The Cheshire Citizen

For Cheshire author and publisher, the past is never that far away

By Peter Prohaska Record-Journal staff

CHESHIRE In the words of author, publisher, and Cheshire resident Peter J. Malia, “History has the advantage of knowing what happens next.”

Such knowledge in one’s life is a rarer thing, as Malia himself can attest. His own professional career as a researcher, writer, and journalist led him into industries including geo-spatial satellites and paper manufacturing. The combination may seem incongruous, but it matches up well with his academic training as a historian, one whose life work has involved combing through reams of recorded data and other evidence in order to bring back to life the stories of those who lived in the past.

As publisher of The Connecticut Press based now out of his Cheshire home and an author of several books on colonial history,

Cheshire resident Peter J. Malia’s newest book, “New Haven Town Records, 1769 – 1819.” Contributed photo

Malia continues to tell those stories and look forward to what comes next.

Malia has a raconteur’s talent for recounting the lives

See Malia, A8

Local couple looking to bring private room karaoke to the area

By Jesse Buchanan Record-Journal staff

SOUTHINGTON A

Cheshire couple are looking to bring the Los Angeles karaoke experience to town later this year.

Dipo and Allison Oseni are working on space in Factory Square to open SoLa Karaoke, which will offer private, stereo systemequipped rooms for groups as well as open karaoke.

They got approval from the town’s Zoning Board of

Appeals last week to serve alcohol. Dipo Oseni said they still have to build out the space in the former factory on Center Street before opening.

The LA experience

The couple’s second date was at a private karaoke suite while they lived in Los Angeles.

After moving back to Connecticut four years ago, they realized there wasn’t anything like that in the area.

See Karaoke, A7

Around Town

Library closure

Due to the ongoing parking lot renovation project, the Cheshire Public Library will be closed to visitors through Monday, May 29.

In a letter to patrons, Library Director Beth Piezzo said, “We apologize for any inconvenience this closure may cause but look forward to welcoming you back to an expanded and improved parking area.”

The letter states that the library was to close on May 17, and plans to reopen Tuesday, May 30.

See Around Town, A11

Luxury Retirement Living

Tips for staying healthy and happy

From the Chesprocott Health District newsletter:

Tick season

Warmer weather has arrived, and experts are warning about the dangers of tickborne illnesses such as Lyme disease. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, tick-borne infections have risen in recent years, with over 30,000 confirmed cases of Lyme disease in the United States in 2021 alone.

To help combat this growing problem, use insect repellents, protective clothing and landscaping techniques that discourage ticks from inhabiting outdoor spaces. One effective tick prevention method is using permethrintreated clothing, which has significantly reduced the risk of tick bites. Permethrin is a synthetic chemical that is commonly used as an insecticide. When applied to clothing, it can provide longlasting protection against ticks, even after multiple washings.

Another critical aspect of tick prevention is proper landscaping. Ticks thrive in moist, shady areas with tall grass and leaf litter, so keeping lawns mowed and removing any brush or debris can help reduce the risk of tick exposure. Additionally, using tickrepelling plants such as lavender and eucalyptus can help deter ticks from entering outdoor spaces.

Mental health

Practicing mindfulness, eating a well-balanced diet, engaging in physical exercise, and getting a good night’s rest have been proven to help improve mental health. However, improving mental health for us and our communities requires an allhands-on-deck approach.

Some other ways to improve mental health at a community level include:

Reducing stigma – Stigma and discrimination associated with mental health can prevent people from seeking help when they need it. Promoting mental health awareness and education can help reduce stigma and improve access to care.

Providing access to services – Access to mental health services can be limited in some communities, especially for the uninsured or underinsured. Increasing access to mental health services, such as therapy and counseling, can help individuals get the support they need.

Supporting mental health at work – Many people spend a significant portion of their lives at work, so supporting mental health in the workplace can significantly impact overall mental health. Employers can provide mental health resources, such as employee assistance programs and mental health days.

Addressing social determinants of health – Social determinants of health, such as poverty, unemployment and lack of access to healthcare, can contribute to poor mental health outcomes. Addressing these issues at a community level can help improve overall mental health.

Supporting policies that promote mental health –Policies that promote mental health, such as funding for mental health research and access to mental health services, can significantly impact overall mental health outcomes. Supporting these policies at a community and national level can help improve mental health for everyone.

Overall, improving mental health requires a multifaceted approach involving individuals, communities, healthcare professionals, policymakers, and society. By working together, we can help improve mental health outcomes and promote overall well-being for everyone.

Preservation CT

Preservation Connecticut is a statewide nonprofit historic preservation organization, established in 1975 by a Special Act of the Connecticut General Assembly as the Connecticut Trust for Historic Preservation.

For over four decades, Preservation Connecticut has championed the protection of community assets all over the state.

For more information, visit preservationct.org.

Tree trimming

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.

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 203-631-7762.

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.

Scandal after scandal

Editor:

The Supreme Court is run amok, and it’s time to get it under control. For the last year, we have witnessed scandal after scandal come out of the Supreme Court.

From learning that Samuel Alito may have leaked a decision about reproductive health to conservative antiabortion activists, to discovering Clarence Thomas has been secretly accepting lux-

Letters to the Editor

ury vacations from a GOP megadonor for 20 years, the actions of these justices on the highest court in the land are unconscionable. Thankfully, this bad behavior can be addressed. Congress has the ability and responsibility to act as a check on the Supreme Court and restore faith in our judicial system.

It’s time they take the first step and pass a code of ethics for the Supreme Court.

No one is above account-

ability, and that includes our justices on the Supreme Court.

Karin Jensen, Cheshire

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Y’s 26-Day Challenge starts on June 1

Press Release

The Southington-Cheshire Community YMCAs are preparing for their annual 26-Day Challenge to raise $36,500 total for both communities to support the Race4Chase Youth Triathlon program.

The goal is to raise $20,000 in Southington and $17,000 in Cheshire ($10,000 of that goal has been raised to date).

Each participant in the 26Day Challenge has been asked to raise monetary donations with an overall goal of $510 per person to help make up the remaining $27,000.

The challenge will kick-off on June 1 with YMCA CEO Mark Pooler, followed by 26 volunteers in both Southington and Cheshire.

Volunteer athletes include YMCA board members and staff, teachers and

faculty, business owners, Y members and community leaders.

All will be running, biking or swimming 2.6 miles for 26 consecutive days in memory of Chase Kowalski and the other students and teachers who lost their lives at Sandy Hook Elementary School on Dec. 14, 2012.

Chase Kowalski competed in his first triathlon in the fall of 2012 and now his memory lives on in the

young athletes he inspires each summer.

The Race4Chase Youth Triathlon program, offered for free to young athletes, is run at over 29 sites across Connecticut, Rhode Island and South Carolina.

The programs in Southington and Cheshire allow young athletes from the two communities to train for six weeks and compete in a real triathlon on Aug. 5 at YMCA Camp Sloper.

On June 1, Mark Pooler

will begin running and exercising for 26 days in a row.

Each day after June 1 another runner in each community will join him and run or exercise each consecutive day until June 26.

If you are interested in joining the challenge and helping the SouthingtonCheshire Community YMCA reach its $37,000 goal, contact Julie Gianesini at jgianesini@scccymca.org.

In Brief

Reader app

The OverDrive reading app has been discontinued. The Cheshire Public Library is advising patrons to switch to Libby, OverDrive’s newer app. For more details about the switch to Libby, visit cheshirelibraryblog.com.

Cheshire FD

Applications for membership to the Cheshire Fire Department are always welcome. Visit cheshirefd.org.

Symphony

The Cheshire Symphony Orchestra is in its 37th season under the direction of Dr. Hilarie Clark Moore. For information about joining, visit cheshiresymphony.org.

Yard clean-up

The Town of Cheshire provides a container at 1304 Waterbury Road (adjacent to the Town Garage) for disposal of residential grass clippings and leaves.

State House passes bill to bring early voting to CT

By Mark Pazniokas

The Connecticut Mirror

Tradition-bound Connecticut, a laggard among states in modernizing voting practices, would offer 14 days of early voting next year under a bill passed May 4 on a 107-35 vote by the House of Representatives.

“It’s not for nothing Connecticut is called the Land of Steady Habits,” said Rep. Matt Blumenthal, D-Stamford. “For almost three centuries now, we have had some of the most restrictive voting laws in the country.”

One of only four states not allowing early in-person voting, Connecticut can make the change only since November’s passage of a constitutional amendment that struck a prohibition against expanding the days of voting.

“We saw this not only as a policy decision that we support but also as a mandate and an obligation dictated to us from the voters,” Blumenthal said. “So that’s how we see it: The voters have

given us a charge. We’re making good on it today.”

Fifteen Republicans voted with 92 Democrats for passage. No Democrat was opposed. A four-hour debate began at 3:20 p.m. on House Bill 5004, a measure that still was being tweaked hours before being called for debate. Final passage in the Senate is assured, as is a signature from Gov. Ned Lamont.

House Minority Leader Vincent J. Candelora, R-North Branford, complained about the late availability of the final language and the length of early voting.

Republicans urged a more

modest start, with three days of early voting spread over five days.

“Take a few steps towards early voting. See how it works,” said Rep. Tom O’Dea, R-New Canaan. “See how it works for an election cycle or two, and then perhaps go to 10 days or 14 as is proposed.”

The 14-day window was the most expansive of four options proposed by Secretary of the State Stephanie Thomas, based on a study commissioned by her predecessor, Denise Merrill, from the Center for Election Innovation and Reform.

See Voting, A12

June 1: Sleep, Memory & Movement Disorders

Press Release

Masonicare is hosting “Your Brain: Sleep, Memory & Movement Disorders” on Thursday, June 1 from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Masonicare at Ashlar Village, Hartog Center, Knapp Auditorium,2 74 Cheshire Road, Wallingford. Join us for an evening with experts from Hartford Health Care’s Ayer Neuroscience Institute for an educational discussion and Q&A.

The panel will lead you on a journey inside the inner workings of the human brain, including: Memory Care: What is part of normal aging and what is not; Brain Games: How to keep your mind healthy and active; Sleep: Importance of sleep and effects on the brain; and Movement Disorders: Signs, symptoms and how to manage certain conditions. The event is free and open to the public. Registration is required.

Lamont: CT needs more housing inventory

By Ginny Monk The Connecticut Mirror

Gov. Ned Lamont on Monday told Connecticut real estate agents that the primary solution to one of the industry’s most pressing problems a dearth of houses to sell is to build more housing.

Lamont gave the statement

in response to a question posed by a presenter at the Connecticut Association of Realtors conference in Hartford about how he would help incentivize homeowners to sell. “First of all, you need more housing inventory, ” Lamont said. “Let’s start with that. I mean, we’re desperately short right now.”

Lamont gave a speech about the draw of moving to Connecticut, real estate agents’ role in marketing the state to potential buyers, and housing and population growth.

The state’s cities are growing, he said, and more young families want to live in Connecticut than in past years.

Yet the real estate industry has seen a drop in the number of homes for sale.

As of Jan. 14, there were about 3,600 homes for sale compared to about 15,000 in 2019, according to data from a presentation members of the National Association of Realtors gave to lawmakers earlier this year. The Realtors’ presentation tied that low inventory to underbuilding and delays in finishing new construction.

The state also lacks about 89,000 units of housing that are affordable and available to its lowest income renters.

Lamont’s remarks on Monday came as the state legislature is considering several measures to increase housing stock and improve affordability for Connecticut residents.

Legislative session

“We’ve put $600 million over the next two years into housing,” Lamont said. “And that’s not just affordable housing, and what I call workforce housing those are our studios and one bedrooms often in downtown areas, hopefully next to major transit areas.”

Earlier in the year, Lamont announced his plan to spend $600 million on housing ventures, including to build thousands of units of new housing in Connecticut over the next two years. The bonding proposal that emerged from the committee process includes money for the state’s housing trust fund, a flexible housing fund

and a homeownership program.

It would add money to the Connecticut Housing Receivership Revolving Fund, which aims to improve housing conditions at large apartments in the state. It also has funds to retrofit apartments in environmental justice communities certain communities of color that have been disproportionately impacted by climate change.

The state budget is still a work in progress, and lawmakers will work with the governor to hash out the final figures in the coming weeks.

Lamont also said he’d support transit-oriented development in downtowns across the state, a proposal that’s received harsh backlash from some local groups and officials.

See Housing, A11

Karaoke

From

A1

Dipo Oseni is from Nigeria while Allison Oseni grew up in Connecticut.

“The goal is bring something that doesn’t exist in the market as yet,” Dipo Oseni said. “We wanted to create a venue, a place you could go to and have fun in We want to give you another venue to get dressed up for and have fun.”

SoLa Karaoke, named after south Los Angeles where the couple lived, will have nine rooms for groups ranging in size from four to 30. There’ll also be an area for open mic nights and open karaoke in the main bar area.

“We’re going to have nine private rooms, each room is going to be LA-themed,” Dipo Oseni said. “Each room will be a scene. There’ll be a Hollywood room, a Santa Monica room.”

The sound system and monitors for song lyrics will be

part of each private room.

“Each room is going to have it’s own built-in sound system. You wouldn’t have to plug into anything, it’s all there, it’s all set up for you,” Dipo Oseni said.

He’s in the consumer electronics industry and Allison Oseni is in real estate. While

there’s some overlap with their day jobs, opening a karaoke bar is new for both of them. “This is completely different, we’ve never done anything like this before, my wife and I,” he said. “It’s something that we love and always loved. I don’t think we’re unique in loving to congregate around music.”

Dipo and Allison Oseni, of Cheshire, stand in part of a 3,500square-foot space they’re converting into SoLa Karaoke behind Paul Gregory’s Bistro Cafe at Factory Square in Southington on Friday, May 12.

Dave Zajac, Record-Journal

Factory Square Annex

The Osenis’ place will be in the smaller of the two factory buildings at 168 Center St. Michelle Florian, owner of Factory Square, said development has been brisk in the larger building and it’s now moving into the smaller

one, called the Factory Square Annex, as well.

Paul Gregory’s Restaurant moved into the annex two years ago. Now they’ll be joined by SoLa Karaoke as well as Dance City and the Arts, which is moving from the main building.

“The annex came together quite quickly,” Florian said.

“We gutted and cleaned it out … All the interest came.”

She said there’s already a number of businesses at Factory Square that draw people looking for entertainment, such as ax throwing, an escape room and a bar and arcade. SoLa Karaoke was a good fit, according to Florian.

“It’s a bit of an adult playroom, ” she said. “You have a lot of things to do. You have a drink, you go to dinner, you play the old pinball machines, you go to the escape room and now we have the karaoke. It’s all fitting really well.”

jbuchanan@record-journal.com

203-317-2230

Twitter: @JBuchananRJ

of people who lived hundreds of years ago. One of these figures is the American author Washington Irving. After Malia graduated from Fordham University with his Ph.D. in history, one his first jobs was cataloguing Irving’s papers for the Rockefeller Foundation.

Malia is still familiar with Irving’s journeys, and can provide a number of anecdotes from Irving’s early success as the best-selling author of “The Sketchbook of Geoffrey Crayon, Gentleman,” to his ambassadorship to Spain and his somewhat dissolute life of travel, courtly romances, and theatre. In fact, Malia says, Columbia University still has a number of Irving’s unpublished works.

That sense of history being lost to indifference has prompted Malia to write some of his works. As a publisher, Malia also does the historian’s duty of presenting the best available evidence.

The Connecticut Press’s most recent offering is one such example. “The Myth & Reality of Slavery in Eastern Connecticut,” written by former Connecticut Assistant State Archivist Bruce P. Stark, offers a detailed look at the claim that a slave plantation existed in Connecticut near Lyme, where the author grew up. Drawing on land records and numerous other sources, both contemporary and contemporaneous to the era, Stark presents a more nuanced understanding of the situation. An extensive biography also points the way for future researchers to make their own studies.

Although much of his own research has focused on his former hometown of West Haven,

Malia has also published work with special interest for Cheshire residents. One of these is a photo-illustrated history of Elim Park, published on the occasion of the Baptist Home’s 100th anniversary.

Another project of Malia’s is an entry in the Ancient Town Records series. First begun in 1917 as a project of the New Haven Colony Historical Society, the work involves the transcription of written colonial records into an accessible printed form. Malia’s book, Volume IV in the series, contains the New Haven Town Records of 1769–1819. The compilation offers a tremendous resource for researchers.

Crucible of war

Recently, Malia has been involved in getting to the heart of a mystery that has involved parties on both sides of the Atlantic.

While writing his history of colonial West Haven, “Visible Saints,” Malia grew interested in the story of a Scotsman named William Campbell, who was killed during the British invasion of New Haven in 1779, but whose life was full of extraordinary achievements. Adjutant Campbell’s story, Malia says, will be his next project, a “narrative biography.”

Using clues from the historical record, Malia has begun to uncover enough details to

draw the attention of Campbell’s successor unit, the Scottish Coldstream Guards the unit which, incidentally, is responsible for the protection of newly crowned King Charles III. His correspondent, Colonel Robin Buchanan-Dunlap, recently wrote about Adjutant Campbell for The Guards Magazine and, with Malia, seeks to bring official recognition for Campbell. BuchananDunlap also has a special relationship to history, as the grandson of Archibald Buchanan-Dunlap, who participated notably in the “Christmas Truce” of World War I.

“No matter the uniform, the time, or the place the crucible of war has always forged lessons that magnify the best and worst in our human nature,” Malia said.

As Malia tells the story, Campbell was a Highlander who “obtained his commission the hard way –– through meritorious action in the field of battle and by working his way up through the ranks from private.”

See Malia, A12

Memory loss

Join this class Friday, May 19, from 1 to 2 p.m., to learn more about mild forgetfulness, more serious memory problems and causes of memory loss. Presented by Patty O'Brian, LSW, dementia specialist, Hartford HealthCare, Center for Healthy Aging. The program will take place at the Berlin Senior Center, 33 Colonial Dr., Berlin. RSVP to 860-8287006.

Call-in support

Senior 5% OFF PRESENT COUPON AT ESTIMATE AND GET... 860.637.6570 R259616V2

Malia

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.

In Brief Union to strike at group homes serving 1,500 clients

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 life-changing 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.

By Keith M. Phaneuf The Connecticut Mirror

Connecticut’s largest health care workers union plans to strike May 24 against six nonprofit agencies that operate group homes that collectively serve nearly 1,500 developmentally disabled clients.

More than 1,700 members of New England Health Care Employees Union, SEIU 1199NE, are set to strike May 24 against nonprofits hired by the state Department of Developmental Services, the union announced Tuesday.

The move also comes as legislative leaders and Gov. Ned Lamont are in the final stages of negotiating a new state budget for the next two fiscal years. Connecticut primarily contracts with the private sector to deliver the bulk of state-sponsored social services, not only for clients with developmental disabilities but also for children and

adults struggling with mental illness and addiction, and also to provide counseling and job training for prison inmates.

The agencies potentially affected by the planned May 24 strike include Oak Hill

in Hartford; Mosaic residences in Cromwell; Whole Life, Inc. of New London; Network, Inc. in Manchester; and Caring Community of Connecticut and Alternative Services of Connecticut, both based in Colchester.

Sound Financial Advice in

Obituaries

Michael A. Tropinda

CHESHIRE Michael A. Tripodina,79, passed awaySunday, May7, 2023atBenchmarkSenior LivingatHamden.Hewas thehusband ofRhonda (Vosburgh)Tripodina.

Michael was born July 26,1943inWaterbury,CT, sonof thelate Jamesand Florence(Terzano)Tripodina. He was a lifelong Cheshire resident and graduated from Cheshire HighSchoolin1961.

Michael wasa good friend to alland was very generous whetherit was donating greenhouse spaceandmaterialstothe Garden Club or building batting cagesfor thelocal school. In his younger yearshe wasalso onthe Cheshirevolunteerfiredepartment. Hewas anavid muscle car collector and enthusiast. Hewas the owner of GroWell, Inc., whichmanufacturedcom-

mercial greenhousesand wasagroweraswell.

Inaddition tohis wifeof 58 years, Michael leaves behind hisdaughters, Amy (Jeff) Fleck, Wendy Tripodina, his beloved grandson Blake and his brothers, Raymond (Caron)Tripodina,andVincentTripodina. Hewas predeceasedby hissisters,Frances, Flora,Ann, Josephine,andJean. His familywould liketo thankthe caringladies

A PATHWAY THROUGH GRIEF

Alderson-Ford Funeral Homes- Sponsor

Bob Havens – Facilitator

Catherine Szerszen – Facilitator

Two Programs Now Being Offered: MORNING & AFTERNOON

andnurses ofBenchmark who took such wonderful care of him with kindness andcompassion.

Arrangements Funeralservices willbe heldat the FirstCongregational Church of Cheshireat a date and timeto be announced. Thereare no calling hours and the AldersonFord Funeral Home of Cheshireis assistingwitharrangements. Memorial contributions, in hisname,maybemadeto Constellation (Hospice), 240 Indian River Rd., Orange, CT06477, Clelian CenterAdult DayCare, 261BenhamSt.,Hamden, CT 06514or OneCompanyFund, 201JonesSt., Suite300 West,Waltham, MA02451.

For onlinecondolences, toshareaphotoorastory, please visit www.fordfh.com.

Street sweeping

The Cheshire Public Works Department is in the process of sweeping town roads.

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 sweeping 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.

partment 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.flexcheck.us.idemia.io/ cchrspreenroll). Fingerprints for pistol permit applicants will only be taken when a complete application packet is ready to be turned in.

ART HEALS

Pathway Through Grief

Next Morning Session beginning May 25 – July 13

Thursdays – 10:00 am – 11:30 am

Next Afternoon Session beginning May 25 – July 13

Thursdays – 1:30 pm – 3:00 pm

Location of both sessions – Cheshire Senior Center

240 Maple Avenue, Cheshire, CT

Bob Havens: (860) 480-1655 ~ havensvo67@aol.com

“A Pathway Through Grief” is an eight-week program for those who have lost a loved one or dear friend. This program affords one the opportunity to share and discuss those issues that are of greatest concern at this time. It is intended to help you understand your emotions and problems; support and comfort for those who have shared the same experience and to cope within the mainstream of society. Through our journey together, you will discover that life can be satisfying, rewarding and full of joy.

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

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

If you have had a recent or previous loss and are having difficulty coping, please join us. Alderson-Ford Funeral Homes, Inc. offers this bereavement support program at no charge to participants.

RSVP ~ BOB HAVENS (860) 480 -1655

A Pathway Through Grief

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 203-2716690.

Fingerprinting

Cheshire residents and individuals employed by, or seeking employment with, a business in town may come to the Cheshire Police De-

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.

The bill, known as Work, Live, Ride, would push towns to increase residential density near train and bus stations by offering certain money for infrastructure. The goal is to develop walkable communities where people can easily access transportation and local businesses.

Restrictive local zoning has long depressed housing development in Connecticut, particularly multi-family apartments, housing experts say. Multi-family housing tends to be more affordable to people with low incomes.

Legislators are also considering a land use reform proposal known as Fair Share. It would require the state to analyze the housing need by region, then divide that need between municipalities. Towns would be required to plan and zone for a set number of units.

Both proposals have met fierce resistance.

Opponents say they would weaken local control, force a one-size-fits-all approach and are onerous, particularly to smaller communities that may not have many city planning resources.

And opponents fear that the Work, Live, Ride proposal would mean that towns that don’t participate will be deprioritized for infrastructure funding.

But housing advocates have said that towns have had their chance to change their zoning regulations, and widespread resistance to building enough affordable housing means the state needs to step in.

During a question-and-answer session with reporters, Lamont said he wants to see towns create their own plans for increasing affordable housing. A 2017 law requires that Connecticut municipalities create and submit affordable housing plans every five years.

Less than half of towns in Connecticut submitted their

plans by the first deadline last summer. In January, more than 30 towns still had not submitted their plans, according to data from the Office of Policy and Management.

In response to questions from presenters, Lamont mentioned Connecticut’s “suburban lifestyle” as a draw for new residents. He said more development in walkable downtowns could mean senior citizens would be able to downsize and stay in the state.

“We’ve got probably the greatest suburban lifestyle in the country, or certainly one of them,” he said. “But also

we have up-and-coming cities and some beautiful rural areas.”

To close out his time with the real estate agents, Lamont answered a final question from a presenter: “What is your favorite tune to dance to?”

His answer: “I Gotta Feeling” by the Black Eyed Peas. He quietly sang the namesake line of the song as he walked away from the microphone.

This story originally appeared on the website of The Connecticut Mirror, ctmirror.org.

Around Town

From A1

“Staff will be utilizing this time to make interior improvements that would be difficult to complete while remaining open,” Piezzo said, adding that staff will be checking messages and returning calls “the same day if you have questions about your library account or the online/off-site programs we are offering during this time.”

For more information, visit cheshirelibrary.org or call 203-272-2245.

Fire department celebration

The Cheshire Fire Department held its biennial dance and awards presentation May 5 at the Aqua Turf Club in Plantsville. Members were recognized for their years of active service to the department, and Benjamin Barry (HQ), Christopher Owen (Station 3) and Zachary Schiavi (Company 2) earned “Captain’s Choice” awards. In a social media post following the May 5 gathering, the CFD said “962 years of combined service time” was represented in the crowd.

“This dance started in the late 50s and was held every year until recent years when it was changed to every other,” the department stated.

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“We also reflect on the passing of two of our members over the last two years – Life Member Richard Iannantuoni and Ladies Auxiliary Life Member Fran Doherty.”

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Gov. Ned Lamont speaks on Monday, May 15 to a conference of the Connecticut Association of Realtors. Ginny Monk, The Connecticut Mirror

A shorter early voting period would be offered for elections other than the November general election: seven days for state and local primaries, and four days for special elections and presidential primaries.

With a local option for additional sites, municipalities would have to offer early voting at a minimum of one location from the hours of 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on 12 days and from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. on the Tuesday and Thursday before Election Day.

including staffing over two weekends.Republicans said even with state reimbursement, 14 days of early voting would be an unnecessary burden for small towns, which already struggle to recruit temporary workers for election day.

“I understand that we’re going to fund it, but it’s getting the people to work it, to run it and to make it safe,” said Rep. Jay Case, R-Winsted.

“Some of our registrars are part time. How are they going to take 14 days to see this in a small town?

Malia

From A8

Show of mercy

Malia writes that Campbell “is the only known enemy combatant honored by the very American town he invaded with both a monument and a principal avenue named in his honor.”

British troops, including Campbell, stormed New Haven in July 1779, but, as Malia explains, “Under the command of Captain James Hillhouse and Col.

tenacity that they initially drove the British advance guard back several hundred yards,”

Some of those militiamen, Malia adds, were from Cheshire, “as troops from all over New Haven County descended upon New Haven to fight the British.”

When a Reverend Williston was injured during the melee, Campbell ordered his troops to show mercy.

“We make war on soldiers, not civilians,’ Campbell was allegedly overheard saying. He ordered the troopers to carry the minister back to the parsonage, and then summoned the regimental surgeon to set Williston’s leg,” writes Malia.

“We didn’t want to force one version onto the towns, especially as we’re starting out here,” said Blumenthal, a key sponsor as the co-chair of the Government Administration and Elections Committee.

“That to me is the epitome of inefficiency,” said Rep. Doug Dubitsky, a Republican from Chaplin, an eastern Connecticut community with a population of 2,200.

Aaron Burr, who happened to be visiting his uncle, Pierpont Edwards, in New Haven at the time, a ragtag army of some 150 Yale students, militiamen and Connecticut Foot Guardsmen had dug in behind a stone wall along the top of Milford Hill. They defended the hill with such

A small monument exists for Campbell, but official recognition is a work in progress, much like the full story of the past.

pprohaska@record-journal.com

Please call for corrections at 203-317-2308 - after 5 pm call 203-317-2282

Ad#:1286004 Pub:RJ Date:05/23/13 Day:THU Size:3X4 Cust:HOUSE AD ACCOUNT Last Edited By:PAG on 5/20/13 12:24 AM. Salesperson:200 Tag Line:MUST RUN FLIP CAMCORDER WINNER Color Info:FULL 1286004 - Composite

Legislative leaders have pledged to include funding in the state budget for municipalities to cover the added costs of early voting,

Republican amendments to limit the length of voting to either three days or 10 failed on party-line votes.

A longer version of this story originally appeared on the website of The Connecticut Mirror, ctmirror.org.

Daffodil

& DAFFODIL FESTIVAL iPad mini Prize Winner

Festival 2023 Contest Winner

Congratulations to Chris Brosnan!

Congratulations to

Chris is our Daffodil Festival

Holly Roberts of Meriden

2023 Contest winner and he takes home a $100 gas card courtesy of the Record-Journal.

“My wife and I stopped at your booth at the daffodil festival to comment about not minding the paper coming in the mail. My Wife Sue always wants to tell folks when they are doing a good job!!” - Chris

And remember to keep an eye out for the Record-Journal tent at other local events for even more contests!

ZACK BAKER PLATT BASEBALL

Whether the Panthers win or lose, Zack Baker has been a gamer all season for Platt baseball. The junior infielder/pitcher is one of the few returning starters on a young squad and has set the example. On Monday, Baker was rewarded for his efforts, collecting three hits, including a home run, and closing out Platt’s 6-4 victory over Torrington at Fuessenich Park.

TYLER BLUMETTI SOUTHINGTON BASEBALL

With his offense running hot and cold, SHS basebll coach Stan Switala inserted pitcher Tyler Blumetti into the lineup last week as an outfielder. On Monday, Blumetti batted 8th. By Friday, he was in the 2-hole, capping the week with a 4-for-4 night. In all, the senior went 9-for-13 with 6 RBI and 5 runs scored. Not coincidentally, the Blue Knights went 4-0 to improve to 13-4.

NATHAN CAMIRE MALONEY GOLF

When you’re hot, you’re hot, and that’s what the Maloney golf team is. The Spartans have defeated eight straight foes to raise their record to 10-1. Nathan Camire has been a catalyst throughout. With a 43 last Tuesday at Hunter against Plainville, the senior earned his fifth medal of the season. His low round at Hunter is 39. For the season, it’s a 38 at Laural View.

LYNDSEY BUNNELL SHEEHAN LACROSSE

After wrapping up the regular season at 8-8, it’s on to the postseason for Sheehan, which gives Lyndsey Bunnell a chance to get 100 career points. The senior captain stands at 95 after scoring four goals and assisting on three in Monday’s 10-9 overtime win in North Haven. Last Friday, at Wolcott, Bunnell rang up a 10-point game with eight goals and two assists.

EMILY MOSKAL SOUTHINGTON SOFTBALL

What’s a pitcher to do against Emily Moskal? The senior center fielder can swing a big bat and play small ball, and she’s been a big part of Southington standing at 17-0. After going 4-for-4 last Friday vs. Hall, Moskal was leading the No. 1-ranked Knights with 24 hits and a .511 average. Her .588 on-base percentage and .638 slugging percentage were also team-highs.

JEDUAILYZ QUINTERO WILCOX TECH TENNIS

This sophomore makes it two Wilcox Tech tennis nominees in as many weeks. For good reason. On Monday, Jeduailyz Quintero teamed with last week’s nominee, Azayla Yearwood, to capture the doubles crown at the Connecticut Technical Conference championships at Wesleyan. Their 8-6 win in the final also helped the Wildcats land the overall team title.

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

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!

ACCOUNTANT JUNIOR ACCOUNTANT

Performs accounting tasks and other related duties of a financial nature in the Business Office of the Wallingford Electric Division. Applicants must have 6 years of accounting experience with some accounting classes; or in lieu of thereof, a B.S. in accounting or an equivalent combination of experience and training.

Wages: $27.47 to $34.36 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, Town of Wallingford, 45 South Main Street, Wallingford, CT 06492, or emailed to: wlfdhr@ wallingfordct.gov by the closing date of May 30, 2023. Phone: (203)294-2080; Fax: (203) 294-2084. EOE

CHEMIST

The Town of Wallingford Sewer Division is seeking qualified applicants to supervise and perform high level tasks in the chemical, bacteriological and physical analyses of raw (untreated) and potable (treated) water and wastewater. Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree in chemistry, biology or related field, plus 2 years’ experience in chemical laboratory analytical work. Experience with water and wastewater analysis, atomic absorption, graphite furnace, complex analytical equipment and standard laboratory QA/QC practices is preferred. Must obtain and maintain Laboratory Director Certification for chemistry and microbiology from the State of Connecticut Department of Public Health.

Salary: $73,068 to $93,488 annually, plus an excellent fringe benefits package that includes pension plan, medical insurance, life insurance, paid sick and vacation time.

ASSISTANT BUILDING OFFICIAL

Town of Cheshire

seeks qualified, certified candidates for the position of Assistant Building Official. 40 hr/ wk. Position available 7-1-23. Starting hourly rate:$37.74. For additional information on how to apply, see the Town’s website at www.cheshirect.org.

Job description also available at the Human Resources Office, Room 217, Cheshire Town Hall, 84 South Main Street, Cheshire. Deadline for applying 5-26-23. The Town of Cheshire is an EEOE, M/F/D/V.

ENGINEERING TECHNICIAN

Town of Cheshire seeks qualified candidates for the 35 hr/week position of Engineering Technician. Job description & information on the application process can be found on the Town’s web site at www.cheshirect.org.

Position available on or about 7-1-23. Starting hourly rate:$38.39.

PREMIUM SCREENED

TOPSOIL

$30/yard delivered, 3 yd, $100 min. delivery Call Jim 860-982-4819

. Top Soil . Compost . . Wood Chips . FOR SALE. Catering to small deliveries. Call Bob (203) 415-0723

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

Submissions must be received NLT 4:00 PM on Friday May 26, 2023. Town of Cheshire is an EEOE, M/F/D/V. 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

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 June 13, 2023. Phone: (203) 294-2080; Fax: (203) 294-2084. EOE

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

WANTED - Short term rental, 3-6 months maybe longer, whole house must have 2 BRs, must accept little dogs, (203) 470-1828.

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

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.

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

PREMIER ESTATE JEWELRY - 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.

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

MATERIALS DISTRIBUTION

Screened Topsoil $30/ per yd; 2.5” screened gravel, $18 per yd; Sand$18 per yd; Millings-$22

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

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.

TEC ELECTRICAL

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

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

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

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Sr. Citizen Discount LIC & INS. DUMPSTER RENTALS 203-535-9817

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

LUNO MASONRY - We deal in all types of masonry, repairs & new projects, decks. Refs. avail. Free ests. Lic. HIC0643330 & Ins. Call 203.770.9273.

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

POWER WASHING

Is Spring Cleaning on THE OUTSIDE

FREE Estimates #569127 Call Kevin 203-440-3279

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, painting, siding and remodeling, free estimates. 10% off with this ad. (203) 535-9817.

TREE BROTHERS TREE EXPERTS - Specializes in all aspects of tree removal and trimming with twenty five years of experience. We offer a free quote and military and first responder discount. Call 203-5122453.

TREE REMOVAL

Storm Damage, Stump Grinding, Chipping, Lots Cleared, Trees/ Shrubs Inst’d, Free Ests. Fully Ins’d. Lic #558031. 203.619.2301.

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

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

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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.

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