The Berlin Citizen Dec. 16, 2021 by Record Journal

www.berlincitizen.com

Volume 23, Number 50

Thursday, December 16, 2021

On the way up COVID numbers increased locally Connecticut on Friday, Dec. 10 reported 3,280 new COVID-19 infections detected in 53,948 tests, up from 2,679 infections found in 41,361 tests the previous day. The positivity rate was slightly higher than 6 percent both days. See COVID, A6

State Rep. Donna Veach makes a presentation to Veteran of the Year John Lynch.

Local Korean War era vet named Veteran of the Year the citation at a Dec. 7 dinner dance at VFW Post 511 in New Britain. "I was raised to understand and appreciate the debt we civilians owe to

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our veterans and their fight to protect the way of life we're all lucky enough to enjoy," Veach said. "Events like this one are truly wonSee Veteran, A5

Substation project could take 3 weeks An Eversource Civil Construction Crew was scheduled to begin the removal of approximately 121 abandoned concrete piers inside the Berlin 6A Substation at 300 Beckley Road on MonSee Substation, A4

Plants from our Greenhouse Christmas Cactus, Poinsettias, Cyclamen, Christmas Rose

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State Rep. Donna Veach presented Berlin resident John Lynch, a Korean War era veteran, with a legislative citation in honor of him being named Veteran of the Year by the New Britain Veterans Council. Veach read

Work to be done

The Berlin Citizen | theberlincitizen.com

Thursday, December 16, 2021

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The Berlin Citizen (ISSN 1525-1780, USPS 017-666) is published weekly by Record-Journal, 500 S. Broad Street, Meriden, CT 06450. Periodicals postage paid at Meriden, CT and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: send address changes to: Record-Journal 500 S. Broad Street, Meriden, CT 06450

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The Berlin Citizen | theberlincitizen.com

Thursday, December 16, 2021

Wishing you good health and happiness this holiday season!

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The Berlin Citizen | theberlincitizen.com

Thursday, December 16, 2021

Substation From A1

day, Dec. 13. “These older concrete structures represent hazards to Eversource personnel and equipment inside the station. Their removal is pivotal in facilitating ease of snow clearing and plowing in the

winter,” the company stated in a press release. “The work will be relegated to the footprint of the Berlin 6A Substation, and will not exist outside the fence line.” The task of removing the concrete piers is expected to take approximately three weeks.

“[W]e understand that there are noise ordinances for the Town of Berlin which indicate that no work can commence before 7 a.m. or after 8 p.m. We will not begin work prior to 7 a.m. and will conclude by 3:00 p.m.,” Eversource stated. Eversource remains Con-

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Apply Now! Applications are now open for Community Grants and the Robert T. Kenney Scholarship program! The Foundation will award renewable college scholarships to over 375 students for the 2022-2023 school year.

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The Berlin Citizen | theberlincitizen.com

Thursday, December 16, 2021

In Brief Wall of Honor

Drive safe

The Berlin Veterans Commission is looking for military families with at least one family member who has lived in Berlin to be immortalized on the Veterans Digital Wall of Honor. For more information, contact Peter Galgano: petergalgano@comcast.net, 860604-7258.

The Connecticut Department of Transportation Office of Highway Safety announced a $10 discount code for Uber, as a way to encourage people who consume alcohol or other impairing substances to use ride-hailing instead of putting themselves and oth-

ers on the road at risk by getting behind the wheel. The discount code, SAVETHENIGHTCT, will be available through Jan. 14, 2022, between the hours of 5 p.m. and 4 a.m.

18, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., at Berlin High School, 139 Patterson Way; and Wednesday, Dec. 29, 1 to 6 p.m., at Berlin Congregational Church, 878 Worthington Ridge.

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Veteran From A1

A press release from Veach’s office states, “John’s dedication to this country didn’t just end with his service. “He’s a member of FrancoAmerican War Veterans Post 26, General Haller Post 111, Military Order of the Devil

Dogs, past president of the New Britain Veterans Council, past commandant of the Marine Corps League-Hardware City Detachment 781 [and] volunteers in the annual Marine Corps Toys for Tots campaign.”

was “a wonderful evening celebrating those who served, those we've lost, our community's commitment to its veterans and, of course, our Veteran of the Year, the one and only John Lynch, a proud Marine and someone who has dedicated Also, Lynch has served as a his life to serving his fellow ceremonial host at Memorial New Britain veterans. Day and Veterans Day services in New Britain. “Congratulations, John, thank you for a lifetime of In a social media post, the committed service and New Britain Veterans Coun- friendship.” cil said the Dec. 7 gathering

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

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The Berlin Citizen | theberlincitizen.com

Thursday, December 16, 2021

COVID From A1

The state's most recent COVID-19 report, which includes two weeks of data, showed 126 positive cases in Berlin, which kept the community in the coronavirus red zone. The trigger for top-of-thechart red status — where nearly all Connecticut towns and cities now stand — starts at 15 cases per 100,000 people per day.

In Brief required of vaccinated persons, though venues and municipalities can require them.

pose new mandates on wearing masks or showing evidence of vaccination, instead promoting the coming availability of a voluntary “digital health card” offering proof of vaccination.

“I think the towns are the ones that are taking the lead on enforcing it,” Lamont said. “I think the store and restaurant owners are the ones who know … how to enforce it, the best way to do it. I’m getting them all the tools they need, once we get the digital card available.”

“What I want to do is get that digital health card and make it available to every single business, restaurant, store. Let them make the right decision in terms of allowing people into their facility,” Lamont said. “I don’t think we need more mandates than that.”

In the previous report, Berlin had 61 cases. Data collected two weeks prior to The governor has ordered that showed 41 cases in the wearing of masks in town. schools. Gov. Ned Lamont said FriElsewhere, masks are not day he has no plans to im-

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, COVID-19 symptoms may appear 2 to 14 days after exposure to the virus.

Symptoms may include fever or chills, coughing, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, fatigue, muscle or body aches, headache, loss of taste or smell, sore throat, congestion or runny nose, nausea or vomiting, and diarrhea. Health officials encourage people to wear masks indoors and social distance if among unfamiliar people. They are also encouraging people to get their first vaccine and boosters if their second shot was more than six months ago. — Information from The Connecticut Mirror was used in this report.

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Preserving history Berlin Historical Society has long been an advocate for promoting, preserving, and sharing local history. The museum at 305 Main St. has reopened to the public. Admission is free. For more information, call 860-828-5114 or email berlincthistorical@ gmail.com.

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

Meeting house Built more than a century ago, the Worthington Meeting House requires costly annual maintenance to operate. Some much-needed renovations are needed to preserve the meeting house and to ensure that it remains in good condition for future generations. Visit worthingtonmeetinghouse.org to learn how to help.

The Berlin Citizen | theberlincitizen.com

Thursday, December 16, 2021

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The Berlin Citizen | theberlincitizen.com

Thursday, December 16, 2021

Congressional map to get tweaks, not overhaul Connecticut’s awkward congressional map, a legacy of losing one of its six seats 20 years ago, is unlikely to get a major overhaul by the state legislature’s bipartisan Reapportionment Commission. The rules of reapportionment are heavily stacked in favor of the status quo unless Democrats and Republi-

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cans agree on radical change to a map that initially favored the GOP but has produced only Democratic victories since 2008. “Generally speaking, less change is better for the Democrats. They’ve held the seats for a decade and would like to continue to,” said House Minority Leader Vincent J. Candelora, R-North Branford. House Speaker Matt Ritter,

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Connecticut’s current congressional district map, crafted in 2001 for the benefit of a Democrat from Danbury and a Republican from New Britain who ended up in the redrawn 5th after the state lost its sixth seat.

redrawn to make for a fair fight. Maloney and Johnson soon

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By Mark Pazniokas The Connecticut Mirror

The Berlin Citizen | theberlincitizen.com

Thursday, December 16, 2021

Map

“I think the court is not interested in being in the business of redistricting,” said Sen. Paul Formica, R-East Lyme, the Senate GOP deputy leader and a Reapportionment Commission member. The commission is composed of four Democrats and four Republicans: the Senate president pro tem and the House speaker, who are Democrats, and the House and Senate majority and minority leaders, plus two deputy minority leaders. The eight appointed a neutral ninth member, ostensibly a tie-breaker. But following precedent, the neutral member, John McKinney, has agreed not to play that role, meaning that no map will be adopted without either a bipartisan deal or court intervention. The commission unanimous agreed on new boundaries for 151 House and 36 Senate districts in the General Assembly but failed to settle on a congressional map by the constitutional deadline of Nov. 30.

The other two districts only lean Democratic, with the party winning 52.1% of the composite vote in the 2nd and 51.9% in the 5th. As a result, small changes could See Map, A19

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The missed deadline means the congressional map will be subject to oversight by the Supreme Court, as was the case in 2001 and 2011. The commission is technically on hiatus until the court approves a deadline extension.

Democrats have won every congressional election since 2008, when Democrat Jim Himes unseated Republican At Trinity College, the stuChris Shays in the 4th Disdents in Professor Kyle trict, which had been held Evans’ “Mathematics and for 40 years by a succession Redistricting” class used one The population deviations of GOP moderates: Lowell P. of the web sites, DavesRedis- are smaller in the other disWeicker Jr., Stewart B. McKtricting.org, to quickly protricts: the 1st and 3rd are un- inney and, finally, Shays. duce maps that are geoder by 3,535 and 5,829, reBased on composite votes graphically compact and re- spectively, while the 5th is cast since 2016 for president, spect the districts’ current over by 5,024. Since the regional bases. overpopulated 4th and underpopulated 2nd share no “We did this in the class pe- border, changes will have to riod, more or less an hour,” ripple across the map. Evans said. Unlike the Reapportionment Evans’ class followed basic Commission, Evans’s class guidelines: Each district ignored the political gains must have 721,189 people, and losses attendant to shiftone-fifth of the state’s popu- ing borders. Evans did a map lation of 3.6 million; and in 30 minutes. municipal borders should be respected to the greatest ex- “That was with no political consideration, no incumbent tent possible. consideration whatsoever,” Connecticut grew by not he said. quite 32,000 people in the Republicans won three of past decade, mostly in Fairthe five seats in 2002 and field County. Hartford, as well as rural communities in 2004, losing only the 1st and 3rd, the districts centered eastern Connecticut lost around Hartford and New population.

governor, senator and attorney general, the 4th District now rivals the 1st and 3rd as a safe Democratic base. Democrats won 60.4% of those votes in the 1st, 60% in the 4th and 58.7% in the 3rd.

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With a bipartisan commission, no party can dictate a result. Deadlocks essentially are broken by the Supreme Court, which made only the minimal changes required 10 years ago to equalize the populations of the districts.

Haven. But political trends have not favored the GOP.

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The difficulty lies in politics and process, not math or mapmaking.

The sprawling 2nd District of eastern Connecticut needs to get bigger and pick up another 21,288 residents, while the compact 4th District of lower Fairfield County needs to get more geographically compact and shed 25,627 people.

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Johnson beat Maloney in 2002, and Democrat Chris Murphy unseated Johnson in 2006. But the map contorted to serve them survives, nearly impossible to change.

Thanks to the availability of web tools preloaded with maps, block-by-block census data and election results, the actual work of mapmaking is not difficult.

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From A8

A10

The Berlin Citizen | theberlincitizen.com

Thursday, December 16, 2021

CHRISTMAS PARTY

The Berlin Volunteer Fire Department held its annual children’s Christmas party on Sunday, Dec. 12. The event, held at the firehouse, featured a visit from the big guy — Santa Claus — who arrived in a fire truck. See additional photos, next page. BVFD, Facebook

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Thursday, December 16, 2021

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The Berlin Citizen | theberlincitizen.com

Thursday, December 16, 2021

Paid family, medical leave program enacted Governor Ned Lamont announced that applications are now being accepted for Connecticut residents who want to participate in the state’s new paid family and medical leave program. Claims are being accepted for qualifying events that are happening on or after Jan. 1, 2022. Under the program, which was enacted through legislation championed by Lamont and signed by him in 2019, workers will gain access to the necessary benefits that allow them to take time off

work to care for their own health, a newborn child, or a sick family member. Eligible workers can receive up to 12 weeks of income replacement for qualifying events. Connecticut is only the eighth state in the nation to enact a paid family and medical leave program. While most other modern countries in the world have some type of paid family and medical leave program, the United States does not. Only 13% of private-sector workers in the U.S. have access to paid family and medical leave.

“This is a milestone in Connecticut as we begin to accept benefit applications for one of the strongest paid family and medical leave programs in the nation,” Lamont said. “Supporting the workers of our state will strengthen our economic footing and make Connecticut a stronger place to live, work, and do business. With the launch of this program, workers who need to take time off for a new baby or to recover from an illness are not punished financially, and businesses do not risk losing good workers during

submit your application,” Connecticut Paid Leave Authority CEO Andrea Barton Reeves explained. “It also makes it easy for workers to check the status of a claim, review correspondence, view The program is administered payments for a claim, and by the Connecticut Paid communicate with case Leave Authority. managers.” Applications can be submit- Qualifying reasons to submit ted through its website at ct- a claim include: paidleave.org or via email, fax, phone, or mail. The toll- n Medical leave for one’s free application hotline is own serious health condi877-499-8606. tion (which includes pregnancy, as well as serving as a “Applying online is the fastest and easiest way to See Leave, A13 those emergencies. This is long overdue, and I am proud that we’re enacting a program that will be a benefit to both workers and businesses.”

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The Berlin Citizen | theberlincitizen.com

Thursday, December 16, 2021

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The amount of income replacement varies based on a n Caregiver leave to care for worker’s earnings and is a family member experienc- capped at 60 times the state ing a serious health condiminimum wage. The combition. nation of employer-provided benefits and benefits ren Bonding leave to bond with a new child that has en- ceived under the paid leave program cannot exceed tered a person’s home 100% of a worker’s normal through birth, adoption, or weekly earnings. foster care. n Family

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The Berlin Citizen | theberlincitizen.com

Thursday, December 16, 2021

The time of year for cooking fires The NFPA shares the following tips so families can pre-

pare holiday meals without the risk of danger:

least 10 feet away from structures, including porches.

should be kept three feet away from the stove.

books or bags while cooking or handling food.

Never leave anything cooking unattended.

Turkeys should be completely thawed and dried before being placed in the deep fryer to avoid flare-ups.

Make sure kids stay away from hot food and liquids. The steam or splash from vegetables, gravy or coffee can cause serious burns.

Test your smoke alarms and make sure their batteries are replaced if needed.

The NFPA discourages the use of deep fryers for cooking turkeys, but those who do use one should do so on a flat surface outdoors and at

If a grease fire starts in a pan, smother the flames by sliding the lid — while wearing an oven mitt — over the pan. If safe to do so, turn off the heat source.

Do not move the pan, and keep the lid on until the fire is out and the pan is completely cool.

Keep knives out of the reach of children. Be sure electric cords from an electric knife, coffee maker, plate warmer or mixer are not dangling off the counter within easy reach of a child. Keep matches and utility lighters out of the reach of children — up high in a locked cabinet.

Stay home when cooking your turkey, and check on it frequently. Keep children and pets away from the stove. Kids and pets

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According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), Thanksgiving is the peak day for home cooking fires, followed by Christmas Day, the day before Thanksgiving, Easter and Christmas Eve.

The Berlin Citizen | theberlincitizen.com

Thursday, December 16, 2021

A15

Business program targets diverse communities By Karla Santos Record-Journal staff

good base line on operating a business,” Davis said.

Jackie Phillips opened The Life Changer Center in Hartford in 2016.

The program also offers networking opportunities, he said.

She enrolled in Liberty Bank’s Academy for Small Business program in the spring because she wanted to strengthen her business and learn skills that would help her to better operate her mental health and life empowerment center.

The program was held about six times in 2021. Each group had about 20 students.

She was able to accomplish her goal through the program. “Where I was last year to where I am now is like night and day,” she said. Glenn Davis, first vice president, community development/CRA officer at Liberty Bank, said the Academy for Small Business program is a 10-week class that offers up to a $5,000 credit line for those who successfully complete it. The idea is for students to use the line of credit to launch or help advance their business.

The program is free but it requires students to have a minimum credit score of 600. To qualify for the credit line students can’t miss a class, can’t have filed for bankruptcy in the past five years, can’t be currently involved in litigation and need to be current on all taxes.

“Liberty Bank is committed to the small business community, especially those diverse communities — African American, Latino, Latina entrepreneurs — and this academy is just one way to facilitate that and to really reach the community to help support these entrepreneurs,” Davis said. Liberty Bank partners with local organizations such as the Community Economic Development Fund on the instruction of the classes. Pamella Nazario, owner of D&A Express Transportation, a trucking business out of West Hartford, was in the program in the spring. “This was such a great opportunity for me,” she said. “It was so helpful.” One of the reasons she participated was because her credit was “not too good,” and it was hard for her to get

Elmore Ligon of Meriden, owner of L.F. Transportation LLC, sits on the back of his rental truck in a parking lot off East Main Street in Meriden after a shift transporting goods for other businesses. Dave Zajac, Record-Journal

loans. Nazario’s favorite part of the program was the connections she made with other business owners. Elmore Ligon, of Meriden, was also part of the program this year. He owns LF Transportation, which transports goods for other business. He has owned the business for about seven months and wanted to learn more about running a business.

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The program teaches students about taxes, organizational planning, banking services, time management, credit reporting and more.

Miguel Castro, a former MidState Chamber of Commerce Board member, said the Academy for Small Business program provides small business owners with opportunity for economic growth and access to resources.

individuals must file a registration form available at liberty-bank.com.

Understanding a business plan and structuring were some of the things he learned in the program, he said.

A business plan is encouraged but not required prior to taking the class. Those who want to take the class for the learning experience and not the line of credit, don’t need to meet all of the financial requirements, Davis said.

there’s more people out there willing to help you with your business,” he said.

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Liberty Bank, headquartered in Middletown, has 62 banking offices throughout the state, including in Berlin.

Davis said they typically like to have classes that are racially and ethnically diverse and include low to moderate income participants.

The Berlin Citizen | theberlincitizen.com

Thursday, December 16, 2021

In Brief FOBAC

CONNECT WITH US ON

Friends of Berlin Animal Control is a no-kill, nonprofit rescue group dedicated to helping the local municipal shelter. FOBAC spays/neuters animals at the shelter, provides medical assistance, publicity and foster homes, and sponsors adoption events in order to give these animals the same opportunity as those in private shelters. Visit fobac.org.

House of Heroes Founded in January 2000, House of Heroes is a nonprofit organization serving our nation's military and public safety veterans (and their spouses) who are disabled, living on a fixed income, or facing other physical/financial challenges. Volunteers perform minor repairs and make improvements to the homes of veter-

Say

ans and their spouses at no cost to the veteran through the generosity of individuals, civic organizations, and corporations. For more information, visit hohct.org, or email info@ houseofheroesct.org

Land Trust Berlin Land Trust currently protects more than 400 acres of land in Berlin and five surrounding towns. Learn about the group's work at berlinlandtrust.org, and consider becoming a member.

CT Safe The CT Safe mobile app allows citizens of Connecticut to report on suspicious activities within their communities.

The CT Safe app can be downloaded on both Apple and Android smartphones.

hello to results

like. share. follow.

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Your Hometown Marketing Expert We partner with local companies to help move their business forward through comprehensive and impactful marketing solutions including print, digital, radio and streaming platforms. Our awardwinning team has operated locally since 1867 and is ready to help your business grow.

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MARKETING THAT MOVES YOUR BUSINESS FORWARD >>

The Berlin Citizen | theberlincitizen.com

Thursday, December 16, 2021

A17

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MOVE YOUR BUSINESS FORWARD RJ Media Group RJ Media Group means world class marketing solutions for your local business. No one covers more customers in your area. And no one offers more ways to reach them. Targeted Advertising in print, online and mobile platforms. Digital Solutions including SEO, social media campaigns, retargeting, reputation management and total website development. Direct Marketing solutions from custom mailings to email blasts. Expert Guidance from dedicated marketing professionals. To see how RJ Media Group can make your business more successful, contact Jim Mizener at 203.317.2312 or jmizener@rjmediagroup.com.

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The Berlin Citizen | theberlincitizen.com

Thursday, December 16, 2021

In Brief

We’re Hiring! ¡Estamos Contratando!

Latino Communities News Editor - Bilingual Record Journal, Meriden, CT • Full Time, Management

CTPrepares

Catalyst Fund

The CTPrepares mobile app provides information and alerts to citizens of Connecticut in emergency situations, and incorporates text messaging, email, and social networking. Also, the app allows residents to communicate with family members during an emergency.

Community Foundation of Greater New Britain Catalyst Fund members consider funding requests from charitable organizations. A brochure and application form are available at cfgnb.org/catalyst-fund.

The CTPrepares app can be downloaded on both Apple and Android smartphones.

About the Job The Record-Journal seeks a versatile, bilingual editor to oversee our growing Latino Communities Reporting Lab. We launched the lab in March 2021 after conducting a 5-month listening tour in our community. We’re looking for someone with a passion for the lab’s mission - To amplify the voices of our local Latino communities, including to provide empowering, fact-based news, information and resources for our Latino communities; to shine a light on injustices and inequities to promote greater understanding and a more inclusive community for everyone; to showcase the successes and contributions of Latinos as a way of inspiring young people to expand what they consider possible.

Energy usage Eversource is making it possible for customers to monitor their energy use with the Kill A Watt electricity usage meter. The kits are available for borrowing from nearly 200 libraries around the state.

Community listening provided the foundation of the lab. In the coming year, the editor will take the lead in an innovative listening project collaborating with journalists, data experts, a network of community leaders, and technology partners to understand the needs of our local Latino communities and build trust through deeper community listening, engagement and data gathering. The editor will oversee content creation with an emphasis on aligning news strategies to best serve the community using what we learned during the project.

A list of participating libraries can be found at eversource.com. Customers can also take advantage of the Green Button, which is an Eversource online tool that allows customers to download their energy usage data so they can easily share it with energy-efficiency experts to make home improvements.

Purpose of Position Plan, supervise and create news content for publication in print, online and social media for the growing Latino audience in central Connecticut. This position will assist the Latino Communities Reporting Lab to fulfill our mission of amplifying local Latino voices and be assigned duties related to fulfilling that mission with a strong emphasis on listening to the needs of the audience.

For more information, contact Joeline Wruck at jwruck@cfgnb.org or 860229-6018, ext. 307.

Disaster relief fund The purpose of the Community Foundation of Greater New Britain’s Disaster Response Fund is to make resources available to local government community service departments and crisis coordinators to meet the basic needs of residents from the foundation’s four-town community who are displaced for an extended period of time due to a natural disaster. To support the fund, send check to 74A Vine St., New Britain, CT 06052 with “Disaster Fund” in the memo. Or, visit cfgnb.org/donatenow and choose the fund from the drop-down.

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We are an Equal Opportunity employer committed to a diverse workforce. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability. Any candidate selected must pass a background check and drug screen as a condition. R236885v3

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The Berlin Citizen | theberlincitizen.com

make them more competitive — if not next year, then when the seats are open.

The annual open enrollment period for Connecticut residents to shop, compare and enroll in health insurance coverage for the 2022 plan year began Nov. 1 and ends Jan. 15, 2022. For more information, visit Access HealthCT.com, or call 1-855805-4325.

This map, produced by the “Dave’s Redistricting” website, shows the current partisan tilt. The darkest, the 1st and 4th, and the slightly lighter 3rd, are solidly Democratic. The 5th and 2nd, on the west and east, lean Democratic.

Walk with Me

Blood donation appointments can be made by visiting redcrossblood.org, calling 1-800-733-2767 or enabling the Blood Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device.

Eversource update Eversource service disconnections for non-payment were suspended in accordance with state regulations at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Eversource is reminding customers that the moratorium on non-hardship service disconnections ended Sept. 15. Customers in need of help with their bills are urged to contact Eversource to learn about payment assistance options and protections from service disconnection.

not voting for that,” Ritter said. “The population trends don’t necessitate being more aggressive.”

Democrats argued then that the map produced in 2001 was fair to both parties, and the court basically agreed.

Candelora said the commission could adopt a map that doesn’t dramatically shift the balance of power but makes more sense geographically.

“So that becomes to me the legal starting point,” Ritter said.

“If I saw a map that moves the entire city of New Britain to the 1st or Bridgeport to the 3rd, I’m

“Quality Service You Can Count On”

CREDIT CARDS ACCEPTED 208923

If they’d like, Professor Evans

of Trinity has some models — and several were submitted to the commission. Common Cause of Connecticut also has a gallery of maps produced by the Trinity students and others. This story originally appeared on the website of The Connecticut Mirror, www.ctmirror.org.

HELP KEEP

The Democrats and Republicans have yet to exchange congressional maps.

CT Lic. # 180640

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The American Red Cross urges individuals who have fully recovered and received a verified COVID-19 diagnosis to sign up to give convalescent plasma by completing the donor eligibility form at redcrossblood.org/plasma4covid.

Ten years ago, the Republicans proposed a map that would have made the 4th and 5th friendlier to GOP candidates. They proposed shifting Democratic

Bridgeport from the 4th to the 3rd and Democratic New Britain from the 4th to the 1st.

Coming to your home or business 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. secondstreet.com/Berlin-Citizen-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.

HELP US HELP YOU, CONTINUE RECEIVING “YOUR” LOCAL WEEKLY.

Welcome to On The Menu. Let us help you find the perfect place to eat.

Whether it’s a celebration, date night, or just grabbing a bite to eat, this list of local restaurants is sure to satisfy your taste buds.

Find great local eats - MenusCT.com Adelphia Café 476 Washington Avenue North Haven, CT 06473 203-535-0149 Family owned/operated. Former proprietors of the Neptune Diner in Wallingford. Extensive menu for all tastes. Breakfasts, luncheons and special dinners. All baking on premises.

Colony Diner

611 N Colony Road Wallingford, CT 06492 (203) 269-9507 colonydiner.com Wallingford’s place to go for oldfashioned breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Proudly serving up delicious and hearty meals daily. Voted Best Diner 4 years running by Record Journal. Open seven days. Breakfast served all day.

Athena II Diner

320 Washington Ave, North Haven, CT 06473 203.239.0663 www.athena2diner.com Open 24 hours a day 7 days a week. Serving breakfast, lunch, & dinner. Accept Q Cards. Serving North Haven for 30 years. Daily specials and full liquor available.

Duchess of Wallingford 124 Church St. Wallingford, CT 06492 (203) 265-9431 www.facebook.com/pages/ Duchess -of-Wallingford/119682821380599 Celebrating Over 25 Years in Wallingford! Our Success comes from dedication to quality,freshness & variety! Breakfast cooked to order. Open 7 days for breakfast lunch & dinner.

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From A9

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In Brief

Walk with Me is a new specialized outpatient treatment track for LGBTQ+ identifying young people age 10 to 25 who are seeking therapeutic, medical, and/or peer support to address their specific needs. It is available exclusively at Wheeler’s Hartford and Plainville Family Health & Wellness Centers. Call Wheeler’s Navigation Center for more information, 888793-3500.

Thursday, December 16, 2021

The Berlin Citizen | theberlincitizen.com

Thursday, December 16, 2021

Cornerstone Real Estate llc

Derek Jutras Broker/Owner

Scholar aims to clean up planet Gabrielle Foster is the winner of the 2021 Kensington Garden Club scholarship.

Office (860) 828-7877 Fax (860) 828-5797 Cell (860) 883-7091 E-mail: djutras@sbcglobal.net

The garden club scholarship is awarded annually to a Berlin High School senior with a keen interest in agronomy, botany, conservation, forestry, environmental control, horticulture, landscape design, land management, or plant science.

3255 MAIN ST. ROCKY HILL - Simply Gorgeous…This is an energy efficient home, with all the upgrades. 28ll sq.ft.modern hi-ranch. Expansive LR w/FP. And 9ft. ceilings, which opens to kit and dining area. Stunning kitchen w/granite counters, oversized sink, 6ft island w/pendent lighting. SS applic too. Trex deck w/ vinyl rails. Hardwood flrs throughout the entire first flr. 4 bdrms. 3 full bathrooms. Mudroom/ laundry room, and oversized 2 car garage. $569,900 Angie Santoro 860-214-6384

Foster, a recent BHS gradu-

ate, plans to study Earth Science and Geology at Oregon State University and pursue a career in Clean Biology and Environmental Sciences. “I hope to help make the earth an environmentallysafe place,” said the scholarship winner, the daughter of Richard and Patricia Foster of Kensington. — Press Release

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BERLIN - Lovingly restored historic c.1797 4 bed colonial, once a tavern, in Berlin....Heart of ridge, in the heart of Connecticut. A wonderful place to be. Plenty of original charm, detail & history throughout. Beautiful new kitchen & baths. Fireplace. Wood floors. Low maintenance... Exterior painted 7/21. New electric, plumbing, boiler, roof, & more all done with attention to detail in 2016. Come take a look and move right in! $389,900 Derek Jutras 860-883-7091

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860-828-7877

951 Farmington Ave, Berlin, CT

Gabrielle Foster is the winner of the 2021 Kensington Garden Club scholarship.

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Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! Wishing you a wonderful season filled with warmth and holiday cheer.

/Classifieds

860-995-9665 mjagostini.com 1195 Farmington Ave. Berlin, CT

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

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The Berlin Citizen | theberlincitizen.com

Thursday, December 16, 2021

A21

Liberty Bank, Rotary team up for holiday drive

Exercise & stress reduction Join this virtual class Wednesday, Jan. 12 from 12 to 12:45 p.m. Presented by Christine Solimini-Swift, exercise physiologist, Hartford HealthCare GoodLife Fitness.

Winter safety Thursday, Jan. 13, from 10 to 11 a.m., learn a few basic things we can do to prevent falls and injuries in the ice and snow. The virtual class is presented by Mitchell Nyser, exercise physiologist, GoodLife Fitness. Registration is required. Call 1-855-442-4373 or go to HartfordHealthCare.org/VirtualClasses.

Call-in support Talk to a professional about questions and concerns you may have regarding dementia Fridays from 2 to 3 p.m. starting Jan. 7. The call-in support group will be facilitated by a Hartford HealthCare Center for Healthy Aging Dementia Specialist. Join the call at 860-972-6338 (Meeting Room 19623#).

Liberty Bank branches accepted donations to 42 local Rotary clubs and a Lions

On Nov. 22, the clubs withdrew the funds and either purchased and delivered food for families in need, or donated the money to a local human services agency. Since it began in 2004, the Liberty Bank/Rotary Club Thanksgiving Dinner Drive has raised over $5 million to supply holiday meals. “As a community bank that’s been around for nearly 200 years, we are fully dedicated to fulfilling our mission: to improve the lives of our cus-

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“With the help of Rotary partners and our generous community, our goal was to raise enough money to provide Thanksgiving food and to stock local food pantries in preparation for the cold

winter months. This holiday season, we are forever grateful to everyone who stepped up to make a difference through our unrivaled Thanksgiving Food Drive and look forward to continuing this very important tradition of giving back for many, many years to come.”

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Wishing Everyone a Blessed Holiday and Most Especially, a Healthy 2022!

Peter D. L. Kern, President | Broker NMLS #11142 Company NMLS #1827309

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Oficial de Prestamo de habla Espanol Todas revelaciones y formas son en Inglés.

tomers, teammates and communities for generations to come,” Liberty Bank stated in a press release.

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

The 2021 Liberty Bank/Rotary Thanksgiving Dinner Drive raised a record-breaking $1,431,376, ensuring there would be enough food on pantry shelves for Thanksgiving and beyond. The amount raised includes a match from Liberty Bank Foundation, totaling $286,275.

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ERA Sargis-Breen Real Estate Co.

BERLIN 1020 Farmington Ave.

(In plaza next to Kensington Market)

860-690-8869 • chrisbrose@comcast.net

Past performance doesn’t guarantee future results but it’s a good indicator. Now’s the time to Buy or Sell your home and Steve Wollman is the experienced professional to help you through the process. In 2021 alone he particpated in over $11,800,000 in transactions. Get ready for 2022 and reach out to Steve 860-205-5999 or steve@wollmanrealty.com

BERLIN $165,000

Professional office space/ commercial condo on New Britain Ave. Was formally used as a dentist office and priced to sell at $165,000. Reception area, 5 offices or exam rooms.

BERLIN $459,000 99 CLOCK SHOP DR New to the market this immaculate home located on a cul-de-sac street, 3 bed rooms 2.1 baths with a finished basement Open floor plan, covered deck and patio make this home ideal for entertaining. Call Steve 860-205-5999

R247278

Health

eryone in Liberty’s service area could enjoy a generous Thanksgiving feast.

R246513v2

Liberty Bank and local Rotary clubs once again teamed up to ensure that ev-

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The Berlin Citizen | theberlincitizen.com

Thursday, December 16, 2021

Legal Notices & Classifieds

Reach over 310,000 readers. Call us today 203-238-1953

Help Wanted

CERTIFIED POLICE OFFICER

WE’RE HIRING!

Since 1867 We Are Proud To Be Your Local News and Advertising Source

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 SNOW REMOVAL Driveway and sidewalk, in Meriden West Side. (203) 237-2065.

RJ Media Group is seeking a Digital Media Sales Specialist and Marketing Consultant. Remote/hybrid work available!

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

See details at

www.rjmediagroup.com/careers

WE’RE HIRING!

TOP CASH PAID

¡Estamos contratando!

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

The Record-Journal is seeking a bilingual News Editor for an exciting opportunity to lead our Latino Communities Reporting Lab in an innovative listening project collaborating with journalists, data experts, a network of community leaders and technology partners to understand the needs of our local Latino communities. The Editor will also oversee content creation with an emphasis on aligning news strategies to best serve the community.

Furniture SOFA - Opens out to a double bed, cream colored w/ flowers, excellent cond., $200 cash firm. 203-237-5372

Lawn and Garden ACCELERATED PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

See details at

www.rjmediagroup.com/careers www.myrecordjournal.com/Latino-reporting-lab

246858v2

FLORIAN PROPERTIES - Is hiring an Entry Level Skilled Laborer! We are looking for a motivated individual who is interested in learning and growing with a company. This is a full time position that offers on the job training. Some experience and basic hand tools required. $16-$20/Hr. Compensation based on experience. Call 860276-8208 or email info@florianproper ties.com

Need to Earn Income ASAP? Earn up to $1,200 mo. + Tips!

FREE CLEAN FILL AVAILABLE FOR COST OF TRUCKING! PRICED PER LOAD DEPENDING ON LOCATION $100 minimum. CALL JIM 860-982-4819

Wood Fuel Heating Equipment

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

CONNECT WITH US SOCIALLY FACEBOOK.COM/ RECORDJOURNAL NEWSPAPER TWITTER.COM/ RECORD_JOURNAL INSTAGRAM.COM/ RECORDJOURNAL

$$ CASH FOR XMAS Looking For Old Costume & Sterling JewTREE LENGTH elry Box Lots. “I Pay Top Cash For Your FIREWOOD Grandma’s Costume CALL FOR DETAILS Jewelry Stash” Julie 203-238-2149 203-443-9602.

The perfect and easiest part time job - Newspaper Delivery Routes Available - Earn up to $600.00 every Two weeks +Tips (Depending on area)

Routes available in the following towns: MIDDLETOWN, MERIDEN, NEW BRITAIN AND WALLINGFORD

Wanted To Buy

Must be 18 or older. Must have valid drivers license, reliable vehicle and be available early mornings. Make extra cash before you go to work making early morning newspaper deliveries using your own vehicle. NO experience necessary. Must able to deliver early mornings, 7 days a week. MUST be dependable, and be able to read a route list with specific delivery instructions. We will demonstrate the route to you. Routes average 1.5 to 3 hours daily. No collections required.

1,2,3 Items or an Estate $$$ CASH $$$ Todd Shamock Estate Sale Service Costume Jewelry, Antiques, Dolls, Toys, Paintings,Meriden Items 203-494-1695

Not Temp Work. Retirees, Stay at Home Mom’s, and Veterans are also welcome to apply. Make extra cash to pay rent, mortgage, bills, save money, or a great vacation.

AARON’S BUYING

Text or call Peter at 860-846-0216 from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and start as soon as tomorrow morning.

Wanted To Buy ALWAYS BUYING CASH PAID Vintage Electronics, Musical Instruments, Amps, Ham Equipment, HiFi, Radios, CB, Guitars, Audio Equipment, Antiques. 860-707-9350

237783

The Town of Wallingford is currently accepting applications for current Connecticut P.O.S.T.C Certified Police Officers. Applicants must be active P.O.S.T.C Certified Police Officers in good standing with their current department, or have retired in good standing, still having a current certification status with P.O.S.T.C. This Process will consist of Written, Oral, Polygraph, Psychological, Medical Exam, and Background Investigation. The Town of Wallingford offers a competitive pay rate $73,569.60- $ 81,619.20 annually. Application deadline will be January 6, 2022 Apply: www.policeapp.com to complete the application process. EOE.

Autos Wanted

Old Machinist Tools, Lathes, BenchTools, Hand Tools & more. (203) 525-0608.

Wanted To Buy

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, WANTED Individual Old/ Vintage Toys, Mufirearms, collections & sical Instruments (Saxophones, Trumpets, Vi- estates including military olins, Flutes, Clarinets, & related items.Federally Trombone & SO MUCH licensed firearms dealer. MORE) Advertising Gunsmith, appraisals, Items, Wristwatches Richard Pleines, (860) (Broken or Not), Pocket 663-2214. 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 Find litters & Bayonets, Helmets & Patches, Medals & Uniof critters forms, Pocket Knives, Lighters & Pipes, Founin our Classifieds. tain 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

Looking for a friend?

Classified ads are the best way to find what you need. They are also the best way to sell your services, goods or items. Call Monday thru Friday 8:30am - 5pm 203-238-1953

The Berlin Citizen | theberlincitizen.com

Thursday, December 16, 2021

Businesses & Services Attics and Basements Cleaned GARY WODATCH Demolition Svs Sheds, pools, decks, garages, debris removal. Quick, courteous svc. All calls returned. Ins. #566326. Cell, 860-558-5430

Carpentry

CARPENTRY

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

Gutters

Home Improvements

Junk Removal

203-238-1953

Get Listed. Get Calls. Get Results. Landscaping

Roofing

GUTTERS DON’T WORK

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

Looking for a friend? Find litters of critters in Classifieds.

Specializing in roofing, siding, kitchens, bathrooms, flooring, basement remodeling. Senior citizen discount Insured. Free est. 203-265-5200 HIC#0631937

Cleaning Services House Cleaning

Electrical Services

HOUSECLEANING Housekeeper. Have many years of experience. References. (203) 630-7921, (203) 4999992.

CLEAN & REMOVE Furniture, appliances, entire contents of: homes, sheds, estates, attics, basements, garages & more. *FALL YARD Clean-ups* FREE ESTIMATES. LIC & INS. DUMPSTER RENTALS 203-535-9817

LOOKING FOR A NEW RIDE? Best Selection of Used Vehicles! Classified Section

TEC ELECTRICAL

IF YOU Mention This Ad FALL Yard Clean-Ups Brush, branches, leaves, storm 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

Moving and Storage

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

Junk Removal GUTTERS PLUS 25+yrs. Exp. Call today for Free estimate. 203-440-3535 A&R CLEANOUT SERCt. Reg. #578887 VICE - Partial or total cleanouts of homes, garages, basements, Gutters Handyperson businesses. We Clean homes top to bottom GUTTERS CLEANED and do demolition work HOME DOCTOR - 48 Painting Int. & Ext. also. Free estimates. yrs exp. Odd jobs & Powerwashing. No job to small or large. remodeling, former US Free Ests. Ins. Refs. 203-281-6387 or 203Navy, 15 yrs, #640689, 623-0166. 203.427.7828. Rodrigo, (203) 565-7745.

STUFF TO SELL? Call Us.

Find what you’re looking for, with CTjobs.com. As Connecticut’s most comprehensive online job board, CTjobs.com attracts the most qualified local job seekers in almost every category throughout the state. With thousands of career candidate profiles, it’s the one place to find the employees you need.

Right here:

www.ctjobs.com

Let Us BEAR Your Junk! Junk Removal in CT

Landscaping

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

Plumbing

FALL CLEANUPS Home Improvement, roofing, siding, misc., no job too big/small. DUMPSTER Rentals avail. 860.719.3953

R236881v3

Skylights. Flashing. Financing Available. #0649808 203.510.3830. lmconstructionct.com

203-238-1953

CROSSWORD ANSWER

SUDOKU ANSWER

Right candidate. Right skills.

HOUSECLEANING

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

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GARY WODATCH Hedge & tree trimming. Trim overgrown properties. Calls returned. #620397.860-558-5430

GEORGE J MACK & SONS - Servicing the Meriden area since Yalesville Construction 1922. Toilet, faucet, Specializing in all phases of residential & sink & drain repairs. Water heater replacecommercial roofing. ments. 15% Sr citizen Senior citizen discount disc. 203-238-2820. Insured Free est. 203-265-5200 HIC#0631937 Power Washing

POWER WASHING Is Spring Cleaning on THE OUTSIDE FREE Estimates #569127 Call Kevin 203-440-3279

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

[Publisher Name] is a partner of CTjobs.com.

 

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The Berlin Citizen | theberlincitizen.com

Thursday, December 16, 2021

Happy Holidays from Our Family to Yours!

543 West Main Street, New Britain, CT

233 Main Street, New Britain, CT

860-356-3270

R247352

860-225-6487

Now Two Locations in New Britain!