The Berlin Citizen

Locals show off their creative side

By Nicole Zappone

The Citizen

Beginning back in May, Berlin residents were invited to create works of art as part of a community-wide project called My Hometown. A joint effort between the Town of Berlin and Berlin-Peck Memorial Library, the project aimed to get locals to paint, draw or use mixed media to show – on canvas – what Berlin means to them.

More than 300 small, blank canvases were distributed, and artists had until July 15 to bring their vision to life. On Aug. 1, the library hosted a reception where several dozen pieces of locally-made art were shown.

“These tiny art shows are something new that libraries are doing,” Berlin-Peck librarian Carrie Tyszka said. “I’m excited that we could bring it to Berlin.”

Schools to offer free breakfast

By Rachel Wachman Record-Journal staff

Gov. Ned Lamont and state Education Commissioner Charlene Russell-Tucker announced last week that Connecticut will offer free breakfast to all schoolchildren in Connecticut and make lunch free for students who previously qualified for reduced-price lunches.

For the My Hometown library reception, approximately 50 works were on display.

Suburban Sports celebrates 50 years

By Nicole Zappone The Citizen

Like many young people, Keith Nappi graduated from college not knowing what he wanted to do next. He'd studied philosophy and music; subjects that don’t point to a definitive next step. So, Nappi took a company job. But it didn't work out.

With this announcement, Connecticut became the seventh state to institute free school meals, with Massachusetts joining the ranks as number eight on Aug. 10.

To make the program possible, Connecticut allocated $16 million from funding the state received under the America Rescue Plan Act. During the pandemic, both breakfast and lunch were free for students in Connecticut thanks to federal funding, but this ended when the pandemic program expired.

“There is no curriculum brilliant enough to compensate for a hungry stomach or a distracted mind,” Russell-Tucker said at a press conference. “Our students’ physical, mental, social and emotional health and wellness are foundational to learning. Therefore, providing healthy

See Schools, A2

Natalie Cotto holds up her painting of Hubbard Elementary School.

Photos by Nicole Zappone

Schools

From A1

meals without financial stigmas is a strategic investment in fueling students’ growth and educational outcomes.”

This expansion means the participation of approximately 114 districts and the eligibility of an estimated 177,243 students for free breakfast. For lunches, the state estimates that 128 districts are eligible for funding to serve 13,197 qualifying students who will now receive free rather than reduced-fee meals.

“We have to make sure kids are ready to learn, and that starts first thing in the day, a good meal, a good breakfast, no stigma,” Lamont said at the press conference.

In Connecticut, nearly 400,000 people are food insecure. This number includes 90,000 children, according to Connecticut Foodshare, a food bank which works to feed individuals and families across the state.

“People often think there’s no problem with hunger in Connecticut,” President and CEO of Connecticut Foodshare Jason Jakubowski said.

“That’s 100% not true. We serve the whole state, all 169 towns. There is at least one food insecure family in each one, no matter whether it’s an urban city, the wealthy suburbs, or a rural town.”

Making free meals accessible for all students helps level the playing field, and Southington’s School Nutrition Director Nya Welinsky has seen firsthand the impact this can have on students. “There’s a feeling of equity that the students have mentioned to me, ” Welinsky said. “It’s more equitable, and it’sa wonderful way to start the day well-nourished.”

For families experiencing financial strain, Welinsky emphasized the importance of the free and reduced-price meal application.

“It’s more than a meal application in many ways,” Welinsky said. “We really encourage families to fill it out. With the information they provide, families can end up re-

ceiving fee waivers for different things in schools.”

None of this would be possible without the support of the legislature to help get kids the food they need, Jason Jakubowski explained.

“We’re lucky here in Connecticut that our delegate to the legislature is very supportive of programs that help kids get the food they need,” Jakubowski said. “It’s a big leap in the right direction. We’re hopeful that in the next year or two we will see universal free lunches in Connecticut.”

Jakubowski added that he hopes future federal action will help other states make this goal possible as well.

“The U.S. Congress absolutely should have free school breakfasts and free school breakfasts for every child no matter where in the country they live,” Jakubowski said.

To access the free and reduced-price meal application for your town, visit your school district’s food services website.

rwachman@record-journal.com

A Meriden Food & Nutrition Services sign is seen on July 19, 2018, during the Meriden SummerMealsProgramattheMeridenGreen. Dave Zajac, Record-Journal

Monthly meeting

The Berlin Democratic Town Committee’s monthly meeting will be held Thursday, Aug. 17, 7 p.m., at the Italian Independent Political Club, 16 Harding St. Prior to the meeting, there will be a meet and greet at 6:30 p.m.; Democratic constituents are encouraged to attend to learn about important town issues and how to get involved. For more information about the Berlin DTC, individuals should contact the group at berlindemocrats@gmail.com or P.O. Box 93, 62 Kensington Road, Berlin, CT 06037.

Berlin DTC

The upcoming municipal elections provide an opportunity to elect leaders who will listen. Help the Berlin Democratic Town Committee with that mission, and make Berlin an even better place to live and work. For more information about the Berlin DTC, individuals should contact the group at berlindemocrats@gmail.com or P.O. Box 93, 62 Kensington Road, Berlin, CT 06037.

Commissioners wanted

Established in 2002, the Commission for Persons with Disabilities is charged with serving as an advisory board to the Town of Berlin for the enforcement of the Americans with Disabilities Act and assisting the community with meeting its responsibilities for residents with disabilities. The Commission for Persons with Disabilities meets on a bimonthly basis.

Book sale

The East Berlin Library hosts an ongoing used book sale. The library, located at 80 Main St., in the fire house building, is open Monday and Thursday, 3 to 7 p.m.

Museum program

Connecticut's Summer at the Museum program enables children to receive free admission at dozens of museums across the state, including historic house museums, sites and societies, history, art and children’s museums, science centers, arboretums/botanical gardens and zoos, and others. The full list of participating museums is available at ctvisit.com.

Drive-In movies

The 2023 summer season at the Southington Drive-In runs every Saturday through Sept. 9. Admission is $20 per carload and $5 for walk-ins, cash only. Gates open at 6 p.m, with the films beginning after sunset.

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.

FDIC-insured %

6-month 5.15

1-year 5.30

2-year 5.05

Takeover 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 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).

% APY* % APY*

1073 Farmington Ave Ste 201 Berlin, CT 06037-2244

860-357-5160

or contact your financial advisor for additional information. Subject to availability and price change. CD values are subject to interest rate risk such that when interest rates rise, the prices of CDs can decrease. If CDs are sold prior to maturity, the investor can lose principal value. FDIC insurance does not cover losses in market value. Early withdrawal may not be permitted. Yields quoted are net of all commissions. CDs require the distribution of interest and do not allow interest to compound. CDs offered through Edward Jones are issued by banks and thrifts nationwide. All CDs sold by Edward Jones are registered with the Depository Trust Corp. (DTC).

* Annual Percentage Yield (APY) effective 08/11/2023. CDs offered by Edward Jones are bank-issued and FDIC-insured up to $250,000 (principal and interest accrued but not yet paid) per depositor, per insured depository institution, for each account ownership category. Please visit www.fdic.gov or contact your financial advisor for additional information. Subject to availability and price change. CD values are subject to interest rate risk such that when interest rates rise, the prices of CDs can decrease. If CDs are sold prior to maturity, the investor can lose principal value. FDIC insurance does not cover losses in market value. Early withdrawal may not be permitted. Yields quoted are net of all commissions. CDs require the distribution of interest

Mark S Roberti

Financial Advisor

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. 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 thousands of veterans’ cemeteries and other locations in all 50 states and beyond. 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).

Tai Chi classes

Tai Chi classes take place at the Center of Higher Living, 130 Webster Square Road, Wednesdays from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. The public is welcome to attend this ongoing class in classic Chinese Tai Chi and Qigong.

Enhance balance, harmony and stress relief, while promoting health, spirit, mind and body. For more information, call 860-268-8314.

Land Trust

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 more information, visit berlinlandtrust.org.

Renters rebate

State law provides a reimbursement program for 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. 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.

Boxes to Boots

Berlin-based nonprofit Boxes to Boots, 28 Chamberlain Highway, sends packages to members of the U.S. military serving overseas. To learn more about the organizations, visit boxestoboots.org.

Lineworkers

Eversource is partnering with Housatonic Community College and the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers 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.

Textile recycling

Berlin has partnered with

Berlin Dems unveil November slate

Press Release

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.

Legion Post 68

American Legion Post 68 has been serving Berlin veterans since 1947. For more information, email Post Commander Vin Trigila at v_trig@yahoo.com or send a message to Post 68 via Facebook.

Members of the Berlin Democratic Town Committee endorsed candidates for November during their July 20 monthly meeting held at the Italian Independent Club, 16 Harding St.

Running on the pledge to “Build a Better Berlin” the following candidates were nominated: Stuart Topliff for Board of Assessment and Appeals; Ryan Zelek for the Police Commission; Denise McNair

and Raul Fernandes for the Board of Finance; Mark Pruzin, Peter Rosso and Kate Atkinson for Town Council; and Joanne Angelico-Stetson for Mayor.

“Over the past few weeks, the Berlin Democratic Town Committee had the opportunity to observe and evaluate various potential candidate for the upcoming election,” said Ferenandes, BDTC chairperson. “As of last night, we have officially endorsed very qualified individuals who are commit-

ted to working for the betterment of our town and ensure that all citizens have a voice in our town. We hope you will listen to their messages over the course of the next few months and give them your vote on Nov. 7.”

For information about the Berlin DTC, individuals should contact the group at berlindemocrats@ gmail.com or P.O. Box 93, 62 Kensington Road, Berlin, CT 06037.

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Meet Timmy & Nemo

Timmy is a sweet, cuddly 12-week-old. He looks all black, but in the sunlight, you’ll see his subtle stripes. He loves attention and is waiting anxiously to meet his family.

Nemo, a 6-month-old neutered male, came from a home that had too many cats. He’s a tabby color, with white. Nemo is very friendly, and mischievous, too. We really want him to go to a home with other animals.

Fill out an adoption form at fobac.org

Timmy

Nemo

Nappi realized he wanted to be his own boss. And half-acentury later, the business he started is still standing.

Suburban Sports opened its doors in Berlin in July 1973, and has been at its current location on Webster Square Road since 2000.

Nappi said the business is his life, and it brings him great joy to help athletes in the area. “We’ve always been focused on cycling and skiing,” said Nappi, a Berlin High School alum and lifelong athlete. “In the end, it's like, those are the things that we do the best ... and that’s where we have the most impact on the community.”

Nappi said the shop welcomes athletes of all ages and skill levels. “My mission in life from being a philosophy major; I wanted to do something that would impact people positively,” he said. “Cycling and skiing are two of the unique sports that people can do for a lifetime."

Town officials were expected to visit Suburban Sports on Wednesday, Aug. 16 to mark the shop’s 50th anniversary.

Economic Development Director Chris Edge said, “Suburban Sports' combination of cycling, skiing, and accessories for both, have made them a leader in the industry, not just in Connecticut, but throughout New England."

“Their family atmosphere and making sure that the customer is always first is the key to their success," Edge added.

Suburban Sports is located at 25 Webster Square Road, and is open Monday through Wednesday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Thursday 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. The shop also sells products online at suburbanskiandbike.com.

Suburban Sports, located at 25 Webster Square Road in Berlin, first came to townin1973. Nicole Zappone, The Citizen

From A1

Tyszka said when she looked closely at one piece of art depicting the Senior Center, she noticed that what she thought were cuttings from magazines were actually photos of local seniors.

Mayor Mark Kaczynski attended the art show, and was impressed with what he saw. “I can barely draw a stick figure," the mayor joked. "This is a wonderful event, and it's nice to showcase people’s talent.”

Local landmarks immortalized as part of the My Hometown art project in-

cluded the library, Hubbard Elementary School, Dairy Queen, and many others. Of course, the Berlin Fair was highlighted as well.

Economic Development Director Chris Edge said he's "looking forward to doing more things with the arts in the coming year.”

nzappone@record-journal.com

The 74th Berlin Fair will run from Sept. 14 to 17, and the Kensington Garden Club will be at its booth Friday through Sunday. Stop by, say hello, and see what our members have created. The items for sale will have a predominant Halloween theme, as well as some fall arrangements. Beautiful posters will be on display highlighting the garden club’s many community projects, and information will be available about the group’s upcoming Christmas Boutique, 2024 Spring Plant Sale, and future educational programs. We look forward to seeing and talking with you at the fair.

‘Where are the monarchs?’ It’s complicated

By Joy VanderLek Special to The Citizen

“Where are the monarchs?”

It’s been a hot topic of discussion for gardeners and others this summer.

Ron Gagliardi, CT Butterfly

Association’s Outreach Educator, saw a monarch in West Haven on Aug. 3, but had not noticed any in Cheshire, where he lives, as of the first week in August.

“That was my first one this season, ” he said.

Monarch populations have been hard hit on both coasts. Myriad sources are responsible, including pesticide use, said Gagliardi.

Fragmentation and the resulting lack of host plants and nectar sites normally found in open areas and meadows are also contributing factors.

Gagliardi recalls Xerces Society’s Executive Director Scott Black’s comment on the monarch population's decline, as “death by a thousand cuts.”

“From what I’ve seen, we ’ re seeing a decline in all butterfly populations,” said Gagliardi. He also points to annual studies done by Connecticut lepidopterist Victor Masi in his hometown of Redding.

Gagliardi said there was a year when Masi did not record a single monarch.

“They’re being seen – not in big numbers, but both caterpillars and adults are being reported,” said CT Butterfly Association founder John Himmelman. That was back on July 10.

Is it possible that not seeing monarchs locally at this time is just a misperception on the part of the public?

Cheshire resident Ron Gagliardi, CT Butterfly Association Outreach Educator, is pictured attheCheshirePollinatorPathwaygardenonNorthBrooksvaleRoad.

Photo by Joy VanderLek

USPS delivery is available in the towns of Berlin, Cheshire, Durham, Middletown, Middlefield, Meriden, Plantsville, Southington and Wallingford. Delivery is Tuesday-Saturday by USPS.

Long-lost ring back in family’s hands

Our Saturday Weekender edition has all the weekend inserts along with our new feature, EXTRA EXTRA, our 12-page entertainment/puzzles section.

Sunblock, hat—bring on summer!

PLUS All print subscribers who activate their free digital access will receive our daily Record-Journal Story Break emails with up to date stories, and have 24-hour access to our five-day online E-Edition available Tuesday-Saturday by 5AM.

Enjoy

GOP raffle

The Berlin Republican Town Committee’s annual raffle is underway. First and second prizes are $500 Visa Gift Cards, third prize is a $300 restaurant gift card, fourth prize is a Samsung Galaxy Go Chromebook, fifth prize are Beats earbuds, and sixth prize is a Ring video doorbell. Drawing will be held Thursday, Oct. 12, 6 p.m., at American Legion Post 68. To purchase tickets, contact Andra (milleal@ comcast.net, 860-670-5131) or Lecia (Leciajp@comcast.net, 860-209-4199).

Autism walk

The Benhaven Walk for Autism will take place Sunday, Sept. 24 at North Haven High School. The event features a 2-mile walk, music, games, food and refreshments, Touch-a-Truck, a raffle, and more. Nearly 500 walkers are expected to raise over $60,000 for Benhaven, a private, notfor-profit agency serving people of all ages and with diverse needs. To learn more about the walk, visit jbsports.com. To learn about donating or fundraising, email jody@jbsports.com or call 203-481-5933.

Monarchs

From A10

Checking in with CT Agricultural Experiment Station entomologist Dr. Kelsey Fischer, it’s interesting to note that the question of “where are the monarchs?” comes up every year. Fischer has worked with the Eastern subpopulation of monarchs, those east of the Rocky Mountains, since 2016. Their lowest population point was in 2013, she said.

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When working in Iowa, and when she was getting her master’s degree in Delaware, Fischer was asked by friends, family and colleagues about monarchs every year. “Now, in Connecticut, the story is no different,” she said. “Every year, without a doubt, I get the question 'where are all the monarchs?'”

Fischer said she never judges how the monarch butterfly population size is doing based on summer observations. “Because the monarch migrates, the monarchs we see in CT are a direct result of earlier generations of monarchs in different parts of the country," she said. “Monarchs could be anywhere. Check out the

Journey North website. It looks like they’re distributing well.”

According to Fischer, if you study the migration patterns and the time needed to go from egg to adult, “the monarchs arrived in CT right when I expected to see them – in the middle of July – and I’ve been seeing adults, eggs, and larvae ever since.” In her opinion, “everything appears to be on track.”

And the focus, according to Fischer, should be how well the monarchs are doing overwintering in Mexico. The population is all together there, she said, and is measured consistently each year. “At this time, they are all in the same place huddled together and we can get a real, strong estimate of population size,” Fischer pointed out.

Overall, she said it’s hard to answer the question, “where are all the monarchs?”

“Insect populations fluctuate and what we see in CT may be completely different than what our friends in Iowa, Georgia, Florida, or Ohio, just a few examples, are seeing,” said Fischer. If we are doing what we can do to help monarchs – most importantly, establishing habitat with milkweed and nectar resources from spring to fall – we are doing everything we can, she said.

For a source of real-time summer observations, Fischer advises checking out Chip Taylor’s blog (monarchwatch.org/blog/). Founder of The Monarch Watch program, Taylor is a scientist/researcher who has been working with monarchs the entirety of his career.

Legislation aimed at regulating ghost guns

By Donato Davis The Connecticut Mirror

On the same day that the U.S. Supreme Court voted to allow new regulations on ghost guns to go into effect, Connecticut’s Democratic Senators Richard Blumenthal and Chris Murphy unveiled new federal legislation that would ban the weapons.

On Aug. 8, Blumenthal gathered in Hartford with city officials and community leaders to introduce the Ghost Gun and Untraceable Firearms Act, just days after three people were shot and killed in the city.

Ghost guns are unregistered, untraceable weapons produced by unlicensed manufacturers that can be purchased online or in-person and assembled anywhere with no background checks. These guns can be produced by kits or through 3D printed parts that have no serial number or identifying mark to indicate its manufacturer.

“There is no reason for any law-abiding citizen to have a ghost gun,” said Hartford Mayor Luke Bronin. “They exist only to evade detection and to evade the law This is not an abstract issue. This is not a theoretical threat. These guns are being used for violent crimes in this community and across our state.”

Bronin said a significant portion of these guns come from the states of Florida, Georgia, North Carolina and South Carolina. He encouraged leaders in those states to support the federal legislation, stressing that the problem of ghost guns is a national issue.

“The awful, stark truth about ghost guns they look like a gun, they shoot like a gun, they kill like a gun. They ought to be regulated as guns, ” said Blumenthal. “The other awful truth about ghost guns: They are growing exponentially. If you ask me what is the biggest emerging threat in gun violence, it’s ghost guns.

“This legislation basically requires, any time a frame or receiver of any kind is sold, the cards have to be serial numbered, there have to be background checks on the number, the manufacturer has to be licensed, and anybody who possesses this kind of unserialized and untraceable weapon is violating the law.”

Blumenthal said he will work to gain bipartisan support on this bill once congress returns from recess, despite the challenges facing such a contentious issue.

“I am very, very passionately going to work to get bipartisan support,” Blumenthal said. “There ought to be no political controversy about a ghost gun ban with law enforcement supporting it, with common sense supporting it, and with gun owners also hopefully supporting it.”

Hartford Police Chief Jason Thody and Director of the Greater Hartford Youth Leadership Academy Eddie Brown spoke about how it would bring change to the city and improve the lives of its residents.

“As an investigative tool … we have to be able to trace these firearms when they are used in a crime, when we find them in places they don’t belong, when they’re used to do things that you shouldn’t do with a firearm,” said Thody. “That tracing is what helps us close some of these cases and find out who’s supplying illegal guns to people that will do violent acts in the city. That’s a huge investigative tool for us that we lose when you’re talking about a ghost gun.”

Brown urged people to take proactive steps to prevent violence instead of calling for change only after tragic events.

“Attention does tend to focus on the issue of gun violence when catastrophic events befall our communities,” Brown said. “These are complicated problems, not curable with sound bites. It’s what happens when the cameras go away that really matters.”

Connecticut has taken steps to slow the spread of ghost guns. In March, Attorney General William Tong filed a civil lawsuit against four out-

of-state manufacturers that were shipping ghost gun parts into Connecticut, and in June, Gov. Ned Lamont signed legislation that would upgrade the state’s 2019 ban on ghost guns to include those assembled prior to the ban’s enactment. These guns must be registered with the state by Jan. 1.

Supreme Court allows Biden regulations, but lawsuit continues

In April 2022, President Joe Biden announced a plan to curtail the sale and distribution of ghost guns without the help of congress. The plan aims to change and expand federal law’s definition of a “firearm” under the 1968 Gun Control Act to include unassembled parts that can be purchased and quickly assembled into a working firearm and to require that guns and gun kits come equipped with licensed serial numbers and be distribut-

ed only by licensed manufacturers and sellers. The rule also requires that background checks be conducted before the sale of these weapons.

The Biden plan was challenged in the Supreme Court by a Texas district judge who ruled that the administration had exceeded its authority under the Gun Control Act, ruling that definition of a firearm “does not cover weapon parts, or aggregations of weapon parts, regardless of whether the parts may be readily assembled into something that may fire a projectile.”

However, the Supreme Court, in a 5-4 decision, issued a ruling that grants the Biden administration’s request to reinstate the rule pending further legal challenges. Chief Justice John Roberts and Justice Amy Coney Barrett sided with the court’s three liberal justices on the decision.

MECHANIC

Mechanic III: Highly skilled mechanic needed in the repair and maintenance of all types of motor vehicles including heavy construction equipment. The position requires 6 years’ experience in the repair and maintenance of mechanical equipment with a minimum of 2 years repairing heavy construction equipment. Technical or trade school training may substitute for up to 3 years’ experience. Must have own tools. $31.85 to $38.28 per hour, (contract currently under negotiations) plus an excellent fringe benefit package. Apply to: Department of Human Resources, Town of Wallingford, 45 South Main Street, Wallingford, CT 06492. Forms will be mailed upon request from the Department of Human Resources or may be downloaded from the Department of Human Resources Web Page and can be mailed to the above address, faxed to (203) 294-2084, or emailed to wlfdhr@wallingfordct.gov. Phone #: 203-294-2080.

Closing date will be September 8, 2023 or the date the 50th application is received, whichever occurs first. EOE.

PUBLIC HEALTH SANITARIAN

Professional public health work in the enforcement of statutes and regulations relating to public and environmental health.

Applicants should possess a bachelor’s degree in environmental health or closely related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience, substituting on a year for year basis. Must possess and maintain a valid State of Connecticut Motor Vehicle Operator’s License. Must be able to obtain within 6 months CT certification as a food inspector.

Salary: $63,116 - $80,755 annually plus an excellent fringe benefit package. Apply to: Department of Human Resources, Town of Wallingford, 45 South Main Street, Wallingford, CT 06492. Forms will be mailed upon request from the Department of Human Resources or may be downloaded from the Department of Human Resources Web Page and emailed to wlfdhr@wallingfordct. gov. Phone # (203) 294-2080, Fax #: (203)294-2084. The closing date will be September 5, 2023 or the date the 50th application is received, whichever occurs first. EOE.

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

MERIDEN

DURHAM 765 SQ.FT. OFFICE SPACE - Bathroom, open room incls. heat, AC, electric, no internet, 2 parking spaces. $800 mo. (860) 349-5449

IMPOUNDED - Chihuahua, tan, vicinity Chamberlain Hwy. Call Berlin Animal Control, 860-828-7055.

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

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

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

HYDRAULIC PATIENT

LIFT - Invacare 9805P, w/wheels, 450 lb. lift capacity, w/harness & sling, brand new, $195. (203) 675-8604.

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.

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.

TREE LENGTH FIREWOOD CALL FOR DETAILS 203-238-2149

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

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

ADORABLE - MALTESE YORKIE, BICHON SHIH TZU, BICHON CHIHUAHUA., 1st shots & worming. $500 ea. Call 603.630.2258.

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

BERLIN - 630 Four Rod Rd., Sat., 8/19, 9-3, furniture, artwork, tools, yard items & HH items.

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

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

Let Us BEAR Your Junk! Junk Removal in CT

RT RELOCATION

INSIDE & OUTSIDE REPAIRS - Decks, porches, sheetrock, taping, bath & kitchen remodels, finished basements. Call Erik, 203.592.4242. HIC 0565857.

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.

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

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

#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

Insurance claim.storm damage.roofing.siding. gutter.chimney flashing. Office:203.754.3071 Cell:203.510.3830 Stormshieldct@gmail. com HIC.0664452

GOOD RATES BEST SERVICE

Fully ins. Free Estimate. Call Ed, We’ll take it to the dump for you!

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

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

A-1 QUALITY POWERWASHING

Low Rates Call Dennis 203.630.0008

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

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

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,

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

#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

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

Removal. All calls returned. CT# 620397. Quick courteous service. 860-558-5430.

GARY WODATCH - Tree