cheshirecitizen.com
Volume 12, Number 23
Thursday, June 10, 2021
Hearing scheduled for 40-unit subdivision By Devin Leith-Yessian The Cheshire Citizen
the Kings Ridge and Muirfield Estates age-restricted communities he recently completed in Southington, Each home would be ranch-style The Planning and Zoning Commiseach of which had 50 homes. Homes sion has scheduled a public hearing with two bedrooms, developer Mark in each of those developments sold Lovley estimated. He expects for June 14 in regards to a proposal out within three months and Lovley the houses will be listed for a 40-unit age-restricted subdivisaid he’s already heard from ten inaround $400,000 to $450,000 and will dividuals interested in purchasing in sion on Wallingford Road. be surrounded by 14.1 acres of open The plan would demolish an existing space. Construction on the develop- the new development, which he intends to name Whispering Oaks. home at 648 Wallingford Road and ment would take about two years. 648 Wallingford Road in Cheshire. construct 40 standalone homes for He said the project will be similar to Dave Zajac, Record-Journal See Subdivision, A2 those 55 and older on about 10 acres.
Register your Register your Register your child for Register your child fo BLESSING OF THE MOUNT Cheshire Kindergarten recognized by Kindergarten Kindergarten today! Kindergarten today! Sustainable CT
Register your child fo Kindergarten today Cheshire and Durham are two of the latest towns to be certified by Sustainable CT, a statewide initiative that inspires and supports communities in becoming more inclusive, resilient, and vibrant. The two communities met high standards in a broad range of sustainability accomplishments to qualify for bronze-level certification. The highest level of certification currently offered is silver.
Welcome to Cheshire Public Welcome to Cheshire Public Welcome to Cheshire Public Welcome to Cheshire Public Schools! Schools! Schools! Sustainable CT, managed by the Institute Kindergarten Registration isConfor Sustainable Energy at Eastern Schools! Kindergarten Registration isa necticut State University, provides Kindergarten Registration is Welcome now to Cheshire Public Register your child for in progress. framework to help towns and cities build Kindergarten Registrationnow is intheir Schools! local economies, support equity and progress. now in progress. respect the finite capacity of the environKindergarten today! Cheshire Horse Council members gathered for the Blessing of thein Mount Saturday,Kindergarten June 5. The group’s Registration is now progress. ment. The program's action roadmap and
Register your child for FULL DAY KINDERGARTEN PROGR FULL DAY KINDERGARTEN PROGR Kindergarten today! FULL DAY KINDERGARTEN PROGRAM Register your child for FULL DAY KINDERGARTEN PROGRAM
annual event is a ceremony officiated by Pastor Tom Buchanan. Pictured in this submitted photo: CHC support tools are especially relevant as now in progress. founder Christel Maturo, with her horse Dakota, receives a blessing from Buchanan. At 82, Maturo is an active equestrian. CHC President Bob LaRosa’s horse Tequila also was among those blessed. See Sustainable, A4
FULL DAY PROGRAM Register your child forKINDERGARTEN Schools! Visit cheshire.k12.ct.us to download registrati Kindergarten Registration is Kindergarten today! cheshire.k12.ct.us to download Visit cheshire.k12.ct.us toregistration download registrati Visit cheshire.k12.ct.us toVisit download now in progress.registration today! Kindergarten documents or call your school for a printed pa Welcome to Cheshire Public
documents or call your school for a printed packet. Visit cheshire.k12.ct.us to download registration documents or call your school for a printed pa documents or call your school for a printed packet. documents or call your for aoldprinted Yourschool child must be five years before January 1,packet. 2022 to be eligible to register. FULL DAY KINDERGARTEN PROGRAM Welcome to Cheshire Public Your child must be five years old before January 1, 2022 to be eligible to re Schools!
The school your child will attend is determined by your street address.
Your child must be five years oldregister. before January 2022street to be address. eligible to Your child must be five years old before 1, 2022 to be eligible to Welcome to Cheshire Public VisitJanuary cheshire.k12.ct.us download registration The school yourto child will attend is determined by1,your Welcome to Cheshire Public Kindergarten Registration is documents or call your school for a printed packet. Schools! Your child years before January 1,street 2022 to be eligible register. by your street address. The school your childaddress. will attend isto determined The school yourmust childbe willfive attend isold determined by your Schools! Kindergarten Registration is now in progress. Kindergarten Registration is must be five years old before January 1, 2022 to address. be eligible to register. The school your child will attendYourischild determined by your street nowin inprogress. progress. now The school your child will attend is determined by your street address.
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The Cheshire Citizen | cheshirecitizen.com
Thursday, June 10, 2021
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A home and property at 648 Wallingford Road. A 40-unit age-restricted subdivision has been proposed for the property. The plan would demolish the existing home and construct 40 standalone homes designed for those 55 and older.
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Since there will be a homeowners’ association to manage much of the land, Lovley said the community will appeal to those looking to downsize with less outdoor property to care for.
Neighbors create petition
“We don't think it's being granted the proper weight of investigation in terms of how will this impact the environment,” said Kerry Jichowski, a Wallingford Road resident who started the petition. Despite living just a few houses down, she learned about the project from a neighbor whose property abuts the site. Due to the coronavirus pandemic, the public hearings held by the Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Commission were conducted virtually, which Jichowski said limited participation. She’s also concerned that IWWC’s approval of the project on May 18 could have been biased due to the commission’s chairperson, Earl Kurtz Jr., being the owner of 648 Wallingford Road.
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If the proposal is approved, Kurtz would sell the property to Lovley, who would demolish the home on the site to construct the road and homes. Jichowski’s father, Anthony Marsh, said he’s worried that the homes could cause runoff into the wetlands, which flow into a stream that feeds into a nearby reservoir. According to the wetlands permit application, impervious surfaces like asphalt and concrete would increase from 0.6 acres, or 2.5 percent of the site, to cover 3.5 acres, or 14.5 percent of the property.
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“There's bound to be mineral deposits and whatever leached from the tarmac or the blacktop. And it's a nonpermeable surface so there’s going to be runoff in a significant amount,” Marsh said.
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His son, Earl Kurtz III, who is the chairperson of the Planning and Zoning Commis-
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sion, noted that his father recused himself from discussion of the proposal and the vote that approved the wetlands permit. He said both his father and himself are taking the FREE In-Home Consultation appropriate steps by recusing themselves to FREE In-Home Consultation avoid potential conflicts of interest as the 132 South Main Street, Cheshire, CT 06410 project goes through the municipal approval process. 132 SouthWWW.KDMKITCHENS.COM Main Street, Cheshire, CT 06410 237464
A petition has been started by residents around the proposed development. It calls for more clarity on the project’s impact and for a neutral third party to be involved in examining the wetlands around the site.
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The Cheshire Citizen | cheshirecitizen.com
Thursday, June 10, 2021
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The Cheshire Citizen | cheshirecitizen.com
Thursday, June 10, 2021
Saturday fundraiser to benefit area students The Lady Fenwick DAR Chapter will host a tag sale Saturday, June 12 at 15 Williamsburg Drive. The event is held to raise funds for the organization’s scholarship program and stipend awards that benefit local students. The Lady Fenwick DAR Chapter, established in Cheshire in 1910, has been providing area students with scholarships and stipend awards for 112 years. Funds are generated through member donations and annual fundraising efforts.
Sustainable
sues related to equity and racial justice.
From A1
To date, 121 municipalities have registered for the program, representing 84 percent of the state's population. Sixty-four municipalities, more than 37 percent of the state's communities, have earned Sustainable CT certification. Certification lasts for three years, with submissions rigorously evaluated by independent excheshire herald, March 21 perts andthe other Sustainable CT partners.
towns seek practices and resources to promote racial justice and recover from the impacts of COVID-19.
In recent decades, the Lady Fenwick Chapter has held a tag sale annually at the Cheshire Strawberry Festival. The money raised from this tag sale funded many of the chapter’s philanthropic activities.
"Congratulations to our newest Sustainable CT certified communities," said Lynn Stoddard, executive director of the program. "They join a growing number of twenty certified towns and cities that are demonstrating municipal practices that make our communities more inclusive, healthy, connected and strong."
This past year the strawberry festival was cancelled due to the pandemic. Therefore, the Lady Fenwick DAR Chapte encourages the community to come out and support this June 12 fundraising effort.
Certified communities demonstrated significant achievements in at least 11 sustainability impact areas, ranging from community building, thriving local economies and vibrant arts and culture, to clean transportation and diverse housing. In addition, certified municipalities addressed issues of belonging, equity, diversity and inclusion when implementing sustainability actions. Sustainable CT provides free coaching and a virtual equity classroom to help municipalities with is-
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The Cheshire Citizen | cheshirecitizen.com
Thursday, June 10, 2021
A5
Health Retirement roadmap When considering retirement, it is important to have a plan. A virtual class, “Medicare 103 – Roadmap to Retirement,” can provide the directions for this milestone on life’s journey. The free programs will be held Tuesdays, through June 29. For convenience, various times are available. Call 1855-442-4373 or visit HartfordHealthCare.org/VirtualClasses.
Medicare 101 To navigate the mysteries of Medicare, Hartford HealthCare and Integrated Care Partners is offering the free virtual class, “Medicare 101 – Understanding Your Options,” led by Medicare educators Marissa Hiebel and Lisa Benton. Topics include: the basics, different components, when to enroll, how to choose a plan, and
options including Medicare Advantage Plans, Supplement Plans and Prescription Drug Plans. Upcoming dates: June 10, 14, 16, 17, 21, 23, 24, 28 and 30. For convenience, various times are available. To register, call 1-855-442-4373 or visit HartfordHealthCare.org/VirtualClasses.
Optimum aging Strategies and information on maintaining an active and engaged brain is the focus of a free five-part series presented by Hartford HealthCare Center for Healthy Aging. The Healthy Brain Series will take place Thursdays, through July 1, 6 to 7 p.m. A certified dementia specialist with Hartford HealthCare Center for Healthy Aging, the program sponsor, will present. To register, call 1-855-4424373 or visit HartfordHealthCare.org/VirtualClasses.
Navigating the ‘Golden Years’
will include information about the benefits of moving and the best exercises. This event will take place Thursday, June 10, 11 a.m. to noon, led by Julie Sopchak, exercise physiologist with Hartford HealthCare’s GoodLife Fitness. To register, call 855-442-4373 or visit HartfordHealthCare.org/ VirtualClasses.
A free virtual class, “Navigating the ‘What-Ifs’ in Your ‘Golden Years,” will provide information about various topics pertaining to aging, resources available in the community, and ways to be proactive rather than reactive. The event will be held Thursday, June 10, 11 a.m. to noon, led by Marc Levesque, Open house resource coordinator with Hartford HealthCare Center The Orchards at Southington, a beautiful, indepenfor Healthy Aging. To register, call 855-442-4373 or vis- dent and assisted living it HartfordHealthCare.org/ VirtualClasses.
Better bones and joints As people age, bones begin to weaken and deteriorate due to osteoporosis and other conditions. Exercise has shown to boost bone health. A free virtual class, “Building Better Bones & Joints,”
CHESHIRE’S FULL SERVICE JEWELER
community located at 34 Hobart St., is hosting an open house Saturday, June 12 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Learn more about how the concerns of a personal home can be put aside for the perks of a senior living community, safety precautions and supportive services. Registration is recommended. COVID-19 safety protocols will be observed. To reserve a time, call Antoinette Ouellette, retirement counselor at The Orchards at Southington, 860-628-5656. See Health, A6
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The Cheshire Citizen | cheshirecitizen.com
Thursday, June 10, 2021
Health
ter, call 855-442-4373 or visit HartfordHealthCare.org/ VirtualClasses.
From A5
Optimal visits
Dementia program
On average, doctor appointments are only 15 minutes long. In this free virtual presentation, learn how to make the most out of your appointment through various tips and strategies to ensure the optimal visit with your physician. This event is scheduled for Wednesday, June 16, 1 to 2 p.m., led by Jennifer McCaughey, resource coordinator with Hartford HealthCare Center for Healthy Aging. To regis-
A diagnosis of dementia can be frightening for those affected by the syndrome, their family members and caregivers. A free virtual class, “They Say I Have Dementia – What Does That Mean?”, will explore this topic. The class will be held Wednesday, June 16, 6 to 7 p.m. To register, call 855-442-4373 or visit HartfordHealthCare.org/VirtualClasses.
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A free virtual class, “Music Therapy and Healing,” explores the therapeutic modality of sound, types, emotions and connections that can provide physical, communicative and social benefits in a variety of settings. This event is scheduled for Thursday, June 17, noon to 1 p.m. Laura Famulare, MA, MT-BC, music therapist with Jefferson House in Newington, will present. To register, call 855442-4373 or visit HartfordHealthCare.org/VirtualClasses.
A free virtual class, “Avoid Becoming a Victim of Fraud and Scams,” will take place Thursday, June 17, 1 to 2 p.m. Topics will include: how well-known scams work; tactics that scammers use; how to protect oneself and loved ones; and what to do if a person suspects they have been scammed. Presenter will be Lillian Swan, RN, transitional care nurse with Hartford HealthCare Center for Healthy Aging. To register, call 855-442-4373 or visit HartfordHealthCare.org/VirtualClasses.
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make home even safer. A free virtual class, “Home Safety and Fall Reduction for the Older Adult,” will take place Thursday, June 17, 1 to 2 p.m. Presenter will be Marc Levesque, resource coordinator with Hartford HealthCare Center for Healthy Aging. To register, call 855-442-4373 or visit HartfordHealthCare.org/ VirtualClasses.
What is dementia? The word “dementia” is well-known but often people do not understand that memory loss does not necessarily signal dementia nor know that there are different types of dementia. A free virtual class, “What is Dementia?”, will take place Friday, June 18, 1 to 2 p.m. Michelle Wyman, CDP, dementia specialist with Hartford HealthCare Center for Healthy Aging, will present. To register, call 1-855-442-4373 or visit HartfordHealthCare.org/VirtualClasses.
Open House Day returns Saturday Connecticut tourism attractions of all types and sizes, including museums, arts and cultural venues, historical sites, nature centers, farms and galleries, are warmly welcoming back state residents with free or reduced admission or special offers on Connecticut Open House Day, Saturday, June 12.
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More than 140 attractions across the state are participating in the Connecticut Office of Tourism’s 17th annual event, which celebrates the state’s diverse array of history, art, culture, nature and adventure experiences. This year, both in-person and virtual offerings are available. Browse the full list
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The Cheshire Citizen | cheshirecitizen.com
Thursday, June 10, 2021
A7
Heat prompts early dismissal at schools Record-Journal staff
The Cheshire school district scheduled an early dismissal for most facilities Monday, June 7, as temperatures around 90 degrees caused concern, especially with face masks still in use. In a Sunday, June 6 email, Superintendent of Schools Jeff Solan said the combination of high temperatures and mask wearing “created unsafe conditions for students and staff in most school buildings tomorrow.” The only school to re-
main open for normal instructional hours on Monday was Highland School, the only building that is fully air-conditioned. Meriden, Wallingford, and Southington public schools also annonced plans to dismiss early on Monday. Solan alerted the Board of Education June 3, during his Superintendent’s Report that he might need to shorten some school days and lessen the mask mandate for CPS students this week due to expected heat and weather
conditions. He said that while the mandate to wear a mask in the building would remain, it would be lifted for students, this week, while outside. Solan said the school buildings tend to heat up quickly and he encouraged students to bring water bottles and dress for the conditions.
tures in Cheshire reached 92 and Sunday the mercury hit 94, according to weather.com. The record high for June 7 is 91. The average temperature for this day is 75. The rest of the week saw a cooling trend as temperatures were expected to decline from the high 80s midweek to mid-60s by today.
This is the last full week of instruction in Cheshire. Schools let out for summer break beginning Wednesday, June 16. A graduation ceremony for Cheshire High School seniors will be held at 6 p.m. that day on the field behind CHS, weather permitting.
The weather for Monday was forecasted to be around 90 degrees with humidity reaching over 50 percent in some parts of Connecticut. Saturday tempera-
Petit supports violence-prevention bill Ranking Member of the Public Health Committee, state Rep. William A. Petit Jr. (R22), recently supported a committee bill to increase community violence prevention services while providing training and certification for individuals seeking certification in this field.
The bill, HB-5677, An Act Concerning the Availability of Community Violence Prevention Services, would require commissioners from the Department of Social Services and Department of Public Health by July 1, 2022 to amend coverage for these prevention services for ben-
eficiaries who have received medical treatment for an injury that was a result of an act of community violence and been referred by a licensed health care or social services provider to receive such services. In addition, See Petit, A9
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The Cheshire Citizen | cheshirecitizen.com
Thursday, June 10, 2021
It’s National Adopt a Cat Month Cats star in some of the most viral videos on the Internet and some even grow to celebrity status on Instagram with millions of followers (looking at you, Nala Cat). Yet some of the coolest cats remain undiscovered at shelters and rescues across the country. Since cats are also the most at-risk pets across America, accounting for 69 percent of animals killed in shelters, it’s crucial to find them loving homes. Adopt a Shelter Cat Month takes place every June to highlight the immense need for cat adoptions and why a shelter is the best place to find your next feline friend. “By adopting a cat, you’re not only saving that particular cat, but you also make space for the next cat coming into a shelter,” said Samantha Bell, cat expert at Best Friends Animal Society. “Adoption is also very cost-effective, as cats
are usually fixed, vaccinated, microchipped and ready to go home with you for one low fee.” According to Bell, cats make great pets for just about anyone. “Whether you are hardly ever home or you are a total couch potato, there’s a ‘purrfect’ cat waiting for you at a shelter or rescue,” she added. Bell offers the following tips on how to pick the right cat for your lifestyle: Busy? There are cats for that : Shelters and rescues often have two adult cats who have grown up together and would be happy to go home together. It’s heartwarming to see a pair of cats who are already friends get to stay together. And while you're away, they’ll have each other for company and security. Extroverts need love, too: If you are home quite often, then you’ll have more
Open House From A6
time to play with an active kitty who needs lots of wand toy play time. Some cats can even be trained to walk on a leash or go for stroller rides.
of participants and offers at CTvisit.com/CTOpenHouseDay. Residents can enjoy: Free or reduced admission at 40-plus attractions, including some that recently reopened.
Consider a solo artist: There are many cats who are great with people but terrified of other cats. They don’t always make a great first impression on potential adopters, especially if they’re in a shelter surrounded by other cats. But once they’re in a home with you, they’ll flourish.
Free tours at 30-plus sites, including some rarely open to the public. Virtual experiences offered by 40-plus businesses, including 3D tours and livestreamed performances. Special offers, events or giveaways at 60-plus properties.
Involve the whole family: It’s important to take everyone in the home, especially children, to meet all prospective cats so you can observe how they interact with the cat. Every child has their own unique energy, and every pet reacts differently to every child.
Event highlights include animal encounters, archaeological digs, artist workshops, author meet-and-greets, boat and trolley rides, crafts, farm, garden and house museum tours, flight lessons, kayak and paddleboard rentals, live demonstrations, pick-your-own berries, scavenger hunts, virtual reality games, and wine, beer and spirit tastings.
Keep an open mind: Don't get hung up on color, sex See Adopt, A31
Pre-registration is required at a number of properties, so state residents are encouraged to plan ahead, as well as to check each businesses’ visitor policies. State residents can also access farefree bus service statewide all summer through the Weekend Wheels program. “There has never been a better time to discover and rediscover Connecticut’s many tourism treasures, from popular destinations to lesser-known hidden gems,” said Christine Castonguay, interim director, Connecticut Office of Tourism. “After over a year of closures and restrictions due to the pandemic, people are ready to safely explore — and businesses are ready to show off their unique offerings. Take advantage of this special day and kick off the summer season right.” For the latest updates, visit CTvisit.com/CTOpenHouseDay and follow #CTOpenHouse on social media. — Press Release
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The Cheshire Citizen | cheshirecitizen.com
Thursday, June 10, 2021
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Long days of June have much to offer June is host many wellknown observances.
When you think of the month of June, what comes to mind? Graduations, the end of the school year, the start of summer, long days and maybe a vacation or at least a staycation.
D-Day is held on June 6 each year and marks the date U.S. troops and allies converged on the beaches of Normandy. This pivotal push was known as Operation Overlord in World War II and is recognized as the beginning of the end of Hitler’s regime.
Many people might also think of weddings. June brides is a term still wellknown as June weddings are one if not the most popular month for weddings to take place. The reason for June weddings may go back to Medieval times. Back then bathing was infrequent and as tales be told when a bath was had, usually in late spring, it made “scents” to get married soon after when most brides and grooms and wedding parties had their yearly bath.
Another June observance is Father’s Day. The first one was celebrated in 1910, at the YMCA in Spokane, Washington, by the daughter of a Civil War veteran, a man who single-handedly raised six children. However, Father’s Day was not made a national observance until 1972. This year it falls on June 20. As for Flag Day, it commemorates the adoption of the
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"These community violence prevention specialists and programs have reduced trauma recidivism and helped patients to receive necessary medical and social services," Petit said. "There is good evidence that the rates of arrest, conviction and overall criminal activity have also decreased where these positions have been created. Due to the work of these specialists and the programs they staff, costs have decreased by preventing more
Juneteenth is celebrated on or around June 19 to commemorate the freeing of more than 250,000 enslaved Black people in Galveston Bay, Texas. Although the Emancipation Proclamation went into effect Jan. 1, 1863, it took over two years for news to reach outlying communities. Also known as Freedom Day, Jubilee Day, Liberation Day, and Emancipation Day – Juneteenth is the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of slavery in the U.S. It’s traditionally marked by festivals, barbeques, oral histories and readings as well as concerts.
The Summer Solstice or June Solstice marks the beginning of summer, usually occurring June 21 or thereabouts (this year it’s June 20) and is a period where one of the Earth’s poles has its maximum tilt toward the sun. On this day, the sun reaches its highest point bringing the longest period of daylight. Festivals and celebrations mark the day around the world, one of the most famous summer solstice gatherings happens at Stonehenge in England.
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According to Petit, this is an important bill because these prevention services provided by a qualified professional will now be covered under the Medicaid program, and will provide for training and certification of qualified violence prevention professionals.
stars and stripes as the official flag of the United States. It was in 1916 that President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed June 14 as the official date to celebrate Flag Day.
In order to continue delivery to your home or business, we need to have each resident or business let us know that, by filling out our on-line requester form at myrecordjournal. secondstreet.com/Cheshire-Citizen-Requester. Or, you can call us at 203-634-3933 and we can mail you a postage paid postcard to fill out and return. Without the necessary requester information, delivery of your Cheshire Citizen to your home or business, will end.
HELP US HELP YOU, CONTINUE RECEIVING “YOUR” LOCAL WEEKLY.
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By Joy VanderLek The Cheshire Citizen
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The Cheshire Citizen | cheshirecitizen.com
Thursday, June 10, 2021
A FANCIFUL YARD
Letters Policy Since Frank Walker and Sue Levesque moved into their house on Country Club Road, they have put their own stamp on the property. And they have been rewarded time and time again by curious residents who stop by to say hello and admire their yard. The couple's taste is eclectic and playful as illustrated by this giraffe installation, with one 8-foot tall version and a second one, just about thigh-high. Joy VanderLek, The Cheshire Citizen
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Email letters to news@ thecheshirecitizen.com; mail to 500 South Broad St., Meriden, CT 06450 or fax to 203-6390210. Letters are limited to 300 words. The Citizen will print only one letter per person each month. We reserve the right to edit letters. We do not list names of people, organizations and businesses being thanked. Names of businesses are not allowed. Letters must be signed and names will appear in print. Include a phone number so The Citizen can contact you for verification. Letters must be submitted by 5 p.m. on Friday to be considered for publication the following Thursday.
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The Cheshire Citizen | cheshirecitizen.com
Thursday, June 10, 2021
COMMENTARY
After the rain comes serene forest bathing By Joy VanderLek The Cheshire Citizen
bathing as part of a wholebody, holistic approach to wellness. It seems we, as a country, are just beginning to appreciate walks in nature again.
By the time Monday afternoon rolled around and the last raindrop fell on the long, soggy Memorial Day weekend, I don’t know about you, but I was desperate to get outside. It’d been raining steadily since Friday afternoon. At times, it was a light, persistent shower. At other times it came down in buckets. It’s been a very lush spring with all the rain we’ve had, and because of that, everything is so green and beautiful. I made it a point to get out right away. I called a buddy and we headed out to DeDominicis Preserve. The preserve is a town-owned, open-space property on the south end of Cheshire. It’s bounded on the one side by Old Lane, where the kiosk is. Mind you there is no parking lot. You have to park on the road or up on the curb. There’s also an entrance to DeDominicis and parking at the cul-desac of Corliss Road by Cook Hill Road. You can also get to DeDominicis via the new town open space on Fenn Road, but I don’t know if the town has yet officially opened it to the public. If not, let’s hope they hurry. That property is about 50 acres and straddles DeDo-
As we took our forest bathing walk, we were quiet for the most part, trying to absorb and appreciate all the sights and sounds. Masses of ferns, created from varieties of hay-scented, Christmas and sensitive ferns created carpets of soft green under the forest of oaks, maples, birch, beech and hickories. minicis on the western edge. There is no bridge, so crossing the Mill River after a big rain is all but impossible. My buddy and I took the Old Lane option and parked on the road by the kiosk, which begins as the red trail. Mowers had not yet gotten to the high grass outside by the trailhead, but once you tuck into the property, the trail is wide and clear and it’s beautiful. We planned on a short loop hike, a combo of the red and blue trails, and no sooner had we stepped into the forest, we heard birdsong. Those birds were probably happy it stopped raining, too. We heard orioles, ovenbirds and vireos and fly-
catchers. There were more, but I am not the birder, so I am just repeating what my birder friend said she heard. (Trust me, you don’t have to know the birds’ names to enjoy the beautiful music they make.) After a while of trekking along, we both noted how happy and calm we felt. This state of mind might have been because we were so happy to get out of the house. The sensation might also have been due to a phenomenon, an occurrence that only presents itself in the forest after a rain. A combination of factors results in a smell that’s really calming and nice. Simply put, compounds in the soil are released when wet and
that’s what’s going up our noses. According to Merriam Webster, the scent is “pleasant” and “earthy.” The term used for it is called petrichor. Petri comes from the Greek, meaning rock or stone, and Wikipedia states that “ichor” is from Greek mythology and refers to the substance that ran through the veins of the gods. We may also have been feeling good from the effects of “forest bathing” also known as shinrin yoku. The practice of forest bathing has been scientifically proven to improve the immune system response, lower blood pressure and contribute to health in multiple areas, including mental health. The Japanese prescribe forest
The scene was just beautiful. Soft green leaves of Canada Mayflowers and Jack-in-the-pulpit in all stages from emerging leaves to tall and lanky specimens popped up alongside the trails. We also met a few folks on our way, including a runner carrying his dog. We thought it comical, but the puppy parent explained he didn’t want the pup to jump up or bother us. We also were happily surprised when on the yellow trail, here comes two beautiful horses, Indy and Dancer and their owners Frank and Deb, who stopped to talk. No doubt they all had the same calling to get outside as soon as the rains stopped. I am glad we did. It was a perfect day.
In Brief Tag sale
Cheshire, Wednesday, June 23, 7:45 to 8:45 a.m., at 1154 Highland Ave. RSVP to jean@cheshirechamber.org
The Cheshire Senior Center, located at 240 Maple Ave., will hold a tag sale on Saturday, June 26. The Women's Club of Cheshire will be selling Fall Festival jewelry at the event. The tag sale will Reserve your Fall Festival booth take place from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. space ASAP; we anticipate a sell-out for 2021. For more information, email jean@cheshirechamber.org . Chamber breakfast Join the Cheshire Chamber of Commerce for Coffee and Breakfast Before Hours celebrating Gaylord Physical Therapy’s five years in
Golf classic Join The Cheshire Chamber of Commerce for the Annual Golf Classic In
Memory of Leo P. Lavallee Jr., Tuesday, July 20. Contact us to donate a raffle prize and display your business cards. A portion of all proceeds help to fund our scholarship program for two deserving Cheshire High seniors. To register, contact Jean at jean@cheshirechamber.org or call 203-272-2345.
Plant sale The Suburban Garden Club of Cheshire will host its Annual Plant Sale Saturday, June 19 on the green of the Cheshire Congregational
Church, 111 Church Drive, from 7 a.m. to noon (rain or shine). Perennials dug from club members’ gardens are the focus of the sale. Also, a garden-related tag sale will take place. The Suburban Garden Club is a civic organization and all proceeds from this fundraiser help pay for a yearly scholarship for high school students, and the care of several gardens in town. Visit cheshiregardeners.org.
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The Cheshire Citizen | cheshirecitizen.com
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Thu•rsPride day, Month June 10, 2021 Celebrate Diversity • June 10, 2021 | 1
MORE CONTENT FROM THIS SPECIAL SECTION CAN BE FOUND ONLINE AT:
www.myrecordjournal.com/pride
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The Cheshire Citizen | cheshirecitizen.com
2 | Celebrate • Pride ThuDiversity rsday, June 10, Month 2021 • www.myrecordjournal.com/pride
DIGNITY, EQUALITY, VISIBILITY Early in our discussions about Pride Month coverage, we knew it needed to be about more than journalism. Our involvement needed to be participatory and so the Record-Journal, in addition to putting together this special section, also is coordinating Pride activities this month for employees, their families and the greater community. Some of the activities will include joining in with the Southington Pride festivities. Some will center around education and discussion on LGBTQIA+ topics.
to leadership in their partnerships and into the communities they serve.There are Pride celebrations around the world, often held in June or other summer months. Locally, the town of Southington plans its first formal foray into hosting Pride events from May 22 through June 6.
Mark Palmieri and Jolene Micelli are leading the education committee of the Southington Pride celebration. Palmieri said the local LGBTQIA+ community works to support the community (such as collaborating with local businesses on donations One way we’re encouraging support and to the local food pantry). He’s thrilled that participation is with the Pride Month poster the town is supporting the Pride effort, even found in this special section. Readers can purchasing a rainbow flag for the celebracut it out, tape it to their window or door and celebrate along with all who support the tion. In anticipation of a planned flag raising, inherent rights of the LGBTQIA+ community. Palmieri said, “I might get a little teary eyed when that happens.” We introduce our special coverage of Pride The Record-Journal is committed to continMonth with a statement from the United Nations Free and Equal Campaign for world- ually improving the diversity of our publiwide acceptance of sexual orientation and cations as well as our workplace. We have gender expression. created a Diversity & Inclusion Committee with a mission “to take actions that will “I appeal to all governments and societies to create and support a workplace and products promote the values of tolerance and respect that are inclusive, diverse and representative for diversity, and to build a world where no of the communities we serve.” one has to be afraid because of their sexual orientation and gender identity,” said UN Secretary-General António Guterres. The UN campaign addresses topics from bullying to global business standards – asking businesses to foster diversity and promote a culture of respect and equality that extends
We are taking multiple approaches to ensure that our content, community outreach, and hiring practices remain equitable and representative of our community. One example of our outreach is “listening”. This is done through a program called Voices, a chance
for us to hear opinions, on current topics, directly from local people. We host a Latino Communities Reporting Lab, another opportunity for us to get direct input. By listening to our community, we can better provide our readers with focused content to keep you informed and engaged. We also support local students by offering minority internships and scholarships, and we’re developing new ways to attract and retain diverse and representative talent. As part of the Record-Journal’s ongoing diversity and inclusion initiative, we’re here to tell the stories from the LGBTQIA+ community and excited to bring our readers Pride Month coverage. Many of us are still learning about what all those identifiers – the letters – represent. In these pages you’ll find more about that as well as more resources to promote understanding and to support individuals and families. Jason Collins, the first openly gay athlete in a major American team sport put it this way in a Sports Illustrated essay: “Openness may not completely disarm prejudice, but it’s a good place to start.” We hope our readers enjoy today’s presentation and will join us on the Record-Journal Facebook page June 14 at noon for a virtual community discussion facilitated by the Stonewall Speakers group, an LGBTQ+ education and advocacy group.
Record-Journal Diversity & Inclusion Committee
RJ DIVERSITY & INCLUSION COMMITTEE CO-CHAIRS OLIVIA LAWRENCE, COURTNEY WENGENROTH ADVISORS RALPH TOMASELLI, LIZ WHITE MEMBERS NORWYN CAMPBELL, JEREMY COTE, ERIC COTTON, MARIAH MELENDEZ CONTRIBUTORS LORRAINE S. CONNELLY, LINDA LANKOWSKI, LISA CAPPALLI, NADYA KORYTNIKOVA, MARIAH MELENDEZ, JEFFERY KURZ, JESSICA SIMMS, JOY VANDERLEK, FAITH WILLIAMS, MARIAH MELENDEZ, JEFFERY KURZ, ASHLEY KUS, OLIVIA LAWRENCE , GLENN RICHTER, RALPH TOMASELLI, DAVE ZAJAC GRAPHIC DESIGNERS ERIK ALLISON, MARK DULLEA, GRADY STEPHENSON, BARTOSZ ZINOWKO WEBSITE RON RAINEY, RICHIE RATHSACK
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The Cheshire Citizen | cheshirecitizen.com
Thur•sPride day, June 10, 202110, 2021 | 3 Celebrate Diversity Month • June
Riot
A that rocked the world Record-Journal staff Pride Month events are held worldwide each year, usually in June, and while the emphasis is on celebration, the origins began on a very different kind of occasion. Pride Month has its beginnings in the Stonewall Riots, sometimes called the Stonewall Uprising. While there is a wide variety of histories regarding events surrounding “Stonewall”, here are the basics that most researchers, observers and analysts agree on. In 1969, there were laws prohibiting homosexual activity. During that time, the Stonewall Inn was a popular gay bar on Christopher Street, New York City. Sometime after midnight on June 28, 1969, police raided the inn. Their attempt to disperse or arrest patrons was not successful. From the National Archives: “Officers were forced back into the bar by the crowd until riot-control reinforcements arrived several hours later, but protesters refused to disperse until 4:30 a.m. The riots continued for several days and
Stonewall Inn, Christopher Street, New York City, is the birthplace of Pride Month. | New York Public Library
expanded to the neighborhoods surrounding Christopher Park. By the final day of the riots on July 3, the crowd exceeded several thousand people.” The turmoil brought attention to issues that went beyond the Stonewall Inn and raids on gay bars, putting the spotlight on harassment and discrimination, legal and otherwise, based on sexual orientation. The event sparked the formation of scores of gay rights organizations, including the Human Rights Campaign, OutRage! The first Pride parades were held on June 28, 1970, the one-year anniversary of the Stonewall Riots. Parades were held in New York City, San Francisco, Chicago and Los Angeles. The anniversary has been celebrated ever since and events and festivities have expanded. In 2019, to celebrate the 50th anniversary, about 5 million people participated in WorldPride NYC. At that event, New York City Police Commissioner James P. O’Neill rendered a formal apology on behalf of the New York Police Department for the actions of its officers at Stonewall in 1969. Numerous historical documents, including information from history. com and harvard.edu, were used in this report.
Join us on Facebook June 14 You’re invited to a virtual community discussion with the Stonewall Speakers, a program of the Connecticut Stonewall Foundation, Inc. The all-volunteer speaker's bureau is comprised of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender people and their allies. We’ll talk about this Pride Month special section, including a Q&A session with our panelists.
When: Noon to 1 p.m., June 14 Where: Record-Journal Facebook page
4 | Celebrate • Pride Month • www.myrecordjournal.com/pride A16 ThurDiversity sday, June 10, 2021
The Cheshire Citizen | cheshirecitizen.com
Connecticut
Pride Factors
Pride Factor: Same-sex marriage has been legally recognized in Connecticut since Nov. 12, 2008, following a state court decision that found the state’s civil unions failed to provide same-sex couples with rights and privileges equivalent to those of marriage. Connecticut was the second state to do so after Massachusetts. As of June 26, 2015 the Supreme Court issued a decision that same-sex couples can marry in all 50 states. This 1974 photo originally captioned “These parents are doing ‘Pride’ right”, is part of the LGBTQ+ History-Archives Collection.
What is PRIDE all about? There are many definitions when it comes to the concept of Pride Month, but the underlying message of equality is always at the core. Here are a few takes from a variety of sources. “It’s a movement that celebrates sexual diversity. For lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people it’s a way of protesting about discrimination and violence. It promotes their dignity, equal rights, self-affirmation and is a way of increasing society’s awareness of the issues they face.” – International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association “Pride Month commemorates the ongoing pursuit of equal justice for the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer community and celebrates the accomplishments of LGBTQ individuals.” – Britannica “PRIDE stands for Promote Respect, Inclusion, and Dignity for Everyone. There’s also a gay political organization that uses the acronym as Personal Rights in Defense and Education. – Wikipedia “Gay pride or LGBT pride refers to a worldwide movement and philosophy asserting that lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender individuals should be proud of their sexual orientation and gender identity. The movement has three main
premises: that people should be proud of their sexual orientation and gender identity, that sexual diversity is a gift, and that sexual orientation and gender identity are inherent and cannot be intentionally altered.” – National Women’s History Alliance “Gay pride events, including gay pride parades and festivals were started in major urban centers to improve the visibility, acceptance and legal protections for LGBTQ+ people living in those communities. While the aim of Pride Day started with a political nature, many cities around the world have such wide acceptance and legal protections that many events have become a celebration of pride for the local LGBTQ+ community.” – International Gay and Lesbian Travel Association “The word ‘pride’ is an integral cultural concept within the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex community, representing solidarity, collectivity, and identity as well as resistance to discrimination and violence. Its associated symbolism (e.g., rainbow colors) – communicates to individuals that LGBTQI members are welcome as valuable members of the community.” – University of California, LGBT Resource Center – Record-Journal staff
Pride Factor: Connecticut is regarded as one of the most LGBTQ+-friendly U.S. states, due to its early adoption of LGBTQ+ rights legislation. According to a 2017 survey by the Public Religion Research Institute showed 73 % of Connecticut residents support same-sex marriage. Pride Factor: Hartford ranks among the places with the highest percentage of adults who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender, according to a 2015 Gallup Poll study of the top 50 U.S. metropolitan areas. A total of 4.6 percent of residents in Hartford identify as LGBTQ+, putting the Connecticut capital in a tie with Denver and Los Angeles. For the purposes of the study, Hartford includes West Hartford and East Hartford. The national average, among the top 50 metropolitan areas, is 3.6 percent. San Francisco ranked No. 1. Pride Factor: Southington Pride Week brought the celebration to town this spring. Local members of the gay, lesbian and bisexual community planned the festivities. Events included: raising a rainbow flag, painting a rainbow crosswalk on Apple Alley and youth events at Camp Sloper. “Our main goal was to come together as a town and celebrate pride,” said Alicia Novi, a committee member. – Record-Journal staff
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The Cheshire Citizen | cheshirecitizen.com
Celebrate Diversity • June 10, 2021 | 5 Thu•rsPride day, Month June 10, 2021
a brief
history of pride
Pride milestones go back long before the modern day celebrations. Here are just a few highlights from history – with a focus on progress in the LGBTQ+ movement. For a deeper look at the timeline check out resources used to create this outline: lgbtqhistory.org and the Out in All Directions Almanac, the National Archives as well as numerous other sources.
1732 Lesbian as a term, meaning women who loved women, was first used by William King in his book, The Toast, published in England.
1852
Meet our Guest Editor
When I was in college, I wrote one of my senior papers on the importance of LGBTQ+ community centers in Trump’s America, and I can safely say many of the points I made in that essay still I lived in Cheshire my whole life Guest editor Mariah Melendez ring true today. No matter who with my parents until recentwith her bulldog, Khaleesi. you are, you should be able to ly when I moved into my own live your life 100% authentically, apartment in Wallingford. My family circle now includes bulldog Khaleesi, and most regardless of gender or sexuality. recently my new cat, Elmer. I hope some of the articles in this section speak to you The LGBTQ+ community has been my safe place for most of my life. When I started high school in Cheshire, I noticed the severe lack of LGBTQ+ di-
Writer J.D. Bothwick reports his attendance at a “miner’s ball” – a men’s only dance held in Angels’ Camp in California.
1890 Birth of Alan Hart, who pioneered the use of the X-Ray for tuberculosis diagnosis and one of the first transgender men in history.
1907 Gertrude Stein meets Alice B. Toklas, sparking a legendary romance. In Paris, the two women set up a salon for writers and artists, including gays. Stein publicly declares her love for Toklas in print in The Autobiography of Alice B. Toklas, published in 1933.
1917-1935 The Harlem Renaissance. Many historians say the renaissance was Continued on page 7
and help widen your idea of sexuality and gender. – Mariah Melendez
COMMENTARY
LGBTQIA CENTERS
1886 Henry James writes the book, The Bostonians, about a long term relationship between two women and the term “Boston Marriages” develops to describe two women living together, independent of financial support from a man.
versity in our community, and wanted to make a change. A few of my friends and I started Cheshire High School’s very first GSA (gay/straight alliance) and I am proud to say the club is still running to this day.
Hey everyone! My name is Mariah Melendez and I am 26 years old. I graduated from New York University in 2017 with a dual degree in journalism and anthropology (and I was just one credit away from a minor in American Sign Language). I’ve been working at The Cheshire Herald (part of the RJ Media Group) as a general assignment reporter for the past two years and I love it.
provide supportive community
By Mariah Melendez Herald Staff Finding a sense of community is hard. When I was in high school, I knew I stood out but I couldn’t understand why. I had frizzy curly hair, a flair for the dramatic, and a nearly non-existent self-esteem from years of unprocessed trauma and general confusion over my own gender identity. For many aspects of my early life I was forced to fit into boxes that I knew were either temporary or disingenuous, at least it was until I learned I could create my own box. When I entered my sophomore year at Cheshire High School, a
few friends and I thought of the idea of creating a Gay Straight Alliance. We talked about the overall lack of any kind of LGBTQIA awareness at our school, and how rampant anti-LGBTQIA bullying was at the time. If only we could create a safe place for LGBTQIA students, and a place to educate our peers on LGBTQIA issues that were important to us. Luckily, we received a lot of support early on from many school administrators. We quickly got a class advisor, Mrs. Milone, and were set on the path to start holding club meetings and planning events, with no idea how much this club would impact the entire
school community. From the first meeting held in early September, we were onto something. Mrs. Milone’s classroom was standing-room only as we passed around a contact sheet for students to write their email addresses. Students were spilling out into the hallway as they clamored for a pencil, piece of paper, anything to get their information written down. They were just as hungry for a sense of community as I was. While our numbers thinned out as the year went on, the club’s first year was incredibly successful. Continued on page 13
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The Cheshire Citizen | cheshirecitizen.com
6 | Celebrate • Pride ThuDiversity rsday, June 10, Month 2021 • www.myrecordjournal.com/pride
COMMENTARY
a catalyst for
Business & Growth By Paul Whitman
Over one third of the Fortune 500 recognize this certification and partner with NGLCC to create fully LGBT-inclusive supply chains. A ‘Certified Business’ designation levels the playing field.
The Connecticut Gay and Lesbian Chamber is the voice of the LGBTQ+ business community in Connecticut. Members also include allied business professionals, those supportive of LGBTQ+ causes including diversity and inclusion in and outside of the workplace. Together, as a group, the CTGLC seeks to increase the economic strength of both LGBTQ+ and allied organizations through business development, leadership, advocacy, and visibility. The chamber represents more than 165 businesses from all major industries around the state. Locally, some members include Comcast in Berlin, the law practice of Mancini, Provenzano & Futtner in Southington, the Wheeler Clinic in Plainville and Pilothouse Communications in Cheshire. The beginnings Since the group’s founding in 2007 as the Connecticut Alliance for Business Opportunities, it has become and remains an important voice in the LGBTQ+ community. In fact, one can safely say that it’s now an integral part of the state’s small-business engine. The CTGLC is an affiliate of the National LGBT Chamber of Commerce. It is non-partisan, but will always remain politically concerned, especially regarding health,
Executive Director John Pica-Sneeden and former Lt. Gov. Nancy Wyman at the One Big Event in 2018. Courtesy of the Connecticut Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce.
equality, justice, fairness, and the many civil rights issues that impact the LGBTQ+ community Chamber President Martin L. Heft says that the CTGLC promotes business networking among its members and within our community at large. This network fosters a sharing of information, ideas, contacts, and products and services. In the end, it strengthens and expands our businesses, careers and our community. ‘Certified Business’ The CTGLC is the exclusive third-party certifying body for Certified LGBT Business Enterprise® (Certified LGBTBE®) companies.
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HAPPY PRIDE MONTH! 1112 East Main Street, Meriden, CT • (203) 235-7384
OPEN Tues–Thurs 8–5:30 • Fri 8–6 • Sat 8–5 • Closed Sun & Mon
On its website, The National LGBT Chamber of Commerce (formerly NGLCC) states that its Supplier Diversity Initiative offers businesses a tool to make connections and opens doors with America’s top corporations, several federal government agencies and other certified businesses. The SDI certifies Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and/or Transgender owned Business Enterprises (LGBTBEs) and works to provide opportunities for LGBTBEs to gain exposure within government and corporate procurement processes either as a contractor or a subcontractor. Major impact There is a major impact on small businesses that choose to affiliate with a chamber of commerce, according to the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives. It’s interesting to note that a national survey of 2,000 adults conducted in 2012 by The Schapiro Group, revealed that 49% of consumers were more likely to think favorably of a local business if it was a member of the local Chamber. What is more, there is a 73% increase in consumer awareness, a 68% increase in its local reputation, and an 80% increase in the likelihood that consumers will patronize the business in the future. LGBTQ+ and ally business professionals are encouraged to join Connecticut’s most influential LGBTQ+ business organization. For more information, contact John Pica-Sneeden, Executive Director at 860-612-8351, john@ctglc.org. Or visit ctglc.org. Paul Whitman is secretary for the Connecticut Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce.
LGBTQIA+ What do the letters represent? Record-Journal staff Most of us are familiar with LGBT, LGBTQ and LGBTQ+ – referring to lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender/transexual identities. The Q is for the broad concept of “queer” but also frequently understood to represent those who are questioning any aspect of their gender expression or sexual identity. The “plus” is for any and all other aspects of human sexual expression or identity. In recent years, “I” and “A” have been added to the mix to acknowledge intersex, asexual, agender and aromantic individuals. Often included as part of the “A” are “allies” – people who don’t necessarily identify as part of the community but who support and advocate for those who do. You may see an added “P” for pansexual/polyamorous. But more likely, you’ll see LGBTQIA expanded with a plus. At Texas Tech, the Office of LGBTQIA Education and Engagement explains the categories this way: “When thinking about all these different identities, they all fall within several buckets: Gender Expression; Gender Identity; Sex Assigned at Birth; and Sexual and Romantic Orientation. The terminology used for these identities is extensive and that is a good thing as it gives added ability for labeling (labels are not all bad some are very affirming).” The use of the terms LGBT, LGBTQ, and LGBTQ+ continue to be widely used, especially in speaking – and are the accepted style for news organizations - but the broader abbreviation that includes “I” and “A” has gained acceptance and also is widely used.
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Leadership from the LGBTQ+ community Record-Journal staff In the 2018 state election cycle, 10 candidates who identified as LGBTQ+ ran for office, six Republicans and four Democrats. While not all were successful in their bid, the fact that a significant number of LGBTQ+ individuals were looking for political leadership roles was noted in the media. The Hartford Courant dubbed this activism a “rainbow wave.” State Sen. Beth Bye of West Hartford and Rep. Jeff Currey of East Hartford are Democrats. Both won re-election and both are openly gay. Bye married Dr. Tracey Wilson on Nov. 12, 2008. They were the first gay couple to be married in Connecticut. Tracey Wilson is West Hartford town historian and the couple live with their four children. Bye was the first member of the legislature to enter into a civil union Raghib Allie-Brennan, a Democrat from Bethel, won his 2018 bid for state representative. State Sen. Alex Kasser, a Democrat from Greenwich, won a second term in 2020. The six Republican candidates who ran in 2018 were from all corners of the state. While many were new to the state level of campaigning, most had held local leadership positions. Those candidates were: John Scott of Mystic; A.J. Kerouac of Brooklyn; Ken Richards of Groton; Mary Fay of West Hartford; Robert Smedley of New Britain; and Shaun Mastroianni of Stonington.
Celebrate Diversity • June 10, 2021 | 7 Thu•rsPride day, Month June 10, 2021
Books, Movies, events & more Pride Month is an opportunity to explore and there are many fun, inspirational, entertaining and educational ways to go about that. Families, friends, book clubs, church groups and other gatherings might look to books, film, music, art exhibits and other cultural activities as a way to discuss their experiences and ideas about gender, sexual orientation and the changes in attitudes, law and society over the past decade or so. Whether you are learning, celebrating, validating, experimenting, curious, questioning or otherwise interested in LGBTQ+ topics, here are a few favorites curated by guest editor Mariah Melendez along with contributions from LGBTQ+ educator and advocate Linda Lankowski.
Books Giovanni’s Room, by James Baldwin. Adult fiction. In the 1950s Paris of American expatriates, liaisons, and violence, a young man finds himself caught between desire and conventional morality. Annie on My Mind, by Nancy Garden. Youth fiction. The story of two teenage girls whose friendship blossoms into love despite pressures from family and school that threaten their relationship.
Transgender History, by Susan Stryker. Nonfiction. An in depth walk through the history of transgendered individuals in the United States. Fun Home, by Alison Bechdel. Graphic novel, now also a Broadway show. The story of a closeted father and his lesbian daughter. Tomorrow Will Be Different: Love, Loss, and the fight for Trans equality, by Sarah McBride. A story of trans acceptance through told through McBride’s own transition. The Deviants War: The Homosexual vs. The United States of America- by Eric Cervini. First LGBTQ+ history book to make the NYT best seller list in over 25 years. Documents gay activism in the early ‘50s and ‘60s. Broken Horses, by Brandi Carlile. The five-time Grammy Award winner’s autobiography tells how she overcame the barriers of poverty and sexual orientation. This is the Fire: This is What I say to my Friends About Racism, by Don Lemon. Autobiography by the CNN News anchor and gay activist. One Life, by Megan Rapinoe. A professional soccer player, Rapinoe tells her story and advocates for gender, fiscal and racial equality, especially in women’s sports. Continued on page 15
history Continued from page 5 “as gay as it was Black.” Lesbian, gay or bisexual people in this movement includes writers and poets such as Langston Hughes and Zora Neale Hurston; and entertainers Ma Rainey, Bessie Smith, Ethel Waters and Gladys Bentley.
1924 The Society for Human Rights, the first gay rights organization, was founded in Chicago by Henry Gerber, a German immigrant. The organization ceased to exist after most of its members were arrested.
1950 The Mattachine Society formed in Los Angeles, California by activist Harry Hay and is one of the first sustained gay rights groups in the U.S. It continues to this day.
1952 Christine Jorgensen became one of the most famous transgender people when she underwent a sex change operation and went on to a successful career in show business.
1966 Compton’s Cafeteria Riot, San Francisco. Transgender and drag queens in San Francisco react to ongoing police harassment. One result: the National Transsexual Counseling Unit in support of transgender people.
1967 The Oscar Wilde Memorial Bookshop is opened in New York City by Craig Rodwell. The bookshop — devoted to gay history and gay rights — is believed to be the first of its kind in the U.S.
1969
State comptroller Kevin Lembo, a Democrat, won re-election. He was Connecticut’s first openly gay statewide official and was
The Stonewall Riots, New York City. The Stonewall Inn was a gay bar in Greenwich Village in New York City. In response to an unprovoked police raid on an early
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legal issues for LGBTQ are the specialty of this connecticut BAR GROUP By Nadya Korytnikova Record-Journal staff
Same sex couples who say
“I do”
By Joy VanderLek Special to the Record-Journal
involved with helping same sex partners tie the knot since the start.
Since same-sex marriage became legal in Connecticut in 2008, thousands of couples have taken the plunge. From 2009 to 2018, the state has seen more than 12,087 same-sex marriages officiated. Same-sex marriage has been legally recognized in Connecticut since Nov. 12, 2008, following a state court decision that found the state's civil unions failed to provide same-sex couples with rights and privileges equivalent to those of marriage.
Justice of the Peace Lea Pomaszewsk, owner of “The Wedding Ladies of Middlesex County”, with her mother, the late Eleanor Pomaszewski, also a justice of the peace and founder of the Wedding Ladies service.
Taking the rights of same sex couples a step further, on July 16, 2014, the Connecticut Supreme Court, reversed judgments in lower courts and ruled unanimously that a same-sex couple in a relationship established before the state afforded legal recognition to their relationship has the same rights as other married couples.
After a bump in 2009, after legalization took hold, the number of same sex couples choosing marriage has remained fairly consistent in recent years: 543 in 2008; 2,706 in 2009; 1,791 in 2010; 1,262 in 2011; 668 in 2012; 1,356 in 2013; 1,057 in 2014; 689 in 2015; 704 in 2016; 672 in 2017; and 639 in 2018. Across the country, according to estimates from the 2019 Current Population Survey Annual Social and Economic Supplement, there are 543,000 same-sex married couple households and 469,000 households with same-sex unmarried partners living together. None of this is news to local justices of the peace. The Wedding Ladies of Middlesex County have been
Second generation justice of the peace, Lea Pomaszewsk, is the owner of “The Wedding Ladies of Middlesex County.” Her mother, the late Eleanor Pomaszewski, was a justice of the peace and the original “Wedding Lady of Middlesex County.” Her father also was a justice of the peace.
Her mother officiated same sex weddings “as soon as it became legal in Connecticut,” said Lea Pomaszewski. “I am proud of my mother. I am proud of her being an early proponent of same sex marriages,” she said, adding, “She was one of the first.” Same sex unions didn’t always receive that level of support. According to a headline in the Connecticut Post, July 7, 2008, “For civil unions Justices of the Peace can say ‘I won’t.” The Post wrote that “Connecticut Secretary of State Susan Bysiewicz, said public employees, such as town clerks who give marriage and civil union licenses, are prohibited from discriminating. But justices of the peace are simply nominated by their political parties and are therefore in a different category. Just like a lawyer can refuse a case, a JP can say no to civil union request.”
The LGBTQ Section of the Connecticut Bar Association is a professional association of gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender attorneys, judges, paralegals, and law students who provide an LGBTQ presence within Connecticut’s legal community. “We try to provide support and resources to people who are practicing law and are providing services to LGBTQ clients,” said Grayson Holmes, chair of the LGBTQ Section of the Connecticut Bar Association. “At the end of the day, it really does take a community of LGBTQ lawyers to help protect and promote the legal rights of LGBTQ members in our state.” According to the LGBTQ Section, the organization strives to create an open, inclusive, and engaging space for all federal practitioners - LGBTQ and allies alike. It promotes recognition of civil and human rights, sensitivity to legal issues faced by the LGBTQ community, and enhances the practice and professional expertise of lawyers who serve or who are members of the LGBTQ community. In addition to providing resources, the LGBTQ Section is providing educational seminars for all members of the bar association. On April 28, it held a webinar teaching lawyers to create a safe and welcoming environment for transgender clients and colleagues. The LGBTQ Section will continue holding similar programs, which can be found at ctbar.org/events.
Lea Pomaszewski recalled that when same-sex marriage was first legalized the calls started coming in and couples would say they had searched for officiants to marry them, and often would get negative feedback.
“You would be amazed by how many different areas of the law, LGBTQ people are affected,” Holmes. “We provide a collective resource for attorneys who need to solve legal issues that are
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history Continued from page 7 Saturday morning in June, over 400 lesbian, bisexual, transgender and heterosexual people protested for days.
1970 A gay Hispanic group, Unidos, meets for the first time.
1972 “Coming Out!” a play by Jonathan Ned Katz, is performed for the first time in New York and provides a historical perspective of gay life from the colonial period to the present.
a deeper look at the
Wedding Cake Case By Lisa Cappalli In 2012 Messrs. Craig and Mullins asked Mr. Phillips’ bakery to bake them a wedding cake to celebrate the couple’s upcoming marriage. Mr. Phillips declined because of his religious opposition to same sex marriage. He offered to sell them other cakes. The couple then complained to the Colorado Civil Rights Commission that Mr. Phillips’ refusal was a violation of a state law that prohibits a place of business engaged in the sale of goods or services to the public from discrimination based on sexual orientation. The Commission agreed with the couple. It ordered Mr. Phillips, among other things, to stop selling wedding cakes only to heterosexual couples. Mr. Phillips appealed, ultimately, to the United States Supreme Court. The Supreme Court decided in favor of Mr. Phillips. It nullified the Commission decision because it found that the Commission acted improperly by failing to give Mr. Phillips the respectful and neutral hearing that his Constitutional right to freely exercise his religion required.
Because the decision was based on improper conduct of the Commission, the case was neither a win nor a loss for same-sex couples or those with religious opposition to same-sex marriage. The Supreme Court did set out principles to be considered in cases like this: “The first is the authority of a State and its governmental entities to protect the rights and dignity of gay persons who are, or wish to be, married but who face discrimination when they seek goods or services. The second is the right of all persons to exercise fundamental freedoms under the First Amendment [of the US Constitution] … both the freedom of speech and the free exercise of religion.” It recognized that it is a “delicate question” to reconcile the constitutionally protected rights of decent people, like Messrs. Craig, Mullins and Phillips, who, when you get behind labels, are simply trying to live their lives according to genuine and legitimate beliefs. The Supreme Court opinion concluded: “The outcome of cases like this in other circumstances
must await further elaboration in the courts, all in the context of recognizing that these disputes must be resolved with tolerance, without undue disrespect to sincere religious beliefs, and without subjecting gay persons to indignities when they seek goods and services in an open market.” Time will tell when and how the next “Wedding Cake Case” or cases like it will be resolved. Read the Supreme Court decision at: www. lcappalli-familylaw.com/masterpiece-cakeshop-ltd-et-al-v-colorado-civil-rights-commission-et-al. Lisa J. Cappalli is Of Counsel at the law firm of Freed Marcroft, LLC. She can be reached at lisa@ freedmarcroft.com or 203-2713888. This column should not be construed as legal advice or legal opinion Lisa J. Cappalli or Freed Marcroft, LLC on any specific facts or circumstances. The content is intended for general information only and you are urged to consult an attorney to advise you personally concerning your own situation and any specific legal questions you may have.
1973 American Psychiatric Association removes homosexuality as a mental illness.
1977 Harvey Milk is elected county supervisor in San Francisco and becomes the third “out” elected public official in the U.S. and the first in California.
1978 In San Francisco, the Rainbow Flag is first flown during the Gay Freedom Parade, June 25.
1978 Harvey Milk is assassinated Nov. 27 at San Francisco City Hall by former county supervisor Dan White. Also killed in the incident was the city’s mayor, George Moscone. White was later convicted of voluntary manslaughter, a verdict that sparked the “White Night Riots.”
1979 Chapters of the national organization of Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG) are founded across the United States.
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college campuses create centers of support and connection By Jessica Simms Special to the Record-Journal As a way to support the LGBTQ+ community on campus, area colleges and universities have a variety of support groups, student clubs and resources available to students.
Quinnipiac University At Quinnipiac University, the Gender Sexuality Alliance is a student-run organization that serves as a safe space for students who identify as members of the LGBTQ+ community and their allies. Along with support, the alliance educates students on issues facing the LGBTQ community. “I think that GSA gives a lot of young adults experience in LGBTQ+ culture because they’re away from their families for the first time,” said Mary Vidallon, GSA president. “It’s kind of a new space where (students) can feel safe and step into finding themselves especially being alone and independent. I think the club offers that in a way.” Before COVID-19, the GSA held in-person events and activities. However, meetings and events were via Zoom this past year. “I feel like COVID-19 really changed things, but I feel like we still found a way to have fun events,” said Athena Cuttle, past president of GSA. “We’ll have game nights, sometimes we’ll have more educational meetings depending on holidays or other things happening within the week and just do different things to make sure everyone has a safe space and a comfortable place to come spend time with friends.” Cuttle also worked with the university to create gender inclusive housing options for the 2021-22 school year and Vidallon expressed optimism that more initiatives can be put in place for the LGBTQ+ community on campus. “I know Athena has made a ton of strides especially including gender inclusive housing,” Vidallon said. “... Even more accessibility for LGBTQ+ students and maybe opening more gender inclusive bathrooms or maybe opening a women or LGBTQ center would be ideal in the next steps...”
University of Connecticut The Rainbow Center at the University of
Connecticut is one of five cultural centers on campus, with the “mission to operate in the service of a more equitable world for all students, faculty and staff,” according to its website. It officially opened in September 1998 and provides resources and services to the UConn community. One program is the FAMILEE mentoring program, which stands for Fostering Academics, Maturity, Independence, Leadership, Empowerment & Excellence. It “pairs new first-year students and second-year students with continuing students for participation in one-on-one meetings and larger group events. This program is designed to assist students in their first and second year at UConn-Storrs (including those coming from regional campuses and transfer students) with their transition,” according to the website. The center’s Out to Lunch Lecture Series is another program that includes academic lectures and discussions with guest scholars and community activists. Due to the pandemic, this past year’s presentations were held online.
Wesleyan University The Queer Resource Center was created by students who were looking for a space for the LGBTQ+ community to gather. In 2015, students started to advocate for an expansion to the center to include more staffing and two years later, the resource center was created to serve the LGBTQ+ community, students of color, students who identify as women and first generational low income students. The center focuses on race; ethnicity and nationality; gender and sexuality; socioeconomic status; social and political activism; and disability, sustainability and spirituality. “We really have to think about the whole person and not just little bits of it,” said Demetrius Colvin, center director. “How can we learn about, develop and teach about the whole person?” The resource center works with student leaders across campus to support the LGBTQ+ community. This includes implementing programming and events. “We have our pride reception at the begin-
ning of the year during orientation where the new incoming queers end up meeting the old returning queers and faculty and staff as well,” Colvin said.
Central Connecticut State University The school’s LGBT Center opened in 2009. “We have a lot of students who come up to the center and take part in the activities we do,” said WIlliam Mann, center director. “We have programming, we have support groups and we have resources as well — both health resources and also just resources for the community. It’s become a very vital cultural center at Central.”
Connecticut College At Connecticut College, there are three student groups on campus. CQ2, which stands for Connecticut College Queer and Questioning, is a biweekly closed group for students who identify as members of the LGBTQ+ community. QTPOC, Queer and Trans People of Color, is a biweekly group for queer and trans people of color to come together to discuss their experiences. PRISM is the queer student association on campus that acts as more of a social group and is open to allies of the LGBTQ community. “The LGBTQIA Center also offers our queer peer mentorship program which matches typically queer upperclassmen with queer first year and sophomore students,” said Erin Duran, center director. “Connecting folks with maybe more experience within the queer community and navigating queerness… with folks who are a little newer to the community.” Duran also expressed hope that the center and the groups will continue to help individuals within the community to connect. “I’m very proud of the progress (Connecticut College) has made in terms of being a really queer inclusive institution and a lot of that really manifests on campus in forms of these groups and the opportunity for connections,” Duran said. jsimms@record-journal.com 203-317-2208 Twitter: @jessica_simms99
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history
Continued from page 9 The American Psychiatric Association adds Gender Identity Disorder as a mental illness. This categorization refers to depression, anxiety and other issues related to orientation.
1982 Wisconsin becomes the first state to outlaw discrimination based on sexual orientation.
1988 The first national Coming Out Day is celebrated Oct. 11.
1991 Microsoft recognizes the first gay employees group in the U.S. Amanda Strom, art teacher and GSA Advisor, talks about the "Did You Know" display set up by the Gay–Straight Alliance club for Pride month at Maloney High School in Meriden, Fri., Apr. 30, 2021. The display lists facts, flags and famous people to help bring awareness to the LGBTQ community. Dave Zajac, Record-Journal
At area high schools, students promote unity, education for LGBTQ+ By Faith Williams Record-Journal staff
how to respond when witnessing bullying.
Local high school students are raising Pride awareness through Gay-Straight Alliance clubs.
“When you feel like you don’t belong, it hurts and it affects you so much,” Lentini said. “So I want to make sure those kids know that they do belong.”
Gay-Straight Alliance clubs are student-run organizations to unite LGBTQ+ and allied youth to build community and organize around issues impacting them in schools and communities, according to GSA Network. Fe Lentini, a senior at Cheshire High School, said it is important to educate other students about the issue. “I’m presenting to select freshmen health classes,” Cheshire’s GSA club president said. “It teaches them about the LGBTQ community, gender identity, sexuality, romantic identities and how to support those in the community.” Lentini offers tips to students and teachers on what she calls “acts of allyship” — such as asking someone what their pronouns are and
Maloney and Platt high schools combined their GSA clubs following the pandemic. Platt is lead by Bryan Sorak and Peggy Borrelli, while Maloney students are lead by Amanda Strom and Keith Lombardo. “At Platt, I decided to go with GSA because it’s a long standing club with national recognition,” Sorak said. “I figured it’s good to create a safe space to give our LGBTQ+ students.” The clubs use virtual meetings to educate and discuss what students are experiencing personally. “It’s helpful if there is anything I am questioning or trying to figure out about my identity.” said Brooke Montalvo, a club member.
“These are people that have gone through what I’m going through and can help me.” The schools declared May “High School Pride Month.” There will be a display that includes little known facts and photos as well as books, movies and music anthems that reflect the community. “Pride Month is about queer people finally being accepted more, celebrating their queerness openly and not be as fearful as they would have before,” Montalvo said. The Maloney group has other plans like a gender-neutral bathroom, while Platt is working on getting students to have graduation stoles to wear to represent their position in the LGBTQ+ community.
1995 Executive Order signed by President Clinton establishes uniform policies for allowing employees of the federal government access to classified information, stating the government “does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or sexual orientation in granting access to classified information."
1996 The Defense of Marriage Act is signed into law by Clinton. This defines marriage for federal purposes as the union of one man and one woman, and allows states to refuse to recognize same-sex marriages granted under the laws of other states. In 2013, the act's provisions were ruled unconstitutional or left effectively unenforceable by Supreme Court decisions.
1998
Sheehan High School’s GSA club participates in “Ally Week” and “Day of Silence” to bring more awareness to the LGBTQ+ community.
Matthew Sheppard, a gay student at the University of Wyoming, is beaten, tortured, and left to die near Laramie on the night of Oct.6,1998. One month later the Matthew Shepherd Bill added
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Resources The Southington PRIDE Resource Center provides this list for access to local and national community resources. Here you will find 24-hour help/text lines, websites, and a variety of local community resources. In a true medical emergency, please dial 911 or proceed to your nearest local Emergency Room. Local community organizations that would like to be listed in in the resource guide or if you have a suggestion for a resource/organization, please message Southington PRIDE via Facebook Messenger. National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (24 hours - for everyone of all ages) Call: 1-800-273-8255 Online Chat: suicidepreventionlifeline.org/chat Crisis Text Lifeline (24 hours - Serving Everyone of All Ages) Text "HOME" to 741741 Facebook Messanger Option: www.facebook.com/crisistextline Website: www.crisistextline.org The Trevor Project (24 hours - Serving LGBTQIA+ youth ages 13-24) Call: 1-866-488-7386 Text: "START" to 678678 Website / Online chat option: www.thetrevorproject.org/get-help-now Trans Lifeline (24 hours - Serving trans/questioning individuals) Call: 1-877-565-8860 Website: https://translifeline.org National Runaway Safeline (Serving runaway youth, parents/ guardians) Call: 1-800-786-2929 Text: 66008 Website / Online chat option: www.1800runaway.org
RAINN - National Sexual Assault Hotline (Serving all ages) Call: 1-800-656-4673 Online chat option hotline.rainn.org/online
National Human Trafficking Helpline (Serving all ages) Call: 1-888-373-7888 Online reporting of human trafficking: humantraffickinghotline.org
Telling a parent or other close family or friend about one’s sexual orientation or gender identity can be a big step. A “coming out” letter can help. This sample letter from pointofpride.org is in regards to a transgender reveal, however there are similar resources online for other coming out announcements. The points made in this letter illustrate the many feelings and concerns individual members of the LGBTQ+ community may have when seeking acceptance. Point of Pride also recommends that individuals planning to come out, especially youth, get support first, and make sure that it is safe to do so in their situation. One resource for support is https:// www.lgbtcenters.org/LGBTCenters. Dear [parent], This letter is a bit difficult for me to write, but I feel that it is important for me to write it. There is something I have been carrying inside of myself for some time now, and I now feel ready to come to you with it. I am transgender. Specifically, I identify as [insert gender identity here], which means that I [insert either the proper definition of your gender, or the most easily understood explanation for your gender identity that you feel they will understand (i.e. “I feel like a girl on the inside.”)]. I know this may be a bit difficult to understand at first, and it may be very new to you, but it is something I have known for some time. I trust you with this information about who I am, and I would like if in return that you start calling me by my chosen name, which is [if applicable, here], and using my pronouns, which are [here]. I plan to [insert aspects of social transition you plan to pursue here, such as changes to your presentation. If you plan to pursue a medical transition in the near future, such as hormone replacement therapy or surgery, you may mention this here, too.] This is to help me feel more at home in my body as well as the world, and it’s a feeling I hope that you can understand. I’m still your child, with the same likes and dislikes – I’ll just be living more authentically as the true me. And I know that you may have some slip-ups calling me [Name] or using [pronouns] at first, and that is okay. I would just like to know that you are trying your best to learn, understand, and support me. If you do slip-up, you do not have to make a big deal out of it. Correcting yourself is enough for me to see that you care about and respect who I am. If you have questions, I want to talk about them and help answer them. I also understand you may want to speak with other parents of trans children to learn more. There are plenty of resources for parents and families in person and online, and I am happy to show you some of them. Thank you for your understanding and your support, [Your name] For more information go to: pointofpride.org/coming-out-as-a-trans-ornon-binary-youth-sample-coming-out-letter-support-resources/ Compiled by Record-Journal staff.
Department of Defense Safe Helpline (Serving military individuals of all statuses) Call: 1-877-995-5247 Online chat option safehelpline.org/live-chat
SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration) (Serving all ages) Call: 1-800-662-4357 Website: https://www.samhsa.gov
Remedy Live (Serving all ages) Text: 494949 Website / Online chat option: www.remedylive.com Housing and Homeless Services for Connecticut (Serving all ages) Call: 211 or 1-800-203-1234 Website: portal.ct.gov Search for Homeless Services Connecticut Department of Children and Families Careline (Reporting of child abuse/neglect) (Serving individuals reporting child abuse/neglect in Connecticut) Call: 1-800-842-2288 Website: portal.ct.gov/dcf Southington Youth Services (Serving youth in grades 6-12) Services: supportive counseling for grades 6-12, volunteer opportunities for 13-15 year olds, substance misuse prevention, parent education series, and mentoring. Call: 860-276-6284 Email: youthservices@southington.org Website: www.southington.org Search for youth services Southington Bread For Life (Serving all ages) Services: food pantry, senior services, meal delivery, lunch/dinner program, Fuel For School (school snack program), children's summer program. Call: 1-860-276-8389 Website: southingtonbreadforlife.org Email: Info@southingtonbreadforlife.org Southington-Cheshire Community YMCAs (Serving all ages) Services: health/wellness, sports performance and personal training, childcare, day camp, community outreach and special fundraising programs, financial assistance, diabetes prevention program, LIVESTRONG (cancer survivor program), youth sports/programs, teen programs, family activities, aquatic programs and swim team. Call: 860-628-5597 Website: www.sccymca.org
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LGBTQ+ LEADERSHIP
CT BAR GROUP
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the only LGBTQ statewide candidate in 2018. Andrew J. McDonald is an associate justice of the Connecticut Supreme Court. He previously served as a member of the Connecticut State Senate from 2003 to 2011, representing the state’s 27th district in Stamford and Darien as a Democrat.
affecting the LGBTQ community, whether it’s criminal defense, housing, employment, family.”
McDonald married Charles Gray in 2009. He is one of 10 LGBTQ+ state supreme court justices currently serving in the United States. Joseph Grabarz, who served in the Connecticut House of Representatives from 1989 to 1993, was Connecticut’s first state legislator to come out as gay.
For more information about LGBTQ Section of the Connecticut Bar Association, visit www.ctbar.org Andrew J. McDonald, associate justice of the Connecticut Supreme Court.
history
LGBTQIA CENTERS
Continued from page 11
Continued from page 5 Teachers would stop me in the hallway and tell me how thankful they were we had started the club. Students that I never met before would come up to me and say “thank you” — and I had finally felt as though I was making a difference. The year culminated with a trip to the UCONN conference called “True Colors” where GSA’s from all over the state share experiences and learn from each other. I came home from the first True Colors conference sobbing. For the first time I was able to open up to my peers and explain to them the inner tumult I was going through, and the same was true for my classmates. When I went to college at NYU I fully immersed myself in the New York City LGBTQIA culture. I attended weekly drag shows, volunteered at LGBTQIA home-
less shelters, and even lived in an apartment above the legendary Stonewall Inn for a semester. I found my tribe and I was doing all that I could to support a community that had opened its arms to me. Then Donald Trump got elected as the 45th President of the United States, and my community was under fire. As he began rolling back rights, I saw firsthand my friends, coworkers, and peers begin to crumble under the weight of his policies. As things became more dire for those in the trans community, I began to notice an important pillar which stood between his discriminating policies and the people they were aimed at. LGBTQIA community centers are so much more than what the name suggests. They not only create a
sense of safety in a community that is often targeted, but they provide valuable resources which otherwise would not be available. They provide STD/STI testing and HIV/ AIDS screenings. In some cases they can even provide housing for those who need it the most.
crimes related to a victim’s sexual identity to the existing definition of hate crimes.
The LGBTQIA community is resilient but, like any marginalized group, needs support from the communities they live in. Southington has done an excellent job at creating that sense of safety for those in the LGBTQIA community, and I hope many other towns follow suit. It is my wish that from this PRIDE issue, and the efforts going on by many local organizations, that we can generate LGBTQIA centers all over Connecticut to help address the growing needs that the community faces day-to-day.
2003
SAME SEX MARRIAGE
The first same sex ceremony Pomaszewski’s mother officiated was for two men. The couple lived in Washington, D.C., but was getting married in Middletown at one of their sister’s houses, she said, adding that a lot of weddings are done at private homes.
Another memorable ceremony was for a couple who came all the way from Alabama, where same sex marriage was not legal at the time. “The women also had their entourage follow—in three cars from Alabama,” said Pomaszewski. The women were married on the beach in Old Saybrook. Initially, Pomaszewski. and her mother created a ceremony specifically for same sex couples. However, “We found same sex couples didn’t want to be treated different,” Po-
2000 CT voted to allow same-sex civil unions.
Coretta Scott King calls on civil rights advocates to include gay rights in their efforts. Some criticized her for this position.
2004 First legal same sex marriage happens in Mass.
2011 Don't Ask Don't Tell was repealed
2015
Continued from page 8 Pomaszewski said, “when they asked my mother if she would marry them, she would say, ‘sure.’ We are big believers in love. We wanted to be a part of it.”
nKorytnikova@record-journal.com 203-317-2444 Twitter: @n_korytnikova
maszewski said. “We found that everyone wanted the same thing. They wanted the traditional ceremony,” Pomaszewski said same sex couples want to choose between the traditional wedding vows; add or leave out portions, or some couples write their own vows. “Your wedding, your way,” is how Pomaszewski sums up the way her mother officiated and how she carries on. “It just has to be meaningful to you. Not a cookie-cutter ceremony but tailored to the person.”
Obergefell v. Hodges, Supreme Court Decision. The Court votes 5-4 that the fundamental right to marry is guaranteed to same-sex couples nationwide.
2016 Aug. 16, the U.S. Navy ship Harvey Milk is dedicated, the first named for an openly gay leader. Milk had served in the U.S. Navy during the Korean War aboard the submarine rescue ship USS Kittiwake (ASR13) and held the rank of lieutenant (junior grade) at the time of his honorable discharge. – Record-Journal staff
14 | Celebrate Pride Month • www.myrecordjournal.com/pride A26 ThursDiversity day, June• 10, 2021
The Cheshire Citizen | cheshirecitizen.com
OPINION
the question of fair play No need to take pre-emptive measures against transgender athletes By Jeffery Kurz Record-Journal staff
grilled about the transgender issue during his nomination hearing.
When I was in high school my football team lost a game by the score of 44-0.
My thinking about it could be characterized as flummoxed, but that generalized uncertainty has gained some clarity thanks to a recent letter Clearly, we didn't belong on the to the editor by Lexie Farkash, of same field that day, but as I recall there were no calls for us to form our Wallingford. She also experienced own league or, better yet, for them to challenges as a student athlete, in her form their own league. Let's call it the case playing field hockey. "I know there will always be those who have league for overachieving jerks. a natural edge over me," she said. Such lopsided results are far from She found the more proper response uncommon and take place every to be working harder, as opposed to year, all over the nation, all over the "insisting there be a separate league." world. It's an integral part of the The transgender population is small, whole wide world of sports. One of and the percentage of transgender the last games I saw in person, before athletes tiny, but the issue surroundthe pandemic, was a lopsided win by ing them has become huge. You Daniel Hand over Wethersfield. You could say it has hit a nerve. wonder how there's enough time in a high school football game to accom- As The Associated Press just recently reported, more than 20 states are modate such high scoring. fielding legislation that would ban There are all sorts of reasons for transgender girls from participatuneven outcomes, including size, ing with high school girls' sports speed, natural ability, coaching teams. "Yet in every case," says the skills - you can go on and on trying to report, "sponsors cannot cite a single explain it. instance in their own state or region Sometimes it seems to result from an where such participation has caused problems." unfair advantage. That perspective was at play in Connecticut when transgender runners Terry Miller and Andraya Yearwood won 15 championship races over a couple years, sparking a lawsuit and a national conversation, to put it mildly.
It's the Connecticut case that has sparked the upsurge in proposed legislation. "It's their Exhibit A, and there's no Exhibit B - absolutely none," Shannon Minter, legal director for the National Center for Lesbian Rights, told the AP.
The new education secretary, Miguel Cardona (you don't need me to tell you he's from Meriden, right?), was
States are taking action as a preemptive measure. In one case, it's to counter the possibility that "the next generation of female athletes
in South Carolina may not have a chance to excel," as Rep. Ashley Trantham was quoted as saying. In Tennessee, the bill is necessary to be "proactive," said House Speaker Cameron Sexton. This is a big response. Yet there's no "authoritative count" of the number of trans athletes who have competed in high school or college sports, according to the AP, and what count there is says it's minimal. In her letter, Farkash talked about competing against players who had been playing since kindergarten, similar to my experience, and found that "instead of getting upset or insisting there be a separate league,
we embrace our diversity and train harder." And, it's worth noting, as the AP did, that one of the Connecticut cisgender girls, Chelsea Mitchell, "defeated Terry Miller - the faster of the two trans sprinters - in their final two races in February 2020." My own feeling when it comes to what's to come is that more worrisome competition will involve artificial intelligence. When it comes to human beings, the path toward acceptance and inclusiveness is the better way forward. Jeffery Kurz is the Record-Journal’s editorial page editor. This column originally appeared on March 5, 2021.
Times are changing I write in response to the letter by Mr. Frank Milano Jr. on March 2 regarding the "fairness" of integrating transgender athletes with cisgender athletes and his resulting opposition to Dr. Cardona's nomination. I encourage Mr. Milano and residents who may feel similarly to consider the facts and implications. First, there is no single biological factor that determines sex. Scientists have said this, advocates have repeated this, yet critics seem to ignore this when it's time to support discrimination. Second, how exactly should we confirm the gender of each student-athlete, given that hormone levels and body-types naturally vary? Should referees pull down students' pants to verify before each game? Finally, even if transgender women did have some magical athletic ability that outshone cisgender women - which, to be clear, they don't just 0.42% of the population is transgender (according to one survey). An even smaller number are transgender women. This is not some astronomical amount that will upend sports teams and suddenly dominate. On a personal note, as a former student-athlete, I know there will always be those who have a natural edge over me. My stubby legs will never outrun those whose legs reach my eyebrows. Likewise, the difference between my high school in Wallingford playing field hockey against Cheshire was stark; one team had players who had been playing since kindergarten while my school, well, typically did not. Instead of getting upset or insisting there be a separate league, we embrace our diversity and train harder.
HAPPY PRIDE MONTH!
Times are changing and becoming more inclusive.
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There will always be naysayers complaining about progress and shouting at the sky that the world is turning upside down. But I, for one, applaud Dr. Cardona for his compassion and dedication to students of all genders. Lexie Farkash, Wallingford Originally published in the Record-Journal March 5, 2021.
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The Cheshire Citizen | cheshirecitizen.com
Th•uPride rsday,Month June 10, 2021 Celebrate Diversity • June 10, 2021 | 15
Books, Movies, events & more Continued from page 7 Memorial,by Bryan Washington. A novel. A gay, African American man living with his Asian American lover in Texas, delivers an unexpected lesson in how little we really know ourselves Less, by Andrew Sean Greer. A Pulitzer Prize winning novel about a gay writer fleeing an invitation to the wedding of his ex to another man. Boy Erased, by Garrard Conley. In his autobiography, Conley writes about his struggles after he is outed in college and his parents force him to attend a faith-based “school” to cure him. Raising My Rainbow, by Lori Duron. The author and her family navigate the challenges and rewards of learning how to accept their gender-variant son into their home and community. Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe, by Benjamin Saenz. A young adult novel that depicts the relationship between two Mexican-American teens who must overcome familial and societal cultural biases, and peer bullying. October Mourning- A Song For Matthew Shephard, by Leslea Newman, who is also the author of Heather Has Two Mommies. Newman wrote 68 poems about an attack on Shephard, due to his sexual orientation, that led to his death.
Music Betty, by Taylor Swift. This song from Swift’s Foklore album is interpreted by some listeners as a gay anthem due to the ambiguity of lyrics that don’t specifically refer to the gender of the song’s characters who are involved in a love triangle. You Need To Calm Down, by Taylor Swift. A song about the hate she has received for having gay friends. Considered by some listeners to be a gay acceptance anthem. Same Love, by Macklemore. Written about Macklemore’s gay uncles and his own experience with sexuality, and as a rallying cry for the Marriage Equality Act. Born this way, by Lady Gaga. Written as a response to the repeal of Don’t Ask Don’t Tell, which allowed LGBTQ+ members of the armed forces to be out and proud. It’s about celebrating yourself no matter who you love and who you are. A variety of songs by RuPaul: CoverGirl, Born Naked, Modern Love. RuPaul was the first drag superstar. He’s a musician and host of a popular television shows, RuPaul’s Drag Race, a drag competition show seen internationally. Him, by Sam Smith. A boy’s experience with coming out and grappling with his religion at the same time.
Todos Me Miran, by Gloria Trevi. Spanish song about loving yourself the way you are. The song translates to literally mean “Everyone looks at me”.
Film Paris is Burning. Documentary about the drag/ gay underground culture in New York in the ‘80s. A pivotal time in LGBTQ+ history. Directed by Jennie Livingston. RENT. New York in the ‘80s-’90s. This story of an apartment building and its tenants references AIDS, LGBTQ+ culture, and shines a light on people who were considered to be living on the “fringe” during the time. Cast includes Taye Diggs, Idina Menzel, Rosario Dawson, just to name a few. Directed by Chris Colombus. Moonlight. A story about growing up Black and gay. Released in 2016, directed by Barry Jenkins MILK. The life and death of Harvey Milk, San Francisco’s first openly gay mayor. Directed by Gus Van Sant. Carol. A story about two lesbian women in the 1950s. Directed by Todd Haynes How To Survive a Plague, by David France. Documentary film. An exploration of the AIDS epidemic.
Event
UConn True Colors Conference
This event brings together Gay/Straight Alliance groups from local schools and communities to focus on a wide variety of issues with workshops for students and teachers. Check it out at www. ourtruecolors.org/conference. and rainbowcenter. uconn.edu/true-colors-conference/#. – Record-Journal staff
Students promote unity Continued from page 11 Peter Borzillo, Sheehan’s GSA club president, said students participating in “Day of Silence” go the entire school day without speaking and then at the final bell, they all gather to finally break the silence, which could be a collective scream or simply conversation. This day symbolizes how silenced members in the community feel and to give those not in the community a symbolic glimpse into their life. “It’s less about trying to force our beliefs” Borzillo said. “We are just trying to promote an atmosphere where people feel safe and accepted.” Cheshire Academy offers LBGTQIA student clubs and groups on campus. The focus of the groups is determined each year by club members and student leaders. One year, they focused on pride through arts activities, said Julie Anderson, head of school. The club has also focused on other issues, including microaggression or how to garner support. “Everyone is on a different place in their journey,” said Anderson. Anderson said the school encourages language and norms that are inclusive. She cites examples such as using the term “partners” and “family” and not husband or wife or mom and dad. In another instance, students wanted a change to the dress code, to make it gender neutral. The protocol of girls wearing skirts or dresses and boys wearing blazers and shirts was changed. “It’s really (about) listening and understanding how the world is changing, and how we need to be supportive,” Anderson said. fwilliams@record-journal.com 203-317-2373 Twitter: @faith_williams2 Joy VanderLek contributed to this story.
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16 | Celebrate • Pride Month • www.myrecordjournal.com/pride ThurDiversity sday, June 10, 2021
The Cheshire Citizen | cheshirecitizen.com
MXCC STUDENTS PROMOTE EQUALITY, ACCEPTANCE & KNOWLEDGE
MIDDLESEX COMMUNITY COLLEGE
Your College • Your Future mxcc.edu
860-343-5719/ 866-526-6008 (toll-free) 100 Training Hill Road, Middletown, CT
“While I was never a member of SPEAK, I did always appreciate the ally trainings SPEAK would do. Especially when they created an atmosphere where it felt safe to ask any honest questions you have and not be judged on it.” — Benjamin Palazzo, MxCC class of 2016
R242019
M
iddlesex Community College (MxCC) LGBTQ+ students have found safe space with like-minded individuals through many supportive programs and activities as they navigate through their collegiate experiences. For more than a decade, the campus club SPEAK (Students Promoting Equality, Acceptance and Knowledge) has brought LGBTQ+ students together with each other, staff members and alumni. The primary purpose of the club is to provide support and assistance to those within the gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and questioning community and allies who seek it. “Middlesex Community College gives SPEAK members participated me a chance to stay connected with in events such as the Connecticut the queer community, to contribute to Health Information Management a student union that is both diverse Association Conference, where and inclusive, and for that I am they presented a panel about immensely grateful. Having queer role models such as the club advisors, how LGBTQ+ individuals face allows me to put my trust in this difficulty when giving information college, live authentically, and have related to health matters. the peace of mind to excel in my In 2019, SPEAK and college academic endeavors.” community members marched — Josh Rushworth, in the state’s first Pride parade, SPEAK president, manufacturing which took place in Middletown. “MxCC gave me a place to feel The group is also appearing in like I wasn’t broken or that I Middletown’s 2021 virtual parade on June 5. The club regularly conducts needed to be fixed for who I ally trainings, drag events, dances, Karaoke nights, fundraisers as well as was. It expanded my worldview participates in the True Colors youth event at UConn each year. In 2018, to different orientations and MxCC hosted the Connecticut State College and University (CSCU) Pride identities, and made them Conference, an all-day forum with workshops, discussions, networking and more normalized to myself and entertainment. others.” Last year, the college formally established the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion — Marina Capezzone, Council to reaffirm its commitment for maintaining a campus environment MxCC class of 2018 where all are valued, respected and included. Register now for summer and fall classes at mxcc.edu
Thursday, June 10, 2021
COVID-19 VACCINE
News You Can Use
alrededor del estado.
Cómo Programar Una Cita Para Recibir Su Vacuna de COVID-19
CVS: CVS está ofreciendo la vacuna en
vaccine at many locations across the state. To make an appointment using this system, click go to https://www.walmart. com/cp/1228302
Para programar una cita para recibir la vacuna, los que son elegibles pueden contactar a:
Para programar una cita usando este sistema, vaya al https://www.cvs.com/vaccine/ intake/store/covid-screener/covid-qns
Meriden Health Department:
El sistema en línea VAMS: El
Sistema de Manejo de Administración de Vacunas se puede usar para programar citas en múltiples clínicas alrededor del estado.
Walmart: Walmart también está ofreci-
CVS: CVS is offering the vaccine in
To schedule a vaccination appointment, eligible people may contact:
Walmart: Walmart also offers the
To make an appointment using this system, click on https://portal.ct.gov/ Coronavirus/COVID19-Vaccinations--VAMS-Support COVID-19 Vaccine Appointment Assist Line: Connecticut’s COVID19 vaccine appointment assist line is open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., seven days a week. To make an appointment, call 877-918-2224.
Hartford HealthCare: Hartford
HealthCare has multiple locations throughout the state, including large vaccine clinics in Wallingford and New Britain. To make an appointment using this system, go to https://hartfordhealthcare. org/vaccine
Yale New Haven Health: Yale New Haven Hospital has multiple locations throughout the state, including large clinics in the New Haven area. To make an appointment using this system, go to https:// www.ynhhs.org/patient-care/covid-19/ vaccine/get-your-covid-vaccine.aspx Walgreens: Walgreens is currently
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Noticias Que Usted Puede Usar Acerca de las Vacunas de COVID-19
How to Schedule an Appointment for a COVID-19 Vaccine
VAMS online system: The Vaccine Administration Management System can be used to schedule appointments at multiple clinics across the state.
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many locations around the state.
To make an appointment using this system go to https://www.cvs.com/vaccine/ intake/store/covid-screener/covid-qns
(203)630-4226
Wallingford Health Department: (203) 294-2065
FACTS TO KNOW • There is no charge for the vaccine • No health insurance is required • No person will be turned away based on their ability to show ID. • No one with an appointment will be turned away • Vaccines are distributed according to the guidelines of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Connecticut Department of Public Health. • Can you get the vaccine if you are undocumented? Yes, everyone is eligible to get the vaccine when their age group is eligible.
Para programar una cita usando este sistema, haga clic en https://portal. ct.gov/Coronavirus/COVID19-Vaccinations--VAMS-Support
offering the vaccine at 12 different locations and will soon be adding many more across the state. To make an appointment using this system, go to https://www.walgreens.com/topic/ covid19vac/CT.jsp.
muchas localidades alrededor del estado.
endo la vacuna en muchas localidades a través del estado. Para programar una cita usando este sistema, vaya al https://www. walmart.com/cp/1228302
INFORMACIÓN QUE DEBE SABER
• Todas las vacunas son gratuitas • No se necesita seguro médico • No se requiere identificación • Ninguna persona que tenga cita será rechazada • Las vacunas son distribuidas de acuerdo a las normas del Centro para el Hartford HealthCare: Hartford Control y la Prevención de Enfermedades HealthCare tiene múltiples localidades a y el Departamento de Salud Pública de través del estado, incluyendo grandes clíni- Connecticut. cas en el área de Wallingford & New Britain. • Se puede vacunar si es indocumentado? Si, todos son elegibles a recibir la Para programar una cita usando este sistema, vaya al https://hartfordhealthcare. vacuna cuando sean elegibles. ¿Cual es la mejor vacuna que puede org/vaccine Línea de Asistencia para Citas de Vacunas de COVID-19: La Línea de Asistencia para Citas de Vacunas de COVID-19 está abierta de 8am a 8pm, los siete días de la semana. Para hacer una cita, llame al 877-9182224.
What’s the best vaccine you can get? The one you can get today. Yale New Haven Health: El Hospital If you’re eligible, don’t wait! Getting vaccinated is one of many steps you can take to protect yourself and others from COVID-19.
Para programar una cita usando este sistema, vaya al https://www.walgreens. com/topic/covid19vac/CT.jsp.
recibir? La que pueda obtener hoy. ¡Si es elegible, no espere!
Yale New Haven tiene múltiples localidades El vacunarse es una de las cosas que usted a través del estado, incluyendo grandes puede hacer para protegerse y proteger a clínicas en el área de New Haven. Para pro- otros contra el COVID-19. gramar una cita usando este sistema, vaya al https://www.ynhhs.org/patient-care/ covid-19/vaccine/get-your-covid-vaccine. aspx
Walgreens: Walgreens actualmente está ofreciendo la vacuna en 12 localidades y pronto se añadirán muchas más
Vacunarse le protege Vacunarse le protege a usted, a suusted, familia su familia y su ycomunidad. su comunidad. RodrigoHealth Acosta, Médico Group en Jefe de Dr. Rodrigo Acosta, Médico en Jefe de Dr. Stamford Medical
ct.gov/covidvaccine
Stamford Health Medical Group ct.gov/covidvaccine
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The Cheshire Citizen | cheshirecitizen.com
Thursday, June 10, 2021
SPONSORED BY
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myrecordjournal.com/GreatShot Getting vaccinated protects you, your family, and your community. Dr. Rodrigo Acosta, President and CEO Stamford Health and Medical Group ct.gov/covidvaccine
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PINO PARISI DON’T THINK ABOUT JUST DO IT!
The Cheshire Citizen | cheshirecitizen.com
From A12
Watercolor exhibit Visit the foyer at the Cheshire Public Library, 104 South Main St., to view watercolors by Madison artist and Artsplace instructor Candace Bialczak. Visit cbialczak.com to see additional watercolors by Bialczak. Check the library website, cheshirelibrary.org, for available hours to view the show, which will be up until Wednesday, June 30. For information about taking a watercolor class with Bialczak, call Artsplace at 203272-2787.
Adopt From A8
or age. Not all cats’ personalities fit into stereotypes. Every cat is an individual, so don’t discount a cat because they aren’t male or female or orange or fluffy. By doing so, you'll have the best odds of finding a great match.
Hang-A-Quilt Day Farmington Valley Quilters is sponsoring their third annual Connecticut Hang-A-Quilt Day event on Saturday, June 19 (rain date Sunday, June 20). This free outdoor quilt show will showcase the art and beauty of quilting. In this time of social distancing, this is the perfect event for art lovers and quilters. Anyone who owns a handmade quilt is encouraged to display it outside their home on a fence, clothesline, railing, tree, garage, chair, or any other creative way. Your neighbors who drive or walk by will enjoy its beauty. If you participate, post a picture of your quilt on social media with #CTHangAQuiltDay. Photographs from previous years can be found at fvquilter.org.
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To find your new best feline friend, visit bestfriends.org, where you’ll find more than 3,300 network partners of shelters and rescues. Best Friends Animal Society is a leading animal welfare organization working to end the killing of dogs and cats in America’s shelters by 2025. Founded in 1984, Best Friends is a pioneer in the no-kill movement and has helped reduce the number of animals killed in shelters from an estimated 17 million per year to around 625,000. — Press Release
Letter to the Editor Not silenced Editor : There is good news for voters! This November, we will be able to vote on a referendum that will allow the legislature to consider early
CONNECT WITH US SOCIALLY
voting, which is currently allowed in 44 states. This measure was passed with bipartisan majorities for the second session in a row.
voting (based on whatever conspiracy theory is in vogue today), but they should at least let their constituents have a say in the matter.
Unfortunately, three Cheshire representatives – state Sen. Sampson and state Reps. Fishbein and Zupkus – voted to gag their constituents. They have every right to oppose early
This November, we should all vote to start the ball rolling on early voting, and get rid of the three who are trying to keep us silent. Martin E. Cobern Cheshire
CROSSWORD ANSWER
SUDOKU ANSWER
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Welcome to On The Menu.
Still not certain? Give the shelter team an opportunity to play matchmaker. “Talk to the staff and volunteers at the shelter about your lifestyle. Let them know if you live with others, including any pets, as well as who/what you come in contact with on a regular basis, and let them guide you to the cats that they think would mesh well with your life,” Bell said.
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Briefs
Thursday, June 10, 2021
Let us help you find the perfect place to eat.
Whether it’s a celebration, date night, or just grabbing a bite to eat, this list of local restaurants is sure to satisfy your taste buds.
Find great local eats - MenusCT.com Adelphia Café 476 Washington Avenue North Haven, CT 06473 203-535-0149 Family owned/operated. Former proprietors of the Neptune Diner in Wallingford. Extensive menu for all tastes. Breakfasts, luncheons and special dinners. All baking on premises.
Colony Diner
611 N Colony Road Wallingford, CT 06492 (203) 269-9507 colonydiner.com Wallingford’s place to go for oldfashioned breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Proudly serving up delicious and hearty meals daily. Voted Best Diner 4 years running by Record Journal. Open seven days. Breakfast served all day.
Athena II Diner
320 Washington Ave, North Haven, CT 06473 203.239.0663 www.athena2diner.com Open 24 hours a day 7 days a week. Serving breakfast, lunch, & dinner. Accept Q Cards. Serving North Haven for 30 years. Daily specials and full liquor available.
Duchess of Wallingford 124 Church St. Wallingford, CT 06492 (203) 265-9431 www.facebook.com/pages/ Duchess -of-Wallingford/119682821380599 Celebrating Over 25 Years in Wallingford! Our Success comes from dedication to quality,freshness & variety! Breakfast cooked to order. Open 7 days for breakfast lunch & dinner.
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Thursday, June 10, 2021
The Cheshire Citizen | cheshirecitizen.com
TALL ORDER Paul Tirella and Glen Corbeil, with Peter Webster Painters, a local contractor, recently took on the task of painting the 50-foot steeple of the First Congregational Church of Cheshire. Joy VanderLek, The Cheshire Citizen
TRAILS DAY
Over the weekend, the annual Connecticut Trails Days was a wellattended event locally with scheduled hikes around town. According to the Connecticut Forest & Parks Association there were over 180 events that took place throughout the state. Trails Day is a two-day national event on the first weekend in June every year, created by the American Hiking Society as a way to promote and advocate public trails for hiking and recreation. At left (photo submitted), the Cheshire Land Trust hosted a hike on a portion of Prospect Ridge on Sunday, June 6 with hike leader Scott Ellis. At right, Cheshire's town open space property, the DeDominicis Preserve was the featured hike on Saturday and hosted by the Coalition for a Sustainable Cheshire with trail leader Karen Schnitzer, pictured far right. The group learned about the geology and history of the parcel, and had the opportunity to identify native plants and birds during the hike. Joy VanderLek, The Cheshire Citizen
The Cheshire Citizen | cheshirecitizen.com
Thursday, June 10, 2021
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Blogger gives sun safety tips By Caitlin Houston Special to the Record-Journal
A not•for•profit Life Plan
As summer is approaching, it’s so important to think about sun safety tips. I always try to stay safe in the sun, but more so now since my experience with skin cancer. With over 5 million cases diagnosed in the United States each year, skin cancer is America’s most common cancer.
Community
150 Cook Hill Road Cheshire, CT 06410
Today I’m sharing a few tips on how to stay safe in the sun. Truthfully, there are days I want to hide inside from the sun’s rays for fear I’ll develop a new skin cancer spot. However I know I cannot live a life indoors and that there are ways to stay safe in the sun.
Check the UV index UV Radiation from the sun can cause skin cancer, premature aging, skin damage, and eye damage. You can check your location’s UV index online, which provides a forecast of the expected risk of overexposure to UV radiation from the sun.
Use high quality sunscreen To reduce the risk of skin cancer, skin damage, and sunburn – wear sunscreen everyday! Make sure to use good quality sunscreen with UVA on the label and SPF30 or higher. Apply 30 minutes before going outdoors and reapply every two hours. Wear sun protective clothing. It’s crazy to think that clothing is one of the most effective forms of protection against sun damage and skin cancer. A fabric must have a UPF of 30 to qualify for The Skin Cancer Foundation’s Seal of Recommendation. A UPF of 30 to 49 offers very good protection, while UPF 50+ rates as excellent. There are so many options for sun protective bathing suits for the family and clothing items See Blog, A36
Elim Park Place welcomes you to enjoy an
Explore Elim Park...where life is like a summer breeze!
Thursday June 24, 2021
Elim Park provides a safe environment following all state and local health department guidelines. Seating capacity is limited. Reservations are required.
→ Information session on programs and pricing
Program begins at 10:00am Check-in and coffee at 9:45am
→ Tours of our beautiful campus and apartment homes → Try a taste of three unique dining venues → Get answers to your questions
203.303.4567
elimpark.org
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Thursday, June 10, 2021
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COVID-19 VACCINE
ASK THE EXPERT
How does the process work for getting approval to expand vaccine rollout to younger age groups?
¿Cómo trabaja el proceso de recibir aprobación para expandir el lanzamiento de las vacunas a grupos de personas más jóvenes?
Children tend to have brisk immune responses to pathogens and therefore further studies are needed to determine which dose of vaccine is best for children. Currently studies are ongoing in children younger than 12 – starting with those at Now that we have data on the safety the older age range. Children in of COVID-19 vaccines in millions of these studies will receive a range adults, pharmaceutical companies of doses of vaccine to have started testing these vaccines determine which dose Ahora que tenemos in children. Although children tend información acerca de la triggers a strong imto have milder COVID-19 sympseguridad de las vacunas mune response without toms, they can still become sick and de COVID-19 en millones too many side effects. sometimes suffer lingering consede adultos, las comOnce researchers have quences from the virus. Children pañías farmacéuticas han determined which dose comenzado a probar las with underlying health conditions, is optimal for children vacunas en niños. Aunque such as diabetes and heart disin each age group they los niños suelen tener ease may be more at risk of severe will begin randomized síntomas de COVID-19 infection. Vaccinating children is controlled trials to más leves, es posible que also felt to be the key to controlling determine the efficacy se enfermen y a veces this pandemic – as otherwise there Dr. Virginia of these vaccines in sufran consecuencias would be a pool of millions of Bieluch prolongadas por el virus. children just as they children at risk of infection to allow Chief of Infectious Los niños con condiciones did in adults. These continued spread of the virus. Diseases, MidState de salud previas, como researchers will look Medical Center diabetes y enfermedad at development of imThe PfizerBioNTech vaccine was recardiaca, pueden tener mune markers in chilcently authorized for use in children más riesgo de contraer dren, cases of COVID-19 in vaccine una infección severa. También se cree 12-15 years of age after this vaccine and placebo recipients as well as que la vacunación de los niños es la was studied in 2,260 children in this the spread of virus in households to clave para controlar esta pandemia age group using the standard dose. determine how effective these vacporque de otra manera habría un grupo Side effects after vaccination such cines are in children. Completion de millones de niños en riesgo de infecas sore arm, fever, chills, headache, of these studies will take several ción, lo que permitirá la propagación and fatigue were similar to side months and we do not know exactly del virus. effects experienced by adults. The when vaccines will be available for vaccine was 100% effective against Recientemente se autorizó la vacuna children. Researchers hope that COVID-19 infection as none of the de Pfizer BioNTech para uso en niños vaccines may be available for older vaccinated adolescents became de 12-15 años de edad, después de que children in the fall, and at the end infected during the study, while esta vacuna se estudiará en 2,260 niños of 2021 for the youngest children (6 de estas edades usando la dosis nor16 cases of COVID-19 occurred in months to 2 years old). mal. Los efectos secundarios después those who received placebo injecde la vacunación, como dolor en el tions.
SPONSORED BY
brazo, fiebre, escalofríos, dolor de cabeza, y agotamiento fueron similares a los efectos secundarios que sintieron los adultos. La vacuna fue 100% eficaz ya que ninguno de los adolescentes vacunados se infectaron durante el estudio, mientras que ocurrieron 16 casos de COVID-19 en aquellos que recibieron inyecciones de placebo. Los niños suelen tener respuestas inmunes abruptas a gérmenes, por lo tanto se necesitan más estudios para determinar la dosis de la vacuna que sea mejor para los niños. Se están haciendo estudios actuales en niños menores de 12 años, empezando con aquellos de mayor rango de edad. Los niños en estos estudios recibirán una variedad en la dosis de la vacuna para determinar la dosis que provoque una respuesta inmune fuerte sin demasiados efectos secundarios. Una vez que los investigadores hayan determinado la mejor dosis para los niños en cada rango de edad, comenzarán ensayos controlados aleatorios para determinar la eficacia de las vacunas en niños, como lo hicieron en los adultos. Estos investigadores observaron el desarrollo de indicadores inmunes en los niños, casos de COVID-19 en el grupo que recibió la vacuna y el placebo, como también la propagación del virus en los hogares, para determinar la eficacia de estas vacunas en los niños. Tomará varios meses para terminar estos estudios y todavía no sabemos exactamente cuándo las vacunas estarán disponibles para los niños. Los investigadores esperan que las vacunas estén disponibles para los niños mayores en el otoño, y para el final del 2021 para los niños menores (de 6 meses a 2 años).
Vacunarse le protege Vacunarse le protege a usted, a suusted, familia su familia y su ycomunidad. su comunidad. RodrigoHealth Acosta, Médico Group en Jefe de Dr. Rodrigo Acosta, Médico en Jefe de Dr. Stamford Medical
ct.gov/covidvaccine
Stamford Health Medical Group ct.gov/covidvaccine
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The Cheshire Citizen | cheshirecitizen.com
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The Cheshire Citizen | cheshirecitizen.com
Thursday, June 10, 2021
Local student acclaimed for peace poster Chloe Retuya, an eighthgrader at St. Bridget School, made it to the winner’s circle for the 2021 Connecticut Lions Club Peace Poster Contest. Sarah Neubig, Peace Poster contest chair for the Cheshire Lions Club, said this year’s contest theme was Peace through Service. “We felt that Chloe’s poster really showed that,” said Neubig, adding that Chloe sent along a quote when handing in her poster : “Peace makes the world go round. Peace is essential to the world as water and sunlight are to a growing plant.” In addition to winning at the state level, Chloe’s artwork was submitted to Lions International headquarters in Chicago, to be judged in the international version of the Peace Poster Contest. According to Lions Club member Tony Cipriano, Chloe competed against more than 150,000 entries worldwide for the coveted “first place” award. “Chloe’s entry was judged one of the top 23 entries overall and she was just further awarded a merit award by Lions International along with a check for $500,” Cipriano said. Chloe said, “I was inspired to draw this particular image because especially amid these unprecedented times of the coronavirus pandem-
Chloe Retuya’s poster for the 2021 annual Connecticut Lions Club Peace Poster Contest.
ic, service is one of the most important ways to bring peace into our world. I was inspired by all the people putting their lives on the line who help those in need: policemen and policewomen, healthcare workers, and members of the armed forces. I was moved by com-
Blog From A33
for all occasions — just Google Sun Protective Clothing.
Protect your lips and eyes from the sun Choose sunglasses that block 99 to 100 percent of both UVA and UVB light. Wear your sunglasses and a wide brim hat when outdoors. The sun can cause eyelid skin cancer and other serious eye conditions (such as cataracts). I also like to wear lip gloss with SPF 40 on a daily basis.
munity service workers who dedicate their time and effort in acts of kindness. I am in awe of the idea that without service, there would be no peace.”
some personal spending, too. “I am looking to donate a portion of my winnings to different charities that I would like to support,” she added.
Chloe said her monetary The Cheshire Lions Club award will go into savings for Peace Poster Contest entries college but that she will have have won first prize in the
state contest among three districts the past three years in a row, said Cipriano. The annual Peace Poster Contest is open to middle school students in both public and private schools in Cheshire.
Don’t forget The sun shines through the clouds. It’s important to protect your skin on a cloudy day since 80% of the sun’s UV rays can penetrate clouds. If you’re going to be outside on a cloudy day, throw on some sun protective clothing and a little sunscreen! Caitlin Houston is a Wallingford blogger and mom of two who loves sharing all of her favorites on the Caitlin Houston Blog. Learn about fun activities at home, family friendly travels, easy recipes and more.
Keeping your head covered is among several ways to stay safe in the sun. Caitlin Houston, Special to the Record-Journal
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Thursday, June 10, 2021
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Thursday, June 10, 2021
Legal Notices & Classifieds
Reach over 310,000 readers. Call us today 203-238-1953
RJ MEDIA GROUP | Record-Journal | myrecordjournal.com | HOMEBASE Digital | Berlin Citizen | Cheshire Citizen | North Haven Citizen | Plainville Citizen | Southington Citizen | Town Times | The Post Business OpportuLegal Notices Help Wanted Help Wanted Help Wanted Wanted To Buy nities
LEGAL NOTICE The Historic District Commission will hold a Public Hearing on Monday June 21, at 4:30 p.m., at the Town Hall, 84 South Main Street, to hear the following: The application of Lauren Backman, for a Certificate of Appropriateness for installing a Central Air Conditioner Condensing Unit, property located at 108 Cornwall Avenue, Cheshire, CT 06410, which work is specifically detailed and available for review in the Cheshire Planning Department, 84 South Main Street, Cheshire, CT 06410. The application of David Majeski, for a Certificate of Appropriateness for replacing an exterior door as well as a rotting porch with composite materials appropriate to style, located at 69 Cornwall Avenue, Cheshire, CT 06410, which work is specifically detailed and available for review in the Cheshire Planning Department, 84 South Main Street, Cheshire, CT 06410. The application of Ricciardi Builders, LLC., for a Certificate of Appropriateness for replacing rotted window shutters with plastic ones, property located on 219 South Main Street, Cheshire, CT 06410, which work is specifically detailed and available for review in the Cheshire Planning Department, 84 South Main Street, Cheshire, CT 06410. Respectfully submitted: Lisa Franco, Clerk Cheshire Historic District Commission R242575 Help Wanted
Need to Earn Income ASAP? Earn up to $1,200 mo. + Tips! The perfect and easiest part time job - Newspaper Delivery Routes Available - Earn up to $600.00 every Two weeks +Tips (Depending on area)
Routes available in the following towns: MIDDLETOWN, CROMWELL, OLD SAYBROOK, MERIDEN, PLAINVILLE, NEW BRITAIN, WATERBURY Must be 18 or older. Must have valid drivers license, reliable vehicle and be available early mornings. Make extra cash before you go to work making early morning newspaper deliveries using your own vehicle. NO experience necessary. Must able to deliver early mornings, 7 days a week. MUST be dependable, and be able to read a route list with specific delivery instructions. We will demonstrate the route to you. Routes average 1.5 to 3 hours daily. No collections required.
Text or call Peter at 860-846-0216 from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and start as soon as tomorrow morning.
237783
Not Temp Work. Retirees, Stay at Home Mom’s, and Veterans are also welcome to apply. Make extra cash to pay rent, mortgage, bills, save money, or a great vacation.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT MARKETING SPECIALIST TOWN OF WALLINGFORD
ADMINISTRATIVE WATERSHED ASSISTANT - Mt CarCARETAKER mel Congregational Church, Hamden CT, Patrols & performs genis looking to hire a PT eral care & upkeep of the administrative assisTown’s potable (drinktant. Must have good ing) water reservoirs, computer & social mewatershed lands and dia skills. Please send resume to hayes641@ properties. Responds to Part-Time (19.5 hours comcast.net emergency calls & perper week). Dynamic forms scheduled overELECTRICIAN time municipal economic patrol work. Hourly Skilled tradesman M/F in development office rate: $25.53 - $30.92. all facets of alterations/ seeks an individual Some knowledge of renovations, maintewith exceptional digital State of CT public health nance and repair of marketing skills to regulations relating to electrical equipment for perform a variety of dams, water supply and the Wallingford Public confidential, responsible watershed maintenance Schools. Applicants administrative duties in and the ability to operate must be a High School creating and implementsimplified mechanical ing marketing programs or Trade School graduate equipment is required. plus seven years’ expeto support economic Must possess & maintain rience in the electrical development activities a valid State of CT Motor trade equivalent to within the Town of WallVehicle License. H.S. Journeyman Electrician ingford. The successful diploma or GED plus 2 applicant must maintain M/F. Must have a Class yrs. experience in related E-2 and/or possession active engagement with fields such as landscapof a Master Electrician local businesses, State ing, grounds mainteLicense Class E-1. of Connecticut economic nance etc. The closing Wages: $30.01 $36.71 development agencies, date for applications/rehourly. Application commercial real estate sumes is June 22, 2021 brokers, and other Town Forms: May be obtained or the date we receive at the Department of of Wallingford departthe 40th application Human Resources, 45 S. ments in order to best whichever occurs first. Main Street, Room 301, position the community Apply: Department of Wallingford CT 06492. as a destination for Human Resources, Town Forms will be mailed business expansion and of Wallingford, 45 South upon request from the relocation. The position Main Street, Wallingford, Department of Human requires a bachelor’s CT 06492, Forms will Resources or may be degree from an accredbe mailed upon request downloaded from the ited four-year college or from the Department Department of Human university in marketing, of Human Resources Resources Web Page. business administration or may be downloaded Fax: (203)-294-2084 or related field, plus one from the Department Phone: (203)-294-2080. (1) year of experience of Human Resources The closing date will in marketing, digital Web Page. Phone: (203) be the date the 40th marketing, economic 294-2080 Fax: (203) 294application or resume development, business 2080. EOE. is received or June 16, development, or an 2021, whichever occurs Whether it is a equivalent combinafirst. EOE. tion of education and lost ring, wallet or qualifying experience LABORERS - Pallet re- a Parrot named Oliver, substituting on a yearcycling, PT & FT. Call a Classified ad for-year basis. Wage (203) 265-1313. can help track it down. Rate: $22.00 hourly. Cover letter and resume can be sent to: Economic Development Office, Town of Wallingford, 45 Autos Wanted South Main Street, Wallingford, CT 06492. (203) 294-2062. Email: edc@ wallingfordct.gov. EOE
RECYCLE YOUR OLD NEWSPAPERS Please & Thank you.
NEW RESTAURANT VERY BUSY PLACE! Now hiring for line cooks, bartenders, servers, and food runners, offering full- or part-time. For more details, call (860) 550 5842.
FACEBOOK.COM/ RECORDJOURNAL NEWSPAPER TWITTER.COM/ RECORD_JOURNAL INSTAGRAM.COM/ RECORDJOURNAL
BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY - In Southington A-1 LOOKING - For Old Costume & Sterling Take over as owner of Jewelry Box Lots & this 40+ year old year Other Doodads.”I Pay round landscaping and Top Cash For Your yard maintenance busiGrandma’s Costume ness. Owner retiring, Jewelry Stash” Julie all equipment and cus203-443-9602. tomer info available. May split up 4 seasons, call Paul 860-621-6332 AARON’S BUYING no texting. Old Machinist Tools, Lathes, BenchTools, Hand Tools & more. Lawn and Garden (203) 525-0608. BARK MULCH - $29 Yard & up, 7 varieties. Also native woodchips or clean top soil $15 yd., firewood $20 + up. Pickup at 50 Mastrianni Place, Plantsville. Delivery, prep & spreading available. Call Paul, (860) 621-6332.
MATERIALS DISTRIBUTION Screened Topsoil $25/ per yd; Sand-$15 per yd; Millings-$10 per yd; Screened Millings $30 per yd; Clean Fill $8 per yd: $100 minimum delivery. No pickup truck service. Minimum 16 yd pickup at our yard. Call Jim @ 860-982-4819 for delivery
PREMIUM SCREENED TOPSOIL
$25/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
Wood Fuel Heating Equipment
TREE LENGTH FIREWOOD CALL FOR DETAILS 203-238-2149 CASH PAID For any Toyota any condition, running or not, crashed okay. Will take other makes and models. (203) 600-4431.
Wanted To Buy
1,2,3 Items or an Estate $$$ CASH $$$ Todd Shamock TOP CASH PAID Estate Sale Service For Junk or unwanted Costume Jewelry, vehicles, Toyota’s etc. Antiques, Dolls, Toys, Please call Mike @ 203- Paintings,Meriden Items 203-494-1695 284-8562 8am-5pm.
ALWAYS BUYING CASH PAID Vintage Electronics, Musical Instruments, Amps, Ham Equipment, HiFi, Radios, CB, Guitars, Audio Equipment, Antiques. 860-707-9350
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
The Cheshire Citizen | cheshirecitizen.com Wanted To Buy ANTIQUES - Always buying old; Toys, military, jewelry, art, watches, musical instruments, signs, arcade games, cameras, pre 1970 sports memorabilia, plus more. One item or entire estate contents. Call 860718-5132. BUYING MACHINIST TOOLBOXES - Tools & tooling, contents of machine shops, home workshops and small lathes. Call anytime 860-985-5760
Thursday, June 10, 2021
Businesses & Services Attics and Basements Cleaned
GARY WODATCH
Demolition Svs Sheds, pools, decks, garages, debris removal. Quick, courteous svc. All calls returned. Ins. #566326. Cell, 860-558-5430
Carpentry
Junk Removal A&R CLEANOUT SERVICE - Partial or total cleanouts of homes, garages, basements, businesses. We Clean homes top to bottom and do demolition work also. Free estimates. No job to small or large. 203-281-6387 or 203623-0166.
Landscaping JT’S LANDSCAPING LLC - Spring CleanUps, we specialize in weeding all types of beds, mulching, top soil work, pruning, hedges & trees, & all your landscape needs. Residential & commercial. Lic. #616311. Call today, 203 213-6528.
CARPENTRY
Repairs, Decks & Porches, Sheetrock & Taping Water Damage Repairs. Free Est. Ins. MC & Visa. Call Bill (203) 901-2136. CT. Reg. # 0647093 WANTED Individual firearms, collections & estates including military & related items.Federally licensed firearms dealer. Gunsmith, appraisals, Richard Pleines, (860) 663-2214.
Pets For Adoption
Electrical Services
TEC ELECTRICAL
Service LLC All Phases of Electrical Work. 24 hr. Emergency Service. Small Jobs Welcome. 203.237.2122
Gutters
CLEAN & REMOVE 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
Find litters of critters in Classifieds.
If they’re dirty! For gutter cleaning, Call Kevin (203) 440-3279 Fully ins. CT# 569127
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A Classified ad is an easy way to sell your merchandise, and it’s easy on your wallet, too.
RECYCLE YOUR OLD NEWSPAPERS Please & Thank you. ROOFING, SIDING, & STORM DAMAGE
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MIA NEEDS A Let Us BEAR LOVING HOME! Your Junk! Mia is a 7 year-old Junk Removal in CT domestic, short-haired tabby who is very Landscaping affectionate. She is an indoor-outdoor cat. She would not do well kept inside all day. She is accustomed to roaming GUTTERS PLUS 25+yrs. around and receiving Exp. Call today for Free lots of love. Her surviving estimate. 203-440-3535 human parent is now in Ct. Reg. #578887 assisted-living where Mia would not thrive. Please contact me as soon as Handyperson possible if you are interIF YOU Mention ested so that we can talk HOME DOCTOR This Ad - 48 more! Mia is currently SPRING Yard yrs exp. Odd jobs & located in Durham, CT. Clean-Ups remodeling, former US Navy, 15 yrs, #640689, Brush, branches, leaves, 860-977-3699. 203.427.7828. storm damage **JUNK REMOVAL** Tag Sales Appl’s, Furniture, Junk, CHESHIRE - 70 Peck Home Improvements Debris, etc Lane, Sun., June 13, WE CAN REMOVE 9-3, rain or shine. ANYTHING Suitcases, kitchen & Entire house to baking items records, 1 item removed! cassettes, cookbooks, Christmas dishes-decFREE ESTIMATES orations-drinking Sr. Citizen Discount glasses. Cashy Only. LIC & INS. DUMPSTER RENTALS 203-535-9817 Specializing in roofing, siding, kitchens, bathrooms, flooring, basement remodeling. Senior citizen discount Insured. Free est. 203-265-5200 HIC#0631937
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Call Monday thru Friday 8:30AM - 5PM
Tree Services
Specializing in tree removal, trimming, chipping & grinding. Call for free estimate. 203-945-1808.
Looking for a friend? Find litters of critters in our Classifieds.
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The Cheshire Citizen | cheshirecitizen.com
Thursday, June 10, 2021
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