The Cheshire Citizen

RUN THE RUNWAY

200-plus take part in inaugural 5K

By Nicole Zappone Record-Journal staff

On Sunday, over 200 runners from the Meriden area came together for the inaugural Hartford HealthCare, MidState Medical Center Run the Runway 5K race at Meriden Markham Municipal Airport.

WILD TIME

Although the sun was shining, the wind blew hard enough at times to pose a challenge for some runners. Derek Destefano, Meriden Running Club race director, said he was very excited about the event and the turnout of runners.

See Race, A8

On March 16, Ferncroft Wildlife Rescue presented the all-ages show “All About Opossums” to a packed house at Cheshire Public Library. Sponsored by Friends of the Cheshire Public Library, the program included opossum ambassador Mango. Pictured, from left: Ferncroft Wildlife Rescue’s Pam Lefferts and veterinarian Dr. Majorie O’Neill, who’s holding Mango. Contributed photo

Local professor to lead engineering society

Press Release

Cheshire resident Grant Crawford, professor of mechanical engineering at Quinnipiac University, has been elected president-elect of the American Society for Engineering Education. He will begin his term at ASEE’s annual meeting in June.

See ASEE, A6

Joel Cookson, of Cheshire, heads down the runway pushing his son Declan as his other son, Rory, follows during the inaugural Run the Runway 5K on Sunday, March 26. Bill Shettle, Special to the Record-Journal

A major task getting birthing centers underway

A bill making its way through the legislature is intended to expand options available for maternal and child health during the birth process.

Offering these choices is especially important for Black mothers and their babies, say leaders supporting passage of the bill.

But how those options will fit into existing systems was a concern raised by other leaders also scrutinizing the proposal.

SB 986 “hopes to address these disparities by creating a license category for birth centers, establishing state certification processes for doulas and midwives and opening a universal nursing visitation program for new parents,” according to a recent Record-Journal story by Cris Villalonga-Vivoni.

Those disparities show up in statistical data.

State health officials report that 2017 data shows babies born to Black mothers were significantly more likely to die before their first birthday than babies born to white women, according to Villalonga-Vivoni’s story.

Furthermore, babies born to Black mothers are at risk for low birth weight which can result in other serious child health and development issues.

SB 986 would create a new license category to open more birthing centers throughout the state, according to testimony by Public Health Commissioner Dr. Manisha Juthani, speaking

to the legislature’s Public Health Committee earlier this month.

Birthing centers can provide lower cost, family-friendly options for those seeking “less medicalize births,” Juthani testified.

Currently, Connecticut has only one standalone birthing center, The Connecticut Childbirth and Women’s Center in Danbury.

Birth centers provide an alternative to traditional hospital delivery care, and give alternative pregnancy care providers, such as doulas and midwives, a chance to enter the healthcare system and be more accessible to larger groups of people, according to Juthani’s testimony, as reported by Villalonga-Vivoni.

While these goals sound reasonable and no doubt would bring many positive benefits, there remain issues to be resolved, as Villalonga-Vivoni’s story points out.

Committee co-chair, state Sen. Saud Anwar, D-South Windsor, spoke about the mandatory relationship between birth centers and the greater healthcare system.

“Anwar, a physician, noted that the legislation could lead to unintended selection bias as the major hospitals would receive more complicated pregnancy cases,” says the R-J story.

Additionally, the Connecticut Hospital Association submitted testimony regarding the bill’s language stating that it doesn’t mandate regulations and protocols for the license.

CHA wrote that the language needs to be updated to ensure that “mandatory clinical guidelines” are met. Some legislators brought up concerns about the cost and sustainability of certain services outlined in the bill.

State Rep. Lezlye Zupkus, RProspect, told VillalongaVivoni, that “we need to make sure that people that need services get them, but we need to make sure that they’re stable. They’re going to continue to be there.”

Bringing a healthy baby into the world and helping families accomplish this task in a way that makes the experience and all the related outcomes the best they can be is a goal that should be attainable for everyone. It’sa goal that SB 986 is intended to facilitate.

It is also an ambitious one that warrants deep consideration to make sure the anticipated outcomes are successful.

Concerns about cost, coordinating with the existing healthcare system, and getting the details of certification or licensing right are fair and legitimate. The work needed to sort out those issues is well worth the effort.

While there may well be adjustments needed to get this major piece of maternal and child health care in place, making it happen can have a significant impact, going a long way towards fixing the statistical disparities played out in the lives of newborn babies.

Executive VP & Publisher — Liz White Notarangelo News Editor — Nick Carroll Assistant News Editor — Olivia Lawrence

Senior VP

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Editor — Ralph Tomaselli

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Assisted Living Services hits industry trifecta

Assisted Living Services, Inc. in Connecticut has once again earned national recognition from Home Care Pulse, the leading firm in quality assurance for home care.

A family-owned company with offices in Cheshire and Westport, Assisted Living Services, Inc. received three distinguished 2023 Best of Home Care awards: Leader in Excellence, Employer of Choice and Provider of Choice.

The Leader in Excellence Award is the highest distinction and is bestowed only to select home care businesses that consistently place among the top in 10 or more quality metrics.

This ranks Assisted Living Services, Inc. among the top 15 percent of home care providers nationwide participating in the Home Care Pulse Satisfaction Management Program.

This is the third time the agency has received the awards.

“It is an incredible honor to be selected for all three categories and one of only a handful of winners in our state,” said Ron D’Aquila, RN and CEO of Assisted Living Services, Inc., who co-owns the enterprise with his wife Sharon D’Aquila.

Mario and Nick D’Aquila, the couple’s sons, hold executive positions within the company.

Ron D’Aquila said, “Our clients want to live in the comfort of their homes. We are committed not only to making that possible, but also to ensuring that their golden years are truly golden.”

In appreciation of its staff, Assisted Living Services, Inc. implemented a monthly $5,000 Platinum Caregiver Award program in 2019 to recognize employees who have exceeded expectations for quality care. Since its inception, the Platinum Caregiver Award program has distributed more than $180,000 to 100-plus Assisted Living Services, Inc. employees.

Letters to the Editor

Letters to the Editor are limited to 300 words. Letters must be signed and names will appear in print. We reserve the right to edit letters. Include a phone number so The Citizen can contact you for verification. Submissions must be received by 5 p.m. Friday to be considered for publication the following Thursday. Send submissions to news@ thecheshirecitizen.com.

Grange award

The Cheshire Grange will honor its Community Citizen of the Year, Ilona Somogyi, Wednesday, April 5, 7:30 p.m., at the Grange Hall on Wallingford Road. Somogyi is being recognized for her extensive efforts and involvement with the Ball & Socket Arts retail center on West Main Street. The April 5 program will include a reception and tea cup auction. The public is invited. For more information, contact Ruel Miller at 203-272-8255.

Street sweeping

The Cheshire Public Works Department plans to begin sweeping town roads Monday, April 3. A map of the ar-

eas in the order they will be swept is available on the town website. Residents can assist Public Works by sweeping sediment from sidewalks into gutters and moving cars which would interfere with sweeping operations. Sweepers cannot pick up brush, branches or yard waste. Operations are expected to be completed by midJune, weather permitting.

ART HEALS

ART HEALS is a free program for Cheshire adult residents who are temporarily or permanently homebound because of medical, emotional or physical difficulty. The confidential program was suspended during the pandemic and is now open.

It involves up to six lessons with a professional art teacher from Artsplace in the client’s home. No experience or art ability is necessary. At the conclusion of the program the artwork is framed and returned to the client. For more information or to enroll in the ART HEALS program, contact Joan Pilarczyk at 203-2722787, or jpilarczyk@ cheshirect.org.

Certification

Eversource is partnering with Housatonic Community College and the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local Unions 420 and 457 to prepare the next generation of electrical lineworkers in Connecticut. The Lineworker Certificate Program provides students valuable training in the electric utility industry and the opportunity to progress into Eversource’s paid apprenticeship pro-

gram. Visit Eversource.com for more information on the certification program and to stay updated on the next available class.

Theater

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

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.

Wellness expo

Exhibitors and speakers are sought for the 10th Bi-Annual Passport to Health & Wellness Expo, which will be held April 23 at The Bristol DoubleTree by Hilton. Also, vendors are sought for expos taking place May 21 and Sept. 17 at the VFW in Plainville. Contact Shirley Bloethe at 860-989-0033 or yourholisticevents@ gmail.com, or visit yourholisticevents.com.

Alert system

Residents can register to receive emergency notifications from the town. Examples include evacuation notices, bio-terrorism alerts, boil water notices and missing child reports. Visit cheshirect.org to register.

 Competitive Rates

 Fun Place to Work

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All Summer

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 Camp June 26–Aug 18 Weekdays

 Busing available

 Meals are included

Various Positions Available: Counselor, Lifeguard, Martial Arts, Wood Working

 Competitive Rates

 Fun Place to Work

 Work Outside

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 Flexible hours and work week

 Weekends Available

 Meals are included

Various Positions Available: Lifeguards, Activities Directors, Catering Staff, Groundskeeping Staff Visit

“It is an immense honor to be selected by my peers to serve as president-elect for the American Society for Engineering Education for 2023-24,” said Crawford, who will become president in 2024-25.

“ASEE has been a significant part of my professional life,

and I am thrilled to join the board of directors for my fourth term. Engagement with ASEE perfectly aligns with my three passions: engineering, teaching engineering and serving others.”

Founded in 1893, ASEE is a global society that spans all disciplines of engineering education and includes individual, institutional and corporate members.

“This is an exciting time for

ASEE as the engineering profession continues to engage in the national and global challenges facing humanity,” Crawford said. “In the uncertain financial and divisive political climates of our times, we can never lose sight that the world is ‘filling up. ’ By some estimates, our precious planet will reach its capacity of 10 billion people by 2050. Fulfilling the need for clean water, energy, food, waste disposal, medical care, etc., will require the combined talents and energies of

engineers in all disciplines. For most ASEE members, we will not be the ones who solve these ‘grand challenges.’ That will fall to those who are currently sitting in our classrooms.”

Crawford, who joined the School of Computing and Engineering at Quinnipiac University in 2014, has a doctorate in aerospace engineering from the University of Kansas, a Master of Science in aerospace engineering from the Georgia Institute of Technology and a bachelor of science in mechanical engineering (aerospace) from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point.

“I am incredibly proud of Grant for being elected as the president-elect to the American Society of Engineering Education,” said Taskin Kocak, dean of the School of Computing and Engineering at Quinnipiac.

“His dedication to advancing engineering education and his expertise in the field make him an outstanding choice for this position,” Kocak added.

“Based on his previous accomplishments, this honor is well deserved, and I have no doubt that he will continue to make significant contributions to the field and lead the society with great success.”

Senior Health

Understanding Lymphedema

The World Health Organization estimates that over 250 million people worldwide live with Lymphedema or chronic swelling.

It is a disease that can cause pain, limit mobility and cause us to be insecure about ourselves.

Friday, March 31, from 11 a.m. to noon, join a Certified Lymphedema Therapist from Hartford HealthCare Rehabilitation Network, to learn more about the causes and effects of swelling, ways to manage it.

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

Call-in support

Looking for a safe space?

Talk to a professional about questions and concerns you have regarding dementia, Fridays from 2 to 3 p.m. This call-in support group is facilitated by Kristine Johnson, dementia specialist, Hartford HealthCare Center for Healthy Aging.

Call 1-646-876-9923 (Meeting ID 92408181873#).

Dementia caregivers

Are you a caregiver and feeling overburdened? Are you responsible for making financial decisions, managing changes in behavior or even helping a loved one get dressed in the morning? Join this call-in support group Tuesdays from 10 to 11 a.m.

Facilitated by Michelle Wyman, dementia specialist. Call 1-646-876-9923 (Meeting ID 92408181873#).

Garden club plant sale returns, with changes

Contributed

The ever-popular Suburban Garden Club plant sale returns to the Cheshire Congregational Church Green Saturday, May 6 – with some changes.

The biggest change is that we will be offering a variety of beautiful plants not previously available at our annual sale. We will be selling a selection of quality annuals and perennials grown by environmentally-responsible local growers in sterile, soilless mixes.

Also, there will be a limited selection of tomatoes, herbs, lettuce and other

vegetables, and representatives from the Connecticut Master Gardener Association will be on hand to answer gardening questions.

This year our sale will include a May Market featuring a great selection of items perfect for Mother’s Day, teacher gifts and more. In addition to giftready houseplants in decorative containers, we will also be selling a variety of items hand-crafted by our members, including cards, lavender sachets and gardeners’ hand scrub. And our popular, garden-related tag sale returns.

So mark your calendar for Saturday, May 6. Please note that the sale is starting later this year, 9 a.m., and will run until 1 p.m.

We are very grateful to our customers who support our plant sale each year. Purchases fund a wide variety of civic activities, including scholarships to area students pursuing degrees in

horticulture or environmental studies, planting and maintaining gardens around town, and educational programs focused on increasing knowledge and interest in gardening and relevant environmental issues.

For more information, visit cheshiregardeners.org.

Support for special education programs Energy company honored

For the 2023-24 school year, the Greater New Haven Probus Club invites you to participate in our SSNE program, supporting the efforts of special education teachers in Hamden. North Haven, New Haven, Cheshire, East Haven, West Haven and Wallingford. The deadline for applications is Friday, May 5.

Since 1921, the Greater New Haven Probus Club has provided funds and

Race

Destefano noted that they had close to 230 runners for the race. “This race is more than I could have hoped for,” Destefano said. “We are

assistance to special needs groups and individuals in our area. Our organization is initiating a teacher grant program designed to support instruction and/or provide experiences for special needs students that school districts would otherwise be unable to finance. For example, curriculum materials, educational equipment, adaptive learning materials/equipment and enrichment experiences. The teacher grant program will offer 12 competitive grants of $500 and

planning on doing this every year. This is an exciting opportunity for our community.”

Proceeds benefited MidState Arc, an agency that helps individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

eight grants of $250. We invite community members to sponsor a grant or make a donation.

Also, the Greater New Haven Probus Club has expanded its efforts to help others by providing assistance for atrisk individuals and families, homeless shelters, veterans and incoming refugee support groups.

For more information about the group, contact Roy Lukacs at 475224-9774.

The opportunity to run on the runway provided something unique, and helping MidState Arc provided a chance to help the community come together for a great cause, Destefano explained.

MidState Arc began as a community of parents who advocated for children with intellectual disabilities. Today, the nonprofit operates with the same inspiration to provide a wide range of services.

Destefano said the planning for the event started about a year ago. “It's so unique to be on a runway, and there are no

races in Connecticut where you can do just that,” Destefano said.

State Rep. Jack Fazzino was among the runners and was exhausted after the race. He said he was just getting back into running.

“It was a long but fun race,” said Fazzino, who represents the 83rd House district covering parts of Meriden, Berlin and Cheshire. “I saw this posted in one of the community newsletters a few weeks back and started to get back into running. I was a big runner as a kid, but since then, I’ve taken up more swimming because I have horrible knees.”

Press Release

For the fourth consecutive year, Eversource Energy has been recognized by Barron’s on its list of America’s 100 Most Sustainable Companies, appearing as the top utility in the annual ranking for the second time in the last three years. Eversource’s rank also improved significantly – to 17th overall on this year’s list from 40th last year – reflecting the strides the company has made in executing its strategic commitment to sustainability throughout its operations.

“This recognition is a testament of Eversource’s deep commitment to, and the hard work of, our employees in building a more sustainable and equitable future for our customers, our communities and the world we all share,” said Eversource Chairman, President and CEO Joseph Nolan. "Sustainability and strong environmental, social and governance principles are embedded in all that we do – which will continue to serve as the foundation of our vision for providing safe, reliable service and meeting the future energy needs of our customers.”

The Barron’s list of Most Sustainable Companies is based on more than 230 environmental, social and corporate governance metrics (ESG). To create the ranking, the top 1,000 publicly traded companies by market value were evaluated by how they performed for five key constituencies – customers, communities, employees, the planet and shareholders – looking at ESG performance indicators such as workplace diversity, data security and greenhouse gas emissions. To qualify for the list, a company must be rated above the bottom quarter in each of the five stakeholder categories.

Bill allowing bear killing advances; hunt shelved

Associated Press

HARTFORD Connecticut

lawmakers voted Friday, March 17, to allow special state permits to kill bears that threaten or damage crops, livestock or bees. However, they shelved a more contentious proposal to allow a limited bear hunt supported by state environmental officials grappling with an increase in humanbear conflicts.

The proposed annual bear hunt, which would have been limited to a northwestern Connecticut county, was pulled following outcry from animal rights advocates who argued it was inhumane and wouldn’t reduce the number of incidences.

Data from the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, which supported the hunt, show the number of reported conflicts between humans and bears has more than doubled in recent

years, with less than 1,000 in 2015 to more than 2,000 in 2022. The number of towns where these interactions, such as the 67 home entries reported last year, have occurred has also increased.

There were two bear attacks last year, including an incident where a 250-pound black bear mauled a 10year-old boy playing in his grandparents’ backyard.

The bill, which cleared the General Assembly’s Environment Committee and awaits action in the Senate, also makes killing a bear justified if the animal is inflicting or about to inflict great bodily harm to a human or is injuring or killing a pet. The proposal further prohibits intentional and unintentional feeding of a potentially dangerous animal.

In this 2006 photo, a black bear chews on a garbage container in Wolcott. State lawmakers voted last Friday to allow special state permits to kill bears that threaten or damage crops, livestock or bees.

Steven Valenti, Republican-American file photo

Hank & Gloria Fornwald

Obituaries

SOUTHINGTON - Raymond “Hank” E. Fornwald and Gloria (Orr) Fornwald, both of Southington and formerly of Cheshire, were reunited on October 2, 2022, when Gloria passed away. Hank predeceased her on December 16, 2020. They were married for 72 years. Gloria and Hank are survived by their two children; daughter, Tracey Malootian (Timothy) and son, Richard “Mark” Fornwald, 3 grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. A Celebration of Life for Hank and Gloria will be held on Thursday, April 13, 2023 from 4 - 7 p.m. at The Farms Country Club, 180 Cheshire Rd., Wallingford, CT. In order to RSVP to this event, please follow this link. http://evite. me/RypDsytCCM. Plantsville Funeral Home has been entrusted with handling the arrangements. For online condolences, please visit www.plantsvillefuneralhome.com.

Marlene Bergamo

WATERBURY Mrs. Marlene (Dietsch) Bergamo,89, ofWaterbury, passed awaySaturday, March 25, 2023, surrounded byher family, atthe VITASUnit atSt. Mary’s Hospital.She wasthe wifeof Ronald Bergamo, her high school sweetheart.

Marlene was bornin Waterbury, March 31, 1933, daughter of thelate Harry Dietsch and Lucille (Northrop) (Dietsch)Miller. She was alifelong resident of Waterbury and a graduate of local schools. She was anavid fanof UCONN Women’s Basketballbut wasmost fanaticalabout her family.They werethe focus ofher life.She cherished her role as a devoted and lovingwife, mother, grandmother, and greatgrandmother.She willbe greatlymissed,andmemories of her treasured, by all who loved her.

Besidesher husbandof 68years, Marleneleaves herfoursons,RonaldBergamo, Jr., andhis wife Sharon of Cheshire, Paul Bergamoand hiswifeSusan ofWestford, MA, Michael Bergamoand his wifeCeleste ofWinsted, and Peter Bergamoand his wife Doris ofLitchfield; her two daughters, Kathleen Bergamo ofNiantic, and JudithPappalardo andher husbandCarl ofSouthington;her brotherAlfred Miller and his wife Janette ofWaterbury; hersister

Verna Dietsch of Waterbury; her former daughter-

Herbert J. Roberge

in-law, Nanette Bergamo of TN; 14grandchildren; and 13 great-grandchildren.

Inadditiontoherparents, Marlene was predeceased by her brother,Harry Dietsch, and her sister, Elaine Dietsch.

Funeralservices willbe held Tuesdaymorning 10 a.m., at theHickcox FuneralHome,195MainSt.,Watertown. Burialwill followin Evergreen Cemetery,North St., Watertown. Friends may call at the funeral home Tuesday morning 910 a.m.until the timeof the service.

Inlieu offlowers,memorialdonationsmaybemade to The Michael J. Fox Foundation forParkinson’s Research (www.michaeljfox.org), orthe Smilow Cancer Center(www.ynhh.org/smilow).

For additionalinformation orto leavean online message ofcondolence, please visitwww.hickcoxfuneralhome.com.

SCOTTSDALE, AZHerb J. Roberge passed away at home on 3/11/23, leaving his beloved family in Scottsdale, AZ. Herb was born in Waterbury, CT, on 2/13/39, the son of Herbert A. and Anne C. (Egan) Roberge. Herb and his wife Cheryl (Morgan) Roberge were married for 56 years. They have two children Scott Roberge (Joelita) and daughter Janet Vasiliauskas (Paul). He had two adoring grandchildren, Morgan and Erik Vasiliauskas. Also, part of the extended family with Evie Roberge and Vince Volini. Herb is also survived by his beloved brother James Roberge (Penny) and sister Joanne Perrine (John). He was predeceased by his sister Ellen Bates. He is also survived by several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Herb graduated from Cheshire High School, Cheshire, CT, attended UCONN for 3 years. He joined the Army in 1961 and was in the USASA, he spent most of his enlistment in England. He returned in February, 1964. He met Cheryl seven months later. He went on to graduate with his BS in Business from the University of New Haven.

Herb worked all of his life, starting his first job at 13 as a weekend dishwasher and paper boy. He worked for Sears Roebuck & Co for 30 years, most of the time

at their corporate office in the Sears Tower in Chicago, IL. He retired from Sears in 1993 and began his own manufacturer’s representative business in the juvenile products industry. He ran that business for 17 years and helped launch Bugaboo strollers in the Midwest. His son in law Paul beckoned him to come to Arizona to be near the grandchildren. Herb and Cheryl moved to the Valley of the Sun in 2010. Herb went to work at Vasco RX and loved every minute for 11 years. He left the pharmacy in 2021 due to health issues at the age of 82.

Herb’s passions were the Boston Red Sox, UCONN basketball, thoroughbred racing, his Hummel collection, and he was a lifelong Jazz enthusiast. He enjoyed life, he liked to make others laugh with his joke telling prowess. He has many lifelong friends scattered all over the country.

Donations in Herb’s name may be made to Hospice of the Valley (hov. org), the Salvation Army and St. Mary’s Food Bank (firstfoodbank.org)

A memorial service was held on Saturday, March 25 at 11am at Messinger’s Pinnacle Peak Mortuary in Scottsdale, AZ and was laid to rest on March 27th at the National Memorial Cemetery in Phoenix, AZ.

La Leche League of Hamden/North Haven will meet Wednesday, April 12, 9:30 a.m., at Grace & St. Peter’s Church, 2927 Dixwell Ave., Hamden. RSVP to Anne.M@LLLCT.org.

Led by accredited LLL leaders, our group meets the second Wednesday of

each month in the upstairs church living room. Attendees from throughout the greater New Haven area are welcome.

We also provide phone and online help and can give you information on additional meetings held in Connecticut.

HANK & GLORIA FORNWALD

Obituaries

Claudia J. Terese

CHESHIRE Claudia

J.Terese, 67,beloved wifeof the late David Terese,of Cheshire, passedaway on Thursday, March 16, 2023, atMidState MedicalCenter.BorninSouthington,on April20, 1955,she wasa daughterofthe lateFrederickand Claire(Smith)Hobson.Claudia workedfor Barker’s Museum in Cheshireand alsoworked atCheshire Lanes.Sheenjoyedknitting,bowling,collagingandthebeach.Claudia servedas acounselor forSACS (SexualAssault Crisis Services) Claudia is survived byher beloved sons, RosarioDiDato of Savannah,GA andJames DiDato of Blufton, SC; her siblings, MicheleHeany (Joseph) of South Meriden, Kenneth Hobson (Kathy) of Hoosick Falls,NY and Mark Hobson (Teri)of West Hartford; aswell asnumerousextended familymembers andcherished friendsincluding her niece and nephew, Jessica Heanyand JoshuaHeany. She waspredeceased by hergrandmother, AliceV. Smithof Cheshire.Clau-

dia’sfamily willreceiverelatives and friendsin The Yalesville FuneralHome, 386 Main St. in the Yalesville sectionof Wallingford, on Thursday, March 30th from 9:0010:30am. AMass ofChristian Burial willbe celebrated at 11:00amat Holy Angels Church, 585Main St., South Meriden. Entombment inSacred HeartMausoleumin Meridenwillfollow. In lieu of flowers, gifts in hermemory maybe sent to: Our Lady Queen of Angels Parish,22 Goodwill Ave., Meriden,CT 06451. www.yalesvillefh.com

Lt. Griffin Stover was named Firefighter of the Year at the Cheshire Chamber of Commerce community awards dinner, held this month at Aria Banquet Hall.

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Cheshire Land Trust

The Cheshire Land Trust is an all-volunteer, non-profit organization committed to conservation. The organization is wholly funded by members. For more information, email CheshireLandTrust@gmail.com.

Boxes to Boots

Berlin-based non-profit Boxes to Boots, 28 Chamberlain Highway, sends care packages to members of the U.S. military serving overseas. To learn more about the organization and its needs, visit boxestoboots.org.

Reading challenge

The Hartford Yard Goats Baseball Club, in partnership with Eversource, has announced the return of a student reading challenge for the 2023 season. Students (K through 8th grade) who read five books outside of the school curriculum will earn two tickets to a Yard Goats game at Dunkin’ Park in Hartford. Parents/guardians can register students on the Yard Goats website (yardgoatsbaseball.com) through May 6.

Director of controversial school construction grant program resigns

By Dave Altimari The Connecticut Mirror

The person hired to replace Konstantinos Diamantis to steer the state’s school construction grant program has resigned after barely four months on the job.

Douglas Rogers resigned from his job as director of the Office of School Construction Grants & Review on March 13 in an email to the state Department of Administrative Services human resources department. The email didn’t give a reason for his sudden departure.

“As of March 13, 2023, I resign my position as Director, School Construction Grants and Plan Review, DAS,” Rogers wrote.

In an interview this week, Rogers said he couldn’t adjust to the slow pace of state government work. “I’ve been doing school construction for years, and I felt I was the right person for the job, but I

just couldn’t get used to the state’s pace, ” Rogers said. “I’m conditioned to move quickly, because time is money in construction, and I just couldn’t execute things in a timely manner.”

Rogers cited the example of trying to fill at least two vacancies on the OSCGR team.

Rogers said he conducted several interviews and selected possible candidates

but they found other jobs before the state’s hiring process was finished. “If I had spent 10 years (in state employment) before taking this position, I would have been prepared for how slow things move,” Rogers said. “‘I just didn’t feel the work was being supported, so we mutually agreed I’d leave.”

Rogers began his job at OSCGR on Oct. 31 and was earning about $150,000 a year, according to state records. He was hired after an extensive search to replace Diamantis, who was removed as the director in October 2021 after state officials were informed that a federal grand jury was investigating several school constructions projects.

DAS spokesman John McKay said the agency “is currently evaluating the next steps to fill this role.”

“The Office of School Construction Grants and Review continues to function as intended, and the office is being overseen by DAS Deputy Commissioner Darren Hobbs,” McKay said.

While state officials had little to say about Rogers’ resignation, DAS Commissioner Michelle Gilman told legislators during her confirmation hearing in January that she was “really proud” to be

Douglas Rogers was hired to run the state Office of School Construction Grants and Review, but stepped down after roughly four months on the job.

Image courtesy of CT-N

working with him. She told lawmakers Rogers’ background made him a perfect person to lead the unit in the aftermath of Diamantis’ departure.

“He has a background of working at CREC [Capitol Region Education Council] and also with other school districts on school construction facilities management as well as a military background, which we have enjoyed because there is not a lot of diversion from procedures and process in the military,” Gilman said.

“He has been able to not only bring that vision to the school construction team but also a great deal of knowledge overseeing the OSCGR team in particular,” she added.

Diamantis, once the state’s second-highest budget official and a former state representative, was hired in 2015 to lead the school construction grants office. He took the grants oversight responsibility with him when he was appointed deputy secretary of the Office of Policy and Management in 2019.

OSCGR, which controls millions of dollars in state funding, has been in a state of flux since Oct. 28, 2021, the day Gov. Ned Lamont removed Diamantis from his appointed position as undersecretary of OPM and suspended him with pay from his position as the director of OSCGR.

Diamantis resigned hours later that same day.

The move to oust Diamantis came shortly after reports surfaced that his daughter had been hired by thenChief State’s Attorney Richard Colangelo’s office at the same time Colangelo was seeking Diamantis’ help in getting raises for state’s attorneys.

The full version of this story can be found on the website of The Connecticut Mirror, ctmirror.org.

AT THE HOME SHOW

Sponsored by the Cheshire Chamber of Commerce, there was something for everyone at the annual Home, Health and Garden Show, held March 25 at Cheshire High School. Along with a Repair Cafe and a variety of other services, the event included a Curious Creatures reptile show, and an appearance by the Cheshire High 999 MechaRams robotics team. Also, the Home, Health and Garden Show saw the return of the popular Pizza Wars, and the traditional Kiwanis breakfast. Pictured: Charlotte Alix, 5, with her mother, Heather, stop by the Cheshire Pollinator Pathwaytable,where MasterGardenerKandraHoustonwasholdingcourt.

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.

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.

Photo contributed by Joy VanderLek

CONSTRUCTION

LABORER WANTEDCall (860) 919-7127.

POLICE OFFICER

The Wallingford Police Department is seeking qualified applicants for Police Officer.

$1,301.20 weekly plus an excellent fringe benefit package to include a defined benefit pension plan. The written and oral exam processes will be administered by the South Central Criminal Justice Administration. To apply, candidates must register through the South Central Criminal Justice Administration webpage found under the “Associations” menu at www.policeapp.com by the registration deadline of Wednesday, April 5, 2023. The registration requires a fee of $ 85.00. EOE

RECORDS ASSOCIATE

Town of Cheshire invites qualified candidates to apply for FT (35 hours), civilian position in records division of the Cheshire Police Department. Starting rate: $21.97/ hr. Work hours are 7AM to 2:30PM, Monday through Friday.

Excellent benefit package. Job description & info on how to apply available at www. cheshirect.org A letter of interest, resume and Town application must be submitted by the close of business on Friday April 14, 2023 to Louis A. Zullo, HR Director, 84 South Main Street, Cheshire, CT 06410. Town of Cheshire is an EEOE, M/F/D/V.

OFFICE ASSISTANTPart- time. Apply in person to Century Tool, 260 Canal St., Milldale, CT 06467. 860-6216748.

MADAM ALEXANDER DOLLS - Merrythought

Teddy Bear Collection. Call Dennis, 203 6417333.

1,

CASH FOR YOUR ANTIQUES & JEWELRY

CNA/COMPANION For your loved one. Many years experience, good references. Call Joanie, (203) 600-3234.

- Call Todd Shamock at 203-494-1695.

GRASSY HILL AUCTIONS, - an Estate Sale, Liquidation, Attic & Basement Cleanout Company is Always Buying and providing services all over Connecticut. These are just a FEW of the things we are looking for: Antiques, Collectibles, Old/ Vintage Toys, Musical Instruments (Saxophones, Trumpets, Violins, Flutes, Clarinets, Trombone & SO MUCH MORE) Advertising

PREMIER ESTATE JEW-

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

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

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.

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.

Items, Wristwatches (Broken or Not), Pocket Watches, Tools (Machinist, Woodworking, & MORE) Doorstops, Clocks, Oil Paintings, Old Signs, Old Photographs, Old Postcards, Brewery Items, Hunting & Fishing, PEZ Dispensers, Costume Jewelry, Broken Jewelry, Gold & Silver Jewelry, Gold & Silver Coins, Military Items, Swords & Bayonets, Helmets & Patches, Medals & Uniforms, Pocket Knives, Lighters & Pipes, Fountain Pens, Mechanical Pencils, Fraternal Order Items, Religious Items, Industrial Items, Winchester Items, Sikorsky Items, Pratt & Whitney Items, Colt Items, Native American Items, Vintage Electronics, Slot Cars, Toy Trucks, Matchbox & Hotwheels, Barbie’s, Folk Art, Statues, Bronzes, Trains, Cameras, Mid Century Modern Furniture, Straight Razors, Shaving Items, Political Items, Comic Books, Sports Cards & Autographs…& THE LIST GOES ON! So please give us a call at your earliest convenience.

Grassy Hill Auctions 203-868-1816 - Grassy HillAuctions.com

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

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 for delivery

TREE LENGTH

FIREWOOD CALL FOR DETAILS

203-238-2149

2, 3

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

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

SPRING SPECIALS -

Whole House up to 5 rms. $269. 6’ sofa, $109. CarpetCare Solutions, 203.427.5165.

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

#1 CHEAP

Sm. Yard Mowing. Spring Clean-Up. Light Hauling. Sr. & Veteran disc. 203.600.3836.

Mike’s Helping Hands.

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

OVER 28 YEARS EXP Stonewalls, patios, sidewalks, chimneys, pool areas, fireplaces, fire pit steps, all types of masonry work. Free est. (860) 274-4893.

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

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

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

JUNK REMOVAL Hot Tub Removal, Furniture, appliances, entire contents of: homes, sheds, estates, attics, basements, garages & more. *SPRING YARD Clean-ups* FREE ESTIMATES. LIC & INS. DUMPSTER RENTALS 203-535-9817 860-575-8218

IF YOU Mention

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

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

FREE ESTIMATES

Sr. Citizen Discount LIC & INS.

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

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

#1 PAINTER’S EDGE Ext. & Int.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Learn More About Community College at an Open House

Students planning to enroll in community college this fall should consider attending an upcoming open house to learn more about higher education. Each of the 12 main campuses of Connecticut’s community colleges have time set aside in March and April for prospective students and their families to visit, tour the campus, talk with faculty and staff, and learn more about the academic programs, degrees and certificates available for study.

Connecticut’s 12 community colleges are merging to become Connecticut State Community College on July 1, 2023. Also called CT State, the college will offer students a seamless experience across all locations, in every corner of the state, with coordinated student services and shared curriculum for over 200 degrees and certificates.

Open house attendees can learn more about CT State and the specific offerings of a particular campus. Information about online courses, co-curricular activities (including clubs and organizations) and non-credit career training and workforce development programs will also be available.

One primary advantage of an open house is the opportunity to learn more about the admissions and enrollment process. Enrollment Services staff will be on hand to

answer questions about applying, registering, advising, financial aid and paying for college. Information will also be available about Connecticut’s free community college program, PACT. Transfer advisors can speak with students who may be considering community college as the first step to a bachelor’s degree.

Prospective students are encouraged to visit CTState.edu before attending an open house. Here, they can learn more information about the merger, individual campuses, academic programs, and the college catalog. Students should peruse the catalog to identify programs of interest ahead of time.

A full list of open house locations, dates and times can be found by visiting CTState.edu/open-house.

For those unable to attend an open house, many of the campuses offer individual and group tours; details can be found on their websites. Many academic programs – including those for health careers – hold informational sessions as well, which are excellent deep dives into the prerequisites and expectations of these career paths. And for anyone intending to start college in the fall, it is never too early to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) at www.studentaid.gov.

Los estudiantes que planifican matricularse en la universidad comunitaria este otoño deben asistir al próximo open house (evento abierto al público), para aprender más acerca de la educación superior. Cada uno de los 12 campus de las universidades comunitarias de Connecticut han reservado tiempo en marzo y abril para que los futuros estudiantes y sus familiares visiten, hagan un recorrido de los campus, hablen con los profesores y el personal, y aprendan más acerca de los programas académicos, los títulos y los certificados disponibles para el estudio.

Las 12 universidades comunitarias de Connecticut se unirán y serán Connecticut State Community College el 1 de julio de 2023. También conocida como CT State, la universidad le ofrecerá a los estudiantes la oportunidad de obtener una experiencia impecable a través de todas las localidades, en cada esquina del estado, con servicios coordinados para estudiantes y un plan de estudio compartido, el cual ofrecerá más de 200 títulos y certificados.

Los que asistan al open house, podrán aprender más acerca de CT State y las ofertas académicas específicas en cada campus. También habrá información disponible acerca de los cursos en línea, las actividades co-curriculares (incluyendo los clubes y las organizaciones), las capacitaciones de carreras que no otorgan créditos, y los programas de desarrollo para la fuerza laboral.

Una de las ventajas mayores del Open House es la oportunidad de aprender más acerca del proceso de aceptación y matrícula. El personal de servicios de matrícula estará disponible

para contestar preguntas acerca de las aplicaciones, la registración, la consejería, la asistencia financiera y cómo pagar el costo de la universidad. También habrá información acerca del programa de universidad comunitaria gratuita de Connecticut, PACT. Los consejeros que se especializan en traslados pueden hablar con los estudiantes que están considerando la universidad comunitaria como el primer paso hacia una licenciatura. Aconsejamos que los futuros estudiantes visiten la página de CTState.edu antes de asistir al open house. Aquí, podrán obtener más información acerca de la unión de las universidades comunitarias, los campus individuales, los programas académicos, y el catálogo universitario. Los estudiantes deben examinar el catálogo para identificar los programas que le interesan con anticipación. Puede conseguir una lista completa de localidades, fechas y horarios para el open house al visitar al CTState. edu/open-house.

Muchos campus ofrecen recorridos individuales y en grupo, para aquellos que no pueden asistir a un open house; los detalles están disponibles en su sitio web. Muchos programas académicos - incluyendo aquellos de carreras en el sector de la salud - también ofrecen sesiones informativas, que son sesiones que profundizan en los requisitos y las expectativas de estas carreras profesionales. Y, para cualquier persona que planifica comenzar la universidad este otoño, nunca es demasiado temprano para completar la Solicitud Gratuita de Ayuda Federal para Estudiantes (FAFSA) en el www.studentaid.gov.

Aprenda Más Acerca de la Universidad Comunitaria en un Evento Abierto al Público