The Berlin Citizen

Daniela Ciriello of Berlin-based Dance Legacy, LLC was selected to represent Connecticut in Showstopper Magazine’s spring 2023 Dancers Across America feature. “These showstopping dancers have been chosen from across the United States as exemplary members of the dance world who use dance to better themselves and their communities and to bring kindness and inspiration to others,” Showstopper Magazine states. Ciriello, who resides in Plainville, has a rare blood disorder, but that has not stoppedherfrompursuingherloveofdance.

Berlin officials address ‘spiking crime wave’

The following press release was signed by Mayor Mark Kaczynski, Chief of Police Matthew McNally, Police Commission Chairman Steven Wilson and state representative Donna Veach.

We are aware of the spiking crime wave of car break-ins and thefts that are occurring here in Berlin and across the state. We understand that this rising wave of crime is seriously affecting the citi-

zens in our community. Residents are anxious that they may be victimized next.

To our community, we hear you and are responding to your concerns.

We can tell you that during the past few weeks, your calls for suspicious activities and complaints are being addressed to the best of our ability.

See Crime, A13

Community theater ready for curtain call

Citizen report

Residents of a certain age will remember a time when Berlin had a robust community theater churning out annual productions like “Anything Goes,” “Carousel” and “Oklahoma!”

Founded in 1997, Berlin Community Theater, Inc. had a good run. But after 14 years, in 2011, the enterprise ceased to be.

Now, the man who founded the Berlin Community See Theater, A10

Photo provided by Nicole Ciriello

Lawmakers push to protect exploited children

By Mary Ellen Godin Record-Journal staff

MERIDEN Children who were exploited in sexual photos and videos are often haunted by those internet images years later because of shield laws that protect Big Tech.

But U.S. Sen. Richard Blumenthal, D-Connecticut, and U.S. Sen. Lindsay Graham, R-South Carolina, hope to hold them responsible through a bipartsan bill that holds platforms accountable to report and remove such images, or be held accountable in civil courts.

The Earn It Act was approved unanimously by the Judiciary Committee Thursday. The photographs and video exhibits were so graphic, lawmakers could not show them during the hearing, Blumenthal said.

Blumenthal was joined by members of the state Department of Children and Families and state police to share details of the act Friday at the State Police Division of Scientific Services on Colony Street. This is the third time the Earn It Act has cleared the Judiciary Committee.

“From 29 to 32 million of these images are on the internet,” Blumenthal said. “Not only is it a crime against children, but these images stay on the internet haunting children for their whole lives. That’s why it’s such a horrifying crime. Unfortunately many of our major platforms refuse to report it or remove them. The tech companies are complicit. They should be held accountable by law enforcement and the survivors themselves. Right now there is no law.”

Technology platforms are shielded by Section 230 of the 1996 Communications Decency Act, which states that “No provider of an interactive computer service shall be treated as the publisher or speaker of any information by another information content provider. Blumenthal supports a repeal of Section 230, allowing civil action against platforms that don’t report and remove abusive content is a start.

That legal phrase shields tech companies that can host trillions of messages from being sued by anyone who feels wronged by something someone else has posted whether legitimate or not.

Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, Tik Tok, Snapchat, Youtube and other more obscure sites have abused that protection and should lose immunity or at least have to earn it by satisfying requirements set by the government, Blumenthal said.

But the measure faces opposition from technology

lawyers and lobbyists, backed by millions of dollars in campaign contributions, Blumenthal said. Parents, victims and 250 advocacy groups, including the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, back the Earn It Act.

Cybersecurity advocates fear that such changes could prompt tech companies to stop offering end-to-end encryption for their users. Such encryption helps protect data from hackers, governments and other snoops. Law enforcement officials have argued that cybercriminals also use end-to-end encryption to share CSAM Child Sexual Abuse Material and plan other crimes, and they’ve criticized tech companies’ efforts to expand their encryption offerings, according to the Washington Post.

Encryption is the process of encoding information. This process converts the original version of the information, known as plaintext, into an

Sgt. Kenneth Ventresca, a supervisor in the Computer Crimes Unit for the Connecticut State Police, speaks on Friday next to U.S. Sen. Richard Blumenthal at the Connecticut State Police Division of Scientific Services on ColonyStreetinMeriden. Dave Zajac, Record-Journal

Understanding Arthritis

Join this virtual class Thursday, May 11, 2 to 3 p.m., and learn more about the causes of arthritis, how arthritis can be diagnosed, and more. Presented by Christine Solimini-Swift, exercise physiologist. Call 1-855-442-4373 or go to HartfordHealthCare.org/VirtualClasses.

Proper posture

Join this virtual class Tuesday, May 16 from 11 a.m. to noon to learn more about how poor posture can lead to numerous muscularskeletal problems, including back pain, neck pain and joint issues, and what you can do to improve it. Presented by Michelle Boisvert, exercise physiologist, Hartford HealthCare, GoodLife Fitness.

Call 1-855-442-4373 or go to HartfordHealthCare.org/VirtualClasses.

Arbor Rose

Arbor Rose at Jerome Home, an independent and assisted living community located at 975 Corbin Ave. in

Senior Health

New Britain, will host an open house Tuesday, May 16 from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. Registration is recommended.

To reserve a time, call Karen Alix, retirement counselor at Arbor Rose at Jerome Home, at 860-229-3707.

Cedar Mountain Commons

Cedar Mountain Commons, an independent and assisted living community located at 3 John H. Stewart Drive in Newington, will host an open house Wednesday, May 17 from 4 to 7 p.m.

Registration is recommended. To reserve a time, call 860-665-7901.

Memory loss

Join this class Friday, May 19, from 1 to 2 p.m., to learn more about mild forgetfulness, more serious memory

problems and causes of memory loss. Presented by Patty O'Brian, LSW, dementia specialist, Hartford HealthCare, Center for Healthy Aging.

The program will take place at the Berlin Senior Center, 33 Colonial Dr., Berlin. RSVP to 860-828-7006.

Call-in support

Looking for a safe space? Every Friday, 2 to 3 p.m., talk to a professional about questions and concerns you may have regarding dementia. This call-in support group is facilitated by Kristine Johnson, dementia specialist, Hartford HealthCare Center for Healthy Aging. Call 1646-876-9923 (Meeting ID 92408181873#).

Caregiver support

Do you care for someone diagnosed with dementia? This virtual support group meets the second Wednesday of the month, 6:30 to 8

p.m. The group is facilitated by Patty O’Brian, CDP, dementia specialist, Hartford HealthCare Center for Healthy Aging. Call 1-855442-4373 or go to HartfordHealthCare.org/VirtualClasses.

Hybrid support group

Chat with those who come from the same walk of life. Join this dementia caregiver support group the third

Monday of the month from 1 to 2:30 p.m. in-person or online. Facilitated by a Hartford HealthCare Center for Healthy Aging Dementia Specialist.

Call 1-855-442-4373 or go to HartfordHealthCare.org/VirtualClasses.

The in-person meeting will take place at Berlin-Peck Memorial Library, 234 Kensington Road, Berlin.

Conn. cities and towns could save millions under new pension reforms

By Mark Pazniokas The Connecticut Mirror

Comptroller Sean Scanlon announced municipal pension reforms last week that could save 107 participating communities $32.3 million in the coming fiscal year and $843 million over the next three decades.

A labor-management working group Scanlon convened six weeks ago produced a

six-point plan that drew bipartisan praise from Gov. Ned Lamont and legislative leaders for the process and product.

“This is what trying looks like. This is the result of people trying to fix things,” said Scanlon, a former Democratic lawmaker who has been comptroller for four months.

The savings, some of which

will require the passage of legislation to achieve, primarily would come from changing how cost-of-living increases are calculated and by re-amortizing the unfunded liability of the municipal pension fund from 17 to 25 years.

The plan also would create a deferred retirement option aimed at keeping employees working longer, addressing both a labor shortage and

taking some pressure off the retirement system.

The deal was rolled out at a press conference that drew attention to a constitutional office whose duties are relatively arcane: Tracking the state’s expenses and administering state employee benefits.

House Minority Leader Vincent J. Candelora, R-North Branford, said Scanlon had

addressed a long-neglected issue that threatened to destabilize CMERS, the state-run Connecticut Municipal Employees Retirement System.

“We have always talked about that collapse on the horizon. But it really hasn’t gotten the attention it has needed,” Candelora said.

CMERS was created in 1947

See Pension, A8

Walking competition

In partnership with Anthem Blue Cross & Blue Shield, the Central Connecticut Health District’s 8th annual “Walk this May” Walking Competition will take place May 1 through 31. Residents and employees within the CCHD towns of Berlin, Newington, Rocky Hill and Wethersfield are invited to sign up via cchd4town.walkertracker.com.

Up for grabs during “Walk this May”– High Stepper Award Trophy: awarded to the town earning the highest overall number of steps; Impact Award Plaque: awarded to the town achieving the highest participant enrollment; Million Stepper Club Pins: awarded to individuals registering at least 1 million steps.

Renters rebate

State law provides a reimbursement program for Connecticut renters who are elderly or totally disabled, and whose incomes do not exceed certain limits. Persons renting an apartment or room or living in cooperative housing, or a mobile home may be eligible for this program. Applications are accepted between April 1 and Oct. 1. Visit portal.ct.gov/ OPM.

Leash ordinance

In December of 2021, the Town of Berlin passed a new leash ordinance that requires dogs to be always on leashes on public property. This includes all town parks and public sidewalks. Beginning May 1, Animal Control

Officers were set to begin issuing Written Infractions. The fine for violation of this ordinance is $100. For more information regarding the leash ordinance, refer to the municipal website (Town Code Book).

Lineworkers

Eversource is partnering with Housatonic Community College and the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local Unions 420 and 457 to prepare the next generation of

electrical lineworkers in Connecticut. The Lineworker Certificate Program provides students valuable training in the electric utility industry and the opportunity to progress into Eversource’s paid apprenticeship program. For details, visit Eversource.com.

Boxes to Boots

Berlin-based non-profit Boxes to Boots, 28 Chamberlain Highway, sends care packages to members of the U.S. military serving overseas.

To learn more about the organization and its needs, visit boxestoboots.org.

Textile recycling

Berlin has partnered with AFAB Recycling LLC, a Connecticut-based textile recycling company. Residents are encouraged to drop off unwanted 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.

Theater

Castle Craig Players, Meriden is celebrating its 30th season. On sale now: “The Marvelous Wonderettes: Dream On,” May 5 to 20; “Into The Woods,” July 28 to Aug. 12.

For ticket information, visit castlecraigplayers.org.

Letters to the Editor

Email letters to news@theberlincitizen.com. Letters are limited to 300 words. The Citizen will print only one letter per person each month. We reserve the right to edit letters. Include a phone number so The Citizen can contact you for verification. Letters must be submitted by 5 p.m. Friday to be considered for publication the following Thursday.

Tag sale

Berlin Historical Society’s annual tag sale will take place Friday, May 12, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., and Saturday, May 13, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., on the grounds of the Historical Society’s 1771 House Research Center, 725 Worthington Ridge.

Tag sale donations are sought (clean, useable items; no books, clothing or large pieces of furniture). To arrange a drop-off time, call Pam at 860-839-1556 or Janice at 860-301-9713.

BTC meeting

The Berlin Democratic Town Committee will hold its monthly meeting Thursday, May 18 at the Italian Independent Political Club, 16 Harding St. A meet and greet will take place at 6:30 p.m. The meeting begins at 7. Democratic Party constituents are encouraged to attend to learn about important town issues and how to get involved. The DTC can be reached at berlindemocrats@gmail.com or via P.O. Box 93, 62 Kensington Road, Berlin, CT 06037.

HHW collection

Tunxis Recycling will conduct a residential household hazardous product disposal collection at the Residential Recycling Center, 642 Christian Lane, Berlin, Friday, May 19 from 2:30 to 6:30 p.m. ID is required.

A list of acceptable items for disposal is available on the municipal website. For further information, call Public Works at 860-828-7022.

Craft show

The Berlin VFW’s fourth annual craft show is scheduled for Saturday, June 3, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at 152 Massirio Dr. (Rain date: Sunday, June 4).

More than 85 crafters have signed on. The VFW will be selling picnic food and gourmet popcorn, with proceeds going to scholarships for high school seniors and to veterans in need.

Bingo Night

The Berlin High School Athletic Booster Association is holding its second annual Bingo Night Fundraiser Saturday, May 13, 5 to 9 p.m., at the Berlin Lions Fairgrounds pavilion on Beckley Road. Tickets are $35 and include 10 Bingo games.

The event will include prizes and cash raffle. BYOB and food. Tickets can be purchased online at BoostersBingo.Eventbite.com. Proceeds benefit the studentathletes of Berlin High School.

Art reception

The Berlin High School Art Department invites the public to its annual AP Studio Art/ECE UConn Drawing Exhibition Reception. The gathering will take place Tuesday, May 23, 6 to 7:30 p.m., at the BHS Library Media Center.

Legion benefit

Are we alone in the universe? What does the government know about extraterrestrial life?

These question and others will be discussed Thursday, May 18 at American Legion Hall, 154 Porters Pass. Join author and researcher RJ Teles, TV host Larry Mongillo and radio host Steve Parker as they discuss UFOs, and more. The event, a fundraiser for the Berlin Legion, runs from 6 to 8 p.m. A $7 donation is requested. Email americanlegionauxpost68@gmail.com with questions.

Tasting

Berlin Lions Charities and Berlin Spirits will host their 12th Annual Wine, Beer, and Spirit Tasting Saturday, May 20, 7 to 10 p.m., at the fairgrounds on Beckley Road. Tickets are $25 in advance, $30 day-of. Tickets can be purchased at Berlin Spirits, 118 Mill St.; Kensington Opticians, 7 Webster Square Road; or through Lions Club members.

Volunteer award

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

Grants available

The Community Foundation of Greater New Britain approved its first round of grants for 2023, awarding

more than $436,000 to a wide variety of programs serving Berlin, New Britain, Plainville and Southington.

The second round of grant applications will be accepted this summer. Visit cfgnb.org for details.

Community alerts

Sign up to receive emergency alerts and community notifications on berlinct.gov. Options are: Emergency Alerts (weather related closings, fire, flood, etc.); Town Updates (town-wide nonemergency communications, announcements, elections, referendums, etc.); Public Works (road and bridge construction, trash, utilities, water, sewer, etc.); Community Related (Community Center, Senior Center, Parks & Recreation, Social Services).

Wall of Honor

The Berlin Veterans Commission’s “Veterans Digital Wall of Honor,” located in 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 can be put up on the wall.

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

Legion Post 68

American Legion Post 68 has been serving Berlin veterans since 1947.

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.

Be

MOTHER INEED YOU!WENEED

BecausetheHouseneedstobe aHOME BecauseourMotherneedstobeOURMOTHER

Today, we arebeingpressuredtodisregardthe erosionof historicmarriage andfamily principlesandpractice.ENCOURAGEMENTtobea normal,healthy familyis noted by its absenceinthemedia,government,etc. whichpresents eventhatwhich iscontrary.Determinationtotrytorightlysteerstraightfacesmanyand varied opponents.Theseopponentsare determinedtoeliminate mother,father,husband, wife–anythingand everythingthatopposesthepursuitoftheir agenda nomatterthe consequences. Eventoday’ssocialviolenceandunresthas at its rootthe absenceofa fatherandmother. We are findingthe wrong roadsigns andthe wrong roads, calling wrongrightandrightwrong,calling evilgoodandgood evil(Isaiah5:20). We face theABSENCEofMORALandMENTALSTANDARDS,tobecaughtupalong withthecrowd, trying tobelong,tobecome,to find oneself,to findpeace,to find love,to find worth,to find values whichinspireand overcome asocietythathas abandonedsuch.ThereislittletonorecoveryofthenormalandnaturalGod-created familysetting.The FAMILYneedstheMOTHER;the NATIONneedsthe FAMILY.

God’sPatter nisSet:

“HONOR thyfather and thymother, asthe LORDthyGodhathcommandedthee” (Deut.5:16;Eph.6:2).“WhoeverCURSEShisfatherorhismother,his lampshall beputoutinobscure[utter]darkness”(Prov.20:20).“Myson,heartheinstruction ofthyfather,andFORSAKENOTthe lawofthy mother”(Prov.1:8). “A wiseson maketh aglad father:but a foolishmanDESPISETHhismother”(Prov.15:20).

God’sProvisionisNeeded:

“Thisknowalso,thatinthe lastdaysperilous[difficult]timesshallcome.Formen shallbeloversoftheir ownselves...DISOBEDIENTTO PARENTS,unthankful, unholy”(2Tim.3:1-2).“ThereisagenerationthatCURSETHtheirfather,and dothnot blesstheirmother.Thereisa generationthatare pureINTHEIR OWN EYES”(Prov.30:11-12).Thisispromoted by the ageold“everymandidthatwhich wasRIGHTINHIS OWNEYES”(Judges21:25).And“letuseatanddrink; for tomorrow we shalldie”(Isaiah22:13). Take heartandknow.

God’sPersonis Found:

“IwillLIFTUPMINEEYESuntothehills,fromwhencecometh my help.MY HELPCOMETHFROMTHE LORD,whomadeheavenandearth”(Psalm121:12). “AndYESHALLSEEKME,ANDFINDME, when ye shallsearch forMe withALL YOURHEART, andIWILLBEFOUNDBY you,saiththe LORD” (Jeremiah29:13-14).“COMEUNTOME,all ye thatlabourandareheavyladen, and Iwillgive yourest. Take My yoke upon you,andlearnofMe; forI ammeekand lowlyinheart: and ye shall find restunto yoursouls.ForMy yoke is easy,andMy burdenislight” (Matthew 11:28-30).TheNation,the Familyand YOUneedGod andHissureandcertain Word,theBIBLE.

TheLordJesusChrist is waitingtoprovidefor youtherightand real relationship thatGod’sRIGHTEOUSNESS requiresandin whichGod’sLIFEisfound.This makes forlifethatisworththeliving. Youcan find God’sHELP andHOPEand ENCOURAGEMENTtoday. WhynotbeginRIGHTNOWand receive Himas yourpersonalSaviourandLord(John1:10-13)!“Believe ontheLordJesusChrist andthoushaltbesaved”(Act16:31).

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R260461

and is used by at least some bargaining units in 107 of the state’s 169 cities and towns.

Two decades ago, Gov. John G. Rowland and the legislature decoupled cost-of-living adjustments from investment performance, pegging them exclusively to inflation. The combination of high inflation and a down market drove a need for higher contributions to the pension fund.

The regular contributions required annually of member municipalities grew from a collective $82 million in the 2017-18 fiscal year to $134.8 million in 2021-22. The system is administered by the comptroller’s office.

Hamden Mayor Lauren Garrett said the deal struck by the working group could save her community $3 million next year and $40 million over the coming decades.

Cost of living increases still will be pegged to inflation, though to a lesser degree. No longer will increases have an annual minimum, a change that mirrors a deal negotiated years ago with state employees. Retirees had been getting a minimum annual increase of 2.5%, regardless of inflation. In return for giving up the minimum, the annual cap on cost of living increases will be raised to 7.5% from 6%.

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Lawmakers may pass on key elder care reforms

By Jenna Carlesso and Dave Altimari

The Connecticut Mirror

Nursing homes, struggling with staffing levels and a recent increase in major violations, became a focal point for reform at the state Capitol this year.

But several ambitious proposals that would raise the mandated hours for resident care, provide air conditioning in every resident room and boost the number of positions in the long-term care ombudsman’s office have hit a wall, hampered by the sizable financial commitments needed and stunted by a lack of political will. The problems come as the state’s population of older adults is set to balloon in the coming years. By 2040, the nation’s 85-and-older population is expected to more than double. Connecticut ranks 4th-highest nationally for its share of people in that age group.

“I hate it, because we’re competing against funding schools, we’re competing against higher education, we’re competing against school lunches,” said Rep. Anne Hughes, D-Easton, a member of the Aging and Human Services committees and a key backer of the elder care bills. “The aging folks in the nursing homes seem to be back of the line all the time. We’re competing against all these other spending issues.”

“These are people’s lives how they are being treated and taken care of. These problems should not be addressed a year from now. It should be a bigger priority,” said Paola Lopez, whose father is a resident at the Newtown Rehabilitation & Health Care Center, which was cited in January for failing to provide adequate staffing levels to ensure patients receive timely care.

Weeks into the legislative session, lawmakers heard from a stream of residents and their families who com-

plained of subpar staffing levels, neglect, cold food and poor living conditions. Some facility workers said they were stretched so thin they struggled with patient loads and burnout.

Legislators responded by promoting bills aimed at reform and calling for more funding to expand staff in the ombudsman’s office, which advocates for nursing home residents and investigates complaints.

One bill that passed out of the Aging Committee would increase the mandatory minimum hours of direct care per resident per day in nursing homes to 4.1, up from three. The higher mandated hours would be phased in gradually over

more than two years, reaching the new threshold in January 2026.

But the substantial funding required and a lack of broad support mean the bill is unlikely to move forward, proponents said recently. A working group will be appointed to study the issue instead.

If the measure were adopted in its current form, the state would have to pay as much as $26.6 million in increased Medicaid reimbursement rates during the 2025 fiscal year; an additional $15.5 million the year after; and an additional $15.4 million in 2027, according to the state’s nonpartisan Office of Fiscal Analysis.

In order to continue delivery to your home or business, we need to have each resident or business let us know that, by filling out our on-line requester form at myrecordjournal. com/berlin-requester

Or, you can call us at 203-634-3933 and we can mail you a postage paid postcard to fill out and return. Without the necessary requester information, delivery of your Berlin Citizen to your home or business, will end.

Gregory Brooks, left, takes a stroll on the driveway of the Quinnipiac Valley Center with his friend and visitor Marc. The nursing home was shut down in 2022.

Yehyun Kim, The Connecticut Mirror

John F. Adams III

MILLIS, MA - John F. Adams III, 61, of Millis, MA, died unexpectedly on Friday, March 24, 2023 at Milford Regional Medical Center. He was born in Hartford, CT, on February 17, 1962 to Vera Adams and the late John F. “Jack” Adams, Jr. John attended Berlin Schools and became a Realtor and Appraiser, and volunteer EMT.

A kind person with a quick wit and sense of humor, John was an exceptional story teller who loved the outdoors including hiking, cycling, camping and Cape Cod. He was an avid reader and movie watcher who loved JRR Tolkien fantasy and Kung Fu martial arts/ action adventure stories. A music enthusiast, we remember his love of Santana, Led Zeppelin and Jimmy Buffett and for playing Smoke On The Water on a Bass Guitar. He enjoyed cooking and spicy food, his aunt Charlotte’s Ginger Cookies and he loved cats- from Mica, his first cat as a child, to his last most special cat, Angel, who was adopted by his mom, Vera and lived 20.5 years.

John played Rugby on the Berlin Strollers along with his Dad, and they were very proud to each

Theater

A1

Theater, Chris Cote, along with Caroline Van Austin and Mary Greene, have teamed up to create The Theatre Guild of Berlin.

A press release announcing the formation of the group states, “In the late summer of 2022, Cote received a phone call from his longtime pal Caroline … ‘Now that the pandemic is all but over, don’t you think it’s time for us to get back to community

Obituaries

before he was able to enjoy more time with his growing family. We like to picture that he had a chance to meet his granddaughter as she made her way into this world and he made his way out.

EAST BERLIN - Lori

score a try in the same match. When he was 25, John rode his bicycle on a lifetime adventure, from the Oregon coast all the way across the country to Key West, FL. He rode thousands of miles and made stops in Oklahoma to visit family and Colorado where he rode across the Continental Divide.

He worked as a real estate appraiser and sales agent in the family business for many years, then moved to Massachusetts in the late 90s where he was Owner/ Broker of Metrowest Real Estate Solutions and started to raise his family.

He shared his passion of music, reading, hiking and bike riding with his children when they were young, which lives on in them today.

Sadly, John passed

theater in town?’ Cote’s initial response: ‘Absolutely not! Are you out of your mind?’ … ‘But Mary is going to be involved.’ Cote knew of Caroline’s talents and artistry for more years than either of them care to admit, and that Mary was the ultimate organizer. So, after very little convincing, Cote was in. The trio has been planning since the beginning of February.”

John leaves his mother Vera Adams, daughter Rebecca/Josh Ricker, sons Connor Adams and Ben Adams, newborn granddaughter Audrey Ricker, sister Tina/Rick Hans, niece Frankie Tenenbaum/Michael Hope, aunt Charlotte Raczkowski/Jeremy D’Entremont, uncle Richy/ Marla Raczkowski and cousins Gail Craddock/ Steve Fleming, Julia/ Matt Hay and Joan/Marty Coats.

Calling hours will be Saturday, May 20 from 12:00-2:00, concluding with a memorial service at 1:00 at the EricksonHansen Funeral Home, 111 Chamberlain Highway, Kensington. The family then welcomes friends and family to attend the celebration of life immediately after at Timberlin Golf Course, 330 Southington Road, Berlin. We ask that family and friends dress in a way John would appreciate: your favorite Hawaiian shirt/attire.

In lieu of flowers, we ask that you spread kindness in John’s memory.

The Theatre Guild of Berlin’s first presentation, “The Best of Broadway,” is scheduled to take place in July. Auditions, open to singers age 16 and up, will be held in June.

The Theatre Guild of Berlin expects to bring a multi-generational presentation of “The Nutcracker” to the stage in early December.

The group can be reached at tgb.2023@gmail.com.

“Queenie” (Pack) Morton, 72, of East Berlin, passed away peacefully on Friday, May 5, 2023 at the Hospital of Central Connecticut at New Britain after a short illness. Lori was born on October 28, 1950 in New Britain and was the daughter of the late Al and Edna (Bulbo) Pack. Nicknamed Queenie by her beloved husband Keith, the nickname stuck and there were many people who knew her affectionately by that name. Lori was a graduate of Wethersfield High School. She went on to cosmetology school and worked for various salons in Berlin before opening her own “Suds & Scissors” in East Berlin, which she operated until her retirement in 2017 after a total of 47 years in the business. Lori was an avid bowler, winning many tournaments throughout her career. Lori also enjoyed being poolside with her friends and family, doing crossword puzzles, playing Yahtzee and making artificial flower arrangements. She was an outstanding cook and loved watching cooking shows to learn new techniques and recipes. Lori always expressed her opinion regardless of who she was having a conversation with.

A loving wife, mother and grandmother, Lori will be forever missed by her devoted husband of 44 years, Keith; her son, John

Morton and wife Mae and her adored grandchildren, Christen Huette and husband Nathan and Lauren Morton. She is also survived by her brothers, James Pack, Sr., Robert Pack and wife Ronda; her brothers-inlaw, Byron Morton and wife Carolyn and Kevin Morton and wife Barbara; her sister-in-law, Denise Zitnick and husband Mike; her brother-in-law, Richie Alekson and her nephew, Ricky Alekson, as well as many other extended family members and friends. In addition to her parents, Lori was sadly predeceased by her sister, Kathy Alekson.

Services for Lori will be private at the convenience of the family. Donations in Lori’s memory may be made to the East Berlin Volunteer Fire Department, P.O. Box 4, 1 East Berlin, CT 06023. To share a memory of Lori with her family, please visit www. desopofuneralchapel. com.

Lori Morton

From

Aiming to help out local eateries during the usually-slow months of February and March, this past winter, the Berlin Economic Development Commission rolled out another “Eat Local – Win Local” campaign. The March Madness edition of “Eat Local – Win Local” ended April 15. Earning prizes this time around were, from left, Lizzy Alessi, Thaibinh Dang, Mayor Mark Kaczynski, Jay Matthews, Kristen Long and EDC director Chris Edge.

Fire Department Responses

The Fire Administrator’s Office for the Town of Berlin reports the following incidents for the week of April 30. (Fire Company Designations: 1. East Berlin 2. Kensington 3. Berlin 4. South Kensington)

April 30: 400 block of Percival Avenue: Fire alarm – Companies 2, 3 and 4

May 1: 100 block of Beechwood Lane: Assistance call –Company 2

May 1: 700 block of Berlin Turnpike: Fire alarm – Companies 1, 2 and 3

May 2: 500 block of Christian Lane: Outside Investigation – Companies 2 and 3

May 4: 400 block of Christian Lane: Structure fire – Companies 1, 2, 3 and 4

May 4: 200 block of Kensington Road: Fire alarm –Companies 2, 3 and 4

May 5: 900 block of Farmington Avenue: Assistance call – Company 2

May 5: Mutual aid rendered to Meriden Fire Department –Company 3

May 5: 300 block of Lincoln Street: Assist PD – Company 2

May 5: Berlin Turnpike and Meadow Lane: Motor vehicle accident – Companies 1, 2 and 3

May 6: Chamberlain Highway and West Lane: Outside investigation – Companies 2 and 4

May 6: 200 block of Kensington Road: Fire alarm Companies 2, 3 and 4

May 6: Area of Ragged Mountain: Brush fire Companies 2 and 4

Photo provided by Kayleigh Cotto

alternative form known as ciphertext. Ideally, only authorized parties can decipher a ciphertext back to plaintext and access the original information.

The coronavirus pandemic forced millions of children into isolation where they spent increased time in front of computers and tablets and smart phones. Reports of sexual exploitation and abuse, blackmailing and cyberbullying jumped exponentially, experts said.

“Last year, we received 310 reports of possible sex trafficking,” said Tammy Sneed, director of human trafficikng for the state Department of Children and Families.

“These are the largest numbers we’ve seen. Bad actors are using these images and are exploiting children and abusing children. We know there has been a 90% increase in actors trying to lure children since the pandemic.”

DCF and other agencies work closely with the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force Program, which helps state and local law enforcement agencies

develop a response to technology-facilitated child sexual exploitation and Internet crimes against children. The task force encompasses forensic and investigative components, training and technical assistance, victim services, and community education.

“We receive 4,500 tips every year, ” according to Lucinda Lopez Phelan, deputy director of the Identification Section of Scientific Services for Connecticut State Police. “We work under the task force to investigate and pro-

vide services, offer training assistance, victim services and protect against child enticement, exploitation and abuse against children.”

The task force prioritizes tips and assigns a top priority when it’s believed a suspect has imminent plans to harm a child, followed by investigating those who are preplanning an event. The task force also deals with blackmail crimes, where a minor has sent a photo and is being blackmailled over it. The repayment is either cash, or producing more child sexual

content. The children are usually afraid to report it to their parents or school. They also address cyberbullying, doxing, or revealing someone’s wherabouts to harass and intimidate.

“These tips come in hard and fast,” said Sgt. Kenneth Ventresca, a supervisor in the Computer Crimes Unit for the State Police. “It’s our job to determine where the IP address is coming from. Much of it is peer to peer, like the old music pirating platforms. There are other software used to spread child pornography.”

Ventresca recalled a case involving a local hotel owner who was actively looking online to purchase a minor for production of child porn. Police staged a sting and arrested the man on site.

“There were multiple victims with this. In fact, one of them was his own daughter,” Ventresca said. “It’s become a very big issue. We are working tirelessly every day to keep up with the latest technology,”

But while the predators can be pursued by law enforcement, the tech companies are immune right now, Blumenthal said.

“We need to eliminate that section of the law that gives them complete immunity,” he said, “and end this sickening sexual abuse and exploitation.”

mgodin@record-journal.com

U.S. Sen. Richard Blumenthal speaks at the Connecticut State Police Division of Scientific Services on Colony Street in Meriden on Friday, May 5.

Dave Zajac, Record-Journal

L. Kern, President | Broker

Your complaints are not going unheard, but with what is happening in our town and communities across Connecticut, many of these issues are taking a back seat to more pressing violent criminal activities.

In response to this increased criminal activity, we are fielding special anti-crime patrols during specific high crime activity hours, having all our public safety personnel working extra shifts to

Reforms

From A9

Several key legislators acknowledged the proposal would have a hard time succeeding with such a large financial commitment needed.

“It’s going to be a challenge,” said Sen. John Fonfara, a Hartford Democrat who is co-chair of the Finance, Revenue and Bonding Committee. “I would say there’s probably going to be a remote chance of seeing progress on that in this budget.”

“We don’t have the money for that,” added Sen. Cathy Osten, D-Sprague, co-chair of the Appropriations Committee.

Along with the competing requests for aid, legislative leaders have to be mindful of the state spending cap, which follows a formula to keep overall growth in line with increases in household income or inflation whichever is larger. The Office of Policy and Management estimates the cap system, which permitted $906 million in growth this fiscal year, would allow $998 million in 202324.

Another big issue is difficulty recruiting and retaining workers to staff the nursing homes. Even if funding were available, lawmakers said, there aren’t enough candidates to fill the jobs.

But the shortage of nursing

get more manpower onto our streets to try and address the tide of vehicle break-ins, stolen vehicles, larcenies, and the subsequent rise in “quality of life” crimes.

Mental health calls for service have also increased and our personnel must spend more time with these responses, which takes away from patrol time. However, when personnel staffing permits, we are shifting from being reactive to a more community service type response to these complaints.

Like all Connecticut law en-

home employees is not new. For years, industry leaders have highlighted the challenges they face in attracting and retaining staff. A similar bill in 2021 raising the mandatory hours to 4.1 was watered down due to cost and ability to recruit workers.

Legislators say the problem must be addressed before increasing staffing mandates, though no proposals this

forcement agencies, we are held back by the response restrictions placed on policing practices by our state legislature.

Gone are the days of police engaging in fleeing suspect pursuits for minor offenses and property crimes. To be frank, with the reduction of police qualified immunity protection, officers are erring on the side of caution, with regard to liability, which in turn is restraining their response to calls for service. There have also been many changes to the juvenile justice system here in our state

year attempt to specifically tackle the issue of recruiting nursing home workers. “We have to work on getting more people into the state, because we can’t require an industry to do something they have no capacity to be able to do,” Osten said.

Read the full story on the website of The Connecticut Mirror, ctmirror.org.

over the past years, that have changed how law enforcement can respond to offenses committed by juvenile offenders and the consequences for their actions. Much of the current crime wave hitting our community is being perpetrated by “juveniles.”

Although our response to this crime spike is very proactive, our response is tempered by the above restrictions placed upon the police by the Connecticut legislature.

Despite the restrictions we believe that the above-mentioned patrols and policy changes will allow us to combat the crime issues here in Berlin.

Finally, our advice to residents is to keep calling the police. Call us immediately when you observe suspicious behavior. We value and need your assistance. It takes a strong community/policing partnership to keep a community safe. By working together, we will all win with a vibrant and peaceful Berlin.

LEGAL NOTICE

KENSINGTON FIRE DISTRICT

ANNUAL MEETING – May 25, 2023

The legal voters and members of the Kensington Fire District are hereby warned and notified that the Annual Meeting of the Kensington Fire District will be held at the Berlin Community Center (lower level of the Library building), 230 Kensington Road, Berlin, CT on Thursday, May 25, 2023, at 6:00 p.m. for the following purposes:

1. To act on the reports of the officers and the committee for the past year.

2. The adoption of the Budget for the ensuing fiscal year.

3. The laying of the Annual Tax upon the Grand List of the District.

4. The fixing of water and sewer rates for the ensuing fiscal year.

5. To authorize the Committee to borrow a sum of money not to exceed Two Hundred Thousand ($200,000.00) Dollars for emergency purposes.

Dated at Berlin, Connecticut, this 4th day of May, 2023.

s/Joseph Pagliaruli

Joseph Pagliaruli, Chairman R261327

LEGAL NOTICE OF AUCTION

The following vehicle with VIN#3HSDZTZR1JN633200 will be sold as is on 5/13/2023 at 9am at 1163 Mill Street, Berlin CT. Seller has the right to refuse any and all bids.

R261334

TOP CASH PAID For any Toyota any condition, running or not, crashed okay. Will take other makes and models. (203) 600-4431.

TOP CASH PAID

For Junk or unwanted vehicles, Toyota’s etc. Please call Mike @ 203284-8562 8am-5pm.

MAINTAINER III COLLECTIONS SYSTEM

WANTED - Short term rental, 3-6 months maybe longer, whole house must have 2 BRs, must accept little dogs, (203) 470-1828.

GRASSY HILL AUCTIONS, - an Estate

ALWAYS BUYING

OFFICE POSITIONWe are looking for a self-motivated, friendly and responsible person who has strong customer service skills and computer knowledge to work in our Self Storage office. Secure facility with longterm tenant base. Part Time: Friday, 9-5 p.m., Saturday 9-2 p.m. (can be alternate Saturdays). Call 203-605-1494.

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

The Town of Wallingford Sewer Division is seeking qualified applicants to supervise and perform highly skilled tasks in the operation, maintenance, repair and construction of sanitary sewers, including CCTV inspection and high velocity flushing. Requires a H.S., trade school or vocational school diploma or H.S. equivalency diploma, plus 4 years’ employment in a field related to sanitary sewer construction, operation or maintenance, or 1 year of training in a skilled trade substituted for 1 year of experience up to 2 years plus a minimum of 2 years of employment for a sewer utility or in the construction field with work experience in the installation and maintenance of pipelines, or an equivalent combination of experience and training. Must possess or maintain a valid State of Connecticut Class B CDL. NEWEA Collection System Certification Grade II or higher is preferred.

Wages: $29.21 to $33.40 hourly, plus an excellent fringe benefits package that includes pension plan, medical insurance, life insurance, paid sick and vacation time.

Applications may be downloaded from the Department of Human Resources Web Page and can be mailed to the Department of Human Resources, Town of Wallingford, 45 South Main Street, Wallingford, CT 06492, or emailed to: wlfdhr@wallingfordct. gov by the closing date of May 30, 2023. Phone: (203) 294-2080; Fax: (203) 294-2084. EOE

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

IMPOUNDED - Chihuahua male, vicinity Christain Lane. Call Berlin Animal Control 860-828-7055.

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.

MATERIALS DISTRIBUTION

Screened Topsoil $30/ per yd; 2.5” screened gravel, $18 per yd; Sand$18 per yd; Millings-$22 per yd; Screened Millings $30 per yd; $100 minimum delivery. No pickup truck service. Minimum 16 yd pickup at our yard. Call Jim @ 860-9824819 for delivery

PREMIUM SCREENED TOPSOIL

$30/yard delivered, 3 yd, $100 min. delivery Call Jim 860-982-4819

. Top Soil . Compost . . Wood Chips . FOR

ANTIQUES WANTED -

Comic 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.

FREE - Replacement glass for Jalousie windows. 11 pcs, 247/8” x 4”. Call (860) 628-7370.

Certification class for CT Pistol Permit, 1 session only, small groups, $140. (203) 415-1144.

TREE LENGTH FIREWOOD CALL FOR DETAILS

203-238-2149

1, 2, 3 CASH FOR YOUR ANTIQUES & JEWELRY - Call Todd Shamock at 203-494-1695.

BUYING MACHINIST

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

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

PREMIER ESTATE JEWELRY - Is interested in buying your fine jewelry, watches, coin collections, silver flatware, and costume jewelry. Call Bill, (203) 4942496.

TIMELESS TREASURES ESTATE AUCTIONSIs looking to purchase estate contents. From single items to entire estates. Clean-out services available. Call Bill (203) 494-2496.

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

PISTOL PERMIT -

Businesses & Services

GARY WODATCHDemolition 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

DECKS & PORCHES

Give some new life to your old decks and porches. We can repair or replace stairs, deck boards, railings. We also construct new decks. HIC#647093 Insured. Call Bill for a free estimate, (203) 901-2136.

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

GUTTERS

DON’T WORK

If they’re dirty! For gutter cleaning, Call Kevin (203) 440-3279 Fully ins. CT# 569127

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

JUNK REMOVAL Hot Tub Removal, Furniture, appliances, entire contents of: homes, sheds, estates, attics, basements, garages & more.

*SPRING YARD Clean-ups* FREE ESTIMATES. LIC & INS.

DUMPSTER RENTALS 203-535-9817 860-575-8218

CONNECT WITH US SOCIALLY

FACEBOOK.COM/ RECORDJOURNAL NEWSPAPER

IF YOU Mention This Ad SPRINGYard Clean-Ups Brush, branches, s torm damage

**JUNK REMOVAL** Appl’s, Furniture, Junk, Debris, etc WE CAN REMOVE ANYTHING Entire house to 1 item removed!

FREE ESTIMATES

Sr. Citizen Discount LIC & INS.

DUMPSTER RENTALS 203-535-9817 860-575-8218

SPRING CLEANUPS JUNK REMOVAL Tree Removal, Fence Work & more! No job too small or large. 860.719.3953

Get Listed. Get Calls. Get Results.

JASPER’S GENERAL CONTRACTOR - Roofing, painting, siding and remodeling, free estimates. 10% off with this ad. (203) 535-9817.

ALEX EUROPEAN MASONRY - 30 yrs. exp. Patios, ret. walls, steps, brick, stone, chimneys. Lic#580443. 203-2320257 or 203-596-0652

GROW YOUR BUSINESS

Advertise with us. 203-317-2312

PATIOS, WALKWAYS, Stonewalls, Steps, Concrete, Repairs, Etc. Free Ests. #0648556 203.808.6886 arnoldsmasonry.com

W. BOOBER MASONRYOver 35 Years Experience All Types of Masonry CT License #626708 (203) 235-4139

#1 PAINTER’S EDGE MOBILE WASH Chemicals safe for house & plants. House wash, roof cleaning, decks. 25 yrs. exp. Sr Disc. #0656136 Ins. 860.538.5520

A-1 QUALITY POWERWASHING

Low Rates Call Dennis 203.630.0008

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

TWITTER.COM/ RECORD_JOURNAL INSTAGRAM.COM/ RECORDJOURNAL

JM Lawn Care Lawn Mowing, Spring Cleanup, Hedge Trimming, Tree Service, Mulch, any color. Comm. & Res. 860.796.8168

A pressureless house washing system can save you money, ask how! The Power-Washing Kings. House & roof washing, decks, patios, etc. Others Wash We Clean! 860.839.1000 thepowerwashing kings.com

Roof Repair or Replacement, Chimney Repair, Skylight Replacement. Free est. CT #0651199 (860) 877-3006

Whether it is a lost ring, wallet or a Parrot named Oliver, a Classified ad can help track it down.

RT RELOCATION

Your moving and storage specialists. Call for a free estimate. 833-668-3978.

POWER WASHING Is Spring Cleaning on THE OUTSIDE FREE Estimates

#569127 Call Kevin 203-440-3279

GARY WODATCH - Tree Removal. All calls returned. CT# 620397. Quick courteous service. 860-558-5430. Let

GARY WODATCH Hedge trimming. Trim overgrown properties. Calls returned. #620397. 860.558.5430

JT’S LANDSCAPING LLC - Spring CleanUps, we specialize in weeding all types of beds, mulching, top soil work, pruning hedges & shrubs, & all your landscape needs. Residential & commercial. Lic. #616311. Call today for free estimate, 203-213-6528.

OVER 28 YRS EXP Stonewalls, patios, sidewalks, chimneys, pool areas, fireplaces, fire pit steps. Free est. 860.274.4893.

#1 PAINTER’S EDGE Ext. & Int. Painting. Sheetrock.Popcorn Repair. Wallpaper Remv’l. Decks. 25 yrs exp. Free est. Sr. disc. #0656136. Ins. 860.538.5520

Insurance claim.storm damage.roofing.siding. gutter.chimney flashing. Office:203.754.3071

Cell:203.510.3830

Stormshieldct@gmail. com HIC.0664452

Specializing in tree removal, chipping & grinding. Call for free estimate. 203-945-1808.

TREE BROTHERS TREE EXPERTS - Specializes in all aspects of tree removal and trimming with twenty five years of experience. We offer a free quote and military and first responder discount. Call 203-5122453.

Sunblock, hat—bring

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