The Berlin Citizen

MUCH TO CELEBRATE

Berlin girls golf: Two decades of dominance

By Robert Mayer Special to The Citizen

The late Jim Day, longtime wrestling coach and director of athletics at Berlin High School, would often hear people refer to Berlin as a “baseball town” or a “football town.” But in Day’s mind, there was no doubt that Berlin was actually a “golf town.”

The facts bear this out.

Over the last 20 years, the BHS girls golf program has claimed six state championships – including in 2022 and 2023 – and finished second at the state tournament three times. During that same period, the BHS boys golf team has collected eight state titles and two runner-up finishes.

Around Town

Ribbon cuttings

Town officials held a ribboncutting ceremony for Laura Ramirez, LLC on May 24. Ramirez offers life coaching, Reiki, mindfulness training,

and more. The business is located at 1200 Farmington Ave., 2nd floor.

On May 26, town officials gathered to celebrate Trio Home Care's move to the

Steele Center, 9 Steele Boulevard. A family-owned firm, Trio Home Care specializes in daily living assistance.

See more on Page A7

Twin sisters Meghan (left) and Kiera Riedel share a smile at Berlin High School’s graduation ceremony, June 9 at Sage Park. The Citizen welcomes submissions from the community. Send photos and other items to news@theberlincitizen.com.

Photo by Kelly Dumas

The Berlin High School girls golf team earned the state championship in 2022, and again this spring.

See Golf, A7

Celebrating Art Powers on his 95th birthday

By JoAnn Angelico-Stetson

As lifelong Berlin resident and former mayor Arthur Powers Sr. approaches his 95th birthday, it is an opportune moment to reflect on his exceptional life, remarkable achievements and enduring impact on our community. In an era where politics and politicians often face criticism and cynicism, it is truly a privilege to celebrate the legacy of a man who has devoted his life to public service and unwavering dedication to our town.

A dear friend and mentor, Art is a living testament to the power of perseverance and persistence. From the time he was elected to the state legislature in 1958, and throughout his illustrious, decades-long career, he has exemplified the qualities that make a true leader: vision, empathy and a deep commitment to the well-being of the people he represented.

From the early days of his political journey, right through to the present, Art has remained a steadfast advocate for the betterment of our community, earning the respect and admiration of countless individuals along the way.

Art’s accomplishments during his 10 consecutive terms as mayor are astonishing, and include: the establishment of the first Town Charter; the construction of Griswold, Hubbard and McGee schools, Little League fields and pools, the first senior housing complex in the community – Marjorie Moore Village, and a Town Hall located in what is now

known as the Arthur B. Powers, Sr. Municipal Complex. Also, the first renovation and addition to Berlin High School occurred under Art’s watch, and Berlin families enjoy Timberlin and Sage Park, and football, soccer, baseball and softball fields that were purchased and developed with state and federal funds obtained by him.

Art is also famous for initiating the highly-successful Berlin High wrestling program. He officiated count-

less wrestling tournaments locally and nationally, and earned numerous accolades in the sport, including being inducted into the National Wrestling Hall of Fame, and, of course, the BHS Hall of Fame.

Art’s unwavering dedication to public service is evident in the countless initiatives and projects he spearheaded, all aimed at improving the lives of residents. He has left an indelible mark on our town's landscape and future.

On Oct. 17, 1962, President John F. Kennedy was in Waterbury rallying support for Democratic candidates. In the foreground are Art Powers, right,and Tony Bianca, a politician from New Britain.

Locals in College

Honors

Assumption University, Worcester, Mass., named Ashley Wenzel to its dean's list for the spring semester.

Elms College, Chicopee, Mass., named Camden Murphy to its dean's list for the spring semester.

LaSalle University, Newton, Mass., named Lee Cabral to its dean's list for the spring semester.

Lehigh University, Bethlehem, Penn., named Brent Catan and Kelsic Ziczewski to its dean's list for the spring semester.

Norwich University, Northfield, VT, named Simon Frakl to is dean's list for the spring semester.

Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, N.Y., named Jacob Lindsay to its dean's list for the spring semester.

Siena College, Londonville, N.Y., named Kelly Kozlowski to its president’s list for the spring semester.

University of St. Joseph, West Hartford, named the following students to its dean's list for the spring semester: Victoria Adler, Isabella Cloutier, Aaron Gauvin, Toni Grant, Samantha Jania, Brendon Jaouen, Christina Kolc, Maya Matug, Michelle Matug, Ishanee Patel, Nicholas Pulcini, Samuel Turgeon.

Graduates

Lee Cabral, LaSalle University, Newton, Mass.

Quinnipiac University, Hamden, awarded the following students with degrees at commencement: Richard Bogdan, Taylor Droste, Rebecca Ferrero, Hannah Grega, Danyella Kaplan, Emilia Miloszewski, David Russell.

Matthew Uryga, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, N.Y.

Julia Ladd, Stone Hill College, Easton, Mass.

Danielle Taglucop, University of Scranton, Scranton, Penn.

Samantha Klett, University of Florida-Gainesville, Gainvilles, Fla.

Amie Miron, Wilkes University, Wilkes-Barre, Penn.

Paul Kokomo, Worcester Polytechnic Insti tute, Worcester, Mass.

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 through 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. Begin-

ning 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.

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.

Investing in our future leaders

Press Release

The Berlin Democratic Town Committee is pleased to announce its recent donation to support Berlin Upbeat’s mission of providing exceptional leadership training and character development for seniors at Berlin High School.

Upbeat has consistently demonstrated its commitment to nurturing the potential of our BHS seniors, empowering them to become confident and responsible leaders in our community. By providing communitybased programs and instilling strong values, Upbeat plays a vital role in preparing our students for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

“We are thrilled to support Berlin Upbeat and their invaluable work with our BHS students,” BDTC Chair Raul Fernandes stated.

“Their dedication to character development and leadership makes them an indispensable town institution. We hope our contribution will assist them in continuing their mission and further enhance the positive impact they have on our community.”

The BDTC recognizes the importance of investing in our youth and providing them with opportunities to grow, learn and thrive. Upbeat not only equips BHS seniors with valuable leadership skills, it fosters a sense of community, teamwork and resilience.

NO OFF-SEASON

Preservation CT

In Brief

Land Trust

Preservation Connecticut is a statewide nonprofit historic preservation organization, established in 1975 by a Special Act of the Connecticut General Assembly as the Connecticut Trust for Historic Preservation.

For over four decades, Preservation Connecticut has championed the protection of community assets all over the state. For more information, visit preservationct.org.

The Berlin Land Trust remains committed to its mission of conserving open spaces and preserving the town's natural resources. Through partnerships and community initiatives, the group strives to create a sustainable environment for future generations. For more information, visit berlinlandtrust.org.

Central CT Youth Football hosted its annual camp June 1215 at Sage Park. The camp was fortunate to have many current and former college and NFL players as instructors, including current UConn linebacker Jackson Mitchell. Local players Quinn Demko (5th grade) and Nick Balicki (8th grade) were named camp MVPs. Mitchell, Demko and Balicki are pictured.

State providing critical habitats for pollinators

Press Release

June 19-25 is National Pollinator Week and the Connecticut Department of Transportation is highlighting ongoing efforts to help pollinators thrive.

The CTDOT Pollinator Program was implemented in 2017 and has grown to 123

conservation areas comprised of approximately 205 acres of state right of way.

The goal of the Pollinator Program is to provide critical habitats for pollinating insects, such as bees and monarch butterflies, through strategic plantings and vegetation management.

“Pollinators are important to our food supply and health of the environment, and we are proud to join the national effort to increase pollinator habitats on properties throughout Connecticut. We’re reclaiming these areas along the highways with wildflowers and vegetation to help protect pollinators that are at risk,” said Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto.

“Each year we’re identifying additional conservation areas that we can add to this program as part of our broader goals to create a more sustainable environment. However, our rights of way cannot provide the pollinators with everything they need. I encourage the public

to join our efforts to help pollinators flourish in Connecticut.”

The CTDOT pollinator corridors are marked with conservation area signage and consist of warm season grasses, native wildflowers and low-growing vegetation.

They bloom in late June and continue through the summer months.

Some examples of plants found in conservation areas include milkweed, goldenrod, joe pye weed and aster. Varying species with staggered bloom time promotes biodiversity, healthy habitats, and increases the survival rate of pollinators in the area. These corridors

along the highways provide an extensive network for pollinators.

Motorists traveling throughout Connecticut can see these corridors near highway ramps, medians, and along roadside shoulders. While the blooms are beautiful to see, motorists are asked not to stop on the highway to take photos or videos of the conservation areas.

For more information about National Pollinator Week and the importance of pollinators, visit pollinator.org.

From A4

By supporting this organization, the Berlin Democrats aim to contribute to the development of well-rounded individuals who will go on to make a positive difference in our society.

To the BHS Class of 2023, the BDTC would like to express its utmost pride and excitement for the bright futures that await you.

As you embark on the next chapter of your lives, we have every confidence in your ability to succeed and make a lasting impact on the world around you. Your dedication and accomplishments thus far serve as an inspiration to us all.

The Berlin Democrats applaud Berlin Upbeat’s remarkable efforts and extend our encouragement to continue their outstanding work.

Together, let us forge ahead, united in our commitment to the betterment of our community and the empowerment of our youth.

Jim Bryers helped start the BHS girls golf program while he was leading the Berlin boys team.

At first, the girls participated in the Connecticut State Girls Golf League, and special rules were in place because the level of play at that time was not very good.

Even then, led by players like Rebecca Collis, Lindsay Ryan and Ally Tetreault, the Lady Redcoats were tough. And Berlin’s dominance in the Girls Golf League would continue behind future NCAA Division I players such as Amy Bordonaro, Amy Francolino and Jen Rudy.

Finally, in 2003, the CIAC included girls golf as an official sport, and with teams from Fairfield County joining the fray, the competition became stiff.

In 2006, powered by Samantha Bashaw and Erica Barnes, who would continue her career at Division I Hofstra University, Berlin would finish as state runner-up.

The Berlin girls’ first CIAC championship came in 2011, with Julia Kemmling, Victoria Fagan and Alyssa Scheyd leading the way.

With Coach Jim Barnes at the helm, the Lady Redcoats would also win state titles in 2012 and 2013, and they placed second in 2014. Also starring on those teams were Ashley D’Attilio, Emily Stickel and Abby Underwood.

Fagan went on to play at Division I Long Island University, Scheyd at Division I Lehigh University and Kemmling at D-I Quinnipiac University.

In 2021, Jessica Nappi and Rachel Varley helped Berlin

Golfers KennaRoman, MollySzczesniak and LibbyDunn graduated from Berlin High School this spring having earned back-to-back state championships. Over thelast 20 years, the BHS girls golf program has claimed a total of six state titles.

Around Town

Steele Center update

Businesses have opened at the Steele Center, 9 Steele Boulevard, and Tony Valenti of Newport Realty Group said all apartments at the location have been filled.

Construction is currently underway at Newport Realty's development at 10 Steele Boulevard.

Economic Development Director Chris Edge said, “With the new building at 10 Steele Boulevard, which will be available for occupancy in the fall of 2023, we are excited to

see Farmington Avenue continue to develop and provide residents and visitors more food, retail and experiences.”

Lions donation

Recently, Berlin Lions Club members David Robinson, Paul Cavaliere and Dan Daigle presented Berlin High School Upbeat director Sheel Patel with a check for $7,000.

The funds will be used to support Upbeat activities throughout the year, including a student leadership training weekend, and the program's annual community picnic.

While deep blue, state is too cautious for progressives

By Mark Pazniokas

The Connecticut Mirror

Connecticut, a small blue state that reliably fueled national campaigns on the minimum wage, paid sick days and family leave in the previous decade, was barren ground on cutting-edge labor issues in the just-completed legislative session.

In style and substance, the Democratic governor and General Assembly most often operated from the political center, exhibiting caution on major progressive issues ranging from labor to climate change to affordable housing.

The question inevitably arises: When it comes to policy, what is the political identity of Connecticut, one of the 17 trifecta states where Democrats control the office of the governor and both chambers of the state legislature?

“For good and bad, we are a bit more moderate state than I think you’d want to recognize. And for me, sometimes it’s painful,” said House Majority Leader Jason Rojas, D-East Hartford. “But I think, overall, it’s a good thing.”

Working from the center reflects the preferences of Gov. Ned Lamont, especially on fiscal issues, and the unwillingness of House Speaker Matt Ritter, D-Hartford, and Rojas to force difficult votes on their ideologically diverse majority caucus.

Winning a 98-53 House majority last year was both a boon and challenge to Ritter and Rojas: The Democratic base now includes the wealthiest corners of Fairfield County, urban poor, and swing voters in more rural communities. It has a core of perhaps two dozen moderates.

To make it work, Ritter has preached against brinkmanship and for flexibility.

“We’ve talked about it,” Ritter said. “We’ve tried to create a culture in the House whereby people have to

learn to compromise not only with Republicans but with each other in our caucus. ”

On Monday, June 12, Ritter and Rojas applauded Lamont as he publicly signed a bipartisan budget that cuts taxes on the middle class. Then they watched him present signing pens to them but also to House Minority Leader Vincent J. Candelora, R-North Branford.

At a time of stark polarization in Washington and many state capitals, Republicans in the Connecticut General Assembly have engaged with Democrats, most notably on a budget that includes some GOP ideas.

“This document does reflect collaboration and input from the Republican Party. And I want to thank the governor for bringing us into the room

and listening to what we had to say,” Candelora said. “Compromise is not a dirty word,” Lamont said.

A coalition of progressive groups, including the AFLCIO and the Working Families Party, has complained the budget falls woefully short, failing to adequately reimburse nonprofits that provide vital social services. None of the top three bills pushed by labor and its allies won passage.

A more favorable notice came on the editorial page of the Wall Street Journal, which bemoaned that other Democratic trifecta states are wedded to a predictable formula of more spending followed by more taxes. “The exception has been Connecticut under Gov. Ned Lamont, who is trying to break from the progressive pack

with a tax cut if his Democratic Legislature will let him,” the Journal wrote on June 4, two days before the budget’s overwhelming passage.

The Journal overlooked that the budget debate was framed on Lamont’s terms when the General Assembly voted unanimously in February for emergency-certified legislation that bypassed committee review and extended fiscal guardrails adopted in 2017. When tax revenues are booming, the guardrails cap how much can be spent and direct a certain amount of surplus funds to the rainy day fund and then to paying down pension and bonding debt.

“The e-cert of the guardrails was very detrimental to progressives this session,” said

Tom Swan, executive director of the Connecticut Citizen Action Group. “And it showed that legislative leadership and the governor were more interested in making bond holders happy than in dealing with the real problems of Connecticut.” Lawmakers counter that the compromise yielded a more progressive tax rate and more spending for nonprofits and education than the governor initially proposed, but they did so with negotiation. Rumored revolts at Lamont’s centrist fiscal policies never took shape.

House Democrats have gained 19 seats over three two-year election cycles that made the caucus more diverse. Getting bigger and broader did not make them bolder.

Gov. Ned Lamont shares a laugh with House Republican leader Vincent Candelora, center, and Republican Rep. Holly Cheeseman and Democratic Sen. Cathy Osten after signing the bipartisan budget. Mark Pazniokas, The Connecticut Mirror

New background check law stopped over 200 gun sales

By Lisa Hagen The Connecticut Mirror

In the months since the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act enacted tighter background checks for gun buyers under 21, more than 200 18- to 20-yearolds were denied gun purchases for various disqualifying reasons, according to FBI data.

None of the denials was in Connecticut. The state’s Special Licensing and Firearms Unit did not have data to share on the number of background checks conducted because of the federal gun safety law but said it is complying with the newer reforms.

Gun safety advocates had pushed for the inclusion of universal background checks in the bill, but they could not get enough support from Republicans in Congress.

Still, supporters of the measure were able to get stronger requirements for younger buyers as part of last year’s compromise.

The law, among other things, requires background checks for purchases through licensed dealers to also include the search for juvenile records when those under 21 are trying to buy a firearm.

The push for such federal legislation came in the wake of mass shootings in Uvalde, Texas, and Buffalo, N.Y., that were carried out by 18-year-olds.

Since the passage of the law last June, about 102,000 of these background checks were conducted for purchasers between the ages of 18 and 20.

The National Instant Criminal Background Check System denied 960 of those transactions.

Of them, 206 were directly attributed to the expanded background checks in the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act.

The FBI, which oversees the nation’s background check system, provided data from the implementation of the law until June 5, 2023.

It did not provide a state breakdown of where the 206 blocked transactions occurred.

Like other background checks, the department said disqualification can be due to “mental health, juvenile criminal records, unlawful controlled substance user or addict, and/ or state specific prohibitions.”

Connecticut officials said that there have been no denials of transactions as a result of the expanded checks for buyers under 21.

Connecticut has some of the tightest gun laws in the U.S. and recently passed an update to them.

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

From A8

Reelecting an ideologically and geographically diverse caucus tends to require compromise, consensus and incremental change.

Sarah Ganong, the state director of the Working Families, complained that legislatures in states with thinner Democratic majorities accomplished more.

“Connecticut Democrats instead allowed their most conservative members to take control of the agenda along with the minority Republican Party all to the detriment of Connecticut residents,” she said.

Labor’s bills addressing paid sick days, predictable scheduling for service employees and a higher minimum wage for tipped workers all failed, as did long shots that would have provided jobless benefits for strikers and set stringent standards for workers at Amazon fulfillment centers.

A reluctance by advocates to compromise doomed what was widely seen as labor’s best hope for a victory in 2023: a significant update to Connecticut’s first-in-thenation paid sick days law that passed in 2011.

The original law applied only to employers with at least 50 workers, and it exempted manufacturers and certain non-profits.

The Senate passed a bill that would have expanded sick day coverage to virtually all employers. It was too much of an expansion for a signifi

cant number of House Democrats, and Ritter refused to pressure them by calling a vote.

“They’re legislators. They got elected. They didn’t get here to get bullied by me and Jason for the next two years,” Ritter said.

Lamont had proposed his own expansion, dropping the coverage threshold from 50 to 11 employees. But after the Senate passed its version on a 20-12 party-line vote, the administration indicated the governor would sign it.

In the House, a few compromises were floated. One would have expanded coverage in phases over several years, bringing down the employee threshold from 50 to 25 immediately, then 20 next year, 15 the year after that and so on.

“It’s really frustrating to me the more and more I see how labor and the left is very often unwilling to take wins, to get to that next thing to fight for. And you just get logjams because it can only be perfect,” said Rep. Josh Elliott, D-Hamden, a liberal who worked on passage.

The Connecticut Women’s Education and Legal Fund

took the lead on paid sick days and insisted on centering its efforts on workers who had the greatest need for coverage. “Ultimately, you can put up what might be perceived as a win,” said Janée Woods Weber, the group’s director. “But if we’re still leaving behind people who need to be centered, who have been historically left behind, then is it really the kind of win that we’re looking for?”

Ed Hawthorne, the president of the Connecticut AFL-CIO, said there are times when defeat is better than compromise.

“They shouldn’t always be looking to find the middle ground,” Hawthorne said of lawmakers. “There’s things where the middle ground eats away at what the core of the bill is trying to do.”

Hawthorne said they will back the same bills in February, the start of the next session and another opportunity to assess Connecticut’s political identity.

This story originally appeared on the website of The Connecticut Mirror, ctmirror.org.

land a second-place finish at the state tournament.

From there, the Lady Redcoats would earn back-toback state titles, the second one coming this spring.

Those teams were powered by Kenna Roman and Libby Dunn. Berlin’s stellar starting five also included Molly Szczesniak, Samantha Dunn and Charley Carlson.

“We knew playing for Berlin golf was serious, we knew there were good golfers and there were going to be cuts, so it was some pressure,” said Roman, who will continue her playing career at Division I Stonehill University in the fall. “The last few years we knew we were going to have a really good team because we had Libby and Sam, and most teams don’t have that many good golfers. This season was really great, and we played pretty well every match.”

Roman said, being a senior, “I wanted to make sure we went out on the right note.”

“I remember some of the girls that played at Berlin High School, and I thought they were superheroes when I was growing up,” she said. “To have my name up there with them is really cool, and I hope it keeps Berlin girls golf rolling.”

Another member of the Class of 2023, Libby Dunn, said, “That first state championship [in 2022] came with no seniors, so we knew we had a chance to win it again this year.”

Dunn claimed two individual State Open titles during her time at BHS and was named Golfer of the Year by CTInsider. Her sister, Samantha Dunn, was a sophomore this season. “We knew when we finished sec-

ond [in 2021] that we had a chance to be good,” Libby Dunn said, “and then with my sister coming in, and her coming off playing competitive golf, we had a chance to win it.”

Libby Dunn will attend Texas Christian University in the fall, where she will play golf on a club team. “I thought about playing college golf and I pursued it for a while and took several college visits, but after seeing TCU, I fell in love with the campus and the people and what they offered academically,” she said, “and I decided that club golf was just a better avenue for me.”

Kenna Roman, on the otherhand, knew she wanted to test her golf skills at the next level, as her brother had done. Jackson Roman attended Hamden Hall and now plays at Division I Loyola of Maryland.

“When he was being recruited it was like he was being treated like a celebrity, so I said to myself, I want that, I want to play golf in college and be treated like that,”

Kenna Roman said with a laugh. “Stonehill checked all the boxes. I loved the campus, and I liked the coach and when I met the girls, they were very welcoming.”

With the graduation of Kenna Roman, Libby Dunn and Molly Szczesniak, next spring, rising juniors Samantha Dunn and Charley Carlson will form the nucleus of the team.

And at Berlin High’s home course, Timberlin, head pro Marc Bayram has many young players who are eager to step up and keep those state championships coming.

That’s how dynasties are born; great players move on, and other greats fill their spots.

“It warms my heart knowing that there are young players out there that might want to be like me,” Libby Dunn said. “Whenever I see young players at Timberlin, I try to stop and talk to them and help them It’s really cool to think they might look up to me or one of the other girls.”

Boxes to Boots

Berlin-based nonprofit 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.

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. Visit cfgnb.org for details.

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.

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

to your home or business, will end.

GOP fundraiser

The Berlin Republican Town Committee will host a cookout fundraiser Saturday, July 29, noon to 4 p.m., at the American Legion, 154 Porters Pass. Tickets are $25 ($10 for children age 5 to 12). Tickets can be purchased the day of the cookout, but buying them in advance is encouraged. Contact Lecia Paonessa at 860828-3271.

Comedy Night

The Berlin Lions Club will hold a Comedy Night fundraiser for Berlin veterans Saturday, June 24, 6 p.m., at the fairgrounds. This is a 21-and-over event. BYOB and food. Tickets are $35. Contact Steve Kulinski at sakulinski@gmail.com.

Rabies clinic

A rabies clinic will take place Saturday, June 24 from 2 to 4 p.m. at Berlin Animal Con-

trol, 600 Christian Lane. There is a $15 charge; cash only. Distemper/Parvo vaccine also available. Dogs must be on leashes and cats in carriers. Pet food and supplies will be collected for the F.O.B.A.C. Pet Food Pantry. For more information, call 860-828-7055.

Concert series

Concerts will take place at the Darius Miller Music Shell at Walnut Hill Park in New Britain, Mondays and Wednesday from 7 to 9 p.m., July 3 through Aug. 30. Call 860-826-3360 for updates.

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 serv-

ing can be put up on the wall. Contact Peter Galgano at petergalgano@comcast.net or 860-604-7258.

Tip line

In response to growing complaints of a spike in so-called street takeover events, the FBI rolled out a tip line for residents to report instances of mass gatherings in parking lots and roadways. Residents looking to report a street takeover are encouraged to call 1-800-CALL-FBI and select the “Connecticut Street Takeovers” option, or visit the website fbi.gov/cttakeovertips.

Marines sought

The Marine Corps League, Hardware City Detachment, New Britain CT is actively looking for new members. You do not have to live in New Britain to be a member. The Hardware City Detachment meets the first Wednesday of the month, 6:30 p.m., at the Berlin VFW, 152 Massirio Dr. For more information, contact Sal V. Sena Sr. (860-614-6188, 4mermarine69@gmail.com) or Al Urso (860-747-0677, alurso@cox.net).

Berlin Democrats

The Berlin Democratic Town Committee can be reached at berlindemocrats@ gmail.com or via P.O. Box 93, 62 Kensington Road, Berlin, CT 06037.

Berlin GOP

Registered Berlin Republicans: Do you want to make a difference in your community? The Berlin Republican Town Committee is looking for volunteers to serve on local boards, commissions and in elected offices. If interested, send an email to info@ berlingop.org.

Preservation CT

Preservation Connecticut is a statewide nonprofit historic preservation organization, established in 1975 by a Special Act of the Connecticut General Assembly as the Connecticut Trust for Historic Preservation. For over four decades, Preservation Connecticut has championed the protection of community assets all over the state. For more information, visit preservationct.org.

Wreath-laying

Wreaths Across America is a nonprofit organization founded to continue and expand the annual wreath-laying ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery. The group’s mission – Remember, Honor, Teach – is carried out in part each year by coordinating wreath-laying ceremonies in December at Arlington, as well as at thousands of veterans’ cemeteries and other locations in all 50 states and beyond. For more information on how to volunteer locally or sponsor a wreath, visit wreathsacrossamerica.org.

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).

Fire Department Responses

The Fire Administrator’s Office for the Town of Berlin reports the following incidents for the week of June 4.

June 5: 100 block of White Oak Drive: Fire alarm – Companies 1, 2, 3 and 4

June 5: Berlin Turnpike North and Deming Road: Motor vehicle accident – Companies 1, 2 and 3

June 5: Farmington Avenue and

Grandview Avenue: Motor vehicle accident – Companies 2 and 3

June 6: Plum Hollow Way: Structure fire – Companies 1, 2, 3 and 4

June 6: 200 block of Farmington Avenue: Outside investigation – Companies 1, 2 and 4

June 7: 300 block of New Britain Road: Assistance call - Companies 2 and 3

June 7: 500 block of Four Rod Road: Fire alarm – Companies 1, 2, 3 and 4

June 8: 1500 block of Farmington Avenue: Car Fire – Companies 2 and 3

June 8: 200 block of New Britain Road: Assist PD – Company 2

June 8: 600 block of Orchard Road: RV Fire – Companies 1, 2, 3 and 4

June 9: Berlin Turnpike and Deming Road: Motor vehicle accident – Companies 1 and 3

June 9: Area of Park Drive: Assist injured person – Companies 2 and 4

June 10: Primrose Lane: Outside fire – Companies 2 and 4

June 10: Spicewood Lane: Outside fire – Companies 2 and 4

June 10: 100 block of Webster Square Road: Assistance call –Company 3

June 10: 300 block of Norton Lane: Outside fire – Companies 3 and 4

LEGAL NOTICE

REVENUE COLLECTOR’S NOTICE

All persons liable to pay taxes on 1st Installment Real Estate, and all Personal Property and Motor Vehicles in and to the Town of Berlin, Connecticut, are hereby notified that taxes on the Grand List of October 1, 2022, are due July 1, 2023 and payable in full by August 1, 2023.

Real Estate tax bills over $100 are split into two installments due July 1, and January 1.

1st Installment Real Estate and all Personal Property and Motor Vehicle taxes become deliquent if not paid on or before August 1, 2023.

Interest at the rate of 1.5% per month shall be charged from July 1, 2023, on all taxes not paid on or before August 1, 2023, subject to a minimum interest charge of $2.00. Any and all unpaid back taxes, interest and other charges must be paid in full before payment may be made on the 2022 Grand List 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. 12-130 of the Connecticut General Statutes, failure to receive a bill does not relieve one from the liability for payment.

Office: Revenue Collector Mail Payments to: Town of Berlin Room 108 PO Box 150410 Berlin Town Hall Hartford, CT 06115-0410 240 Kensington Road Berlin, CT 06037

Office Hours: Mon., Tues., Wed. 8:30 am – 4:30 pm Thurs. 8:30 am –

Deborah Swan CCMC Revenue Collector Town of Berlin R261698

LEGAL NOTICE

KENSINGTON FIRE DISTRICT TAX COLLECTOR’S NOTICE

All persons liable to pay taxes on Real Estate and Personal Property in and to the Kensington Fire District are hereby notified that taxes on the Grand List of October 1, 2022 are due and payable on July 1, 2023

Taxes need to be paid by August 1, 2023 or said taxes become delinquent if not paid or postmarked on or before August 1, 2023

Interest at the rate of 1.5% per month shall be charged from July 1, 2023 on all taxes not paid on or before August 1, 2023, subject to a minimum interest charge of $2.00. Any and all unpaid back taxes, interest and other charges must be paid in full before payment may be made on the 2022 Grand List taxes.

Any person liable for these taxes who does not receive a bill or bills should contact the Kensington Fire District Tax Collector’s Office at once, by phone at 860-828-1782 or in person at 947 Farmington Avenue (Rear), as failure to receive a bill does not relieve the taxpayer of his/her responsibility for the payment of taxes or delinquent charges.

Collection Place: Tax Collector’s Office Kensington Fire District 947 Farmington Avenue (Rear) Kensington, CT 06037

Office Hours: Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Fridays 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Closed Wednesdays

Karen Stockno, CCMC Tax Collector Kensington Fire District R262276

BUICK GRAND NATIONAL PARTS - 1986 Thru 1987, body and mechanical, call Scotty, (860) 218-5459.

SALT WATER CUSTOM

RODS - 4 St. Croix and 3 Lamiglass, fishing reels on 6 of the poles, ready to fish. If interested call Ralph, 203-9278376.

TREE LENGTH

FIREWOOD

CALL FOR DETAILS

203-238-2149

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

A-1 SERVICE - Is what you will receive from me when purchasing your Old Costume & Fine Estate Jewelry. Napier, QVC, ETC, Jewelry Wanted! “I Pay Top Cash For Your Grandma’s Costume & Fine Jewelry Stash!” I’ll come to you. Julie, 203.443.9602.

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.

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.

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 SALE. Catering to small deliveries. Call Bob (203) 415-0723

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.

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

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

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 - 30+ HP Tractor with Loader & Backhoe; Also, looking for 3pt hitch Brush Hog. (203) 715-6489.

SCHOOL BUS DRIVERS

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

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

Administrative Assistant

Town of Cheshire seeks qualified candidates for nineteen (19) hour per week position of Administrative Assistant at its Wastewater Treatment Plant. The starting minimum hourly rate will be $20.61/hour.

CLERK III

The Wallingford Public Schools are looking for candidates to performs a wide variety of clerical duties requiring excellent computer and interpersonal skills. This position requires 1 year of office work experience and a H.S. diploma. Wages: $19.61 to $26.32 hourly (effective July 1, 2023) plus an excellent fringe benefit package.

Apply: Department of Human Resources, Town of Wallingford 45 South Main Street, Room 301, Wallingford, CT 06492. Applications will be mailed upon request from the Department of Human Resources or may be downloaded from the Department of Human Resources Web Page. Phone: (203) 294-2080 Fax: (203) 294-2084. The closing date will be that date the 50th application form/resume is received or June 28, 2023 whichever occurs first. EOE

Position provides administrative support to maintain records & reports while providing general oversight to office operations. Microsoft experience preferred. For further information including the full job description & application process, visit the Town’s web site at www.cheshirect.org or applicants can pick up a copy from the Human Resources Office, Room #217, Cheshire Town Hall, 84 South Main Street, Cheshire. Interested candidates should submit a cover letter, resume and/or Town application by the close of business on Friday June 30, 2023 to Human Resources Office, Town Hall. Town of Cheshire is an EEOE, M/F/D/V.

HOUSECLEANING

Condos, offices, windows. Oven & Fridge free. Refs. 16 Years Exp. Fabiana, 203.565.7745.

POLISH/ENGLISHSpeaking woman to clean house w/care. 3rd cleaning 30% off. Ins & bonded. Refs. 860-268-2301

GUTTERS

DON’T WORK

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

Let Us BEAR Your Junk! Junk Removal in CT

SPRING CLEANUPS

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

RT RELOCATION

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

POWERWASHING

Painting Int. & Ext. Gutters Cleaned Free Ests. Ins. Refs. Rodrigo, (203) 565-7745.

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.

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

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

SUDOKU ANSWER CROSSWORD ANSWER

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

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

FRONTLINE PLUMBING - Plumbing repairs & replacements, toilets, tubs, sinks, showers, 30 yrs exp., 100% free quotes. #0286296-P1. Bob 203-213-0691.

A-1 QUALITY POWERWASHING

Low Rates Call Dennis 203.630.0008

Insurance claim.storm damage.roofing.siding. gutter.chimney flashing. Office:203.754.3071 Cell:203.510.3830

Stormshieldct@gmail. com HIC.0664452

Whether

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

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

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

POWER WASHING Is Spring Cleaning on THE OUTSIDE FREE Estimates

#569127 Call Kevin 203-440-3279

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

R256878 v4

Honoring ‘Coach V’

Contributed

The Coach Michael Veneziano Foundation was created to honor the legacy of the longtime Berlin High School boys basketball coach, who passed away in December 2021.

Mike Veneziano played basketball at Berlin High and at Mitchell College before returning to coach at his high school alma mater for 13 years. Veneziano was a longtime member at Indian Hill

Powers

From A2

When his 20-year tenure as mayor concluded, Art was appointed commissioner of the Department of Transportation by Gov. Ella T. Grasso.

Art reminds us that age is no barrier to making a meaningful impact on society and that the pursuit of a better future is a lifelong journey. His legacy will forever be etched in the annals of our town's history, a shining example for future leaders to follow.

Art worked as an insurance salesman until his retirement in 2019 at the age of 91. He is the father of five – Arthur Jr., Juliann, Grace, Christopher and Rebecca –grandfather of four and great-grandfather to two.

As we celebrate Art’s milestone birthday, let us collectively express our heartfelt gratitude for the immeasurable contributions he has made to our community.

Should you pass by Art on one of his walks through town with his beloved dog Teddy, please thank him and wish him a happy 95th birthday.

May this occasion be a celebration of a life well-lived, and may he continue to inspire us all for years to come!

Country Club in Newington, and the foundation held its annual golf tournament fundraiser there in 2022 and 2023.

The overwhelming support for the event by Veneziano’s family and friends, and many others, has allowed the foundation to award six scholarships to Berlin High seniors in both 2022 and 2023.

Thanks to everyone that is a part of keeping Mike’s legacy alive.