The Cheshire Citizen

CLEAN SWEEP

Art Heals program returns to Artsplace

By Christian Metzger Record-Journal staff

CHESHIRE The Art Heals program returned to the Cheshire Performing & Fine Arts Committee Artsplace, following a hiatus during the pandemic. The free classes are offered to Cheshire residents who are homebound due to medical, physical or emotional difficulties, where one of the trained art teachers from Artsplace comes directly to their homes for up to six, 1.5hour sessions in several mediums of their choice –acrylic paint, collage, watercolor, multimedia, and others.

Milling, Resurfacing Project

The following was posted to the municipal website, cheshirect.org, on April 26:

The CT DOT is announcing that a milling and resurfacing project will be performed on Route 10 in Cheshire and Southington from Stoney Hill Road to beginning of the overpass to Route 322. This project [was] scheduled to begin milling by Rafferty on Sunday, April 30 to Monday, May 8. The resurfacing segment of this project is anticipated to begin on Monday, May 15 to Sunday, May 28, by Tilcon Inc.

Motorists can expect lane closures on Route 10 in Cheshire and Southington from Stoney Gill Road to beginning of the overpass to Route 322. Traffic control personnel and signing patterns will be utilized to guide motorists through the work zone. The night work schedule for this project is 7 p.m. to 5 a.m. (Sunday through Thursday). Motorists are advised to maintain a safe speed when driving in this vicinity.

No prior skill in art is necessary. Lessons are scheduled at the client’s convenience, and at the end of the program the finished artwork is framed free of charge.

The program is also confidential, ensuring that the only point of contact following the scheduling of the sessions is between the artist and the client. Because of the in-house nature of the program, it be-

came necessary during the pandemic to put Art Heals on hiatus, but organizers resumed classes in late March and are enthusiastic about being able to once again provide a service they feel is essential and enriching for homebound individuals.

“I think it’s tremendously rewarding and satisfying to see people who are having a tough time use a different part of their brain that in some way helps you heal emotionally it’s a big deal mentally when you have a bad diagnosis,” said Joan Pilarczyk, director of the Artsplace. “Every case is unique. The nicest thing is that often great friendships develop out of the relationship with the teacher and the client because they’re bringing joy each time they walk in that house.”

The idea for the program came to Pilarczyk after watching a home improvement show and seeing how the interior designers helped a client remodel a room around a piece of artwork a family member had made.

See Art, A13

Luxury Retirement Living

Powered by junior Molly Lanz, pictured, the Cheshire High School girls track and field team swept Sheehan and West Haven in a SCC double-dual meet on April 26. The CHS boys also got the best of Sheehan and West Haven that day. See more inside. Bill Shettle, Special to the Record-Journal

What to know about tick, Lyme season following a mild winter

By Patrick Whittle Associated Press

PORTLAND, Maine After a mild winter in the U.S., will there be an uptick in ticks this year? Researchers say it is hard to predict how the tick season will play out. This year’s mild winter and early snow melt, though, could mean more ticks earlier than usual and a wider spread of Lyme disease and other tick-borne diseases, scientists said.

In Connecticut, ticks are showing up in greater numbers this year, according to Goudarz Molaei, a tick expert for the state. So far, more than 700 ticks have been sent in for a testing program that normally would have gotten 200 to 300 by now. The state typically sees a lot of Lyme disease, which got its name from a Connecticut town. “It’s going to be an above average year for tick activity and abundance,” Molaei said.

What diseases do ticks spread?

Infected ticks spread bacteria, viruses and parasites that make people sick. Lyme disease is the most common tick-borne infection in the U.S., mostly in the Northeast and Midwest. An estimated 476,000 Americans are diagnosed with Lyme disease each year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Black-legged ticks, also called deer ticks, can carry more than Lyme-causing bacteria. They can also spread babesiosis, anaplasmosis and Powassan virus disease. The lone star tick, mainly located in southern, eastern and midwestern states, can carry ehrlichiosis and Heartland virus disease.

American dog ticks can spread Rocky Mountain spotted fever. Ticks pick up disease-causing germs by biting infected wildlife, usually rodents.

When is tick season?

It varies by region, but tick season generally stretches from April to October. Ticks are mostly dormant during the cold winter months, and emerge as temperatures rise, but can be active on warm winter days, too.

Memorial Day is often considered the start of the season but that’s largely because that’s when people in cold-weather states start spending more time outdoors, said Sam Telford of Tufts University’s school of veterinary medicine in North Grafton, Massachusetts.

Lyme disease cases typically peak in June, July and August. April and May are typically lighter months, but not always.

Tiny ticks at the nymph stage about the size of poppy seed could be active early this year, said Dr. Bobbi Pritt, who studies tickborne diseases at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota. “When we have mild winters, we do anticipate that the ticks are going to be out earlier, and biting humans, ” Pritt said.

What makes for a bad season?

Government disease trackers say predicting how tickborne diseases will trend is complicated. The number of ticks can vary from region to region, and diagnoses can be affected by how well different doctors test and report cases. The changing climate has both positive and negative implications for ticks, as warm, wet weather is beneficial to them, but especially hot weather is not, Telford said.

In this undated file photo provided by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), a blacklegged tick –also known as a deer tick – rests on a plant.

CDC via Associated Press

Senior Center Programs Preserving Marine Corps traditions

The Cheshire Senior Center, 240 Maple Ave., can be reached at 203-272-8286. Senior Center staff is available Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Elderly nutrition program. Grab and Go lunches are available to be picked up Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays at 11 a.m. Reservations must be made by noon on Friday the week prior by calling 203-2720047. There is a suggested donation of $3 per meal.

Social Services. Social Services provides information and runs support groups for caregivers as well as providing social support, investigative and referral services to our seniors. Social Services also assists with Medicare counseling (CHOICES), energy assistance, Renters Rebate, long term planning, application completion and navigation of communitybased services. The Social Worker also works with Crisis Intervention and the police department. For more information, call 203-2728286.

Transportation. The Senior Transportation Services offers Elderly and Disabled

Transportation for medical appointments, grocery/ pharmacy shopping, personal appointments and Senior Center programs. Transportation for out-of-town doctor appointments is available on a limited basis.

Senior transportation is available to residents over the age of 55 or those over 21 years of age who are temporarily or permanently disabled. All four buses are liftequipped to handle wheelchairs and individuals who have trouble with steps. Riders make a suggested donation of $1 for in-town service and $3 for out-of-town service per each van entrance. Arrangements for rides can be made by calling 203-272-0047 at least 24 hours in advance.

Also, free transportation is available to seniors and disabled adults every Friday, 9 a.m. to 3:15 p.m., through the Greater Waterbury Transit District Dial-A-Ride. Passengers may go anywhere in Cheshire, Wolcott, Waterbury, Watertown, Naugatuck, Middlebury, Prospect and Thomaston. To apply for this service, call 203-272-0047.

Press Release

The Marine Corps League, Hardware City Detachment, New Britain CT is actively looking for new members.

You do not have to live in New Britain to be a member.

We have members from Bristol, Southington, Berlin, New Britain, Hartford, Manchester, Middletown, Milford, New Haven, Plainville, Portland, Rocky Hill, Tolland and West Hartford.

Our mission is to promote the interest in, and to preserve the traditions of, the United States Marine Corps.

The Hardware City Detachment regularly supports local veterans and their families in need and we actively participate in many local celebrations and remembrances.

Also, we have a very active “Funeral Honors Unit.”

The Hardware City Detachment meets the first Wednesday of the month,

6:30 p.m., at the Berlin VFW, 152 Massirio Dr. Please stop in and make some new friends and see what the Marine Corps League is all about.

If you would like to be a part of a dedicated group helping to honor our military personnel and veterans, contact Sal V. Sena Sr. (860-614-6188, 4mermarine69@gmail.com) or Al Urso (860-747-0677, alurso@cox.net).

Semper Fi.

Hochadel backs pay for essential workers

Press Release

State Sen. Jan Hochadel (D-Meriden) joined a bipartisan vote in the state Senate on April 12 to approve an arbitrated award granting 35,500 state employees an average of $25 a week for the year they spent working closely with others at a time when there was no COVID-19 vaccine and the COVID-19 infection process was largely a mystery.

Senate Resolution 26 passed on a bipartisan voted of 32-3.

“These essential workers risked their lives and the lives of their families in order to save others,” said Hochadel, who represents the communities of Cheshire, Meriden, Middlefield and Middletown.

“If we can do something to say thank you for their service, we should. They continued to persevere through a period of time without knowing what the outcome would be and they deserve this recognition.”

The pandemic payments were ordered by a neutral

third-party arbitrator who noted that in March 2020, when Governor Lamont declared an emergency and urged people in Connecticut to “stay safe and stay home,” that did not apply to nearly 36,000 essential state employees who continued to report to their workplaces from March 20, 2020, through March 27, 2021.

These employees enforced law and order, cared for the sick, the disabled, responded to emergencies and maintained the equipment and infrastructure

that allowed state services to continue during a year in which there were 7,832 COVID deaths and 29,916 COVID hospitalizations.

The average award per-person is $1,333 for the year –about 62 cents an hourthough payments vary widely by position.

Other New England states providing similar pandemic pay stipends to their state employees include New Hampshire ($2,400 to $6,300 per-person), Massachusetts ($1,500 to $2,000 lump-sum payments per-person), Maine (hourly pay increases which exceed the Connecticut arbitration award) and Vermont (premium pay for corrections officers only).

In an April 22 social media post, the Cheshire Fire Department stated that at approximately 5 a.m. that morning, the CFD responded to Waterbury Road near Marion Road for a motor vehicle accident involving two cars. The department said “Extrication of one occupant was required,” adding that lithium-ion battery-powered tools were utilized “to remove the door of the vehicle and free the driver.” Cheshire Fire Department, Facebook

Letters

Headliner Bill Winn Hosted By Rick Robert Featuring Tony Liberati

Cheshire squirrels away home victory

Record-Journal staff

CHESHIRE Their home opener was a long time in coming, but the Cheshire track and field teams savored the delayed gratification.

Hosting Sheehan and West Haven in a SCC double-dual Wednesday, April 26 the Rams swept both meets. The boys raced past Sheehan, 85-65, and West Haven, 8961. For the girls, it was 83-67 over Sheehan and 96-53 over West Haven.

The Lady Titans salvaged their day beating the Westies 93½-55½. No such luck for the Sheehan boys. They were edged 74-69 by the Blue Devils.

Individually, the meet belonged to Molly “Squirrel” Lanz. The Cheshire junior won four events, sweeping the sprints and hurdles. Roll it: 13.2 seconds in the 100, 26.7 in the 200, 15.9 in the 100 hurdles and a personalbest 46.6 in the 300 hurdles.

Distance runner Alexis Ciccone was also a double-winner for Cheshire. The junior All-Stater clocked personal bests in the 1,600 at 5:05.7, then won the 3,200 in 11:36.2.

Also for the Lady Rams, Leah Farrell (400, 1:01.5) and Mia Vientos (800, 2:26.7) won individual events and combined with Julia Rubin on a pair of firstplace relays.

The trio teamed with Samantha Mudry on the 4x400 (4:15.3) and with Emily Iona D’soza on the 4x800 (10:52.6).

The Cheshire boys likewise used their prowess on the track to accomplish a sweep. They were paced by senior hurdler Luca Borz-Baba, a double-winner in the 110 highs (18.9) and 300 intermediates (47.4).

Also for CHS, James Ferraro won the 400 in 54 seconds and Daniel D’Souza broke the tape in 10:31.5 in the 3,200 after teaming with James Boyd and Michael DeJoseph to capture the 4x800 (8:38.5).

The host Rams sealed their sweep of Sheehan and West Haven behind discus throwers Alexander Kailan (110-1) and Kaithlyn Cannon (84-8) and shot-putter Nicole Emede (29-0).

Group treated to cool program

Press Release

Bill Covitz, ice sculptor and owner of Ice Matters in Cheshire, presented a program on March 21 to 37 Y’s Men of Meriden members about his remarkable career.

With an assist by his wife Jen, Covitz described his experiences working magic with ice as a medium, illustrated by photos and videos.

A 1991 graduate of the Culinary Institute of America, Covitz spent several years working in fine dining restaurants throughout the United States, specializing in French cuisine. Also, he carried his skill as a private chef to France and Belgium.

In 1999, after a brief experience in the world of real estate, Covitz wound up assisting an ice carver in the Boston area. Soon after, he founded Ice Matters, launching a new career.

Covitz has earned numerous accolades in ice carving, including winning the 2004 National Ice Carving Association competition. In 2006, he placed second in the World Ice Art Championship.

At Ice Matters in Cheshire, Covitz has five carving studios, each maintained at 18 degrees, and 25 to 30 ice blocks are made there each week from well water.

Covitz noted that ice makes the bricks, and water provides the glue.

A Classified ad is an easy way to sell your merchandise, and it’s easy on your wallet, too.

A single-block ice eagle created by Bill Covitz.

Shred-It Day

Egidio Lennon Wealth Management, 20 Realty Dr., Cheshire, will host its Annual Free Shred-It Day Saturday, May 13, 9 a.m. to noon. Residents are invited to bring up to three boxes or bags of documents.

All papers are shredded on site by Shred-It. Donations for the Cheshire Community Food Pantry and Animal Haven in North Haven, a nokill shelter, will be accepted and appreciated.

For more information, con-

tact Joanne Daley at 203533-4968 or joanne@egidiolennon.com.

Memorial Day

The 55th Annual Cheshire Memorial Day Parade will be held Sunday, May 28 at 1:30 p.m.

The parade theme recognizes the 70th anniversary of the end of the Korean War. The parade committee asks Korean War veterans to contact Leslie Marinaro at lesliem@snet.net or 203-6317762.

HELP KEEP

Plant sale

The Suburban Garden Club’s annual plant sale returns to the Cheshire Congregational Church Green Saturday, May 6, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. For more information, visit cheshiregardeners.org.

Street sweeping

The Cheshire Public Works Department planned to begin sweeping town roads on April 3. A map of the areas 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 sweep-

Coming to your home or business

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

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

ing operations. Sweepers cannot pick up brush, branches or yard waste. Operations are expected to be completed by mid-June, weather permitting.

Municipal office hours

Most Town of Cheshire offices are open 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday, with the following exceptions: the Registrars of Voters office is open 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday; the Human Services office is open 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday and by appointment; the Collector of Revenue office is open for extended hours on tax deadline days.

Counseling

Youth and Family Counseling is provided at no cost to Cheshire school aged children and their families. Individual, family and group therapy sessions are available. Clients are seen either in the Town Hall or at school.

Daytime or evening sessions can be arranged. For more information or to make a referral or an appointment, contact the Youth and Social Services Department at 203271-6690.

Fingerprinting

Cheshire residents and individuals employed by, or seeking employment with, a business in town may come to the Cheshire Police Department and have their fingerprints taken.

Fingerprinting services are available Mondays and Saturdays, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. There is a $5 fee. Photo identification is required. Applicants are required to pre-enroll with the Connecticut Criminal History Request System (ct.flexcchrspreenroll).

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

Car seat inspection

To schedule an appointment, contact Cheshire police officer Kristian Johnson at 203-271-5544. Arrange to bring your child and all safety seat instructions to the inspection. For more information on child safety and safety seats, visit Safekids.org.

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 203-272-2787, 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 program. 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.

La Leche League

La Leche League of Hamden/North Haven meets the second Wednesday of each month at Grace & St. Peter’s

Church, 2927 Dixwell Ave., Hamden. Attendees from throughout the greater New Haven area are welcome. RSVP to Anne.M@ LLLCT.org.

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.

Mentoring

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. Learn more about Big Brothers Big Sisters by visiting ctbigs.org.

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.

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.

JEEP WAVE FOR WISHES

David Berson

CHESHIRE David Berson, 83,of Cheshire,beloved husband of 61years toVirginia Berson, passed away peacefullyathomeonApril 27, 2023.David was bornon September 14, 1939 in Scranton, PA, to the lateSamuel andSusan Berson.

David worked for Swan Engraving inBridgeport until hisretirement in2004. Afterwards, he worked for the CheshireSenior Center for severalyears. David was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather and familyman.Hewasa“people person” who nevermet someone whodidn’t become afriend. Heand Virginia greatlyenjoyed

Edward Dimmick

PALATKA, FL Dr. EdwardDimmick wasbornto Dr.Charles Wm.Dimmick andCharleen FristoeDimmick onMonday, December 18, 1967, in Nacogdoches, Texas.He grewup inCheshire, Connecticut, wherehe completedhis formal education.Edward graduated from Cheshire High School andthe Universityof Connecticut.He obtainedadegreeinVeterinaryScience fromtheVeterinary Schoolof TuftsUniversity. Edward wasof the Episcopalian faith and was an activemember ofthe Grange,the Patronsof Husbandry formore than

Ticks

From A2

Tiny ticks could indeed be active early, but a dry, hot summer could also kill ticks, he said.

The best approach is to assume ticks will be very active. “Every year should be considered a bad tick year,” he said.

Obituaries

NEW TEAM MEMBER

camping,boating,traveling and riverboatcruises. They madeacouple tripstoItaly overtheyearsandtheirlast destination was to Israel. Davidlovedtosingandbelonged to the Cheshire Community Chorus.Frank Sinatra wasa favorite,and evenwhile sickhe didhis besttosingalong.

40 years. Dr.Dimmick rendered a great deal of service to localclinics in Connecticutand Florida.Traveling pet wellness clinics and agriculturalfairs also benefited from his expertise. His passion for pet wellness and preventative care wasdisplayed atthe RiverCityVeterinaryHospitalin Palatka,Floridaand heopened hisownpractice,the MagnoliaClinic,in the Villagesearly thisyear. In Putnam County, his charity workalso included volunteer effortsat thelocal food bankand the blood bank.Dr. Dimmick wasan avidreaderand particularly enjoyedsci-fi andfantasybooks.

Tick protection tips

Thankfully, there are numerous ways to prevent tick bites. The CDC recommends treating clothing with products containing 0.5% permethrin. It’s also important to be especially cautious in areas where ticks live, such as grassy and wooded areas. Using repellents and doing thorough checks afterward is also key, the CDC says.

In addition tohis wife, Virginia, he issurvived by his sons,David M.Berson and Jeffrey W. Berson; grandsons, Alexander D. Berson and Logan D. Berson;sistersin-law,Anne (Donald)GabrielandNancy (Peter) Sorrentino;and manyniecesandnephews. Hewaspredeceasedbyhis brother,MichaelMalley. Services havealready takenplace.Memorialcontributions may be made to Circle ofCare forFamilies of Children with Cancer, Inc.,144 DanburyRd., Wilton, CT 06897 or online at www.thecircleofcare.org.TheAldersonFord Funeral Homeof Cheshire, is assisting with arrangements.Toleaveonlinecondolences pleasevisit www.fordfh.com.

Edward waspreceded in eternalrestbyhismotherin October 2010. He died on Tuesday,March28,2023at hisresidence.

He is survivedby his father, Dr. Charles William Dimmick; brother, Wesle Dymoke;uncles, PaulDimmick,Gary Dimmickand GeorgeKurz; cousins,PeterDimmick, MaggieDimmickandKatUmeh.

There will be a memorial service forEdward atSt. Peter’s EpiscopalChurch, Cheshire, Connecticut, on Saturday,May 13,at12 noon, followed by a reception andinterment ofashes.

The Cheshire Police Department’s newest officer, Christopher Rinaldi, was sworn in on April 21. In a social media post, the CPD stated: “Christopher will be spending a few weeks working within the department until he begins the New Britain Police Academy in midMay. Say hello and give him a warm welcome if you see him around. Congratulations!”

Cheshire Police Department, Facebook

In Brief

Library update

A major renovation to the Cheshire Public Library parking lot is taking place this month.

The new arrangement will add more parking spaces, improve lighting and swap the current entrance and exit to allow for safer traffic circulation.

to the Town Garage) for disposal of residential grass clippings and leaves. There is no charge. Disposal by commercial operations is not permitted. The container is accessible Mondays from 7:30 to 8:30 a.m.

Tree trimming

Limiting exposed skin also helps avoid bites.

The disease can cause a fever, chills, fatigue and muscle and joint pain. It is treated with antibiotics, and most people recover. Left untreated, it can worsen, causing symptoms such as heart problems and debilitating pain. There is no Lyme vaccine on the market in the U.S. for people but one is being tested.

The parking lot will be inaccessible during the renovation. Also, library hours may be altered. Before visiting, check cheshirelibrary.org or call 203-2722245.

Yard clean-up

The Town of Cheshire provides a container at 1304 Waterbury Road (adjacent

Eversource has contracted with Lewis Tree Service, Inc. for the annual tree trimming to ensure the safety of overhead wires. Lewis Tree Service will be contacting homeowners in Cheshire, and will be trimming and removing debris over the next several months. Approximately 20 miles of corridor will be inspected and trimmed as necessary.

TYLER CESSARIO

PLATT GOLF

After establishing himself as a freshman, Tyler Cessario continues to be Platt’s leading golfer as a junior. Cessario shot medal rounds on consecutive days last week: an even-par 35 on the front nine at Hawks Landing against Plainville, then a 44 on the front nine at Hunter Golf Course against Bristol Eastern. Cessario lowered his Hunter score to 42 Thursday versus Bristol Central.

JACK PESTA

LYMAN HALL BASEBALL

Lyman Hall baseball completed a season sweep over Sheehan last week at Pat Wall Field. A common thread in each game? Jack Pesta was the winning pitcher. The senior right-hander went the distance in last week’s 5-1 victory, scattering seven hits and three walks while striking out seven. He was also 3-for-3 at the plate. With the win, Pesta raised his pitching record to 4-0.

RAFAEL RODRIGUEZ

MALONEY BASEBALL

Raf Rodriguez was the Alpha and Omega of Maloney’s 12-2 baseball victory over Platt on Friday at Ceppa Field. The junior catcher, a returning starter from last year’s Class L runner-up squad, opened the show with a tworun home run in the first inning and closed it with a three-run bomb in the fifth that gave the Spartans a walk-off via the mercy rule. Rodriguez finished 3-for-3.

REILLY HUNTER SHEEHAN SOFTBALL

Bat her leadoff, bat her third; play her in center field, play her at second base. With Reilly Hunter, you’ve got options. The junior captain has been a versatile team leader for Titans coach Sarah Wyant. In last week’s rivalry game with Lyman Hall, Hunter went 3-for-3 at the top of the lineup with a triple, two RBI and two runs scored. She doubled twice Friday against Guilford.

AVA HARRIS CHESHIRE LACROSSE

Cheshire girls lax entered the week with big games on the slate against SCC rival Hand and unbeaten non-league opponent East Lyme. Leading the Rams is senior captain Ava Harris. With four goals and three assists against both Sheehan and Glastonbury last week, Harris raised her season totals to 30 goals and 12 assists. She’ll be playing next year at Bucknell University.

TAYLOR FORESI

SOUTHINGTON LACROSSE

We hit the halfway point of the season with only one area lacrosse team undefeated, and that’s the Southington Lady Knights, who entered the week at 10-0. Coach Dave Sargent’s club is blessed with depth, led by the likes of Taylor Foresi. The LIU-bound senior scored four goals in Wednesday’s crucial 13-5 win over Glastonbury. That raised her total on the season to 27.

Winners will be posted here as well as your next group of nominees.

THIS WEEK’S AOTW WINNERS AS VOTED BY YOU!

GO ONLINE AND VOTE. CHECK BACK NEXT WEEK TO SEE WHO YOU VOTED THE ATHLETES OF THE WEEK!

“Someone had been left a painting from their parent or grandparent, and though it wasn’t what you would call a sophisticated piece of art, it was the most important possession that person had because their family member had touched it. And the decorator did the colors in the room to make that painting the superstar, and then it suddenly looked amazing,” Pilarczyk recalled.

Seeing how much that piece meant to the family made Pilarczyk think of her own life, and what it could mean to others to have similarly valuable works art from beloved family members. “I thought about having lost my parents when I was fairly young, (and) what I would give to have a piece of artwork that my parents had painted for my grandparents, and how that, too, would become the most important part of my life,” she continued. “So we started this program and it has been monumental in people’s lives.”

Artsplace is a nonprofit organization that is aimed toward providing classes and artistic outlets for the entire Cheshire community. It’s operated by the Town of Cheshire.

For town officials, the arts are a field worth investing in and many are enthused to see the return of Art Heals to Artsplace’s lineup of programming. It’s through the town that it can remain free to participants, providing compensation for the artists who offer their time.

“I think it’s a wonderful program, it’s an ageless program. So it’s not just adults, it could be children. If someone is home for any reason, whether it be cancer or depression or they’re on bed rest for maternity,” said Donna Lodynsky, chair of the Performing and Fine Arts

Committee. “I think it just helps keep them involved with the community, so that they’re not alone in their home.”

“From my experience, whenever I see someone who is not an artist either take a program at Artsplace or go into some form of art, it’s been very therapeutic for them. It has been very rewarding, just something that they’re able to accomplish in a short amount of time with

the Art Heal support,” said Donna Mark, president of Friends of CPFA Artplace.

“So I think if you’re homebound and you’re not being able to go out and be independent, to have someone come in and work with you on a one-on-one basis, I think it’s just very important.”

To enroll in the Art Heals program, contact Pilarczyk at 203-272-2787, or at jpilarczyk@cheshirect.org.

The Art Heals program at Artsplace in Cheshire connects instructors with local residents who are homebound. This painting was produced in 2010 by a member of Artsplace, who wishedtoremainanonymous. Photo courtesy of Artsplace

ASSISTANT ANIMAL CONTROL OFFICER

Town of Cheshire invites qualified candidates to apply for 30hr/wk position.

Workdays Wednesday through Sunday, Mondays and Tuesdays off. Hourly rate as of 7-1-23: $20.61. For additional information, please see the Town web site at www. cheshirect.org . All applications due NLT 5-15-23.The Town of Cheshire is an EEOE, M/F/D/V.

FIREFIGHTER/ EMT

The Town of Wallingford is currently accepting applications for the position of Firefighter/EMT

Applicants must possess: a valid CPAT Card (issued within 12 months of the closing date), H.S. diploma/ GED, valid driver’s license and hold a valid EMT-A license that meets CT State Regulations. Copies of EMT-A licenses and CPAT certification must be submitted with application materials. The Town of Wallingford offers a competitive wage of $1,150.71 - $1,483.53 weekly. In addition, there is a $1,900 annual EMT bonus plus an excellent fringe benefit package. Application deadline is May 26, 2023 or the date the 40th application is received, whichever occurs first. Apply: Human Resources Department, Town of Wallingford, 45 South Main St., Wallingford, CT 06492. Forms will be mailed upon request from the Department of Human Resources or may be downloaded from the Department of Human Resources Web Page. Phone: (203) 294-2080; Fax: (203) 294-2084. EOE.

WATER TREATMENT

WATER TREATMENT PUMPING

OPERATOR I

The Town of Wallingford is seeking qualified applicants to operate and maintain the Town’s water treatment plant, pumping stations, storage tanks, and groundwater well facilities. Requires a High School Diploma or G.E.D with one (1) year of experience in the operation and maintenance of equipment in water supply and treatment; or a technical high school diploma with demonstrated career and technical education related to electronics technology, electrical, plumbing, H.V.A.C or water supply and treatment activities and operations, or completion of a program in water management. Applicants must have or be able to obtain within 12 months, State of Connecticut Department of Public Health Class 1 or higher Water Treatment Plant Operator certification and completion of a program in water management. A valid State of CT motor vehicle operator’s license is required. Wages: $27.49 to $33.40 hourly, plus an excellent fringe benefits package that includes pension plan, medical insurance, life insurance, paid sick and vacation time. Applications may be downloaded from the Department of Human Resources Web Page and can be mailed to the Department of Human Resources, Town of Wallingford, 45 South Main Street, Wallingford, CT 06492, or emailed to: wlfdhr@wallingfordct. gov by the closing date of May 16, 2023. Phone: (203) 294-2080; Fax: (203) 294-2084. EOE

MAINTAINER II COLLECTIONS SYSTEM

The Town of Wallingford Sewer Division is seeking qualified applicants to perform a variety of skilled tasks in the operation, maintenance, repair and construction of sanitary sewers, including CCTV inspection and high velocity flushing. Requires a H.S., trade school or vocational school diploma or H.S. equivalency diploma, plus 3 years employment in a field related to sanitary sewer construction, operation or maintenance, or 1 year of training in a skilled trade substituted for 1 year of experience up to 2 years plus a minimum of 1 year of employment for a sewer utility or in the construction field with work experience in the installation and maintenance of pipelines, or an equivalent combination of experience and training. Must possess or have the ability to obtain within 6 months of appointment a valid State of Connecticut Class B CDL. Wages: $26.16 to $31.18 hourly, plus an excellent fringe benefits package that includes pension plan, medical insurance, life insurance, paid sick and vacation time. Applications may be downloaded from the Department of Human Resources Web Page and can be mailed to the Department of Human Resources, Town of Wallingford, 45 South Main Street, Wallingford, CT 06492, or emailed to: wlfdhr@wallingfordct. gov by the closing date of May 23, 2023. Phone: (203) 294-2080;

294-2084.

LOCAL DAIRY DISTRIBUTOR - In Wallingford, CT, looking for parttime warehouse/driver, Monday - Friday. It may turn into fulltime. Starting salary is $16.00. Please apply in person at 49 North Plains Industrial Road, Wallingford, CT 06492.

OFFICE POSITION -

We are looking for a self-motivated, friendly and responsible person who has strong customer service skills and computer knowledge to work in our Self Storage office. Secure facility with longterm tenant base.

Part Time: Friday, 9-5 p.m., Saturday 9-2 p.m. (can be alternate Saturdays). Call 203-605-1494.

PISTOL PERMIT - Certification class for CT Pistol Permit, 1 session only, small groups, $140. (203) 415-1144.

TREE LENGTH FIREWOOD CALL FOR DETAILS 203-238-2149

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

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

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

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.

MATERIALS DISTRIBUTION

Screened Topsoil $30/ per yd; 2.5” screened gravel, $18 per yd; Sand$18 per yd; Millings-$22 per yd; Screened Millings $30 per yd; $100 minimum delivery. No pickup truck service. Minimum 16 yd pickup at our yard. Call Jim @ 860-9824819 for delivery

PREMIUM SCREENED TOPSOIL

$30/yard delivered,

3 yd, $100 min. delivery Call Jim 860-982-4819

BUYING ALL - Costume Jewelry, Old Watches, Gold Jewelry, Silver Jewelry, Gold & Silver Coins, Sterling Flatware, In Any Condition.

Please Call Jude M. Dichele @ (203) 8681816.

BUYING MACHINIST

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

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

Items, Wristwatches (Broken or Not), Pocket Watches, Tools (Machinist, Woodworking, & MORE) Doorstops, Clocks, Oil Paintings, Old Signs, Old Photographs, Old Postcards, Brewery Items, Hunting & Fishing, PEZ Dispensers, Costume Jewelry, Broken Jewelry, Gold & Silver Jewelry, Gold & Silver Coins, Military Items, Swords & Bayonets, Helmets & Patches, Medals & Uniforms, Pocket Knives, Lighters & Pipes, Fountain Pens, Mechanical Pencils, Fraternal Order Items, Religious Items, Industrial Items, Winchester Items, Sikorsky

Items, Pratt & Whitney

Items, Colt Items, Native American Items, Vintage Electronics, Slot Cars, Toy Trucks, Matchbox & Hotwheels, Barbie’s, Folk Art, Statues, Bronzes, Trains, Cameras, Mid Century Modern Furniture, Straight Razors, Shaving Items, Political Items, Comic Books, Sports Cards & Autographs…& THE LIST GOES ON! So please give us a call at your earliest convenience.

Grassy Hill Auctions

203-868-1816 - Grassy HillAuctions.com

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

DECKS & PORCHES

Give some new life to your old decks and porches. We can repair or replace stairs, deck boards, railings. We also construct new decks. HIC#647093 Insured. Call Bill for a free estimate, (203) 901-2136.

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

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

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

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

#1 PAINTER’S EDGE

MOBILE WASH Chemicals safe for house & plants. House wash, roof cleaning, decks. 25 yrs. exp. Sr Disc. #0656136 Ins. 860.538.5520

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

YORKIE POM - & Bichon Yorkie Puppies, Ready now. 1st shots & wormed. $650 and up ea. Call 603.630.2258.

GUTTERS PLUS 25+yrs. Exp. Call today for Free estimate.

203-440-3535 Ct. Reg. #578887

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

Let Us BEAR Your Junk! Junk Removal in CT

ACCEPTING - New customers for wkly mowing, thatching, aerating, hedge trimming . Ryan 860.515.1302

SPRING CLEANUPS

JUNK REMOVAL

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

RT RELOCATION

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

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

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

POWER WASHING

Is Spring Cleaning on THE OUTSIDE

FREE Estimates

#569127 Call Kevin 203-440-3279

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

#1 PAINTER’S EDGE Ext. & Int. Painting. Sheetrock.Popcorn Repair. Wallpaper Remv’l. Decks. 25 yrs exp. Free est. Sr. disc. #0656136. Ins. 860.538.5520

POWERWASHING

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

OVER 28 YRS EXP Stonewalls, patios, sidewalks, chimneys, pool areas, fireplaces, fire pit steps. Free est. 860.274.4893.

CustomColonial Painting.com

Since ‘99

Lic’d 0630904 & Ins’d Senior Discount Warranty. Financing 860-306-0270

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

Cell:203.510.3830

Stormshieldct@gmail. com HIC.0664452

JASPER’S GENERAL CONTRACTOR - Roofing,

Long-lost ring back in family’s hands