library book club picks for February

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mother’s wages disappear into the absinthe bottle, eviction is inevitable and the sisters need to find work.

Marie, the younger sister, is sent to the Paris Opera to work and be trained. The older sister, Antoinette, finds work as an extra in a stage adaptation of Emile Zola’s masterpiece “L’Assommoir.”

Marie throws herself into dance and soon finds herself modeling for Edgar Degas. Antoinette finds

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herself derailed from a dangerous love affair. Paris in 1878 is a time of cultural, artistic and societal change. The sisters learn to navigate these changes and realize their salvation lies within each other.

If you would like to learn more about the artist Edgar Degas check out “Degas: beyond Impressionism” by Richard Kendall.

Degas is considered one of the leading figures in the Impressionism Movement. Kendall looks at Degas’s later works and paints a picture of his last decades. His little-known body of works explores colors, combination of techniques and media and the reexamination of the human figure.

The Mystery Book Group is reading “Guilt by Association” by Marcia Clark for their February discussion Thursday, Feb. 9, at 6 p.m. This is the first book in the Rachel Knight series. Rachel is an intelligent, loyal and witty Los Angeles D. A. Her world is totally disrupted when Jack, her colleague, is found dead at a grue-

some crime scene. She must now take over his hardest case, one that encompasses an assault on a woman from a prominent family. Rachel also cannot stop herself from investigating Jack’s death, which leads her into a world of violence and power and risks not only her reputation, but her life as she seeks to discover the truth about her co-worker’s death.

The author, Marcia Clark, may sound familiar to you as she was the head prosecutor in the O.J. Simpson murder case, which took place in Los Angeles in 1995. Besides writing her fiction books with the character Rachel Knight, she also wrote “Without a Doubt,” a nonfiction work that illuminates Marcia Clark herself as a woman, a prosecutor and a mother. This book takes us into the life, head and heart of Marcia herself as she had to deal with the trial, her family life, and divorce on the public stage.

New members are always welcome in the Brown Bag Book Group and the Mystery Book Group.

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January 2017

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Vineyards may spring up in Middlebury

By MARJORIE NEEDHAM If two Middlebury residents proceed with their plans for wineries here, they will join the Department of Agriculture’s list of 35 licensed wineries already operating in our state. Jon Bosman and Dean Yimoyines both presented preliminary winery plans to the town last year, with Bosman presenting his plans to Middlebury’s Economic and Industrial Development Commission in July 2016 and Yimoyines presenting his plans to the Conservation Commission in November 2016. Meanwhile, another Middlebury resident, Maggie Stocker de Belcher, has been successfully growing wine grapes here since 2012. She, however, has not presented plans for a winery.

Bosman hopes to establish his Connecticut Yankee Winery partly on his own Shadduck Road property and partly on land the old Nichols Road house sits on.

Little has been done with the house since it was saved from demolition in 2011, and Bosman sees his plan as a way to help preserve town history while providing an aesthetically pleasing site for a winery. His plan includes reconstructing up to two barns on the Nichols Road property.

Bosman and his wife own seven acres on Shadduck Road, and he said he has cleared about three acres of his property. He planted a small plot of 100 wine grapes there in 2016 and plans to plant more this year. He said of growing wine grapes, “This is something I have a passion for.”

The Middlebury Land Trust has a conservation easement on most of the 133 acres the Nichols Road house sits on, and that could preclude putting a winery on the property. However, Middlebury

The flourishing grape vines in the background were planted in Middlebury in 2012. They already produce wine grapes in quantities that can be sold to a vintner.

(Submitted photo) Historical Society President Robert Rafford said part of that land is not covered by the easement. It seems at first to be a small amount of property, a circle with a radius 300 feet from the house. But when you calculate the area, Rafford said, you find it is at least 6.50 acres and possibly more. Rafford said the road into the property also is not part of the easement.

Yimoyines’ proposal is for a larger project on property that was once part of the Whittemore estate. The 35-acre tract slopes down to Lake Quassapaug from Tranquility Road.

“Before we bought the property, we had decided to farm it,”

Yimoyines said. “That is the highest and best use of this property.”

A vineyard, however, was not the first thing he thought of when he thought of farming. He considered vegetables, but he wanted the property to be self-sustaining and decided a vegetable farm wouldn’t work. He will grow some vegetables, but they will be to supply the Cafe at Middlebury Consignment with fresh vegetables.

What cemented the idea of a vineyard for him was attending a wedding in a vineyard at Niagaraon-the-Lake in Ontario. “It was so beautiful,” he said. “It just crystallized the idea.”

What will actually go where on the property has not yet been determined. People with various areas of expertise are advising him on how best to lay out the property. Yimoyines said the first order of business is to figure out what is needed for the vineyard.

He plans to start planting root stock in May and hopes to have 5 to 7 acres planted in 2017. He expects those vines to be in full production in five years. At some point, blueberry and elderberry bushes also will be planted on part of the property.

Whether the winery will be open to the public or not hasn’t yet been decided, Yimoyines said.

But he’s sure of one thing. “I intend to restore the property, including the buildings, to make it a beautiful, scenic, bucolic location. We only want to make Middlebury better,” he said.

De Belcher, a master gardener, said she thinks the idea of growing grapes in Middlebury positions it to become a lovely community to visit and to drive through. “I don’t know of anyone who is making wine commercially, but if that happens in the future, it will increase Middlebury’s draw,” she said.

“Interest in coming here translates to spending money here. All our small businesses need our support. I see that as a potential positive income.”

She said of her vines, shown in the accompanying picture, “The grapes are just a pleasure.” She said she planted 300 root stock from a New York state vineyard on two acres in 2012. In 2015, she was able to harvest about 20 percent of her crop and by 2017 she anticipates harvest will be at 60 percent.

De Belcher said she thinks the potential for wine grape growing in Middlebury is very good. She said her soil tested at a very balanced pH. Topsoil in Middlebury ranges in depth from 10 to 18 inches , she said, and grapes send their roots deep.

She said the topsoil on the property where Yimoyines plans to plant his grapes is 18 inches deep. “It’s prime planting acreage over there,” she said.

Noting that grapes historically have been been grown on hillsides with sloping landscapes like the property Yimoyines acquired, she said, “I think it’s a lovely vision to plant a vineyard on that property.

The property would be put to good agricultural use. It would be a good visual plan to see, and it would produce a product.”

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House fire kills one, leaves family homeless Middlebury Police Chief Fran Dabbo said a Dec. 27 house fire at 165 Whittemore Road in Middlebury claimed the life of William Harrison, 65. Middlebury Police and Fire Departments were dispatched after a public works employee who was driving by noticed the house fire and called it in about 2:20 p.m. When emergency services arrived, smoke and fire were coming out of the windows and roof.

Despite the heavy smoke, Middlebury Fire personnel were able to quickly enter the home through a second-floor window. Shortly afterwards, they discovered Harrison’s body on the first floor.

The victim’s body was removed and transported to the medical examiner’s office for autopsy. The medical examiner later ruled smoke inhalation was the cause of death, and the death was accidental.

The duplex home was heavily damaged. The American Red

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Daily Specials • Fresh Homemade Soups Cappuccino/Espresso This boarded-up duplex at 165 Whittemore Road in Middlebury was the scene of a fatal house fire Dec. 27. The man living in the right side of the house died; the family living in the left side was left homeless.

(Marjorie Needham photo) Cross responded to provide shelter for the next-door residents, Anna Weber, her husband, and two grandchildren, ages 15 and 17, who were displaced. The Weber family began a search for a

rental in Middlebury or Southbury so the grandchildren could continue to attend Region 15 schools.

At press time, Middlebury Fire Marshal Jack Proulx said the State Fire Marshal is investigating the

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Proulx said state officials were called in because the fire involved a fatality.

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The Bee-Intelligencer

4

January 2017

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 Writer: Terrence S. McAuliffe Art & Production: Mario J. Recupido - 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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Chronic urticaria can cause non-stop itch DEAR DR. ROACH: For the past year, I have had hives on and off again, with the hives being more prominent in the morning than in the evening. I have been told by a dermatologist that it is a viral infection and that topical creams, antihistamines and/or steroids would only mask the virus – it would still be in my bloodstream.

I get differing diagnoses from various doctors, some saying I shouldn’t go swimming or go outside in the sun, and others saying to go about my normal routines. I just wish I knew the exact cause. I would be grateful for any advice or insight on the topic of hives. – Anon.

ANSWER: “Chronic urticaria” is the medical term for what you are describing, if you have hives most days of the week for six or more weeks. The rash is raised, usually round or ring-shaped, and can vary in size. They tend to be very itchy (you are lucky that way), and each lesion comes and goes within 24 hours.

Chronic urticaria is common, occurs more often in women, and can appear on any part of the body. Sunlight and heat can be triggers for some people, whereas cold is a trigger for others. Diet usually is not a factor in chronic urticaria.

There are many theories, but nobody is sure, so I can’t tell you the exact cause. It probably is not due to viruses. Hepatitis A and hepatitis C have been suggested, but there is conflicting data. We don’t know what causes it, but since the itchiness can be very uncomfortable, even severe in some cases, I think treatment, even though it may “mask” the underlying cause, is still helpful, and antihistamines are the mainstay of treatment. I tend to prefer cetirizine (Zyrtec), since it is effective (both for itchiness

and in helping clear the hives), usually doesn’t cause sedation and is very inexpensive as a generic. It may take two to five years, but chronic urticaria usually does go away eventually.

DEAR DR. ROACH: I haven’t had to shave my legs for a few years, because I never get growth anymore. My doctor said it may be from hormones. I’m 78. Could that be the reason? – C.K. ANSWER: Lack of hair can result from several reasons, including hormonal changes, but also from “poor circulation” – specifically, peripheral artery disease.

Unrecognized peripheral artery disease is important, since it predicts increased risk of heart disease and stroke. A physical exam is sometimes enough to make the diagnosis; however, if your doctor’s suspicion is high, he or she might order a Doppler ultrasound to evaluate the blood flow.

Dr. Roach regrets he is unable to answer individual letters, but he will incorporate them in his column whenever possible.

Readers may email questions to ToYourG o o dHealth@med. cornell.edu. To view and order health pamphlets, visit www. rbmamall.com, or write to P.O. Box 536475, Orlando, FL 328536475. (c) 2016 North America Synd., Inc. All Rights Reserved

Need a raincoat? Check the weather at

www.bee-news.com

In Brief February scholarship deadlines

More information is available at ctreg14.org under Nonnewaug High School 2016-2017 scholarTwo scholarship programs, the ships and criteria.w Middlebury Fund for Middlebury residents and a newly established Life, Love and Friendship Vaszauskas Memorial Scholarship at Federation Fund for students in the NonThe Life, Love and Friendship newaug High School vocationalagricultural program have Febru- group will meet Thursday, Jan. 12 and Thursday, Feb. 16, from 2 to ary application deadlines.

Middlebury Fund scholarships 3 p.m. at Jewish Federation of are available to Middlebury resi- Western Connecticut. Mark your dents who are high school seniors calendars; all area adults are inand will be entering college in the vited to join in on the program, a fall and those already attending fun and educational workshop college. These scholarships are series for individuals who have awarded based on financial need. experienced loss of a significant Applications are available at the other through death or divorce.

This ongoing monthly workMiddlebury Town Hall in the offices of the first selectman and the shop is designed for individuals town clerk, the guidance depart- who have lost a spouse or signifiment at Pomperaug High School, cant other and are looking to or by contacting Committee Co- educate themselves on topics ordinator Ronald Vitarelli at 203- related to enhancing social life 758-1130. The deadline for com- and entering the “dating world.” pleted applications is Feb. 1, 2017. Expect to have fun, laugh and creAustin L. Adams established the ate a network of friends with scholarship in 1942 for worthy whom you can enjoy life. RSVP by and intelligent Middlebury young the Tuesday prior by calling 203267-3177, ext. 340, or emailing people of slender means.

The new Vaszauskas Memo- rsvp@jfed.net. rial Scholarship Fund will award Literacy volunteer two $250 scholarships to vocaorientations tional agricultural students who, among other criteria, intend to Literacy Volunteers of Greater pursue a career in farming or re- Waterbury (LVGW) orientations lated sciences after high school for adults interested in volunteer graduation. Applications for those opportunities in serving adult scholarships must be turned in to literacy learners will be offered at the counseling office at Non- the following locations. Register newaug High School by Feb. 24. for one of the sessions by calling

203-754-1164 or emailing vvowe@ waterburyct.org. Sessions are: Saturday, Jan. 7, 1 to 2:30 p.m. in The Gallery at the Woodbury Public Library at 269 Main St. S. in Woodbury; Monday, Jan. 9, from 10 to 11:30 a.m., at Depot Square, Suite 213, at 51 Depot St. in , Watertown; Tuesday, Jan. 10, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. in the auditorium at Silas Bronson Library at 267 Grand St. in Waterbury; and Wednesday, Jan. 11, from 6 to 7:30 p.m., at Naugatuck Youth Services at 13 Scott St. in Naugatuck.

No teaching experience is necessary, but volunteers must be at least 18 years of age with a high school diploma or equivalent and possess excellent oral and written English skills. Programs offered are English as a Second Language and Basic Literacy instruction with a focus on life and work skills and U.S. citizenship test preparation.

Free meals Master’s Table Community Meals will host a free breakfast and two free dinners this month.

The breakfast will be Saturday, Jan. 14, from 9 to 10 a.m. and the free community dinners will be Sunday, Jan. 8, and Sunday, Jan. 22, from 3:30 to 5 p.m. The meals are served at Assumption Church at 61 N. Cliff St. in Ansonia. For more information, visit www.masterstablemeals.org or call 293732-7792.

Ladies Night Out film S.M.A.R.T., Inc. (Southbury & Middlebury Acting Responsibly Together) and Goodness Gracious Living Nutrition will host a special Ladies’ Night Out event featuring a free screening of the acclaimed body positivity documentary film, EMBRACE, on Tuesday, Jan. 31, from 6 to 8:30 p.m. at the Southbury Firehouse at 461 Main St. S. The film is recommended for girls ages 15 and older.

The film will be followed by a panel discussion featuring Beth Rosen, a registered dietitian and owner of Goodness Gracious Living Nutrition in Southbury, and Cheryl Schwartz, a licensed clinical social worker and nationally certified rehabilitation counselor in Sandy Hook. Refreshments will be served. Reservations are not required.

Rosen said, “January is viewed by many as ‘National Dieting Month’ with the $60 billion diet industry often preying on women’s fears and insecurities. I’ve partnered with S.M.A.R.T. Inc., to bring EMBRACE to our community because there’s no better time for women to candidly discuss and pursue what some view as a radical alternative to dieting – Body Acceptance. Honoring your body’s internal cues rather than diet rules is the best way to support achievable and enduring life-long health goals.”

EIDC recommends tax abatement for crematory

By TERRENCE S. MCAULIFFE The Middlebury Economic and Industrial Development Commission (EIDC) at its Dec. 14 special meeting unanimously recommended a tax abatement for Brookside Memorial LLC, a funeral home and crematory business formed by Raymond and Panagiota (Penny) Albini, who also own the Chase Parkway Memorial funeral home in Waterbury and will continue operating at that location. A town meeting to vote on the abatement along with two previously recommended abatements was held Dec. 19, and all three abatements were approved.

The assessed value of the new building will be $3.2 million according to estimates in the ap-

plication, potentially qualifying it for a 5-year tax abatement of 35 percent the first year and 5 percent less per year in each of the succeeding four years. There also will be $60,000 of taxable furniture and equipment. Actual tax abatement calculations are done by the assessor. Occupancy of the completed building is planned for fall 2017, and the business will create three full-time and four part-time jobs within the first two years of operation, according to the application.

The Albinis purchased the land for the new building, with about five to 10 usable acres fronting on Benson Road, from the Town of Middlebury in June 2015. The town had acquired it in June 2014 from Baker Residen-

tial in lieu of $75,925.07 taxes owed. Zoning regulations were revised in November 2015 to permit funeral homes in the LI-200 zone as a permitted use.

The 8,134-square-foot building was designed by architect Alphonse K. Kuncas Jr. of CK Associates in Waterbury, and structural engineer Joseph L. Calabrese, owner of a company bearing his name in Waterbury, is managing the construction.

The rectangular building has two carports, two parlors, administrative offices, bathrooms and a crematorium. Parking for 100 cars is included, as is space for a possible 2,000-square-foot expansion.

Calabrese told EIDC members during an April 26 architectural

review of the building that Connecticut field stones or New England mosaic stone, as used on the Moore, O’Brien and Foti building on Straits Turnpike, would be used in pillars and columns. Two copper-topped cupolas will follow the theme of the cupola on the Middlebury Historical Society building. A crematory garden for onsite burial is planned for four or five years in the future, Calabrese said, and will be designed by a landscape firm familiar with such designs.

The Dec. 27 regular meeting was canceled due to lack of new business. The next regular EIDC meeting will be Tuesday, Jan. 24, at 6:30 p.m. at the Town Hall Conference Room.

Medical expenses and your taxes Trust & Dignity

As we start the new year, and with tax return season rapidly approaching, this might be a good time to address medical expenses and your tax return.

First of all, many people do not get any tax benefit from medical expenses due to the calculation thresholds that need to be overcome. The first one is that you only get a tax deduction for medical expenses to the extent your out-of-pocket medical costs exceed 10 percent of your adjusted gross income. (The 10 percent threshold is reduced to 7.5 percent if you are 65 or older).

The second threshold, even if the first test is met, is that you need to be itemizing deductions on your tax returns (versus taking the standard deduction).

Also, it is important to note that if you are already getting a tax benefit for any medical costs

Diversified Tax Tidbits

By MARK A. BURNS

(e.g., pre-tax payroll deductions or paying medical costs out of a tax-favored HSA or FSA account), then you cannot “double dip” and also take a tax deduction on your tax return for those same costs.

Finally, in certain cases, your tax deduction for medical expenses may be limited by the alternative minimum tax calculation or, if your income exceeds certain levels, then your overall itemized deductions (including medical expenses) may be reduced accordingly.

So what types of medical expenses may be tax deductible?

Generally all “normal” medical expenses for you, your spouse and your dependents qualify. This includes payments for doctors, hospitals, lab fees, drugs (assuming they are doctor-prescribed and purchased in the U.S.), medical equipment and supplies, transportation (including car mileage) to obtain medical care, dental care, eye care (including glasses or contacts), hearing aids and batteries, premiums for health and “qualified” long-term care insurance (with some dollar limitations), and nursing care (including in-home care).

The following expenses are not deductible as medical expenses: funeral expenses (but may be deductible for estate tax purposes), health club dues (unless related to a specific medical condition), over-the-counter vitamins and supplements (un-

less recommended by a medical practitioner for a physiciandiagnosed medical condition) and teeth whitening (even when performed by a dentist).

Medical expenses are tax deductible in the year they are paid, regardless of when they were incurred, and if you pay with a credit card, the expense is considered paid when it is charged on the credit card, not when the credit card is actually paid. So if you are going to be eligible for a tax deduction for medical expenses in some years, but not others, you may be able to maximize your tax benefits by managing the timing of your payments.

Mark A. Burns, M.B.A., is a C.P.A. with Diversified Financial Solutions PC in Southbury. He can be reached at 203-264-3131 or Mark@DFSPC.biz.

The Bee-Intelligencer

January 2017

It Happened in Middlebury

Obituaries Eric Thomas DeAngelis Musician and teacher

Eric Thomas DeAngelis, 24, of Middlebury died Dec. 4, 2016, after a difficult struggle with the disease of addiction, for which he was receiving treatment.

Eric was born on March 17, 1992, in Waterbury, Conn., and was raised in Middlebury, Conn. He was a graduate of Pomperaug High School (PHS), class of 2010. He studied music theory at Yale University during his senior year of high school, attended New York University (NYU) and graduated cum laude with a bachelor’s degree in music education from Western Connecticut State University (WCSU) in Danbury, class of 2014. Eric was honored to work as a music teacher and bandleader at Holy Cross High School from 2014 to 2016. Music was Eric’s passion.

He loved being part of the Litchfield Jazz Program, first as a camper and later as a member of the staff.

Eric was an accomplished jazz saxophonist. He enjoyed a wonderfully diverse musical career, playing venues in New York City; Florence, Italy; and across his home state. He was a proud member of the Connecticut-based band, Mid Atlantic Title.

Eric also was privileged to have studied under many jazz greats, including Jimmy Greene, Andrew Beals, Claire Daly, Albert Rivera, Andrew Hadro, Mario Pavone, Avery Sharpe, Matt Wilson, Gary Smulyan and Ralph Lalama.

Many of his educators had a strong influence on Eric’s music and teaching career, including Robert D’Angelo of PHS, Dr. Dan Goble of WCSU, Professor Michael Breaux of NYU, and Dr. Cory Ganschow of WCSU. When Dr. Ganschow asked Eric what he wanted his legacy to be, Eric wrote, “I want to be a man that my students will remember for making people feel something.” Eric’s legacy will live on in those he taught and those with whom he had the privilege to play.

In addition to music, Eric loved to travel with his family, hike, ski, camp and read. He also was involved in theater, first earning lead roles in his community theater and later as a musician in various orchestra pits.

He was especially proud to have climbed all 48 of the 4,000-footers in the White Mountains. Many fond memories were made hiking alongside his father, sister and the Dwyer family of Middlebury.

Eric is survived by his loving parents, Thomas and Patricia DeAngelis of Middlebury; his cherished sister Eve; his beloved maternal grandmother, Eleanor Cappello of Middlebury; and his beloved paternal grandfather, Armand DeAngelis of Waterbury. He was predeceased by his maternal grandfather, John S. Cappello and his paternal grandmother, Elizabeth Seiser DeAngelis.

He also is survived by his aunt, uncles and cousins: Theresa and Richard O’Connor; Jon, Lauren and Eleanor Elizabeth O’Connor; Ryan O’Connor; Kathryn and Garret Pollard; John Cappello; Christen Cappello; Julianne Cappello; Mark, Marie, Allie, Claire and Ted Mitchell; Diane, Jesse, and Jessica Ortega; Maria, Eddie and Isaac Civitello; Armand, Susan, Sarah and Michael DeAngelis; and countless friends who have generously shared fond memories of a humble, caring and extraordinarily talented young man who accomplished much during his lifetime. He will be remembered, celebrated, and deeply missed by all who were privileged to know and love him.

A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated Dec. 10, at St. John of the Cross Church in Middlebury, Conn.

Burial was to be private and at the convenience of the family.

His family requested that, in lieu of flowers, donations be sent to either Ana Márquez-Greene Music Scholarship Fund, c/o Western Connecticut State University Foundation Inc., 181 White St., Danbury, CT 06810 or Litchfield Jazz Camp Scholarship, c/o Litchfield Performing Arts Inc., P.O. Box 69, Litchfield, CT 06759.

For more information or to send e-condolences, visit www.chaseparkwaymemorial.com.

William E. Harrison William E. Harrison, 65, of Middlebury died Dec. 27, 2016.

Bill was born on April 14, 1951, in Springfield, Mass., a son of the late Robert and Elizabeth (Schiller) Harrison. Bill grew up in Naugatuck, where he attended local schools and graduated from Naugatuck High School.

He loved his family, neighbors and friends. Bill loved living in Middlebury and he enjoyed working many years for the Waterbury Republican-American. Bill was a good athlete, he enjoyed being outdoors, and he loved oldies music and swimming.

Bill is survived by his son, William E. Harrison Jr. of Oakville; his daughter, Kristy Macchiaroli of Torrington;

5

his sister, Karen Harrison of Bethlehem; his brothers, Robert Harrison of Middlebury, Steven Harrison of Lisbon and Raymond Harrison of Waterbury; his niece, Jessica; and his nephews, Mark and Brian.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Saturday, Jan. 7, 2017, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Francis of Assisi Church at 318 Church St. in Naugatuck. Everyone attending is asked to meet at the church. Burial will follow in St. James Cemetery in Naugatuck.

There are no calling hours. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Buckmiller Thurston Mengacci Funeral Home at 82 Fairview Ave. in Naugatuck. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Francis of Assisi Church, 318 Church St., Naugatuck, CT 06770. To leave an online condolence, please visit www.buckmillerthurstonmengacci.com.

Raymond J. Kasidas Sr. Loving husband, father and grandfather

Mr. Raymond J. Kasidas Sr., 79, of Watertown, passed away peacefully Tuesday, Nov. 29, 2016. He was the beloved husband of Marlene C. (Charette) Kasidas, who passed away April 7, 2016.

Ray was born on Nov. 22, 1937, in Waterbury, a son of the late Raymond C. and Anna (Paulikonis) Kasidas. He graduated from Sacred Heart High School. He was the founder and owner of Roll Grinding Corporation of Watertown until his retirement in 2007. He was an avid classic car enthusiast and had a vast collection of wrist watches. He loved spending time with his family and loved and adored his grandson.

He is survived by a son, Raymond J. Kasidas Jr. and his wife, Victoria, and a daughter, Kristen Ariola and her husband, Thomas, all of Middlebury; a brother, James Kasidas and his wife, Catherine, of Watertown; a grandson, Dylan Kasidas of Middlebury; several nieces, nephews and cousins; and a host of friends.

Ray’s family would like to sincerely thank Dr. Victor Chang and the staff of the Harold Leever Regional Cancer Center and the entire staff of Waterbury Hospital, especially the emergency department and the 9th floor, for the exceptional care and comfort given to Ray and his family during his illness.

A Mass of Christian Burial with his cremains present was celebrated Dec. 3, 2016, at the Shrine of St. Anne of Mothers.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made in Raymond’s memory to Harold Leever Regional Cancer Center, 1075 Chase Parkway, Waterbury, CT 06708.

For more information or to send e-condolences, visit www. chaseparkwaymemorial.com.

Dr. Bernard F. Oemcke Dr. Bernard F. Oemcke, 86, of Southbury returned to the Lord on Dec. 26 surrounded by his loving wife, Jean, and their children in the comfort of his home.

Born Oct. 31, 1930, he was the son of the late Frederick and Ellen (Lindahl) Oemcke of Naugatuck. While still a baby, he contracted polio, an event that would not only alter but truly shape the direction and outlook of his life. The challenge caused by polio gave him the instincts of a survivor and the drive to help others heal physically and spiritually.

Bernie graduated from Naugatuck High School and received his bachelor’s degree in biochemistry from the University of Connecticut. While working at the Bristol Company on summer break, he met the love of his life, Jean (Poole), and they married in 1954. In 1957, he graduated from the Chiropractic Institute of New York and began a more than 50-year career in holistic treatment and education.

Always striving to further his ability to improve the lives of his patients, he continued his education throughout the rest of his life. He became a Diplomat in Chiropractic Orthopedics in 1974 and a Fellow in the American Chiropractic Orthopedic Association in 1983. He received his degree in homeopathy in 1991 and his doctorate in clinical nutrition in 1992. He was a past state board examiner and a past insurance examiner in chiropractic orthopedics and neurology for the New England Chapter of the American Chiropractic Association, and a former member of the board of examiners for the Connecticut Chiropractic Association. He was licensed in acupuncture and applied kinesiology, and, later in his career, he attained his degree in veterinary orthopedic manipulation.

But Bernie’s greatest love was his family and the time spent with them at their home and pond in Middlebury, as well as his Cape Cod getaway. He was an avid fisherman, hunter and beach lover, and truly believed that Halloween should be a national holiday! His twinkling

blue eyes and ready smile are cherished and will be missed by many.

Aside from his beloved wife of 62 years, Bernie is survived by his children, Patricia (John) Rowland of Middlebury; Gail Sluis of Brewster, Mass.; Cheryl Summa of Burlington, Vt.; and Dr. Glen (Kathleen) Oemcke of Southbury. He also leaves his adoring grandchildren, Scott (Alex) Largay, Julian Summa, and Evan, Jason, Lauren, Katelyn, Meghan, Ellen and Ryan Oemcke, as well as his step-grandchildren, Julianne Rowland, RJ Rowland and Kirsten (Matt) Velezis. He was predeceased by a son, Brian; his grandson, Ryan Largay; his son-in-law, Brian Sluis; and his sisters, Althea Brennan and Louise Giner.

A Mass of Christian Burial celebrating his life of love and faith was St. John of the Cross Catholic Church was dedicated in 1914. It was founded by the Rev. John J. Loftus.

(Middlebury Historical Society photos) held Dec. 30 at St. John of the Cross Church in Middlebury. Contributions can be made to the Greater Waterbury Campership Fund, P.O. Box 2090, Waterbury, CT 06722. To leave an online condolence, please visit www.buckmillerthurstonmengacci.com.

Middlebury’s religious institutions – Part 2 of 2

Donald E. Regan Mr. Donald E. Regan passed away Wednesday, Dec. 28, at his home in Oxford, Conn. He was born in Waterbury on July 14, 1934, a son of the late John J. and Ola M. Regan. He attended local schools and graduated from Crosby High School, Class of 1952. He served four years in the U.S.A.F. as a Medical Corpsman.

Upon discharge, he attended and graduated in 1964 from the Paier College of Art in Hamden, Conn. He worked for AMF Cuno for six years and obtained the position of national sales manager. In 1970, he founded Don Regan Sales Corp. as a manufacturer’s representative for plumbing and heating supplies. He operated the company until semiretirement in 2003, when it merged with Davenport Associates of Wallingford.

Don was a member of the Waterbury Elks and the Middlebury Lion’s Club for 30-plus years. He served as Lion’s Club president from 20112016. He loved baseball. He coached the Middlebury Sandy Koufax team for seven years, including the 1987 team that won the state championship and advanced to regional competitions in New Jersey.

His love and enthusiasm for the sport of downhill skiing lead him to teaching and coaching as a member of P.S.I.A. (Professional Ski Instructors of America) for over 36 years.

He taught at Mount Southington in Southington, Conn.; Mohawk Mountain in Cornwall. Conn.; and Okemo Mountain in Ludlow, Vt. He was a charter member of the PSIA Children’s Committee.

He also practiced martial arts, achieving a 2nd-degree black belt in Tae Kwon Do. Don was a member of the Watertown Golf Club, Okemo Valley Golf Club and recently a member at Oxford Greens in Oxford, Conn. In retirement, Don became reacquainted with his skills as an artist. He was a member of the Watertown Art League, Connecticut Society of Portrait Artists, Portrait Institute of America and Lyme Academy.

He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Sandra; his sons, Jonathan Paul and wife, Cara, of Burlington, Conn., and Matthew James and wife, Kristina, of New London, N.H.; as well as his beloved grandchildren, Annika, Carson, and Jack. Also surviving Don are his brothers and sisters: Janice Rice, Barry A. Regan, Joan Brown, Carol Morris, Linda Pranulis, Charles Regan, Marianne Regan, John Regan Jr. and Michael Regan and their wives, husbands, and his nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his sister Shirley Fador.

A memorial service was held Jan. 5 at St. John’s Episcopal Church on the Green in Waterbury.

Memorial contributions in Donald’s name may be made to “Division of Nephrology” and mailed to Boston Children’s Hospital, 300 Longwood Ave. BCH 3038, Boston MA 02115 The Regan family would like to thank Dr. Kurt Sabbath and his staff at the Leever Cancer Center for many years of care, kindness and support. www.berginfuneralhome. com

Obituary Policy Please ask your funeral director to send obituaries and photos to us at beeintelligencer@gmail. For more information, call 203-5776800.

The Bee-Intelligencer runs obituaries and their accompanying photos free of charge. We do this as a community service to honor the deceased and the family and friends who love them.

A. Goss Jr. and his wife, Claire (Leader) Goss, gave 6 acres of land on Tucker Hill Road for the site of From the beginning, citizens living in the part the church. A temporary structure was built and of Waterbury that is now Middlebury were church the dedication was held Nov. 17, 1963, with more goers. Religious societies had a central role in the than 300 in attendance. The Episcopal Bishop of lives of Middleburians at the formation of the the Diocese of Connecticut, The Right Rev. Walter town, and that tradition continues to this day.

H. Gray, officiated with visiting ministers. The In 1907, the cornerstone was laid for St. John of building committee was headed by Harry Wynn. the Cross Roman The first vicar Catholic Church. On was the Rev. F. Nov. 24, 1914, the Newton Howden church, with 20 famand the first fullilies, was dedicated time vicar of St.

by Bishop John J. George’s was the Nilan. The church Rev. Bruce M. Robwas built of native inson. In 1963, The stone brought in by Right Rev. J. Warren wagon loads by Hutchens, Suffrachurch members gan Bishop of Conand friends. The necticut, presided Rev. John J. Loftus, at a ground-breakwho had been the ing for a new, perRoman Catholic manent church priest in Watertown, building. founded the MidA more recent dlebury and Woodreligious institution bury parishes and organized in Midserved as their dlebury is the Matpriest until 1916. He tatuck Unitarian was a selfless man Universalist Sociwho raised chickens ety, begun in 1980. and grew vegetables It now meets in so that he could give St. George’s Episcopal Church is shown here during its Woodbury. them to the poor and construction in the 1960s. It was built on land donated by The most recent unfortunate. religious instituGeorge A. Goss Jr. and his wife, Claire.

On Nov. 4, 1956, tion, Word of Life groundbreaking was celebrated for a new Baptist Family Church, is a non-denominational Christian church on Kelly Road in Middlebury. The church church that shares space with St. George’s Church was originally established in Waterbury in 1892 on Tucker Hill Road each Sunday morning and as the Swedish Baptist Mission. In 1905 the mis- offers a variety of programs for area churchgoers. sion became the Swedish Tabernacle Baptist More detailed information on the religious life Church, but by the 1950s the church was seeking of the Middlebury community is in the pages of a new site because its old church building was too Delia Bronson’s History of Middlebury. Copies small and hidden by the tall buildings around it. may be purchased from the society or at the Town A dedicatory service was held Sept. 17, 1960, Hall or library. A history of St. John of the Cross and the Rev. Maurice C. Lundh announced that Church was written by Dr. Ray Sullivan of Middlemore than 250 people were in attendance. The bury. structure was completed, and the dedication of Bob Rafford is the Middlebury Historical Socithe Middlebury Baptist Church, as it is now named, ety president and Middlebury’s municipal histooccurred Nov. 18, 1962. Carl F. Froelich was the rian. To join or contact the society, visit Middlechairman of the building committee. buryHistoricalSociety.org or call Bob at In 1958, St. George’s Episcopal Church was 203-206-4717. Your membership would be a valuformed in Middlebury. On July 26, 1958, George able addition.

By DR. ROBERT L. RAFFORD

VA podcasts get a thumbs up The Department of Veterans Affairs has launched a weekly podcast titled “This Week at VA” that includes benefit information and interviews with veterans. So far it’s pretty good.

One episode features a blind Navy vet who’s a Paralympic gold medalist. Bradley Snyder is currently the world record holder for the 100-meter freestyle swim event. His description of how he’s adapted to his blind life (he lost his vision in an IED explosion) is inspirational. He’s also written a book, “Fire in My Eyes.”

While a podcast is speech and sound only (no video), check out the picture of this veteran’s most excellent dog. What a beauty.

Another podcast is about Haley Carter, a female Marine veteran and graduate of the Na-

val Academy. She is a former goalkeeper for the Houston women’s soccer team and currently is the assistant coach for the Afghanistan women’s national soccer team. (Try to wrap your mind around that: Afghan women playing soccer?) Carter also talks about claiming the VA benefits she’s entitled to – education, buying a house, health – and what it was like to transition out of the Marine Corps.

Yet another podcast is an interview with the Massachusetts

secretary of veterans’ services, Francisco Urena. He talks about VA benefits, why he joined the military, serving in Syria and Kyrgyzstan, and more.

Granted, you’re not going to hear from veterans who’ve been waiting years for disability benefits or who’ve had their paperwork lost five times, but chances are you’ll get something good out of listening to the stories of these other veterans.

To access the podcasts on your computer, go to www.blogs.va. gov/VAntage and scroll down the list on the right to This Week at VA Podcast. Click that. You also can sign up on iTunes and get weekly updates when a new one is put up. (c) 2016 King Features Synd. Inc.

www.nfda.org

I am an individual, who is part of a family and that is part of our community. I want my funeral to reflect that.

We know the things that are important to the families we serve. After all, they’re the same values that guide our business... family, community, and personal service. To learn more about how we can help you and your family create a meaningful funeral, please contact us.

The Bee-Intelligencer

6

January 2017

Baseball closer time has come Every year, you are given a task. That task is to vote. While some would say the task is an easy one, you know better. For your Hall of Fame vote is all that stands between the chasm that divides the words “mediocre” and “legend.”

Some envy you. You are the baseball writers of America. You possess a talent, an ability that can elevate the mundane to the miraculous. But others despise you. When their heroes are overlooked, when their favorite players whom they watched 162 days and nights each year are deemed to be second rate, it seems to be an arrogant dismissal of what they and most everyone values the most – their time.

Time was when a relief pitcher was considered somebody who couldn’t cut the mustard and make the starting rotation.

Of course, there was also a time when starting rotations consisted of two starters who had 30 complete games every few months and were allowed to openly spit on the baseballs. Those days are over, thankfully, and it’s time for us to evolve further by appreciating the closer role in baseball.

Many of you argue that the closer is a cop-out, a ploy managers use to save their skin more than they save games. After all, there’s not much to think about when you’re in the lead by one to three runs in the ninth and you have a multi-zillion dollar pitcher anxiously awaiting your call to

the bullpen. Maybe the modernday closer deserves some scorn.

Statistics show that teams with a lead in the ninth inning almost always win anyway. People really into statistics have concluded that a top-shelf reliever maybe wins an additional four games for a team. Aha! Right there, that should make the case. They’re worth it because a win is a win.

Many a team has lost the division by four games.

But there’s more to it than that.

Do not mistake brevity for lack of worth. Yes, good starting pitchers eat up more than 200 innings each season, but why should that influence your vote for a closer?

Let’s say you’re a season-ticket holder. You get to see your best starter maybe 15 times each year.

Your closer? You see him whenever you’re about to win – they’re the ones who kept you in the seats, which not only justifies their salary (a team can’t make money off of concessions when you’re gone, after all), it justifies their importance. Trevor Hoffman and Lee Smith, closers unfairly subjected to this closer discrimination, would appear in 70-80 games a season. They were like a warm 98-mph hug.

Think of it like your wife or husband, kids or partner, best mate, what have you. Would you rather see them 15 times a year for two hours a pop, or would you rather see them in 80 electrifying, 20-minute appearances over an extended period of time Questions (five extra years if you’re a lefty)?

1.

Entering 2017, who are the You already know the answer, only three players to have won and that’s why you know it’s time the following awards: a Gold to open up the gates of the Hall Glove, a Silver Slugger and a for the overlooked men who Cy Young? spent their career awaiting a call, 2.

When was the last time before closing the door on their oppo2015 that the Houston Astros nents. Make the call to the pen had two pitchers win at least ... your pen. The closer’s time 17 games apiece? has come.

3.

Who was the first player in Mark Vasto is a veteran sportsNFL history to have 1,000 rewriter who lives in New Jersey. ceiving yards and 1,000 return (c) 2016 King Features Synd., Inc. yards in the same season?

4. Maryland’s Diamond Stone set a school record in 2015 for most points in a game by a freshman men’s basketball player (39). Who had held the mark?

5. NHL legend Gordie Howe was a member of the famed “Production Line” starting in 1947.

Name the two other Hall of Fame members of the original trio.

Can I really afford this every 6. When was the last time before 2016 that Romania failed to month? - Monthly gym fees add medal in women’s gymnastics up, and after any introductory at the Olympics? period is over, the price could jump higher than your budget 7. In 2016, golfer Andrew Landry set a record for the lowest can handle. Do the math before opening-round score (66) at you join, and make sure you can a U.S. Open played at Oakafford the membership. mont (Pa.). Who had held the Did I get it all in writing? record?

Make sure that all verbal promises made by the salesperson are Answers: in writing. What matters is what is contained in the document you sign, and that means any verbal promises. This is extremely important.

Is this location convenient? - If the gym is across town, you’ll be less likely to work out. Choose a fitness club that is close to work or home so the location is not a deterrent to getting exercise.

You can check on a gym or health club’s marketplace satisfaction or complaints, or select from the BBB-Accredited Busi(c) 2016 King Features Synd., Inc. nesses at www.bbb.org/ct.

Connecticut BBB offers tips for losing weight, not money

Understand what you will get before signing a health club or gym contract hundreds of dollars a year, and that can be wasted money if you don’t use your membership. Preliminary statistics from 2015 reveal the number of complaints related to health clubs nationwide was 5,500. Complaints include difficulty canceling a contract, billing and collections.

Some gym plans involve an initiation fee and then subsequent monthly payments. Options can include paying for one year in advance. Other options do not require signing up for an entire year, and if the contract says so, you may be able to pay on a month-to-month basis. As with any contract, instead of signing it on the spot, take it home and make sure you understand it thoroughly. If something isn’t clear, ask questions, such as: What are the terms of any introductory offers? - Just make sure you understand the terms and what the price will be once an introductory period is over.

Are there any discounts? - For example, paying for a year in advance may cost less in the long run, but that discount won’t mean much unless you use your membership. If the gym closes its doors, you also may be out of luck.

What happens if I move? Gyms have any number of different policies when it comes to how moving will affect your membership. It might depend on how far away you’re moving and if they have other locations nearby.

Questions to ask Yourself Am I feeling pressured to join?

- Do not give in to high-pressure sales tactics that encourage you to join right away. A reputable gym will give you enough time to read the contract thoroughly, tour the facilities and offer you a few trial passes to evaluate the condition of the equipment and what sort of crowds to expect at peak hours.

1. Zack Greinke, Orel Hershiser and Fernando Valenzuela.

2. In 2005, Andy Pettitte won 17 games and Roy Oswalt won 20.

3. Antonio Brown of the Pittsburgh Steelers, in 2011.

4. Joe Smith, with 33 points in 1993.

5. Ted Lindsay and Sid Abel.

6. It was 1972.

7. Ben Hogan (1953) and Gary Player (1973) each shot a 67.

CROMWELL, Conn. – Many people who want to lose weight in the New Year consider joining a health club or a gym, making this the peak season for new gym memberships. The Connecticut Better Business Bureau urges consumers to be sure to understand everything in a contract before signing it.

“After eating rich foods during the holiday season, getting into shape is often one of the top resolutions,” Connecticut Better Business Bureau spokesman Howard Schwartz said. “Problems related to a health club memberships can often be the result of not carefully reading the contract.”

Whether you received a gym membership as a gift or purchased one for yourself, the bottom line is to make sure you get the best experience at the best price and lose weight, not money. The average cost of a health club membership can run into

Strengthening Our Network of Care The Greater Waterbury Health Network welcomes the following providers:

Primary Care

Geriatrics and Primary Care

Rheumatology

Mauricio Silva, MD

Riddhi Shah MD

Sharad Kothari, MD

Saloua Mabkhouti, APRN

Tejas Sheth, MD, FACR

Naugatuck

Middlebury

Middlebury

Woodbury

Middlebury

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203-758-8107

203-758-8107

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203-573-7281

Accepting New Patients

The Bee-Intelligencer

January 2017

7

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Classified Advertising Deadline: 5 p.m. Monday Classified Advertising Cost: $10 per insertion, 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 knowSundays year-round 7:30 a.m. ingly accept advertising which is to 2 p.m. Routes 6 and 64 in deceptive, fraudulent, or which Woodbury, Conn. 203-263-6217 might otherwise violate the law For Rent or accepted standards of taste.

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How do you make people feel?

We all regularly interact with other people in both social and work situations. From the moment we first meet someone, a mutual perceptual vacuum is created that we rush to fill. First impressions arise in the “blink of an eye,” during which we quickly form opinions and attitudes about each other. We tend to develop a certain feeling about other people based on how they look, how they act, what they say and how they say it, and they do the same about us, usually without anyone being aware it is happening. These initial feelings change slowly, if at all, and usually set the tone for any future interaction.

It’s almost impossible to anticipate the impact the people we meet can have on our respective lives or that which we can have on theirs. The person you may be meeting for the first time could become a good friend, love interest, business associate, mentor, or partner in some cause. However, there is just no way of really knowing that initially. It makes sense, therefore, that we should regularly strive to generate positive feelings about us in all those with whom we interact.

Since everybody is different, there is no one specific technique we can use to guarantee we make a favorable personal

Winning Ways

By Pat Iannuzzi Insights for Constructive Living

impression on someone. Nevertheless, there is a basic principle we can follow that can help us generate positive personal perceptions about us. It is that people generally like and want to help others who make them feel good about themselves.

Three emotions are considered fundamental to feeling good. They are feeling important, feeling valued, and feeling appreciated. Anything we do to focus on these key desires in people will help make them feel good about themselves and increase the possibility of our developing a positive personal relationship with them.

This doesn’t mean being insincere toward others or saying things simply to flatter them.

Rather, it means paying attention, asking questions and listening to them to uncover their special qualities, talents and circumstances, and then emphasizing these characteristics in an honest, caring and thoughtful manner. It’s easy to focus on our own goals, desires and problems, but there is something genuinely appealing about someone who makes it a priority to ac-

knowledge the needs of the people around them.

Let others know they are important to you by giving them your full attention and demonstrating that you care about them personally. Ask for their opinions about things and listen and reflect thoughtfully on what they have to say.

Let others know they are valued by praising their accomplishments and recognizing their personal contributions. Find ways to highlight and emphasize their talents and personal qualities. Share personal feelings with them.

Let others know they are appreciated by thanking them for the things they do and for just being themselves. Reciprocate by doing things for them in return. Find ways to convey your appreciation for them to others.

“I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” - Maya Angelou How do you make people feel?

Pat Iannuzzi of Symbiont Performance Group, Inc. is a performance consultant, trainer and coach focusing on selling, presentation and interpersonal skills.

He lives in Litchfield and can be reached at 860-283-9963 or piannuzzi@symbiontnet.com.

Golden Technologies

Look forward and backward in January

By JUSTIN GOLDEN The ancient Roman God Janus is depicted as having two faces, one facing forward and the other backward. He looked to the future as well as the past. The month of January is sometimes credited to Janus as it begins the new year while it ends the old.

Some of the notable events that occurred in 2016 in terms of cyber security, e.g., hacking, phishing, and ransomware may provide clues to what 2017 holds in store for us.

The most notable occurrence was the hacked emails of the former chairman of Hillary Clinton’s presidential campaign, John Podesta. He clicked on a link in an email he received from what he believed was a “trusted source.” What followed next was a treasure trove of emails to/from him to political leaders, campaign contributors, media and celebrities were released over the course of the primary and the presidential campaign season with devastating effects.

Hollywood Presbyterian Hospital suffered a ransomware attack that put its patients and their medical data at risk. A staff member was sent what appeared to

be a routine email, possibly an invoice with an attachment. The receiver clicked on the attached file and then it was off to the races. The hacker locked the hospital’s medical records and offered to sell the hospital a “key” to the records for a large sum of money. Eventually, a more “reasonable” amount was agreed upon. The files were made accessible to the hospital after it paid a ransom of $17,000.

In September 2016, Yahoo announced the hacking of over 500 million user accounts in 2014.

They have now disclosed a different attack in 2013 compromised over one billion users. The information stolen included personal data such as names, dates of birth, telephone numbers and passwords.

CNBC’s Harriet Taylor, in a 2015 article on 2016 cyber security threats, said global security strategist Derek Manky predicted hackers would launch increasingly sophisticated attacks on everything from critical infrastructure to medical devices. He said smartphones present the biggest risk category going forward. They are particularly attractive to cyber criminals because of the sheer numbers in

use and multiple vectors of attack, including malicious apps and web browsing.

Employee carelessness is a leading factor in online commerce troubles. Robert Cattanach, a cyber security expert and lawyer at Dorsey and Whitney, said, “Firms should have in place strict policies and procedures about handling data, as well as specific encryption and password rules.”

To reduce your company’s threat landscape, ensure that you have current anti-virus security installed and operational on every device connected to the Internet. Have the latest security patches installed by your computer vendor. Lastly, mandate education and training for you and your employees on the current information security best practices.

While we look forward to what the new year will bring, looking back on the previous year may provide us a view of both possibilities and threats.

Golden Technology Services Inc. assists its clients in improving their cyber security. They can be reached at 972-679-9738 or justin. golden@gtscloud.com.

Online 24/7 at

www.bee-news.com

The Bee-Intelligencer

8

January 2017

Adopt a Rescue Pet

Your pet’s photo could be here

Send in your pet photos Your pet could be featured as “Pet of the Month” 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.

TOMMY This adorable gray male is a neutered domestic short-haired cat who is about 3 years old. He may be slightly shy at first, but he soon comes around. He is a real sweetheart who is mellow, playful at times, and loves company. He may be best in a home with at least one other cat that likes cats. He is affectionate, healthy, and good with cats and dogs.

Please open up your heart and home to Tommy.

RY DELIVAEBLE! AVAIL

HONEY This honey-colored petite female with golden eyes is a spayed short-haired cat who is about 2 years old. She loves to be with people and will follow you around at times. Honey is good with dogs and most other cats. She is in urgent need of a reliable foster home until she is placed, everything provided.

Tommy and Honey are with Pet Protectors. Find an adoption application on the website, www.petprotectorsrescue.org. For more information email contactus@petprotectorsrescue.org.

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DEAR PAW’S CORNER: The other day, I watched a neighbor walk her small Pug on an icy sidewalk in 19-degree weather. Her dog wore a sweater but had no protection for its paws, and it was limping onto the pavement and then off onto the crusted snowpack to find somewhere to “go.”

Even though she was taking her dog out for only a few minutes, the conditions were very uncomfortable and maybe even painful for the dog. Can you tell your readers to be aware of the outdoor conditions and only let their pets out if they’re capable of handling the weather? Not all dogs are the same, and they don’t necessarily “get used to it” when it’s extremely cold or

hot.  Sid P., Lowell, Massachusetts DEAR SID: That is a very good point! Even with a protective sweater or vest and booties, conditions can just be too extreme for your pet. And that definition of “too extreme” can vary for each of your pets. A large dog may handle cold weather much better, for much longer, than a small or even medium-size dog.

How can you tell what a dog can handle? First, some breeds

are known for their tolerance to cold  or lack thereof. A Dachsund has very low tolerance and may quickly get ill, while a Bernese mountain dog thrives in cold, snowy landscapes. Second, each dog has its own level of tolerance regardless of breed. Owners must protect their pets from the cold, observe their behavior when they go out (do they whimper, shiver or limp?) and respond immediately. For small dogs with tiny paws and low cold tolerance, invest in pee pads to use on chilly days.

Send your questions, comments or tips to ask@pawscorner. com. (c) 2016 King Features Synd. Inc.

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