The Berlin Citizen

FITTING TRIBUTE

Berlin High School's “Coach V Court” was dedicated on Dec. 20. The court’s namesake, Mike Veneziano, coached the BHS boys basketball team for more thana decade. “Coach V” passedawayonDec.15,2021. Berlin High School, Facebook

It’s ‘Coach V Court’ now

Citizen report

Going forward, the hardwood floor of Berlin High School's Gibney Gymnasium will be known as “Coach V Court,” named in honor of longtime boys basketball coach Mike Veneziano, who succumbed to cancer on Dec. 15, 2021 at the age of 53.

“Coach V Court” was dedicated on Dec. 20 prior to the start of the boys basketball team's home opener against Conard. Members of Veneziano’s family and players he coached over the years were in attendance.

Veneziano graduated from Berlin High School, and would go on to work at the American Stock Exchange in New York City.

After 9/11, Veneziano returned to his hometown with his wife and two young sons, and became active in the community.

Veneziano took the reins of the BHS boys basketball team in 2009 and navigated the program into the 2021 season.

Rediscover the library in 2023

By Nicole Zappone The Citizen

While many of Kimberly McNally's work duties keep her bound to a desk, the BerlinPeck Memorial Library director loves breaking away and getting to know the people perusing the shelves.

“It's everything to be able to see the patrons, interact with them, and see the humanity happening at the library,” said McNally, who took her post in the summer of 2021. “This is what drove me to this profession to begin with ... I love working with people.”

McNally hopes to see even more people at the library in 2023. If it's been awhile since your last visit, chances are you've missed some things; Berlin-Peck Memorial's offerings extend far beyond books, DVDs and inhouse programs.

For instance, the Library of Things allows patrons to borrow such items as cake pans, movie projectors or board games. And the library has passes available to various state museums, parks and other destinations.

See Library, A11

Cub Scout kits aim to aid first responders

Citizen report

Cub Scout Pack 41 of Berlin collected and redeemed more than 20,000 cans and bottles in 2022 and used the funds to create special kits for local firefighers and police officers.

The kits include items that can assist first responders when dealing with individuals with special needs, including those who may be non-verbal.

See Kits, A10

Veneziano

FRIEND OF TIMBERLIN

Val Asani, an employee at Remzi’s Par for the Course Restaurant, was recently selected to receive the Armen Bayram Friend of Timberlin Award. Created in 2018, the award shines a light on individuals who enhance the Timberlin golf experience for others. Asani’s name joins those of previous Friend of Timberlin award-winners on a plaque which hangs in the Pro Shop. In a social media post, Timberlin states: “This year’s recipient was chosen by the previous winners, and if you’ve ever been to Remzi’s Par for the Course Restaurant, then chances are you’ve already crossed paths with Val Asani. One of Timberlin’s great assets, hardest workers and also one of the nicest people you‘ll ever meet, it’s easy to see how Val was a unanimous choice this year.” Pictured, from left: Glen Burr, Tom D’Attillio, Val Asani, Marc Bayram, Pete DeFazioandGerryParadis.

In Brief

Tree disposal

Fresh cut Christmas trees will be collected curbside on, or near, residents' regular trash collection day the week of Jan. 16. Christmas trees must be free of wrapping and placed at least six feet from automated collection carts. Also, Christmas trees are accepted at the Town Recycling Center on Massirio Drive during normal business hours, Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.; and Saturdays, Jan. 14 and 28, 8 a.m. to noon. Call the Public Works office with tree collection questions, 860-828-7022.

Legion Post 68

American Legion Post 68 has been serving Berlin veterans since 1947. To keep the local Legion going for years to come, Post 68 is looking for active military members,

veterans, and family and friends of veterans to become involved. Pick up an application at the Post home, 154 Porters Pass. For more information, email Post Commander Vin Trigila at v_trig@yahoo.com or send a message to Post 68 via Facebook.

Snow ordinance

Town ordinance states that “an owner of land or buildings fronting on any street or public place ... where there is any sidewalk shall, within 12 hours of daylight, or not to exceed 24 hours of elapsed time immediately following the cessation of a storm of snow ... cause the same to be removed from such sidewalk.” Failure to abide by the ordinance “shall result in a fine after an initial warning.”

Veterans in need

The Berlin Veterans Commission is looking for Berlin veterans and/or their widows who are having trouble paying for heating, medications or food. Contact Peter Galgano at petergalgano@ comcast.net or 860-6047258. All information will be confidential.

Textile recycling

Berlin has partnered with AFAB Recycling LLC, a Connecticut-based textile recycling company. Residents are encouraged to drop off unwanted textiles (clothing and shoes) at the Transfer Station, 19 Town Farm Lane, Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 3 p.m., and Saturday, 8 a.m. to noon.

For more information, call 860-828-7022 or 860-8287069.

Plainville,

Photo by Tim Stilson

Firefighters honor fallen brother

Citizen report

Firefighters from Berlin and Kensington joined fire personnel from across the state in honoring 46-year-old Matthias Wirtz, who died battling a house fire in North Haven the day after Christmas.

On Dec. 27, as Wirtz was transported from North Haven to Farmington, Connecticut first responders stood along the route and saluted.

Firefighters from Berlin and Kensington were stationed on the Beckley Road overpass and on Christian Lane.

Wirtz died Dec. 26 after responding to a multi-alarm blaze that left more than a dozen residents displaced.

Wirtz became distressed while battling the fire at 27 Quinnipiac Ave., the North Haven Police Department said in a statement. He was transported to Yale New Haven Hospital, where he later died.

The state’s chief medical examiner determined that Wirtz, a 22-year veteran of the North Haven Fire Department, died of heart-related problems.

“We ask our community to pray for Wirtz’s family and his extended firefighter family, who are grieving this tragic loss,” North Haven police said. “At a time when family comes together for celebration, our brave firemen are now grieving the loss of one of their own.”

Schools

Registration

Firefighter Matthias Wirtz

Child medicine shortage during spike in illnesses

By Jessica Simms Record-Journal staff

Amid a spike of flu, COVID19, respiratory syncytial virus and other respiratory viruses, a shortage in Children’s Tylenol and other medicines is making it more difficult for parents to take care of their sick children.

“Obviously the shortage comes at the worst possible time, but it really is because there’s just so many individuals that have gotten sick,” said Susan Lonczak, director of health for the PlainvilleSouthington Health District. “There’s just a really big demand.”

Tips during the shortage

If a parent is in a situation where their child is sick, but they can’t find any children’s medication, Lonczak said “there are basic tried and true things that they can do for their kiddos.”

Lonczak said some of those are encouraging rest, having kids drink a lot of fluids, having children take lukewarm baths, wearing cold compresses and being there for sick children, while also watching their symptoms.

“A fever will run its course, but if it continues or spikes

or children are complaining of other symptoms, we encourage obviously calling their pediatrician, but a lot of times you can naturally work through a fever with your child,” Lonczak said.

For a homeopathic remedy for coughs, Dr. Lucia Benzoni, a pediatrician with Hartford HealthCare, suggested using two teaspoons of honey with lemon tea.

“That’s a big thing that we use, ” Benzoni said.

Saline nasal spray can help with congestion, along with having a humidifier going by the child’s bed, Benzoni added.

“Use a lot of saline nasal spray, ” Benzoni said.

Health professionals say that parents should not give children adult medication and should give their children’s pediatrician a call if they are struggling with a child’s fever and are looking for an alternative medicine to use.

One medication Benzoni mentioned as a homeopathic fever and pain reducer is Arnica, however, dosage is uncertain. Parents should consult with a pediatrician before using any new medications to ensure dosage and type of medication is correct for their child.

“Children’s medication is very specific to weight and age, ” Lonczak said. “A parent may think that giving half of an adult sized medication might be OK but it’s not

something to play with. If parents are struggling and have concerns, they should just call their pediatrician before opting to do anything that’s not intended for children.”

Kathryn Glendon, public health specialist with the Chesprocott Health District, said now is a good time to go on social media to see if someone may have some children’s medication to spare or know where people can find some.

“There are people that may pick it up for you if they see it,” Glendon said. “Sometimes the stores you don’t think about will have it like Walmart or Aldi’s, Target. So just being in mind of where you shop.”

jsimms@record-journal.com 203-317-2279

Senior Health

Brain health

Presented by a certified dementia specialist from Hartford HealthCare Center for Healthy Aging, the Healthy Brain Series takes place Fridays, Jan. 6, 13, 20 and 27 and Feb. 3 from 10 to 11 a.m. at the Rocky Hill Senior Center, 55 Church St. Participants should select one series and are encouraged to attend all five sessions. Topics include: Session 1: Challenge Your Mind Daily: Activities to Keep Your Mind Sharp; Session 2: Feeding the Brain: The Importance of Diet and Hydration; Session 3: Benefits of a Purposeful Life: Finding Meaningful Engagement as You Age; Session 4: Good Sleep and Brain Power: The Importance of Sleep and Your Brain; and Session 5: The Blue Zones: Lessons for Living Longer from the People Who’ve Lived the Longest. Registration is required. Call 860-258-2786.

GOOD FRIENDS

states: “The Friends, a registered 501(c)3, are raising funds from supporters to be used to match grants and other fund sources. A mutual goal of all three organizations is to restore and adaptively reuse the town-owned building as a local history museum and community cultural center. Preserving historic buildings is a key part of making Berlin a more beautiful place.” For more information about the effort,visit worthingtonmeetinghouse.org. Berlin Historical Society, Facebook

Alert system

In Brief

Rotary Club

Sign up to receive emergency alerts and community notifications at berlinct.gov. Sign-up options include: Emergency Alerts (weatherrelated closings, fire, flood, etc.); Town Updates (nonemergency communications, announcements, elections, etc.); Public Works (construction updates, trash, utilities, etc.); Community Related (Community Center, Senior Center, Parks & Recreation, etc.).

Garden club

Organized in 1955, the Kensington Garden Club operates exclusively on a nonprofit basis for charitable and educational purposes, and for the well-being of the community. The club promotes civic beauty, encourages improvement of public spaces, raises awareness of environmental concerns and advances the art of floral design and horticulture. New members are welcome. Contact the group via kensingtongardenclub.net or Facebook.

The Rotary Club of Kensington-Berlin meets the second and fourth Wednesdays of the month at Sliders Bar & Grill, 197 Episcopal Road. For more information about the club, contact John Roman (jcroman2012@ aol.com) or Elaine Pavasaris (elaine@homesweethoemct.com).

Nzinga Center

The Queen Ann Nzinga Center, Inc., which provides arts enrichment activities for children age 5 to 17, is accepting new participants. The center promotes positive youth development among children of all races and abilities primarily in the greater Plainville, Berlin, Bristol and New Britain area. Visit QANC.org.

Recovery initiative

In response to the national opioid epidemic, the Central Connecticut Health District, serving the towns of Berlin, Newington, Rocky Hill and Wethersfield, debuted its “How Can We Help?” initiative. The campaign employs a dual approach, seeking to assist both individuals suffering from opioid use disorder and family/friends of loved ones suffering from opioid use disorder. For more information, visit ccthd.org.

Kensington Garden Club representatives Paula Archacki and Debbi Wright visited the Berlin Historical Society Museum in December to present a check for $500 to Lorraine Stub of the Friends of Worthington Meeting House. In a social media post, the Berlin Historical Society

Obituaries

Evelyn A. Timko Evelyn A. Timko

KENSINGTON- It is with profound sadness and unbearable loss that we announce the passing of Evelyn Timko, most beloved Mother of Caroline Timko Van Austin who entered into eternal peace on Saturday, December 17, in the loving and caring arms of her daughter after a brief illness.

KENSINGTON -It iswith profoundsadness andunbearableloss thatweannouncethepassingofEvelyn Timko, most beloved Mother of Caroline Timko Van Austin who entered into eternal peace on Saturday, December 17, in the loving and caring arms of herdaughterafterabriefillness.

EvelynwasborninKensington, CT, where she resided. She was the daughter ofthe lateLouis andLetitia(Pola)Garloneof Kensington. She was also predeceased by her beloved brother Daniel Garlone and former husbandEdwardTimko.

Evelyn was born in Kensington, CT, where she resided. She was the daughter of the late Louis and Letitia (Pola) Garlone of Kensington. She was also predeceased by her beloved brother Daniel Garlone and former husband Edward Timko.

Evelyn attended Hartford andBerlin schoolsand graduated fromBerlin High School. She laterspent a year with her family in California where she had the opportunity to workas an artist for Disney Studios. After moving backto Connecticut withher family, Evelynworked asasecretary for many companies including Morley,Watson, and Baldwin of Hartford, Magson Uniforms, and The NewBritainHerald.

Evelyn attended Hartford and Berlin schools and graduated from Berlin High School. She later spent a year with her family in California where she had the opportunity to work as an artist for Disney Studios. After moving back to Connecticut with her family, Evelyn worked as a secretary for many companies including Morley, Watson, and Baldwin of Hartford, Magson Uniforms, and The New Britain Herald.

Evelynwas adevoted Mother toher onlychild Caroline and froma very early age introducedher to theworldofdanceandtheater. Togetherthey attended countless shows from NYC toLas Vegasand so many localproductions at The Oakdale Tent, The Bushnell, Hartford Stage,

Evelyn was a devoted Mother to her only child Caroline and from a very early age introduced her to the world of dance and theater. Together they attended countless shows from NYC to Las Vegas and so many local productions at The Oakdale Tent, The Bushnell, Hartford Stage, Shubert Theater, Palace Theater, and Goodspeed.

Stress reduction

Evelyn brought Caroline to many dance schools across New England and NYC seizing every opportunity to enrich her

Shubert Theater, Palace Theater,andGoodspeed.

child’s dance education and spending entire summers in NYC exploring Broadway, NYC Ballet, and Lincoln Center. They attended many dance classes and dance seminar’s, including and meeting with Gwen Verdon, Ben Vereen, Gene and Fred Kelly, and Chita Rivera. A very special moment in Evelyn’s life was becoming involved with the production of Phantom of The Opera Broadway Original Cast and attending Michael Crawford’s final performance and cast party at Tavern On The Green in NYC. She was also very supportive and proud of her dear cousin Kris at Connecticut Cabaret Theatre.

Evelyn brought Caroline tomany danceschools across New England and NYCseizing everyopportunity to enrich her child’s dance education and spending entiresummers in NYCexploring Broadway, NYC Ballet, and Lincoln Center. They attended manydance classesand dance seminar’s, including andmeeting withGwen Verdon,Ben Vereen,Gene andFred Kelly,andChita Rivera. A very special momentin Evelyn’s life was becominginvolvedwiththe productionof Phantomof TheOperaBroadwayOriginal Cast and attending Michael Crawford’s final performanceand castpartyatTavern OnTheGreen inNYC. Shewas alsovery supportiveand proudof her dearcousin Krisat Connecticut Cabaret Theatre.

In1976EvelynandCaro-

In 1976 Evelyn and Caroline established Caroline’s Dance Center now known as Dance Legacy which continues to be Berlin/Kensington’s premier dance school.

Evelyn was the driving force behind the success of that dance school for well over 45 years, by keeping impeccable records for the business, ordering and embellishment of the many dance costumes,

Wednesday, Jan. 11, from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m., learn more about what stress is, when you are chronically stressed, how physical activity can help reduce your stress and what exercises are best at helping reduce stress. Presented by Christine SoliminiSwift, exercise physiologist, GoodLife Fitness. Registration is required. Call 1-855442-4373 or go to HartfordHealthCare.org/ VirtualClasses.

and constant support and encouragement for countless dance recitals, dance competitions, summer shows and many Nutcracker productions working tirelessly on every aspect of each performance.

line established Caroline’s DanceCenter nowknown as DanceLegacy which continues to be Berlin/ Kensington’s premier danceschool.

Evelyn was the driving forcebehindthesuccessof thatdance schoolforwell over45 years,bykeeping impeccablerecords forthe business,orderingandembellishmentof themany dance costumes, and constant support and encouragement for countless dancerecitals,dancecompetitions, summershows andmany Nutcrackerproductions workingtirelessly on every aspectof each performance.

Evelyn’s most favorite time was spent with her daughter at the seashore, picking shells or watching the sunset at Water’s Edge, Madison Beach, Sanibel Island, Fort Meyers, and Saybrook Point Marina. She also loved history and archaeology and had a great interest in the history of brick making as her Grandfather Enrico Pola was the owner of Pola Brickyard and her father Louis Garlone developed and patented many brick formulas.

Evelyn’s most favorite time was spentwith her daughter atthe seashore, picking shellsor watching thesunsetatWater’sEdge, MadisonBeach,SanibelIsland, FortMeyers, and SaybrookPointMarina.

She also loved history and archaeology and had a great interestin thehistory of brick making as her Grandfather Enrico Pola wasthe ownerofPola Brickyard and her father Louis Garlone developed andpatented manybrick formulas.

Evelyn alsohad avery deepand purefaithand wisdomwhich carriedher through herfinal dayswith her lovingdaughter byher sideateverymoment.

Evelyn also had a very deep and pure faith and wisdom which carried her through her final days with her loving daughter by her side at every moment. She leaves to mourn, her daughter Caroline and her partner Wayne Wright, Sr. Step Grand Children Tammy and husband Greg DeWolf, Wayne Wright, Jr. and wife Melyssa, and Step Great-Grandson Anthony. Her close and very special loving cousin Rita Alexandria who was in hourly contact with her and has been truly devoted to our family.

She leavesto mourn,her daughter Caroline and her partner WayneWright, Sr. Step Grand Children Tam-

Her loving niece Marianne Blanchard, and husband Dave, great niece Cheryl and her children Serenity, Sophia, Daniel, Richard, and much loved great nephew, Christopher. We thank Marianne for her support and medical guidance. Evelyn also leaves behind our adorable dear kitty cat, Asia.

my andhusband GregDeWolf,WayneWright,Jr.and wifeMelyssa, andStep Great-Grandson Anthony. Her closeand veryspecial lovingcousin RitaAlexandriawhowasinhourlycontact withher andhas been trulydevotedtoourfamily.

Herloving nieceMarianne Blanchard, and husband Dave, great niece Cheryland herchildren Serenity, Sophia, Daniel, Richard,and muchloved great nephew,Christopher. We thankMarianne forher support and medical guidance.

Evelyn also leaves behindouradorabledearkitty cat,Asia.

Evelyn alsoleaves to mournher veryspecial cousinsLiz andJerryPatria,andSisterinLawJackieTimko, anda largeand extended family of many wonderful nieces, nephews, cousins,friends, neighbors,anddancefamiliesthat meantsovery muchto her.Shealso leaves tomourn hervery dear friend Maria Pennell whose loveand support wereinvaluable.

Our heartsare trulybrokenandwe willmissher

Evelyn also leaves to mourn her very special cousins Liz and Jerry Patria, and Sister in Law Jackie Timko, and a large and extended family of many wonderful nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, neighbors, and dance families that meant so very much to her. She also leaves to mourn her very dear friend Maria Pennell whose love and support were invaluable. Our hearts are truly broken and we will miss her dearly. We shall always remember Evelyn for her dedication, encouragement, wisdom, kindness, and compassion and most of all her beautiful smile etched forever in our memory. We will also always remember her with fondness as a loving, gentle and truly beautiful and amazing Mother and mentor. We have so many beautiful memories to treasure and we will keep her in our hearts forever. We would like to thank the local Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses who lovingly remind us that

dearly.We shallalwaysremember Evelynfor her dedication, en co ur ag e ment,wisdom,kindness, and compassionand most of all herbeautiful smile etched forever in our memory. Wewill alsoalways rememberher withfondness asaloving,gentleandtruly beautiful andamazing Motherand mentor.We haveso manybeautiful memories totreasure and wewillkeep herinour heartsforever.

We would like to thank the local Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses who lovingly remind usthat we will see dear, sweet Evelyn again.

TillthenMama,Iloveyou forever.....Youare trulyand havealways been “The WindBeneathMyWings”

To leave online expressionsof sympathyorshare amemory pleasevisit www.ericksonhansen.com.

There willbe nocalling hoursandburial willbeprivate accordingto thewishesof ourbelovedMother, Evelyn.

Arrangements areentrusted toThe EricksonHansenFuneralHome.

we will see dear, sweet Evelyn again. Till then Mama, I love you forever.....You are truly and have always been “The Wind Beneath My Wings” To leave online expressions of sympathy or share a memory please visit www. ericksonhansen.com. There will be no calling hours and burial will be private according to the wishes of our beloved Mother, Evelyn.

Arrangements are entrusted to The Erickson-Hansen Funeral Home.

Obituaries

Zuder, Jr.

BERLIN- Andrew “Andy” Zuder, Jr., 78, of Berlin, CT, passed away peacefully on December 6, 2022, the same day as his beloved wife Angie, one year apart. He passed in Surprise, AZ, with Doree, Sean, Lina, and grand-dog, Dililah, the French Bulldog.

Andy was born on November 21, 1944, in Hartford, CT, to the late Andrew and Ann (Segetti) Zuder.

Andy graduated and attended school at Weaver High School in Hartford, CT, before moving to Berlin, CT, in 1969 and meeting his late spouse Angie (Balfore) Zuder. They made their home in Berlin, CT and started their family.

Andy was a veteran having served in the U.S. Coast Guard. He retired from Kellogg’s Company as a territory manager. He was a member of St. Paul’s Catholic Church and the Italian Political Club of Berlin.

Andy was known for his witty sense of humor. He loved to play bocce and travel in his RV. During his many travels, he was able to experience numerous locations and made many friends along the way. He had a great love for the state of Arizona, including the bright sunshine, being outdoors, and seeing the Airforce fighter jets fly over his daughter’s house. He also enjoyed his summer trips down to the beach with his camping family. When not traveling, Andy

enjoyed many fantastic meals that his son prepared. It was an annual tradition to have Sunday Supper as a family prepared by Sean. He thoroughly enjoyed being retired and spending time with his wife, family, and friends.

Andy is survived by his children, Doree Saint Onge of El Mirage, AZ, and Sean Zuder of Berlin, CT; grandchildren Lina of El Mirage, AZ and Maisey of Berlin, CT; his beloved dog, Max; and many cousins, nephews, and nieces.

Andy was predeceased by his parents, his two sisters, Barbara and Marjorie, and the love of his life, Angie.

Andy’s family would like to express deep gratitude to the Hospice of the Valley Staff in Surprise, AZ, for their wonderful care provided. They are truly angels and took phenomenal care of our Pops.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, January 7, 2023, at 10:00 A.M. at St. Paul’s Church, Berlin, CT. Burial will follow at St. Mary Cemetery, New Britain, CT. Visitation will be held at EricksonHansen Funeral Home, 111 Chamberlain Hwy., Berlin, CT, from 9:00-9:30 A.M. In lieu of flowers, please donate to Hospice of the Valley, Arizona at www.hov.org

Please share a memory of Andy with the family in the online guestbook at www. ericksonhansenberlin.com

Senior Health

The Orchards

The Orchards at Southington, an independent and assisted living community located at 34 Hobart St., will host an open house Wednesday, Jan. 11, from 4 to 7 p.m. Registration is recommended. To reserve a time, call 860-628-5656.

Finding new purpose

Friday, Jan. 20, from 11 a.m. to noon, learn to live an active and engaging life as we age. Registration is required. Call 1-855-442-4373 or go to HartfordHealthCare.org/VirtualClasses.

Andrew

Repair Services • Hot Water Heaters Heating Systems • Gas Fireplaces & Piping Home Improvement & Remodeling Drain & Sewer Cleaning 860-948-0510 P.O. Box 311231 • Newington, CT 204827-P1 • 5155-SM1 • 39764-S3 • HIC #0625232

R256970 R255304

SUDOKU R255305

”Our officers have all recently attended training in this area, which included how to utilize the same items that were donated in these kits,” the Berlin Police Department stated on social media.

“A challenge coin was presented to the Cub Scout Leader, Amy Peyton, and the Pack 41 Cub Scouts for their hard work and generosity The Berlin Police Department thanks you for your service.”

Pack 41 also donated kits to the Southington Police Department and the Newington Fire Department.

Kits List Your Items To Over 300,000 Local Readers.

Pack 41 of Berlin is pictured with some of the kits it compiled for local fire and police departments.

Photos by Nicole Zappone, The Citizen

Children’s fund

The Berlin Children’s Fund, managed by community volunteers in conjunction with the Department of Social and Youth Services, provides financial assistance to local families that cannot afford the full cost of a two-week camping experience. Donations may be sent to: The Berlin Children’s Fund, Berlin Town Hall, 240 Kensington Road, Room 12, Kensington, CT 06037.

Off-leash zone

The fenced-in area at Pistol Creek, as designated by the Town Council on July 26 as a leash-free area for dogs, is open. The area is approximately 50,000 square feet, in the middle of the fairway, right in front of the handicap parking lot off Spruce Brook Road. Animal Control officers will issue Written Warnings to individuals who do not have their dogs on leashes on public property.

Annual honor

The Robert B. Dornfried Sr. Lifetime Volunteerism Award is bestowed upon a Berlin resident "who is dedicated to a lifetime of community volunteerism, civic duty and extraordinary service." Visit berlinvolunteerfund.com.

Wall of Honor

The Berlin Veterans Commission’s “Veterans Digital Wall of Honor,” located in the main lobby rotunda of Town Hall, is dedicated to “All Who Proudly Served and Sacrificed to Protect Our Country.”

Berlin residents and their immediate family, past and present, who have served or are currently serving in the United States military can be put up on the wall.

Contact Peter Galgano at petergalgano@comcast.net or 860-604-7258.

Library

From A1

Library visitors can charge their tablets and phones at solar tables, and check out items on their smart devices using MeScan technology.

“This has been a very nice addition,” McNally said of MeScan, which allows library patrons to bypass the check-out line.

Meanwhile, on the library’s website, you can receive a personalized list of reading recommendations using the MyLibrarian feature. Also, library cardholders can borrow ebooks and audiobooks, download magazines, or learn a new language.

“The library is an amazing asset in town," Berlin Economic Development Director Chris Edge said.

Berlin-Peck Memorial Library, 234 Kensington Road, is open Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Berlin-Peck Memorial Library Director Kim McNally, center, is pictured with Carrie Tyszka, head of Adult Services, left, and Jennifer Needham, head of Children’s andTeenServices. Nicole Zappone, The Citizen

Preschool screening scheduled

The Berlin Public School System is pleased to announce a town-wide preschool screening. Residents between the age of 3 and 4 years, 8 months by April 1 are eligible to participate.

The Preschool Round-up will take place at the Com-

munity Center on Kensington Road Friday, March 24, 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., and Saturday, March 25, 8:30 a.m. to noon.

We will screen in the areas of language, motor and social skills and provide you with information about your child's development, strengths and weaknesses. The screening will also assist the school district to identify children who may be in need of additional evaluation.

The town-wide preschool screening will serve as part of Berlin's CHILD FIND, a federally-mandated activity that seeks to identify children with physical, mental and/or emotional disabilities which would impair their ability to learn.

Preschool screening appointments will be scheduled Jan. 18 to March 18. Call JoAnn at 860-829-6795 (9 a.m. to 3 p.m.).

Schools

Special education

“A Guide to Special Education Services in Berlin,” written by local school officials, describes how educators identify students with special needs, collaborate with parents and other professionals and provide for their programming needs.

Other issues discussed include speech and language, occupational and physical therapies, social work, psychological and guidance services. Also included are policies for confidentiality of education records, provisions for homebound instruction and special transportation.

After the holidays, pet ‘surrenders’ rise

By Jessica Simms Record-Journal staff

MERIDEN Every year there is a bit of a rush for pet adoptions during the holiday season at the Meriden Humane Society. Karen Annis, vice president of the board, said that over the course of 2022, there has been an uptick of pet surrenders.

“Animal shelters right now are very full and like I said, we’ve just gotten a lot of unexpected surrenders where people will literally dump animals,” Annis said. “Unfortunately there’s not really a better way to say that … We do our best to accommodate the animals that are in danger.”

As of Dec. 28, Annis said they have had 375 adoptions in 2022, so the average is a little over 30 per month.

Adoptions do ebb and flow over the course of the year. Annis said from Thanksgiving of this year to Dec. 27, they had about 37 adoptions, which is slightly more than in 2021 where they had 35 pet adoptions between Thanksgiving and Dec. 27.

“I always feel like there’sa little bit of a bump up in animal adoptions around the

One of the many cats ready for adoption at the Meriden Humane Society.

Aaron Flaum, Record-Journal

holidays, so I think that once people have decided they want to adopt, they’re sort of eager to welcome their animal home before the holidays or do that around the holiday season,” Annis said.

However, Annis said the Meriden Humane Society does not allow a person to adopt an animal in order to surprise someone for the holidays.

Derek Jutras Broker/Owner

“We always want all family members and all household members to be on board with the adoption,” Annis said. “... Of course little kids get surprised, but certainly we do not want people buying them as a present for their spouse. Just because we want everybody to have the opportunity to be in agreement and make a family decision.”

Despite the slight increase in adoptions during the holiday season, Julie Rogers, staff and volunteer supervisor, said there is a “lengthy waitlist” of people who have applied to surrender an animal.

“I work in the office and we get phone calls literally every single day from multiple people calling and they just want to drop off the animals,” Rogers said.

Rogers said she suspects that for some people, financially it is hard to take care of a cat or dog.

“Bills are definitely higher than they have been in the past and sometimes that’sa struggle for people,” Rogers said. “We get a lot of phone calls from people who haven’t planned ahead.”

Sometimes people call for an elderly relative who can no longer take care of a pet or a family is moving and cannot take their pet with them to their new residence, Rogers said.

“Maybe people are more overwhelmed by life in general,” Rogers said. “... It’s definitely a lot more people in situations where they need help and they think they need help ASAP.”

From Pet RECYCLE YOUR OLD NEWSPAPERS Please & Thank you.

The increase in surrendered animals has made work more stressful, Rogers said.

“We have limited cage space, so a lot of our cats are free roaming, but then we have

other cats that have to be in cages, ” Rogers said. “New cats have to be in cages and dogs, obviously, have to be in a kennel.”

Rogers said it is even more difficult when people show up at the Humane Society wanting to surrender their

animal, without calling ahead. “So when people just show up and are like, ‘I can’t keep this animal’ when we don’t have cage or kennel space available, it’s definitely a stressful interaction,” Rogers said. “Trying to figure out what we can do to help

SERVICE DIRECTORY

Home of High Quality & Low Prices! FREE STORAGE Kensington Dry Cleaners 314 New Britain Road• Kensington 860-829-5226 • Dry Cleaning • Shirt Laundering Services • Tailoring & Alterations • Rugs & Leather • Drapes, Quilts & Blankets • Waterproofing R256974v2

the animal, but also not hurt the animals that we already have There’s just a lot to deal with.”

MEDIA THAT MOVES YOUR BUSINESS FORWARD >> To advertise, contact Rebekah Larsen at (203) 317-2302 rlarsen@rjmediagroup.com

Furniture, Paintings, Oriental Rugs, Hooked Rugs, Quilts, Sterling, Pottery, Glassware, Post Cards, Old Toys, Dolls & Berlin, CT Items

ANTIQUES WANTED Clint & Pat Bigelow Antiques 174 Main St, East Berlin, CT 06023 860-828-1868

CALL TODAY R256966 1271998

CT Lic. # 180640 Welcome to On The Menu. Let us help you find the perfect place to eat. Whether it’s a celebration, date night, or just grabbing a bite to eat, this list of local restaurants is sure to satisfy your taste buds. Adelphia Café 476 Washington Avenue North Haven, CT 06473 203-535-0149 Family owned/operated. Former proprietors of the Neptune Diner in Wallingford. Extensive menu for all tastes. Breakfasts, luncheons and special dinners. All baking on premises.

“Quality Service You Can Count On” R256977

CREDIT CARDS ACCEPTED

Find great local eats - MenusCT.com Athena II Diner 320 Washington Ave, North Haven, CT 06473 203.239.0663 www.athena2diner.com Open 24 hours a day 7 days a week. Serving breakfast, lunch, & dinner. Accept Q Cards. Serving North Haven for 30 years. Daily specials and full liquor available. Colony Diner 611 N Colony Road Wallingford, CT 06492 (203) 269-9507 colonydiner.com Wallingford’s place to go for oldfashioned breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Proudly serving up delicious and hearty meals daily. Voted Best Diner 4 years running by Record Journal. Open seven days. Breakfast served all day.

ATTENTION: RESTAURANT OWNERS! To advertise your restaurant to 269,000 weekly readers Call us 203-317-2312

‘We’re bursting at the seams’

LEGAL NOTICE

WORTHINGTON FIRE DISTRICT COLLECTOR’S QUARTERLY WATER/SEWER COLLECTION NOTICE

TO THE CUSTOMERS OF THE WORTHINGTON FIRE DISTRICT, BERLIN, CT:

Water/Sewer bills have been mailed to all residents of the Worthington Fire District. All persons liable to pay Water/Sewer Fees in to the Worthington Fire District of the Town of Berlin, CT, are hereby notified that payments for the JANUARY 2023 Water/Sewer Billing Cycle are due and payable in full on or before February 1, 2023. SAID CHARGES SHALL BECOME DELINQUENT IF NOT PAID/POSTMARKED ON OR BEFORE WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2023.

Interest at the rate of 1.5% per month shall be charged from January 1, 2023 if not paid on or before Wednesday, February 1, 2023, subject to a minimum interest charge of $2.00.

ANY AND ALL UNPAID BACK CHARGES MUST BE PAID IN FULL BEFORE PAYMENT MAY BE MADE ON THE JANUARY 2023 WATER/SEWER FEES.

FAILURE TO RECEIVE A BILL DOES NOT RELIEVE ONE FROM LIABILITY.

Any person who is liable for these charges and who does not receive a bill(s) should contact the Worthington Fire District Office at once, by phone at 860-828-5630.

Lynn J. Ferrelli OFFICE HOURS:

Tax Collector Mon-Thurs: 7:30 am-3:30 pm Worthington Fire District Fri: 7:30 am - 12:30 pm 1400 Berlin Turnpike, www.wfdwater.com Berlin, CT 06037

WORTHINGTON FIRE DISTRICT IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY PROVIDER AND EMPLOYER R257822

SCHOOL BUS DRIVERS

Needed for Southington/ Meriden/Berlin/Rocky Hill - Must be 21yrs or older and possess a driver’s license for at least 3yrs – Paid training to acquire CDL license and endorsements available –The opportunity to bring your children to work, No Childcare$$ - Contact Sheila at New Britain Transportation (860) 8280511 ext. 221 or visit us at, 257 Woodlawn Rd., Berlin, CT

LEGAL NOTICE

REVENUE COLLECTOR’S NOTICE

All persons liable to pay taxes on 2nd Installment Real Estate, and/or Supplemental Motor Vehicle Taxes (motor vehicles registered after October 1, but before August 1, 2022) supplemental to the October 1,2021 Grand List in and to the Town of Berlin, Connecticut, are hereby notified that taxes are due and payable in full January 1,2023.

Said taxes become delinquent if not paid on or before February 1, 2023.

Interest at the rate of 1.5% per month shall be charged from January 1, 2023 on all 2nd Installment Real Estate and Supplemental Motor Vehicle taxes not paid on or before February 1, 2023 subject to a minimum interest charge of $2.00. Any and all unpaid back Motor Vehicle Taxes must be paid in full before payment may be made on the Supplemental Motor Vehicle taxes.

Any person liable for these taxes, who does not receive their bill or bill(s), should contact the Revenue Collector’s Office at once, by phone at 860-828-7023 or in person at 240 Kensington Road, Room 108. Per Sec. 12130 of the Connecticut General Statutes, failure to receive a bill does not relieve one from the liability for payment.

Office: Revenue Collector Room 108 Berlin Town Hall 240 Kensington Road Berlin, CT 06037

Mail payments to: Town of Berlin PO Box 150410 Hartford, CT 06115-0410

Office Hours: Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays 8:30 am – 4:30 pm Thursdays 8:30 am – 7:00 pm Fridays 8:30 am – 1:00 pm

Deborah Swan, CCMC Revenue Collector

Town of Berlin R257203

from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and start as soon as tomorrow morning.

TOP CASH PAID

For Junk or unwanted vehicles, Toyota’s etc.

Please call Mike @ 203284-8562 8am-5pm.

OFFICE SUITE - Avail. for lease, 550 sq.ft., ground level, Clocktower Square, 710 Main St., Suite 1, Plantsville, CT. $800 per mo. Call (860) 276-8068 ask for Tony or Gail.

DETECTO BALANCE BEAM SCALE - W/ height rod and wheels, in original box unpacked, call Lilly 203200-9806

TWIN MATTRESS SET - New, $200; Futon, opens to bed, $75. Call (203) 235-0875.

TREE LENGTH FIREWOOD CALL FOR DETAILS 203-238-2149

1,2,3 CASH FOR ANTIQUES - Call Todd Shamock, 203-4941695.

ALWAYS BUYING CASH PAIDVintage Electronics, Musical Instruments, Amps, Ham Equipment, HiFi, Radios, CB, Guitars, Audio Equipment, Antiques. 860-707-9350

ANTIQUES - Always buying old; Toys, military, jewelry, art, watches, musical instruments, signs, arcade games, cameras, pre 1970 sports memorabilia, plus more. One item or entire estate contents. Call 860718-5132.

ANTIQUES WANTEDComic books, toys, adv. signs, military items, motorcyles, mini bikes, etc. All items considered, appraisal & estate sale services, incl. clean-outs. 40 years exp. Call or text, Gary at 203-237-4124.

GRASSY HILL AUCTIONS, - an Estate Sale, Liquidation, Attic & Basement Cleanout Company is Always Buying and providing services all over Connecticut. These are just a FEW of the things we are looking for: Antiques, Collectibles, Old/ Vintage Toys, Musical Instruments (Saxophones, Trumpets, Violins, Flutes, Clarinets, Trombone & SO MUCH MORE) Advertising Items, Wristwatches (Broken or Not), Pocket Watches, Tools (Machinist, Woodworking, & MORE) Doorstops, Clocks, Oil Paintings, Old Signs, Old Photographs, Old Postcards, Brewery Items, Hunting & Fishing, PEZ Dispensers, Costume Jewelry, Broken Jewelry, Gold & Silver Jewelry, Gold & Silver Coins, Military Items, Swords & Bayonets, Helmets & Patches, Medals & Uniforms, Pocket Knives, Lighters & Pipes, Fountain Pens, Mechanical Pencils, Fraternal Order Items, Religious Items, Industrial Items, Winchester Items, Sikorsky Items, Pratt & Whitney Items, Colt Items, Native American Items, Vintage Electronics, Slot Cars, Toy Trucks, Matchbox & Hotwheels, Barbie’s, Folk Art, Statues, Bronzes, Trains, Cameras, Mid Century Modern Furniture, Straight Razors, Shaving Items, Political Items, Comic Books, Sports Cards & Autographs…& THE LIST GOES ON! So please give us a call at your earliest convenience.

Grassy Hill Auctions 203-868-1816 - Grassy HillAuctions.com

600-4431.

MERIDEN - Room for rent, utils incl., shared BA. Free Wi-Fi. Call (203) 217-7122.

BUYING ALL - Costume Jewelry, Old Watches, Gold Jewelry, Silver Jewelry, Gold & Silver Coins, Sterling Flatware, In Any Condition. Please Call Jude M. Dichele @ (203) 8681816.

BUYING MACHINIST TOOLBOXES - Tools & tooling, contents of machine shops, home workshops and small lathes. Call anytime 860-985-5760

(203) 4942496.

WANTED Individual firearms, collections & estates including military & related items.Federally licensed firearms dealer. Gunsmith, appraisals, Richard Pleines, (860) 663-2214.

2 ADORABLE - Sheltie

Bichon puppies & Cute Bichon Yorkie puppies, $750 ea. Ready now. 1st shots & worming. 2, 6 mo. old puppies, $500 ea. 603.630.2258.

GARY WODATCH

Demolition Svs Sheds, pools, decks, garages, debris removal. Quick, courteous svc. All calls returned. Ins. #566326. Cell, 860-558-5430

CARPENTRY

Repairs, Decks & Porches, Sheetrock & Taping Water Damage Repairs. Free Est. Ins. MC & Visa. Call Bill (203) 901-2136. CT. Reg. # 0647093

HOME DOCTOR - 48 yrs exp. Odd jobs & remodeling, former US Navy, 15 yrs, #640689, 203.427.7828.

GARY WODATCHHedge & tree trimming. Trim overgrown properties. Calls returned. #620397. 860.558.5430

TEC ELECTRICAL

Service LLC All Phases of Electrical Work. 24 hr. Emergency Service. Small Jobs Welcome. 203.237.2122

GUTTERS PLUS 25+yrs. Exp. Call today for Free estimate. 203-440-3535 Ct. Reg. #578887

SUDOKU ANSWER

CROSSWORD ANSWER

“Children are made readers on the laps of their parents.”

More ways to move your business forward

RJ Media Group

RJ Media Group means world class marketing solutions for your local business. No one covers more customers in your area. And no one offers more ways to reach them.

Targeted Advertising in print, online and mobile platforms.

Digital Solutions including SEO, social media campaigns, retargeting, reputation management and total website development.

Direct Marketing solutions from custom mailings to email blasts.

Expert Guidance from dedicated marketing professionals.

To see how RJ Media Group can make your business more successful, contact Jim Mizener at 203.317.2312 or jmizener@rjmediagroup.com.

thecheshireherald.com

Berlin Citizen | Cheshire Citizen | North Haven Citizen | Southington & Plainville Citizen | Town Times