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Area schools celebrate Read Across America

By Jessica Simms Record-Journal staff

The National Education Association’s Read Across America day was March 2, and area school districts planned programs to celebrate the big day of reading.

NEA launched Read Across America in 1998 and it does offer opportunities for reading year-round, but the big celebration of reading is on March 2, the birthday of children’s author Theodor Seuss Geisel, better known as Dr. Seuss.

“Read Across America Day is more so a reading program, which calls upon everyone to read and engage with children to make reading a more fun and interactive experience,” according to National Today.

See Read, A4

Parents, advocates support English learners’ Bill of Rights

By Lau Guzmán Record-Journal staff

CHESHIRE Marisabel

Huarca sat in front of her laptop and took a few breaths. She reached over and squeezed Jennifer Gómez’s hand. “Gracias,” she whispered in her native Spanish. Gómez smiled.

Gómez had agreed to translate for Huarca during a public hearing of the Committee of Education that was held in Hartford on Feb. 22.

The hearing lasted about five hours and centered on House Bill 6663, an act that would establish a bill of rights for English Language

$125M in state loans available for companies

By Lau Guzmán Record-Journal staff

Learners and their parents in statewide schools. Although there are already a number of laws and requirements in place to protect ELL students, the bill seeks to add protections to these rights – including the right to attend public school regardless of immigration status,

See Bill, A3

The Connecticut Small Business Boost Fund still has $125 million in loans available, especially for businesses owned by minorities and women.

The fund was launched in July as a public-private partnership that provides low-interest loans to small businesses and

nonprofits in Connecticut. The program was designed to lend over $75 million-$150 million from a foundational investment from the state. So far, the fund has loaned $23 million to more than 190 businesses, according to fund statistics sent to the Record-Journal via email.

See Loans, A16

Luis Ortiz, the state grassroots manager of The Connecticut Coalition for Achievement Now, better known as ConnCAN, gives instruction during a parent training session in CheshireonFeb.22. Dave Zajac, Record-Journal

ATTORNEY LISA J. CAPPALLI

More myths about dividing property during a divorce

A prior column debunked the myth that, under Connecticut law, the person whose name property is in (who holds title) determines how it will be divided between divorcing spouses.

Actually, although who holds title might be a factor, virtually all property in which one spouse has an interest can be granted to the other spouse to accomplish a fair result.

Now, let’s debunk three additional myths, all of which relate to the source of the property no matter who holds title at the time of the divorce.

Myth 1: Property owned by one spouse must stay with or be returned to the spouse who owned it before the marriage. Unlike many states, that property is not automatically exempt from division between divorcing spouses. A home is a common example. Just because one spouse owned it before the marriage, doesn’t guaranty that he or she will keep it in the divorce or won’t have to share the equity in it.

Sewing class

Myth 2:The spouse who inherited the property will keep it. The law allows for one spouse’s inherited property to be transferred to or shared with the other spouse. The timing of the inheritance and how it was managed or utilized during the marriage are factors that affect the legal outcome. For example, it’s more likely a court will award both spouses a share of an inherited stock portfolio if some stocks were sold during the marriage to support the couple’s lifestyle.

Myth 3:The person who earned the property gets to keep it. If that were true, countless spouses who sacrificed a career to be a homemaker or care for children would find themselves penniless or trapped in a bad marriage. Connecticut has long recognized the value of nonfinancial contributions to a marriage. Thus, 401(k) accounts earned by one spouse through employment

In Brief

Overcome the mysteries of the sewing machine and discover how fun and easy it can be in the six-week class “Let’s Get Sewing” at Artsplace, 1220 Waterbury Road, Cheshire.

Machines will be available, or bring your own if you prefer. The instructor, Christine Jewell, can help with basic set-up. Learn the basics of machine sewing, including techniques, how to thread a machine,

•Income Tax Preparation

•Individual and Business

•Electronic Filing

are routinely divided between both spouses as part of a property settlement.

•Tax Planning- Year Round Service

•TSAs, Life Insurance

Understanding property division truths – rather than myths – is crucial for any person who is in a divorce or contemplating a divorce. The truth is that the source of property is one of numerous factors a court can consider when making property division orders.

An experienced divorce lawyer can help you understand how the law would apply to your particular situation.

Lisa J. Cappalli is Of Counsel at Cappalli & Hill, LLC and Freed Marcroft LLC. She can be reached at lcappalli@cappallihill.com or 203-2713888. This column should not be construed as legal advice or legal opinion by Attorney Cappalli, Cappalli & Hill, LLC or Freed Marcroft LLC. The content is intended for general information only and you are urged to consult an attorney to advise you personally concerning your own situation and any specific legal questions you may have.

•IRAs, 403(b)s, 401(k)s

•Tax Representation Enrolled to represent clients before the IRS

Year Round Tree Service

operating and troubleshooting. Projects include a four-patch pin cushion, quilt blocks, zippered pouch and a Boho bag.

Classes will be held Wednesdays, March 15 to April 26 (no class April 12) from 4:30 to 6 p.m. for grades 5 through 8 and from 6:15 to 7:45.p.m. for teens and adults. The class fee is $130 for residents, $140 for non-residents. An additional materials fee of $15 to be paid directly to the instructor at the first class. For more information, call 203-272-2787 or visit artsplacecheshirect.org.

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Cappalli

the right of parents to receive school forms in a language they can understand, and the right for families to have a qualified translator at critical interactions with schools.

After experiencing some technical difficulties with the Zoom call, Huarca spoke in support of the bill, based on her work as a parent advocate for the Connecticut Coalition for Achievement

Now, known as ConnCAN. She attended the hearing virtually from ConnCAN offices based in Cheshire, along a few other ConnCAN advocates.

“We have over 45,000 ELL students. It’s fundamental that this group of people have the same rights and privileges that any other student in this country has. Speaking a different language shouldn’t be a barrier, ” Huarca said.

ELL parent complaints

Arlene Angel is originally from Mexico, but has been a Hartford resident for 21 years. During her testimony, she expressed frustration with the Hartford School

District and the way it educated her two daughters. She joined the education nonprofit Make the Road CT and also testified in favor of the bill. “It is ridiculous that my daughter needs to be my voice during meetings with the school. This is not my daughter’s job. This affects the relationship I have with my daughter because this should not be her job, but I have no other option,” she said in her native Spanish. During her testimony, the state’s Child Advocate Sarah Egan said her office had also received similar complaints from parents who had not been notified about changes in their children’s education in their language. She added her office had two pending systemic investigations of school districts for violating Title VI of the federal Civil Rights Act.

Title VI stipulates that “ no person on the ground of race, color, or national origin, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance.”

“There have been school districts including in the state of Connecticut in recent years that have been found in violation of the civil rights laws and had to resolve these concerns and complaints with the federal government,” Eagan said.

“The Bill of Rights I think is good, but it remains a federal civil rights obligation of school districts to do better.”

The bill also received support from nonprofit organizations like the School and State Finance Project, the Special Education Equity for Kids (SEEK) and the State

Department of Education.

“The Bill of Rights is really allowing us to make sure that we address the entire ecosystem of supports around our students to see how they’re doing. Also assessing them and making sure the supports are there for the educators and for students,” said Education Commissioner Charlene Russell-Tucker during her testimony.

Persistent advocacy

The bill started a couple of months ago as a grassroots initiative, said Luis Ortiz, the state grassroots manager at ConnCAN.

A number of nonprofit organizations realized that their parents complained about not being able to become involved in their children’s education because of the language barrier. The group named itself the “ELL Students and Parent Success Coalition” and approached Democratic State Representatives Antonio Felipe and Juan Candelaria, who presented the parent bill of rights under House Bill 6211.

“We figured we’d just make it a state issue from the very beginning. So therefore, if there’s anyone that we didn’t know was going through this, let’s say, in

Cheshire

In Cheshire, Marlene Silano, assistant superintendent, described the various programs planned for the schools, including having Cheshire High School students go to Highland Elementary School to read to students.

“Everyone has a really good

time doing that,” Silano said. “The high school students love coming back to Highland and the students that are here love seeing the older kids visiting.”

Highland scheduled a “Drop Everything and Read” event for the end of the day on March 2, giving students a chance to read for 30 minutes.

During the week leading up to March 2, Chapman

School featured a surprise guest reader live streamed for the entire school and the Chapman School Council is collecting used books to donate to Re-Read Books. In the spirit of the book “Oh The Places You’ll Go,” students and faculty are encouraged to dress up from places they want to go to At Doolittle School, fifth graders read to second graders and guest readers were to visit library classes throughout the week. At Norton School, the entire school is reading “Charlotte’s Web.” In conjunction with the Norton PTA, the program will include reading, a mystery guest reader contest and chapter questions which enter students into a raffle. The PTA purchased the books.

“The major thing is that we are focused on reading and using this as a great opportunity to really dive in and engage students in reading and making it special by having guest speakers and live stream speakers and some fun spirit events for

kids to show their school spirit,” Silano said.

Wallingford

“We are very excited to celebrate Read Across America across our district,” said Fran Thompson, assistant superintendent for personnel for Wallingford Public Schools.

“The fun thing of the day for us is it’s another opportunity to invite mystery readers and guest readers into our classrooms, ” he added. Thompson said classes will be celebrating Read Across America throughout the week leading up to March 2.

It’s “an opportunity to really put an emphasis on celebrating reading, not just for learning, but for enjoyment as well because they are definitely interconnected,” Thompson said.

Read Across America is “happening all across the district, just in different ways, so the elementary schools will really be celebrating with those mystery readers and things like that, ” he added. “In classrooms in middle and high school,

the emphasis as we do our work in our readers’ workshop, getting kids to pick books of interest for them and then read and share with their classmates and their teachers why the books are of such interest. It is often ongoing work, but it will especially be highlighted on March 2.”

Meriden

In Meriden Public Schools, Daniel Crispino, director of school leadership for the elementary schools, said at least two schools will have judges come out to be guest readers for a class. Other guest readers at the schools will include parents, superintendents and teachers. At the elementary level, Crispino said younger students and older students will pair up in an activity called book buddies. The older student will read to the younger student.

“The kids get so excited to hear somebody else read to them,” Crispino said.

See Read, A7

Torrington, they will still have some protection as well,” Ortiz said.

The bill did not pass a hearing in the education committee in January, but was reintroduced with a few edits by Gov. Ned Lamont.

“Several weeks ago, a group of parents, students, legislators and advocates held an event outside my office to propose the creation of an English Learner’s Bill of Rights and explain its importance. After hearing their stories and the importance

of this bill to their families, I understood. Their voices were heard in my office, and I hope we can all hear them,” Lamont said in a written testimony in support of the bill.

Increased parent involvement

Lamont added he supports the bill because it increases parent involvement with local school districts. “I believe there is nothing more important to a child’s education than an engaged and supportive parent or guardian, and this bill guarantees that they will have the information necessary to do so,” he said.

Lamont’s sentiment was echoed by Angelique Torres, an Attorney at the Center for Children’s Advocacy who was involved in drafting the legislation early in the process. She said that the bill was modeled on a similar one already put in place in New York.

“The importance of parent engagement in schools cannot be overstated. Research shows that parent engagement in schools is closely linked to a better student behavior, higher academic achievement and enhanced social skills,” she said during her testimony.

Yorelys Cárdenas said her daughter studied in a bilingual program in Luis Munoz Marin School in Bridgeport However, she said the school transferred her daughter out of the bilingual program without notifying her.

As an organizer with Make the Road, Cárdenas said she encounters similar challenges with other parents she speaks with.

“Marin School is a place where most of the students who need to learn English in the city of Bridgeport attend school; and yet, every time I went to the general assemblies there was never interpretation services for the parents, which led to a low participation from families,” she said. “The only way that our State can reach the standards it deserves in education is by involving all stakeholders and that includes parents.”

Compliance concerns

Despite the number of supporters who spoke in favor of the bill, legislators and educators raised a number of concerns regarding the testing requirements and translator requirements especially in urban school districts that are chronically underfunded and understaffed.

Luis Rosado Burch of the Connecticut Education Association gave testimony in favor of the bill, but also advocated for reform of the education system.

He explained that ELL students are three times more likely to experience homelessness as other students and are twice as likely to come from low income households. He added that the language barrier makes ELL students more likely to be misidentified as special education or suspended.

“We recognize that the major challenges affecting our English language learners are a lack of adequate dedicated funding, a shortage of qualified teachers and support staff and a lack of oversight and enforcement,” he said.

lguzman@record-journal.com

Twitter: @lguzm_n

Latino Communities Reporter Lau Guzmán is a corps member with Report for America, a national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms. Support RFA reporters at the Record-Journal through a donation at https:/ /bit.ly/3Pdb0re. To learn more about RFA, visit www.reportforamerica.org

“It’s not just the book, it’s that love of reading, but it’s also building that foundation that we want to make sure that our youngest students understand, so that they continue to do it as they get older,” he added.

Crispino said the elementary students get excited for the day as they make Dr. Seuss hats and get to participate in classroom activities, such as book buddies and guest readers. However, he hopes that the children will take what they learn at school to enjoy reading at home.

“It’s a great opportunity to motivate kids to want to read and bring books home and read to their families,”

Crispino said. “Sometimes for homework (during the week of Read Across America) it’s read with a family member. Just ways to really try to increase that motivation and the goal is that reading isn’t just happening because it’s Read Across America day, but it’s Read Across America week and month and year.”

Southington

Stephanie Lawlor, district curriculum coordinator for English grades Pre-K through eight and social studies Pre-K through five for Southington Public Schools, said each school plans for Read Across America in a different way.

Lawlor said at Derynoski and Flanders elementary schools, the students will participate in a program called One School, One Book.

“This event really helps to build a reading community between school and home,” Lawlor said. “The entire school will read the same book for the month of March. There is a strong family engagement component to this event, as families read along with their child at home.”

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Barbara Coleman

CHESHIRE - Mrs. BarbaraBancroftColeman,93, passedover onFebruary 21,2023surroundedbyher children. Barbara was born onMay31,1929,inCincinnati, OH,daughter ofthe late MacGregorand Margaret (Pettyjohn)Bancroft. Shewas adevotedand belovedwife, mother,and grandmotherand willbe truly missed byall who knewher.

Barbara wasraised in Milford, OH, withher late brother, MacGregor Ban-

Obituaries

croft, her late sister, Beverlee Critchell, and loving parents, where she developed lifelongfriendships. Her childhood wasan idyllictimeinherlife,whichshe recalledfondly. Aftergraduating fromMilford High School, Barbara attended finishing school further supportingan interestin fashion, modeling,theater, andaposition asaradio talkshow hostess.Barbara came froma longline of clergyand devoutChristians.Barbara founda strongsense ofcommunity andfellowship throughher

church andwas dedicated to lifelonglearning through biblestudy groupsand courses.

life,Barbara lovedtolaugh andwasalways lentalistening ear. Barbarawas an outgoing positiveperson whose beauty truly began inherheart.

Barbaraleavesbehindby hersons, BradenPlant, and his fiancé Eileen Curran, of Newport,R.I., Brian Plant and hiswife Karen, of Henrico, VAand daughter, MargaretPlant andspouse

Bonnie Nicol,her grandchildren Jennifer Urbany and JessicaRuckert, BradenAndrew Plantand herfourgreatgrandsons.

CHESHIRE - Mrs. Barbara Bancroft Coleman, 93, passed over on February 21, 2023 surrounded by her children. Barbara was born on May 31, 1929, in Cincinnati, OH, daughter of the late MacGregor and Margaret (Pettyjohn) Bancroft. She was a devoted and beloved wife, mother, and grand mother and will be truly missed by all who knew her. Barbara was raised in Milford, OH, with her late brother, MacGregor Bancroft, her late sister, Beverlee Critchell, and loving parents, where she developed lifelong friendships. Her childhood was an idyllic time in her life, which she recalled fondly. After graduating from Milford High School, Barbara attended finishing school further supporting an interest in fashion, modeling, theater,

Barbara lovedto travel and spent many years with her husband, the late HerbertColeman,inretirement inSan Diego,CA,before returningtoCheshire,afew years ago.Throughout her

Shewaspredeceasedby her belovedhusband, Herbert Coleman,and sons George “Dale” PlantIII and Andrew Plant who were among manywelcoming hertoheaven.

Arrangements: A memo-

rial service willbe held on Saturday, April 1, 2023 at 11:00 A.M.at St.Peter’s Episcopal Church,59 Main Street, Cheshire.Friends areasked tomeetdirectly atchurch.Burial willbeat Cheshire Hillside Cemetery. Thereare nocalling hours and the AldersonFordFuneral Homeof Cheshire,will beassisting with arrangements. Memorial contributionsin her name canbe madeto Tuberous Sclerosis ComplexAlliance. Foronline condolences, to share a photoorastory,pleasevisitwww.fordfh.com.

a position as a radio talk show hostess. Barbara came from a long line

and devout Christians. Barbara found a strong sense

her church

Marie A. Herbst

Marie A. Herbst

CHESHIRE- MarieA.

“Mitzie” Herbst, of Cheshire, died on Thursday,March2, 2023,ather homeatthe ageofninetythree.Shewasthedevoted wifeof thelateRobert Herbstforover54yearsuntil his deathin 2003. Marie wasborn onFebruary21, 1930,in Flushing,NY, daughter of the late Julius Joseph andEdna Antoinette (Krapp)Schultheis. Marie wasraised inFlushing and attended the Academy ofthe Sacred HeartofMary inSagHarbor.She metherhusband, Robert,as ayoung girland they were marriedin 1949 inFlushing,wheretheyhad grown up oneblock away from each other.They relocated toSchenectady beforefinally comingto Cheshirein 1958.Notonly wasMariea lovinganddevoted motherto herown childrenand denmotherto thelocalscouts,sheeffortlessly filled the role of “Mom” and “Grandma” to countless others.Marie adoredher husbandand wassupportiveofallhisendeavors,andat theageof forty-five transitionedfrom

CHESHIRE - Marie

“homemaker andstay-athome motherextraordinaire” to aformidable businesswoman, helpingher husband and sons form theirengineeringfirm,Intergrated IndustrialSystems, where shebecame Vice President andSecretary. Marie was alifelong fan of

A. “Mitzie” Herbst, of Cheshire, died on Thursday, March 2, 2023, at her home at the age of ninety-three. She was the devoted wife of the late Robert Herbst for over 54 years until his death in 2003. Marie was born on February 21, 1930, in Flushing, NY, daughter of the late Julius Joseph and Edna Antoinette (Krapp) Schultheis. Marie was raised in Flushing and attended the Academy of the Sacred Heart of Mary in Sag Har-

Obituaries

the NewYork Yankees, rarely missing agame, and took great pridein her cooking andgardening. In lateryears, shebecamea gameshow enthusiastand wasabig fanofJeopardy! andDeal orNo Deal,often devisingherownstrategies towin. Mitziewill beremembered not onlyfor her sharpwitandabilitytosupplythe comicrelief inevery situation,but alsofornever letting avisitor leavethe house without her saying, “IfthereisanythingIcando foryou,letmeknow!”Marie is the beloved mother of Robert “Bob” Herbst of Ft. Pierce, FL;John Herbst andhiswife,Tess,ofBonita Springs, FL; Donna Marie of EastHaddam; Julie Craneof Cheshire;Eric

Herbst andhis wife,Karen, ofMilford; Andrea “Annie” Herbst Wilson of Cheshire; andMichele“Shelley”Morleyandherhusband,Peter, ofWeare, NH.She isalso survived byher cherished 17 grandchildrenand 17 great-grandchildren; her brothers, JerrySchultheis of Oxford, CT,and Robert Schultheis ofNaples, FL; and manyloving nieces andnephews. Mariewas predeceased by her brother,JackSchultheis.Friends may greetMarie’s familyat the AldersonFord Funeral Homeof Cheshire,615So. MainStreet, Cheshire,CT 06410onFriday,March10, 2023,from4PMuntil7PM. A Massof ChristianBurial willbecelebratedonSaturday, March 11, 2023, at 12

PMatSt. BridgetofSweden Parish-St. Bridget Church,175 MainStreet, Cheshire,friendsareasked to meet directly at church. BurialwillfollowinCheshire Hillside Cemetery,Wallingford Road, Cheshire. Memorial contributions maybemadetotheAmerican CancerSociety. To leave onlinecondolences for herfamily orto sharea story of Mitzie,please visit www.fordfh.com

Please & Thank you. Senior Transportation Services, Inc. is looking for safe, reliable volunteers willing to use their own car to help some of Berlin, New Britain,

was supportive of all his endeavors, and at the age of forty-five transitioned from “homemaker and stay-athome mother extraordinaire”

MARIE HERBST

Jean L. Tarca

BRANFORD-Jean(Lyons)

Tarca,98, passedaway peacefully at herhome in Branford, Connecticut, surroundedbyherchildren.Jean wasbornonAugust26,1924, inMeriden, CT,to thelate DanielA.andMarie(Sarrazin)

Lyons. Shewas thesecond youngestof 10children,and lastsurviving siblingofthe closely-knitLyonsfamily.

MarriedtothelateFredTarca,Sr.,theymadetheirhome in Meriden,Berlin, and Quonochontaug, Rhode Island. After her husband’s passing in 1999,Jean remainedinRhodeIsland,and later moved to Cheshire and Branford,Connecticut.

During her lifetime Jean was an active member of many organizations where shemadeherhomeincluding the WesterlyYMCA, Quonochontaug YachtClub, and Cheshire SeniorCenter. However,her lifelongprioritiesand interestswerealwaysherchildren,grandchildren and great-grandchildren with whom she immenselyadored.

Jean is survivedby her 4 children,8grandchildrenand 10 great-grandchildren:

daughter Joan(Patrick) Alix ofTampa, FL;sons,Fred (Mary)TarcaofBranford,CT; Paul(Anne)TarcaofLittleton, MA,andDan(Michelle)Tarca ofCheshire,CT.

Survivinggrandchildrenrespectively areBrendon (Bernadette) Alixof Stamford,CT; Daren(Andrea)Alix of Tampa,FL; Gregory(Lauren) Tarca of Hoboken, NJ; Mallory(Jordan) Gunzyof Fairfield, CT; Jim (Chelsea) Tarcaof Stamford,CT,and ShaneTarca ofSomerville, MA,DevonTarcaofLittleton, MA;and JohnTarcaof CheshireCT.Survivinggreatgrandchildren respectively areLiadan,Mila,andTeagan

Alix; Kayleigh, Emma and BraydenAlix;ConnorandAveryTarca; JackandQuinn Gunzy.

See Tarca, A12

Obituaries

Eleonore Frey

CHESHIRE -Eleonore

Feihle Frey passed away after a briefillness on March1, 2023,in thecomfort ofher homeat Marbridge Assisted Living in Cheshire.

Born inUlm, Germany, Eleonore metWalter Frey on a Fridaythe 13th in 1953. She movedto the UnitedStates in1955and they were married. For 63 years, untilhis passingin 2018, theycelebrated everyFridaythe13th.

Eleonore Frey

Elsbeth Eichelman

WALLINGFORD - Elsbeth

W. Eichelman, 96, passed away Saturday, February 25, 2023 at Ashlar Village in Wallingford. She was the wife of the late George H. Eichelman.

Eleonorewas proudto complete hercollege degree afterraising hertwo children. Sheenjoyed her work in CarlZeiss’s Manhattanoffice,andalsofreelancedasatranslator.

FREY

CHESHIRE - Eleonore

Feihle Frey passed away after a brief illness on March 1, 2023, in the comfort of her home at Marbridge Assisted Living in Cheshire.

She traveledwith her husband andtheir grandchildren, sharingmany adventures.Shewasthedrivingforce behindanannual familyreunion atSandbridge Beach,Virginia, that became a30-year tradition.

Eleonore issurvived by her two sisters, Annemarie Gridley of Colorado and Traudel Sailor of Germany; her daughter Caroland her husbandMark;andherson

Norman. She has seven grandchildren:Terriandher husband Matt, Sean and his wife Lorie,Kirsten and her husband Wade, Michael and his wife Jewell, Tim and his wife Daryl, Pauland hiswifeStacy, and Elin and her husband Tom. She wasblessed with 12greatgrandchildren.

Mrs. Eichelman was born May 13, 1926, in Ansonia, daughter of the late Charles A. and Alice M. (Watson) Spargo. Prior to her retirement, she was employed as a secretary by Cheshire Academy, and subsequently by the Cheshire Public School system.

Born in Ulm, Germany, Eleonore met Walter Frey on a Friday the 13th in 1953. She moved to the United States in 1955 and they were married. For 63 years, until his passing in 2018, they celebrated every Friday the 13th.

A memorial service will beheld inthe summer.In lieuof flowers,thefamily invites donationsto Rayof Light Farm inEast Haddam, Connecticut, an animal rescuesanctuary providing therapyprograms for thecommunity. Eleonore eagerlyvisited Rayof LightFarmwhenevershecould, andsheenjoyed a final outing there before becomingtoo illto leaveherhome.

Eleonore was proud to complete her college degree after raising her two children. She enjoyed her work in Carl Zeiss’s Manhattan office, and also freelanced as a translator.

She traveled with her husband and their grandchildren, sharing many adventures. She was the driving force behind an annual family reunion at Sandbridge Beach, Virginia that became a 30-year tradition.

Eleonore is survived by her two sisters, Annemarie Gridley of Colorado and Traudel Sailor of Germany;

Mrs. Eichelman is survived her children Diane Eichelman, and her husband Paul Schaefer, of Durham, Dale Eichelman, and his wife, Carolyn, of Chicago, IL and Janet Hanscom of Rocky Hill; her five grandchildren, Stephanie and Marissa Blackburn, Blake Hanscom, and Emma and Sara Eichelman. In addition to her husband and parents, Mrs. Eichelman was predeceased by her grandson, Keith Hanscom.

Arrangements - Private funeral services will be held at the First Congregational Church of Cheshire. There are no calling hours and the Alderson Funeral Home of Cheshire, 615 S. Main Street is assisting with arrangements. Memorial Contributions may be made to Connecticut Foodshare. For online condolences, to share a photo or a story, please visit www.fordfh.com.

ELEONORE

Edward W. D’Addio

CHESHIRE - Edward W. D’Addio, age 85, of Wallingford passed away March 3, 2023. A resident of Cheshire most of his life Ed was predeceased by his wife Patricia Ann (Forto) D’Addio, his daughter Jennifer D’Addio and his granddaughter Victoria D’Addio. Ed is survived by his sons, Edward G. D’Addio & his wife Tanya and David J. D’Addio & his wife Andrea all of Cheshire and his grandchildren Dylan, Brooke, Drew & Kai. He was also predeceased by his sisters Mary Dowley & Elizabeth Martin and brothers George & Albert D’Addio. Ed worked over 40 years for the Regional Water Authority retiring as an inspector. He was an US Army Veteran and an avid bowler.

Ed’s Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated at 11:00 am March 8th, 2023 at St. Bridget of Sweden Church, 175 Main St, Cheshire. Burial with Military Honors took place in St. Bridget Cemetery. To send a condolence to his family please see: www. beecherandbennett.com

William A. Slone

CHESHIRE -William A. Slone, 80, ofCheshire, CT, passed away peacefully at home on Friday January 20th after along illness.

“Bill” issurvived byhisloving wife offifty-five years, Barbara (Schuchman) Slone; his children, Ericka Andersonand herhusband, EricAnderson; AmandaSlone;andGregorySlone;hisgrandchildren, Ruby Meade, Lucy Meade, Goldie Anderson,and Kyly, Finn, Azra, and Oren Milton.Heis alsosurvivedby hissister, Linda(Slone) Schisslerandherhusband, Henry Schissler; his brother,Richard Sloneandhis wife, Eugenia (Foster) Slone; hisnieces and nephews, Michael Aronson and hiswife, Pamela (Stearns) Aronson;Jennifer Aronson; ErinSloneGomez andher partner, EthanSchwartz; EricSlone and hiswife, Sandy (Huang) Slone; and Christopher Savulis. The son ofMarian “Babbee” (Lerner)Slone andSaul Harris Slone, Bill was raised in Carbondale, IllinoisandNewMilford,Con-

Please & Thank you.

Obituaries

William A. Slone

WILLIAM SLONE

necticut, graduatingfrom Canterbury Schooland YaleUniversity,andserving his countrywith honorand pride with theUS Army. Stateside,Bill hadafortysix year careeras a stock brokerinNewHaven,Hartford, and Glastonbury. He wasa devotedfather, friend,andvolunteer,workingas acommunityleader, fundraiser, coach,and mentorformanylocalorganizations including Cheshire Kiwanis, the CT Leukemia Society,Special Olympics, CheshireYouth Baseball, and Unified Sports. Inaddition tothese activities, hespent: 74 years asan unparalleled RedSoxfan; 65yearsat-

CHESHIRE - William A. Slone, 80, of Cheshire, CT passed away peacefully at home on Friday January 20th after a long illness. “Bill” is survived by his loving wife of fifty-five years, Barbara (Schuchman) Slone; his children, Ericka Anderson and her husband, Eric Anderson; Amanda Slone; and Gregory Slone; his grandchildren, Ruby Meade, Lucy Meade, Goldie Anderson, and Kyly, Finn, Azra, and Oren Milton. He is also survived by his sister, Linda (Slone) Schissler and her husband, Henry Schissler; his brother, Richard Slone and his wife, Eugenia (Foster) Slone; his nieces and nephews, Michael Aronson and his wife, Pamela (Stearns) Aronson; Jennifer Aronson; Erin Slone-Gomez and her partner, Ethan Schwartz; Eric Slone and his wife, Sandy (Huang) Slone; and Christopher Savulis. The son of Marian “Babbee” (Lerner) Slone and Saul Harris Slone, Bill was raised in Carbondale, Illinois and New Milford, Connecticut, graduating from Canterbury School and

tempting toperfect hisgolf game;over halfacentury completing the N.Y. Times Crossword puzzleseven days aweek; countless hourshavingthetimeofhis lifeentertaininghimselfand thosecloseto himbyplayingsongsonhispianofrom alarge andever-growing collection of fake books; and concentrating his analyticand strategicskillssitting across from friends, acquaintances, and family members at bridge and chess tables. He filled his lifewith thepeople,activities,and thingsheloved

and valued, contributing to thoseindividuals andgiving back tothe community. His family will celebrate his life privately ata Remembrance Gatheringat his home. Memorialcontributions may be made to the Cheshire CommunityFood Pantry,Inc., POBox457, Cheshire, CT 06410or a charityofone’schoice.The Alderson-Ford Funeral Homeof Cheshirecontinues to assistwith arrangements. Toleave condolences for hisfamily or to share a story of Bill, please visitwww.fordfh.com

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

EDWARD D’ADDIO

Tarca

From A10

As a life-long devout Catholic andwoman of strongfaith,aMassofChristian Burialwas heldon Wednesday,March8,2023at

11:00 AM inSaint John BoscoParish atSt.Mary Church, 731 Main Street Branford,CT.Aprivateburial will take place in Rhode Islandatalaterdate.Thereare nocallinghours.

In lieu of flowers or contributions,thefamilywouldask those to extend kindness, courtesy and laughter to someoneinneed,allinJean’s memory.

For directions and online memorial see www.wsclancy.com.

Singles dance

A Singles Sweetheart Dance will be held Friday, March 10, 7 to 11 p.m., at the Polish American Club, 541 North Main St., Bristol. Admission is $17. DJ Cadillac Jack, food for purchase, door prizes. Dress to impress. For more information, call Gail at 860-463-6906.

Karaoke

The Sons of the Legion at American Legion Post 68, 154 Porters Pass, Berlin, will host karaoke Saturdays, March 11 and 25, 7 p.m., at the Post home.

Theater

Castle Craig Players, Meriden is celebrating its 30th season. All shows on

sale now: “Doubt: A Parable,” March 10 to 19; “The Marvelous Wonderettes: Dream On,” May 5 to 20; “Into The Woods,” July 28 to Aug. 12. For ticket information, visit castlecraigplayers.org.

Tribute concert

The Plainville Wind Ensemble presents an all-John Williams concert Sunday, March 12, 2 p.m., at Plainville High School, 47 Robert Holcomb Way. Directed by Ken Bagley, “A Tribute to John Williams” will encompass several popular pieces, including four from Star Wars: The Force Awakens, the Harry Potter Symphonic Suite and A Hymn to New England. The theme from “Schindler’s List” will feature guest violin soloist Shannon Webster. Attendees will be greeted at the door

by Darth Vader’s storm troopers and other Star Wars characters. Also, concert-goers are encouraged to come dressed as a character from a John Williams movie. Free admission. For more information, visit plainvillewindensemble.com.

Big Brothers Big Sisters

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Connecticut is an affiliate of Big Brothers Big Sisters of America, the 119-year-old national youth mentoring organization. Based in Hartford, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Connecticut offers lifechanging programs to at-risk children in all of the state’s 169 municipalities. Learn more about Big Brothers Big Sisters by visiting ctbigs.org.

The program is aimed at helping small businesses and nonprofits particularly those owned by women and minorities with access to flexible working capital. This was a policy decision by senior management, said Sheila Hummel, business development program manager for the state Department of Economic and Community Development.

“Knowing some business owners face systemic barriers to accessing financing and business resources, 50% of financial assistance [is] directed to minority-, woman-, disabled- and veteranowned businesses, and businesses located in distressed municipalities,” she said in an email statement. “We value these businesses and their contribution to the economy in Connecticut.”

So far, 58% of boost fund loans have gone to minorityand women-owned busi-

nesses. Boost fund loans have a fixed 4.5% interest rate. The intent was to make the cost of capital affordable to small businesses and aid in the recovery and growth of existing small businesses during the next five years, Hummel said.

Historical disparity in business lending

In the U.S., women have only been able to get a loan in their own name, without a male co-signer, since the Women's Business Ownership Act of 1988. The federal law overturned state laws that required women to have male relatives sign for business loans, in addition to establishing women’s business centers. Thirty-five years later, there is still a large gap in business ownership, particularly among women and minorities. In Connecticut, minorities made up 22% of workers, but only 13% of business owners, according to the Small Business Administration. Similarly, women made up 48% of workers, but 41% of business owners in 2022.

Jovanna Mejia works to remedy some of these historical disparities as an Associate Lending Manager at the National Development Council, a national nonprofit that manages the fund’s operations in Connecticut. Mejia is from Cartagena, Colombia. She said that her work is important to her as a Latina. “I want to make sure that women and minorities are able to know and have access to this amazing product,” she said.

“You can really make a difference with businesses and that's really our goal to reach and to provide as much as we can to these minority and women-owned businesses.”

Loans, loans, loans

Mejia explained that traditional lending for small businesses usually depends on what collateral a business can provide. They also usually have short terms and high interest rates.

Mejia explained that the 4.5% fixed rate is a few percentage points lower than the Prime Rate, which was 7.75% at time of publication. She added that most banks would also add a few additional percentage points, based on the kind of loan. “The parameters of the [boost fund] loan are lower cash flow requirements, no collateral requirements, such that historically underserved businesses can gain access to the capital that they need,” she explained. “This is critical, as it helps tear down the historical economic barriers that allow businesses to build the capacity over time.”

Boost fund loans have a 60to 72-month payback period and can range from $5,000 to $500,000, according to the boost website

After completing an online pre-application and matching the small business with a community lender, Mejía said that the community lender will assess the business and its capacity for repayment in the long term. The pre-application can be accessed through the boost website. It is made up of 14 questions that consider a business’ ability to repay the loan, how the loan fits into their business plan, the possible impact of the loan on the business and other financial obligations of the business.

“We want to ensure that any new debt that this business is taking on is not going to negatively impact the business, ” Mejia said. “When payments start, it also allows them to continue to positively cashflow instead of having a very high loan payment for a very high loan amount that could potentially negatively impact the business.”

If the loan is approved with a community lender, Mejia explained that there is a fairly broad number of things it can be used for including equipment, payroll, utilities, rent, back rent, marketing, building renovations, or even to refinance a loan with a high interest rate.

Graphic by Lau Guzmán, Record-Journal

Capital for Change in Wallingford

While boost fund loans are available to businesses or nonprofits that have 100 or fewer full-time employees and annual revenue of less than $8 million, each community lender targets a different demographic with their specific needs.

Director of Programs and Small Business Lending Earl

Randall works with Capital for Change, a Community Development Financial Institution based in Wallingford.

He said that Capital for Change generally serves small businesses owned by Black and Indigenous people of color with less than $1 million in revenue.

“Many of those smaller businesses that maybe make ten, twenty or fifty thousand are not as adept, for lack of a better term, in securing funding,” he said. “So our approach is to be more inclusive and instructive as we navigate the process.“

Randall added that applying for loans or economic assistance can be “a bit of a hassle,” so there are also technical assistance programs available to small businesses through the fund.

Technical assistance referrals

Scott Arnold works with the Small Business Development Council at UConn, one

of the four technical assistance providers that partner with the fund. A Wallingford resident, he said he has 25 years ’ experience in banking and lending.

Technical assistance is often confused for tech support, but they are not the same. Technical assistance provides targeted support to a business with a developmental need or problem and seeks to build the capacity of a business, Arnold said.

For the fund, the council team is able to walk business owners through pre-loan, loan, and post-loan.

After matching with a local lender, sometimes a business needs help preparing a number of technical documents. The particular documents vary based on the community lenders, but Arnold cited documents like proof of revenue, a debt schedule, covered debt plan, business plan, valid operating licenses and letters of good standing with local government offices.

“We’re not here to prepare your financial statements, but we can help you in putting those together,” Arnold said.

After the loan, he added that the council can help businesses with services like marketing, market research, planning, cybersecurity, business disruption plans and more.

He also added that technical assistance programs can refer businesses to the right resource.

CNA/HHA - Needed to care for a 57yo female with a severe brain injury to provide assistance with ADLs, meal prep and light housekeeping. Please call 860680-1476 to arrange an interview.

COLLISION TECH NEEDED

Skrips Auto Body is searching for a qualified collision A or B tech, that is detail oriented, and interested in working in high quality shop. Applicant should be capable of performing quality repairs on a continual basis. We are a Non DRP shop using only OEM parts. We offer health ins, 401k, paid vacations, holiday pay, ongoing training, etc.

Skrips has been a well-respected and recognized leader in the collision industry for 45 years, and we plan on continuing on the same path, and hopefully you can assist in our goals.. Skrips Auto Body Inc. 104 Cheshire Rd. Prospect 203-758-6605 Bob@Skripsautobody. com

ENTRY LEVEL TECHNICIAN NEEDED

Skrips Auto Body is offering a unique opportunity to an entry level, detail-oriented individual that is willing to grow with our company. We are looking to train someone who has some basic automotive knowledge, and a strong willingness to advance in the Auto Collision Industry. We offer a clean, safe, and up to date facility that has a commitment and strong desire to share our knowledge of this ever changing automotive industry to the right candidate. We offer health insurance, 401k, uniforms, paid vacation as well as continual ongoing training to keep you in the know.

Skrips has been a well-respected and recognized leader in the collision industry for 45 years, and we plan on continuing on the same path, and hopefully you can assist in our goals..

Skrips Auto Body Inc.

104 Cheshire Rd. Prospect 203-758-6605

Bob@Skripsautobody. com

RETIRED COUPLE -

From NC seeking to rent Mother-in-Law apartment in Wallingford, CT area, to be used as home base, when visiting area. If interested, contact by email: manduffer@ya hoo.com

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

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

MATERIALS DISTRIBUTION Screened Topsoil $25/ 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 @ 860-982-4819

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

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

GENERAL MANUFACTURING HELP - At our millwork facility, M-F, 6 a-2:30 p. Will train. Must have own transportation. Come in & fill-out an application at Jawor Lumber, 1068 N. Farms Rd., Wallingford.

TREE LENGTH FIREWOOD CALL FOR DETAILS 203-238-2149

1, 2, 3 CASH FOR YOUR ANTIQUES & JEWELRY

- Call Todd Shamock at 203-494-1695.

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

ALWAYS TOP CASHFor Your Grandma’s Costume Jewelry Stash. I’ll Come to

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

TOP CASH PAID

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

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.

GRASSY HILL AUCTIONS, - an Estate Sale, Liquidation, Attic & Basement Cleanout Company is Always Buying and providing services all over Con necticut. These are just a FEW of the things we are looking for: An tiques, Collectibles, Old/ Vintage Toys, Mu sical Instruments (Sax ophones, Trumpets, Vi olins, Flutes, Clarinets, Trombone & SO MUCH MORE) Advertising Items, Wristwatches (Broken or Not), Pocket Watches, Tools (Ma chinist, 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

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

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

CARPENTRY

Repairs, Decks & Porches, Sheetrock & Taping

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

HOUSECLEANING

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

HOUSECLEANINGHousekeeper. Offices. Have many years of exper. Refs. (203) 6307921; 203 499-9992.

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

GUTTERS CLEANED

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

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

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

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FRONTLINE PLUMBING

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

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

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

Nominate Your Favorite Local Businesses!

Our Annual Best of Awards reader’s poll is back. This is your chance to nominate and vote for your favorite people, places and businesses in your local area. It’s a great way to support your local businesses.

NOMINATE: Nominate your favorite businesses online March 9 through March 19.

VOTE: Online voting begins April 13 and ends Sunday, April 23.

WIN $250: If you nominate at least 25 businesses you will be entered to win a $250 gift card. A random drawing will take place at the end of the contest. We will also give away a $250 gift card for the voting round!