The Cheshire Citizen

CHESHIRE ATHLETE MAKES HISTORY

Yes, Virginia, you are the goaltender

By Sean Krofssik Record-Journal staff

CHESHIRE Ginny Curello became the first female to start in goal for the Cheshire ice hockey program when the Rams opened the season Wednesday, Dec. 14, at the Louis Astorino Ice Arena.

The junior helped Cheshire earn a 4-3 non-conference win over the SouthingtonCoginchaug-Westbrook coop. But it did not start well for Curello. She gave up a goal on the first shot she faced.

“That was hard,” Curello said. “I just had to bear down and stay with it. We still had the rest of the game to go.”

Curello surrendered another goal in the first period, but

her team responded with a pair of goals from seniors Will Gaudet and Rocco Ocone-Krause.

Curello is between the pipes year round. She was an AllState and All-SCC goalie on the SCC champion field hockey team that went 14-51. In the spring, she’s goalie of the Cheshire lacrosse team and also plays club ice hockey.

This winter, she switched to the boys team at Cheshire after playing for the Blades, the co-op girls team that combines Amity, Cheshire and North Haven.

“I wanted to get the opportunity to be out here with them,” Curello said of her move to boys hockey.

See Goalie, A9

Missing persons legislation, related to Cheshire case, moves forward

WASHINGTON Legislation aimed at improving how information on missing persons cases is coordinated passed recently in the U.S. House of Representatives.

The Help Find the Missing Act, also known as “Billy’s Law,” has its origins in a Cheshire case. The legislation led by Congresswoman Jahana Hayes passed 422 to 4.

The bill supports efforts to solve missing persons cases by closing the gaps in law enforcement databases through improved coordination across federal, state, local, and non-profit agencies.

According to a press release from Hayes’ office, each year, tens of thousands of Americans go missing “leaving loved ones

to navigate a complicated system, often without answers. Unlike with missing children, federal law does not mandate law enforcement to report missing adults or unidentified bodies.”

The companion bill, sponsored by Senator Chris Murphy, and cosponsored by John Cornyn

See Missing, A6

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Cheshire goalie Ginny Curello makes a save against the Southington-CoginchaugWestbrook co-op during Wednesday, Dec. 14’sseasonopener. Aaron Flaum, Record-Journal

Slopes open for the winter

By Christian Metzger Record-Journal staff

SOUTHINGTON Skiing and snowboarding returned to the Mount Southington slopes for the winter season on Saturday.

New for this year’s season, Mount Southington has partnered with SNOW Operating who have worked to shape the snow on the beginner hill to make it conducive to new skiers, allowing them to get a hands on experience without having to worry as much about falling and giving instructors new ways to teach.

“We shape the snow in an area of our beginner learning area that just allows people to learn how to slide on snow a lot faster than a typical lesson,” said Brian McCloskey, marketing manager at Mount Southington. “Instead of just listening and watching for long periods of time, they’re actually going to be able to get moving on snow a lot faster. So we’re excited for that new piece.”

The ski area will also be offering different race programs, ski and snowboarding lessons across the season, as well as food, drink, and live music in the Mountain Room at the bottom of the slopes on Friday and Saturday.

Another local ski slope, Powder Ridge in Middlefield, was scheduled to open Dec. 21, with the snow tubing slope opening to the public on Dec. 26. Slopes will be open from 10 a.m to 9 p.m.

Powder Ridge has also expanded offerings from the previous year, opening more snowy trails with lights as well as extending the hours of the tubing hill for both day and night visitors. A remote bar will also be on-location at the tubing hill. All lifts will be operating from 9 a.m to 10 p.m.

Powder Ridge also will have snow bikes for those who aren’t as inclined to ski, but still want the thrills of going down the mountain. Beyond the slopes, Powder Ridge

will also have its beer and wine garden open on Friday and Saturday, with igloo dining also available at the base area.

Both slopes are anticipating a busy season, with the pair having season pass purchases exceeding the year prior. Season pass sales for Powder Ridge are 35% higher than last year.

“I think everyone’s excited. Even our season pass sales are up our season pass holders are anxious to get out on the snow again,” said Sean Hayes, owner of Powder Ridge.

“We had a pretty strong preseason for sales. So we’re anticipating another busy year. We just hope that Mother Nature cooperates,” McCloskey said. “Our guests have been very excited about getting out on skis. We’ve had a lot of traffic on the phone calling to ask questions about lessons and all that stuff. So it seems like

Owen DellaBianca, manager of lift operations, shovels the front walkway at Mount SouthingtonSkiAreaonWednesday,Dec.14. Dave Zajac, Record-Journal

Quality customized.

EDITORIAL

Palmieri’s path to person of the year

A long-time member of the Southington Police Department has been named the Southington-Cheshire Community YMCA’s person of the year. The brand of community service represented by Deputy Police Chief William Palmieri is rare and perhaps growing rarer and one that makes this pick by the Y a winner.

individuals in the community that give from the heart like Bill does with his time and resources,” said Mark Pooler, YMCA chief executive, announcing the award. “Pick an initiative in Southington and he’s involved somehow, some way.”

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A recent RecordJournal story on the Y’s choice included the headline “Tireless efforts,” a phrase that perfectly sums up a personality, with a dedication to the community, that has stood the test of time. Surely it’s not an easy task to accomplish while balancing the duties and responsibilities of a police officer. But Palmieri has found a way to meld professional and community interests that’s resulted in a big impact around town.

“I don’t know there’s many

The YMCA will honor Palmieri at its annual dinner on Feb. 15 at the Aqua Turf Club. A 37-year veteran of the police department, Palmieri is a well-known and vital part of a host of local projects. A life-long Southington resident, his motivation to improve the town was instilled in him by his parents who volunteered locally and emphasized the importance of service to others.

Palmieri serves as president of Southington’s Town-Wide Effort to Promote Success. He helped revamp the DARE

See Palmieri, A5

Palmieri

curriculum with STEPS and said, “kids need to be seen, they need to be heard, they need to be listened to.” He’s also been involved with the Dementia Friendly Southington initiative and other safety programs.

Described by Pooler as “ a tremendous gentleman,” Palmieri resisted taking credit for his contributions. “Any success that I’ve had is a result of great people around me. It’s parents that support me, it’s the community that’s supported us. It’s not anything about Billy Palmieri,” he said.

R-J reporter Jesse Buchanan wrote about police Chief Jack Daly’s comments on Palmieri’s award.

The chief noted that police work isn’t a normal 9-to-5 job. “When you care about the community, you’re doing over and above your normal day.”

A gentleman, a legacy of community service, a tireless worker great words to describe Palmieri and well earned.

But he revealed another part of his life experience that brings into focus a factor that makes this award all the more impressive.

With a humbleness that we have to appreciate, Palmieri reminds us that we have to keep striving to help people reach their potential.

He openly disclosed that he’d had his share of troubles growing up and that caring adults kept him on a good path.

“I could have had a very different outcome if there weren’t people who cared,” Palmieri said.

This recognition of Palmieri’s community service represents more than a

list of good works, it shows that helping others succeed, especially our young people, can result in quite amazing dividends.

Previously published in the Record-Journal.

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(R-Texas), Richard Blumenthal, John Hoeven (R-N.D.), and Thom Tillis (R-N.C.) previously passed under unanimous consent in the Senate. Billy’s Law now heads to President Biden.

Billy’s Lawwas inspired by Janice Smolinski of Cheshire, after her 31-year-

old son, Billy, went missing in Waterbury. While working with law enforcement to locate her missing son, Smolinski was met with systemic challenges. This legislation was introduced to curb those obstacles by streamlining the missing persons reporting process.

“Each year, nearly half a million people go missing and tragically, many of them will never see their loved ones again. Yet over 40,000 sets of

unidentified human remains are either held at coroners’ offices or disposed of after going unclaimed. Due to gaps in databases, missing persons and unidentified remains are rarely matched,” Hayes said in a press statement. “Billy’s Law will strengthen cross communication among agency databases and provide guidance for local law enforcement agencies, medical examiners, and coroners on how to best handle missing persons cases. No family should have to face a complicated and disjointed system in order to find their loved one. This legislation will help bring home the missing and offer closure to

the families of those who will never return home.”

Specifically, the Help Find the Missing Act would:

Direct the U.S. Department of Justice to continue to operate the National Missing Persons and Unidentified Persons System, providing a missing persons/unidentified remains database to which the public can contribute and access;

Connect NamUs with the FBI’s National Crime Information Center in order to create more comprehensive missing persons and unidentified remains databases and streamlining the reporting process for lo-

cal law enforcement;

Expand current law by requiring missing children be reported to NamUs (they already must be reported to NCIC); and

Require DOJ to issue guidelines and best practices on handling missing persons and unidentified remains cases in order to empower law enforcement, medical examiners and coroners to help find the missing.

Endorsing organizations include: the Consortium of Forensic Science Organizations, American Academy of Forensic Sciences, American Society of Crime Lab Directors, National Association of Medical Examiners, National Association of Police Organizations, International Association of Identification, Society of Forensic Toxicologists, American Board of Forensic Toxicologists, Fraternal Order of Police, National Association of Medical Examiners, The Doe Network, and LostNMissing.

Officials urge ‘common sense’ approach to rise in illness

By Mary Ellen Godin Record-Journal staff

As the numbers of influenza, COVID-19 and other upper respiratory infections continue to climb, doctors are advising members of the public to take a common sense approach to staying healthy and mask up if needed.

“RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus infection) has deeply impacted pediatric populations,” said Dr. Ulysses Wu, infectious disease specialist for Hartford Healthcare. “Hopefully, that has leveled off. Influenza is on the rise as well. It’s more now than compared to the last two years. It’s the most robust influenza season since 2010.

We would expect that to peak earlier than past seasons. ”

Connecticut hospitals and emergency departments are busy but equipped to handle more cases and the current influenza vaccine is a good match, Wu told reporters during a recent press conference.

Hospitals are at about 77% capacity.

“The (emergency departments) are bustling across state,” Wu said, adding, “And if it does get to a point where it gets too high, we do have surge plans in place if we need to.”

Wu repeated his recommendation for masking and that people use them when out shopping and in crowds, or if caring for someone with a compromised immune system.

The current rise in hospitalizations has triggered mask mandates in other regions of the U.S., but not in Connecticut.

Gov. Ned Lamont told the Hartford Courant that despite the uptick across all viruses, he saw no immediate need for any mask mandate.

“I don’t see any need at this point to think of any further restrictions,” Lamont told the Courant. “When it comes to going to school, if you’re

showing symptoms, please don’t go or test before you go. If you’re showing symptoms and you want to go, I recommend that you wear a mask.”

Lamont added, “There’s not going to be any need to require masks at this point, but I would say if you haven’t gotten your booster shot, get the booster.’’

The Yale School of Medicine says it may be difficult to determine whether symptoms are from COVID-19 or the flu.

Therefore, anyone with symptoms should get tested, stay home, and wear a mask around others.

Other conditions such as strep throat are also prevalent and share similar symptoms, Yale said.

Yale also emphasized that people can get the COVID19 booster and influenza immunization shot at the same time.

mgodin@record-journal.com 203-317-2255

Curello

“In the spring, I play on a high level of girls hockey,” said Curello. “Playing with the boys is faster and they shoot a lot harder. This is better for me and my development to play at this level.”

Curello made 21 saves in the win against Southington, including some key ones in the closing minutes when the Blue Knights emptied their net for an extra skater.

“I heard she was the first girl goalie to start for Cheshire, but we just look at her like she’s our goalie,” CHS coach Anthony Giusto said. “She gives us the best chance to win right now and she’s our goalie. She made saves when she needed to and I gave her the game puck because she deserved it for making some big saves down the stretch in her first varsity win. She did a very good job in net today.”

Giusto said his goalie played with poise.

“She is very calm and is very confident in there,” Giusto said. “She never gets too high or too low, and that’s good for any goalie. She have up a goal in her first shot faced adn she was able to shake it off and come out with a win. That says a lot about her.”

Curello said she was a little nervous making her first start, though not too nervous to start noticing some differences.

“The boys think about it more, ” Curello said.

“I can tell where they are going to shoot,” she said. “Girls don’t think about where they are going to shoot; they just shoot. The boys really make an effort to shoot blocker or shoot glove or shoot for a rebound.

“It was intense; I was happy to come away with the win,” Curello said.

“In the final few minutes I had to make a block. But my defense really helped me out.”

Cheshire goalie Ginny Curello keeps an eye on the puck during Wednesday, Dec. 14’s seasonopener.

Aaron Flaum, Record-Journal

Recognize signs of ‘senior slide’ at family holiday events

Press Release

It’s the time of year for joyous holiday visits with elderly parents, grandparents, aunts and uncles. It’s also the time to be on alert for signs of decline that indicate a need for assistance around the house, according to Connecticut senior home care agency Assisted Living Services, Inc.

“If it’s been a while since you’ve last seen an older family member in person,

Alvin D. Johnson, Jr.

CHESHIRE- Alvin David Johnson, Jr., widower of Jennifer Jean Johnson, and father to Timothy (Johnette) and Amy, passed away peacefully at home with his loving daughter on December 4, 2022. Born in Rockville, Connecticut, son of Alvin David and Bertine Smith Johnson, brother to Jane and Paul, he spent his early years in Connecticut and Colorado where he met his wife, Jennifer, in Sunday School. He loved spending time at the beloved family home in Rhode Island. He graduated from Ottawa University and received a master’s degree and sixth year from Southern Connecticut State University. He served in Vietnam, volunteered for years as a Boy Scout leader and taught high school special education in West Haven, CT. Together, David and Jennifer loved to travel and explore new areas and cultures. Dave continued traveling with his family on a trip to Niagara Falls this November.

As a lifelong American Baptist, he was an active member of the First Baptist Church in New Haven and was very involved and committed to missions. He became family to many refugees resettling in the area. He loved supporting

look for physical or mental impairments impacting their daily life and safety in and outside of the home,” said Mario D’Aquila, chief operating officer of Assisted Living Services, Inc. in Cheshire and Westport. “For example, can they prepare healthy meals, keep up with chores and practice good hygiene? Can they run errands and be active?”

D’Aquila syas clutter in the home becomes dangerous as it increases the risk of

Obituaries

falls and impedes the activities of daily living. It can also be a sign of depression.

“Mental health needs to be monitored in conjunction with physical health,” said D’Aquila. “Isolation and loneliness can accelerate decline. Our caregivers provide a crucial social connection by playing games, decorating for the holidays, or taking clients to visit friends or attend religious services.”

D’Aquila notes that while a

post-holiday slump, or the winter blues, affects many people, older adults who may not soak up much fresh air and sunshine are especially susceptible. They may avoid going outdoors even more in the coming months if they are concerned about falling on snow and ice.

One solution is implementing the Personal Emergency Response Systems, giving seniors help at the touch of a button.

D’Aquila offers warning signs that may indicate an elderly person needs additional help around the house or increased personal care:

Forgetfulness/confusion

Neglect of physical appearance or basic hygiene

Neglect of medical needs

Trouble performing routine tasks or chores

Personality changes

the ministry of Camp Wightman, the camp his father helped to found, and would spend a week there as “grampa” to his own grandchildren and so many children from First Baptist, New Haven. Despite many serious health challenges over the course of his life, he never faltered in staying connected to his family, his church family, ABCCONN, former students, friends and colleagues. His spirit will continue to be an inspiration to a large and diverse community. His life was full of love and service to others and he taught those around him to do the same. He was generous, gracious and accepted people for who they are. His tender heart was so expansive. Dave loved to laugh and we all benefited from his keen sense of humor.

He cherished each role he undertook: husband, father, teacher, friend, leader and especially his role as grampa. He enjoyed spending time with his four beautiful granddaughters: Caly, Aubri, Mckenna and Vivi. Dave spent his last morning in the church that he loved where he knew every board and brick. All who knew him, knew something of the love of God because of David. He was a model for many as to the way we should spend our lives. Now smiling from heaven and together again with his beloved wife of 51 years, the lives of David and Jennifer are infused in so many that they touched and knew. We are all so blessed and thankful to have known them.

Gifts in his name may be contributed to First Baptist Church, New Haven. Contributions may be made by mail at 205 Edwards St., New Haven, 06511 or online at firstbaptistnewhaven.org. Please consider sharing memories, photos and videos online at https:// www.mykeeper.com/ profile/DavidJohnson1/ or mail to 208 Mountain Road, Cheshire, CT 06410.

A Memorial Service will take place on January 14 at 11 a.m. at First Baptist Church in New Haven, Connecticut.

There are also devices equipped with Fall Detection can call emergency responders. GPS location technologies enable care specialists to locate the user in an emergency.

Technological devices can help a senior maintain independence inside the home as well. ALS offers a free home evaluation to address the main risk factors that impact seniors and individuals with disabilities the most: falls, medication compliance, fire safety, and rapid access to emergency care. The ALS CarePlus custom care plan includes electronic devices from its sister company, Assisted Living Technologies, Inc., to supplement personal care. There are automated medication dispensers to improve compliance, home safety devices that shut off a stove that is inadvertently left on, fall avoidance technologies, and remote monitoring systems.

Inability to handle finances, pay

bills

Unsteadiness, clumsiness or recent history of falling

The first step should be a visit to their primary care physician for a check-up to make sure there are no underlying causes and review all medications. The doctor is the best resource to help determine if professional home health care, such as nursing care, or physical therapy is necessary. Oftentimes all that is necessary is the right non-medical support at home. “Age-related decline can happen quickly, so even if you see a loved one often, subtle changes can be easy to overlook,” D’Aquila said. “Eldercare specialists are a family’s best resource to make a plan of action to age in place and provide peace of mind for the entire family.”

In Brief

Bereavement

Alderson-Ford Funeral Homes, Inc., offers the bereavement support program “A Pathway Through Grief” at no charge to participants. The next eight-week session is scheduled for Thursdays, beginning Jan. 26, from 10 to 11:30 a.m., at the Cheshire Senior Center, 240 Maple Ave. RSVP to Bob Havens at 860-480-1655 or havensvo67@aol.com.

Ski club

The North Haven Ski Club encourages people interested in winter sports (skiing, snowboarding, cross country skiing, tubing, snowshoeing) to join and take advantage of the great discounts offered to members. Contact Annette Murphy at 203-927-3071 or dapdmurph@aol.com.

R-J named New England Newspaper of the Year

Record-Journal staff

For the second year in a row, the Record-Journal has been named New England Newspaper of the Year among its peers by the New England Newspaper & Press Association.

The Record-Journal also received distinguished Sunday newspaper honors in this year’s contest.

Each year, the New England Newspaper & Press Association (NENPA) recognizes the region’s best daily, weekly, and specialty newspapers by circulation size, along with the accomplishments of individual journalists. Awards are judged by a panel of New England newspaper readers.

The Record-Journal received Newspaper of the Year honors among daily newspapers in the 10,000 to 20,000 circulation category both this year and in 2021. The Record-Journal also received distinguished Sunday newspaper honors for publications with a circulation of less than 25,000 this year.

Awards in all categories for 2022 were announced during an online video presentation, earlier this month, hosted by John Voket, editor of the Newtown Bee.

Voket explained that the NENPA competition is the only distinction of its kind in the newspaper industry that is judged by audience members.

“New England newspaper readers are appointed to evaluate the entries from a news consumer point of view and decide which deserves the honor of being named Newspaper of the Year,” Voket said.

Entrants receive a comprehensive review, he added.

“Readers evaluate every paper’s relative strengths and weaknesses including the quality of reporting and writing, the use of photos, design and presentation, digital offerings, overall utility and value, and general impressions like ‘Does the newspaper inform, educate and entertain, inspire, motivate or lead? Does it reflect and care about the community it serves? Does it put the interests of the readers first. Is it unique or special in some way?’”

Also recognized as distinguished newspapers in the same daily category were the Berkshire Eagle of Pittsfield, Massachusetts, the Daily Hampshire Gazette of Northampton, Massachusetts and The Day of New London.

Sunday Newspaper of the Year with a circulation under 25,000 was the Berkshire Eagle.

The Waterbury RepublicanAmerican won daily Newspaper of the Year honors in the over 20,000 circulation cate-

gory, while the Springfield Republican won Sunday Newspaper of the Year honors in the over 25,000 category.

BY JOHN PATRICK SHANLEY

In Brief

Art programs

Start the New Year with a new art endeavor, bringing life-long satisfaction.

Artsplace offers an exciting array of art classes for most ages, beginning mid-January and lasting for seven sessions.

View online at Artsplacecheshirect.org. Classes are taught by a staff of professional, award-winning artists, and all supplies are generally included.

Artsplace staff will help you select the right class or workshop for teens/adults in watercolor, oil painting, journaling, and colored pencil.

Children’s classes include drawing, painting, manga/ anime, and multi-media. Programs are appropriate for students of any artistic level.

It is always best to register early to avoid disappointment, as class sizes are limited. Class sessions are offered Mondays through Thursdays, and Saturdays.

Artsplace is located at 1220 Waterbury Road, Cheshire. The office is closed Fridays. Call Artsplace at 203-2722787.

Municipal notice

There will be no holiday trash delay this year as Christmas and New Year’s fall on a Sunday.

Energy assistance

The Cheshire Human Services Department is taking applications for the Connecticut Energy Assistance program, which provides support to income eligible households in paying for a portion of their heating cost during the winter months.

All heat sources are considered. Contact Kristen Schechter at 203- 271-6690.

CT Safe

The CT Safe mobile app allows citizens to report on suspicious activities within their communities.

The app can be downloaded on Apple and Android phones.

Crisis network

The Adult Crisis Telephone Intervention and Options Network is available 24/7, 365 days a year. Call 1-800HOPE-135 (1-800-467-3135) or 2-1-1.

For those under age 18, call 2-1-1.

Letters Policy

Letters to the Editor are limited to 300 words. Letters must be signed and names will appear in print. We reserve the right to edit letters. Include a phone number so The Citizen can contact you for verification.

Submissions must be received by 5 p.m. Friday to be considered for publication the following Thursday. Send submissions to news@thecheshirecitizen.com.

CHRISTMAS CLASSICS

Dave Zajac, Record-Journal

Jim Maiorana stands in front of his vintage light Christmas display at his 337 Cedar Lane residence in Cheshire on Thursday, Dec. 15. Maiorana's display features a variety of classic Santas, candles, snowmen and nativity figures.

Worker Mason Behuniak operates a snowcat at Mount Southington Ski Area on Wednesday, Dec. 14.

From Ski

everybody’s very excited for the ski season.”

Both parks worked to pour snow on the slopes in preparation for guests to arrive, running the snow-makers through the night and pouring over a million gallons worth of snow out to give the hills a distinctly festive look and making them fun for skiers to experience.

“Right now we’re pushing out 1.4 million gallons of snow in every 12 hour period that we’re making snow.

So we can put down a lot of snow in a very short amount of time,” said Hayes.

Mount Southington will still be using its older ski instruction building this season, in spite of plans to begin to replace it back in 2020.

The project has been delayed by the pandemic and the rising cost of construction materials.

The 32-year-old building has been a long standing fixture on the property, but the popularity of the ski school has made the building inadequate.

Owners are hopeful to retire the building after this season and work to build a new structure during next spring. Regardless, the parks are both eagerly anticipating this season, which aims to

be exceptionally busy with the height of the pandemic having passed and more people look to get out to seasonal events they’ve missed over the past couple years.

“We’re excited to have everybody back here. Winter has always been our busy season. We’ve kind of expanded out for the other seasons. We’re doing a lot more year round now, and so we’re busy all the time, but definitely put in a lot of work and a lot of effort to make sure that this place is running top-notch for the winter,” McCloskey said.

Hayes echoed that sentiment.

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Dave Zajac, Record-Journal

Cheshire Senior Center

Cheshire Senior Center, 240 Maple Ave., 203-272-8286

Senior Center is closed Friday, Dec. 23 – 26.

Food

Lunch order must be placed by noon the Friday of the week before by calling the Dispatch Office at 203-2720047.

Week Dec. 27 – 230: Suggestion donation is $3 per meal. Elderly nutrition – grab ‘n go meals have expanded to 3 days per week. Sign up by 12 p.m. on Friday of the week before.

Tuesday: Meatballs with marinara, spaghetti noodles, green beans, carrots, wheat dinner roll, margarine, seasonal fruit, milk.

Thursday: Turkey breast with gravy, stuffing, roasted beets, biscuit, margarine, saltine crackers, applesauce, milk.

Friday: Chicken breast with spinach and peppers, brown rice, carrots, dinner roll, margarine, assorted fruit juice, holiday cookie, milk.

Special programs

To register for any of the following programs, call 203272-8286 or email LGravel@ cheshirect.org.

December programs

Call the Wallingford Senior Center at 203-265-7753 for more information or to sign up.

Cheshire Readers Book Club – Tuesday, Dec. 20, at 10:45 a.m. Book choice for dicussion is “Blindness” by Jose Saramago. New members welcome.

Holiday Sing Along and Cookie Decorating - Wednesday, Dec. 21

The Boogie Boys New Year’s Dance Party – Thursday, Dec. 29.

Bus trip to Lancaster, Pa., May 23 to 25, 2023 – The Biblical Show in Amish “Moses” is coming to Lancaster, Pa. Depoist of $75 per person payable to the Travel Group, Inc., balance is due April 12, 2023. Reservations are limited and on a first come, first serve basis.

Exploring Britain and Ireland Sept. 24 – Oct. 8, 2023

Weekly programs

Technology Help with Jared – Thursdays from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Jared from the Cheshire Library returns to the Senior Center to help with computer/ tablet/cellphone technology questions. Appointments are recommended; call 203-2728286.

Golf Card Game – Fridays at 10:30 a.m. on the lower level. Weekly fee to play is $3.

NEW! Advanced Conversational Italian – Fridays at 11 a.m. Spend some time speaking Italian with Dea, Kimberly and friends. Registration is required.

Bridge – Fridays at 12:30 p.m.

Setback – Fridays at 12:30 p.m. The group is always looking for more players.

Line Dancing – Monday, from 9:30 to 10:15 a.m. Drop-ins are welcome to this free, relaxed instructional line dancing class.

Move & Groove Workout –Mondays from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Drop-ins are welcome at

this low-impact DVD exercise class.

Moderate Exercise – Tuesdays and Thursdays, at 10:30

a.m. This is now a drop-in class.

Nickel, Nickel – Wednesdays at 11 a.m. (note new start

time). Playing fee is 11 nickels and one quarter per person, per week.

See Seniors, A16

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

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.

Walking Group – Walking is a wonderful way for older adults to stay physically and mentally active. Call Marge at 203272-3316 for more information about her walking group.

Paid Classes

Classes begin the week of Jan. 9; ending the week of March 13. Make-up classes will begin the week of March 20.

Art and Painting: Fridays from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. $30.

Balance and Coordination: Wednesdays from 10:30 to 11:15 p.m. Zoom only, $30.

Chair Yoga: Tuesdays from 1 to 2 p.m. $30.

Discover Italian Culture: Thursday, from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. $30.

Gentle Therapy Exercise: Thursday, from 12:15 to 1:15 p.m. $30.

Get Fit with Brenda: Wednesday from 11:30 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. $30.

Guided Meditation: Monday

from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. $18. –Zoom only starts Jan. 23: Guided meditation through gentle words, sounds and music for relaxation.

Pilates: Wednesdays from 9:30 to 10:15 a.m. $30.

Pound/Rumbeo: Fridays from 9:30 to 10:15 a.m. $30.

Cardio class utilizing drumming sticks to promte high cardio energetic moves for toning and conditioning. Drum sticks are available for purchase for $2 at the Senior Center.

Zumba Gold: Tuesdays from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. $30.

Choregraphy that focuses on balance, ROM and coordination.

In-Person class registration will begin on Tuesday, Jan. 3 at 8:30 a.m. Everyone who registers in person on Jan. 3, will receive a numbered registration form which will be handed out, starting at 8:30 am. Registration will take place in the Multi-Purpose Room. To hold your spot for in-person classes, fees will be collected at time of registration.

To register and pay fees for Zoom classes you can stop in the office anytime before Jan. 3. You may also mail in your

Zoom class request and payment, see mail-in form below. Payment should be received before the start of classes to ensure you receive the Zoom link for your requested class.

You must be present to register for an in-person class. The class fees are $3 per class for members and $4 per class for non-members beginning Tuesday, Jan. 3.

Transportation

Call Coleen in the Transportation Office at 203-272-0047 for information and reservations. *Don’t forget to call by 11 a.m. the day before for your transportation needs.*

Transportation is available for medical appointments in the service area, grocery shopping, pharmacy, visits to the Cheshire Senior Center, and personal appointments based on availability.

Masks are required on all public transportation, including Senior Center minibuses.

Ride requests are accepted two weeks in advance. Any request made after 11 a.m. the day before the ride is needed is subject to availability.

Bus drivers accept cash do-

nations each time a rider steps on the bus.

Suggested donation is $1 each way for in-town rides, and $6 round trip for out-oftown appointments.

Schedule for Out-of-Town Medical Appointments:

Monday Meriden; Tuesday North Haven and Hamden; Wednesday Wallingford; Thursday New Haven; Friday Southington.

Ride requests are accepted for appointments between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.

Dial-A-Ride is available on Fridays for the Waterbury area.

GWTD Dial-A-Ride:

Residents of any of the seven municipalities in the Greater Waterbury Transit District (GWTD) may use the Dial-ARide service, free of charge. Service is limited to a particular day of the week for each municipality due to limited resources. Dial-A-Ride serves Cheshire on Fridays.

To be eligible to use the GWTD Dial-A-Ride Transportation Service, a rider must be: •60 years of age or older OR •a person with a disability AND •a resident of Cheshire, Middlebury, Naugatuck,

Prospect, Waterbury, Watertown, or Wolcott.

An application must be filled out and returned to the designated address to begin use of the GWTD Dial-A-Ride services.

Applications may be obtained by calling the Cheshire Senior Center Transportation Office at 203-272-0047.

Reservations must be made at least two days before a trip, and can be made up to 14 days before each trip.

Riders may call the phone number on their ID card between the hours of 9:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m., Monday–Friday, to schedule a trip.

More ways to move your business forward

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Targeted Advertising in print, online and mobile platforms.

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Direct Marketing solutions from custom mailings to email blasts.

Expert Guidance from dedicated marketing professionals.

To see how RJ Media Group can make your business more successful, contact Jim Mizener at 203.317.2312 or jmizener@rjmediagroup.com.

thecheshireherald.com

Berlin

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

TOP CASH PAID

DISPATCHER

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

Need to Earn Income ASAP?

PUBLIC WORKS

Earn up to $1,200 mo. + Tips!

HEAD OF TECHNICAL SERVICES

Data Application

CUSTODIAN

Maintenance workers needed for the Wallingford Public Schools to work the 8:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M. shift. Hourly rate: $19.78 to $24.83 hourly. Requires some experience in building maintenance work. The closing date for applications is December 28, 2022 or the date we receive the fiftieth (50) application whichever occurs first.

Apply: Human Resources Department, Town of Wallingford, 45 South Main Street, Wallingford, CT 06492. Forms will be mailed upon request from the Human Resources Department or may be downloaded from the Department of Human Resources Web Page. Phone #: (203) 2942080 Fax # 203-2942084. EOE.

The Town of Wallingford is seeking responsible candidates to perform 911, police, fire and EMS emergency dispatching duties. Must be able to work under stressful conditions and be able to type information with a high rate of speed and accuracy. Must be able to work all three shifts including weekends and holidays and be able to work additional shifts beyond the regular shift schedule. Requires a H.S. or business school diploma with courses in typing and 2 years of responsible office work experience. Wages: $ 23.72 ~ $28.28 hourly plus shift differential and excellent fringe benefits. Closing date is January 9, 2023, or the date of receipt of the 50th application, whichever occurs first.

Apply: Department of Human Resources, Town of Wallingford, 45 South Main St., Wallingford, CT 06492. Forms will be mailed upon request from the Department of Human Resources or may be downloaded from the Department of Human Resources Web Page. Phone: 203-294-2080, Fax: 203-294-2084. EOE.

Due to internal promotion, Cheshire Public Library seeks a new Head of Technical Services. Professional supervisory position responsible for the management & operation of Technical Services functions of Materials Management dept. Works closely with Head of Circulation to coordinate workflows. Reports to Deputy Library Director & serves on the Senior Management team. 35hr/wk, union position with excellent benefits. Includes at least one evening & Saturdays in rotation. Starting hourly rate: $37.82. MLS from an ALA accredited school of library/ information science & at least three years of relevant experience. Job description & information on how to apply available on town website at www.cheshirect.org. Cover letter, resume & references to Louis A. Zullo, HR Director, at lzullo@cheshirect. org or mail to 84 South Main Street, Cheshire, CT 06410 on or before the close of business on 1-13-23. Town of Cheshire is an EEOE, M/F/D/V.

Specialist: The Wallingford Public Schools is seeking a highly technical individual to assist in managing its organizational data system needs. Candidates must possess a high school diploma or its equivalent and 2 years’ experience working with computer software applications with 1 year working with PowerSchool, or an equivalent combination of experience and training substituting on year-for-year basis. School or district office experience is preferred. Must possess and maintain a valid State of CT motor vehicle operator’s license and a personal vehicle to travel between schools. Compensation is $32.86 per hour plus an excellent fringe benefits package. A complete job announcement and application may be downloaded from the Department of Human Resources Web Page and can be mailed to the Department of Human Resources, Town of Wallingford, 45 South Main Street, Wallingford, CT 06492, or emailed to: wlfdhr@ wallingfordct.gov by the closing date of December 28, 2022. Phone: (203) 2942080; Fax: (203) 2942084. EOE

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: MERIDEN, WALLINGFORD, SOUTHINGTON/ PLANTSVILLE, CHESHIRE AND MIDDLETOWN

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. 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.

For Junk or unwanted vehicles, Toyota’s etc. Please call Mike @ 203284-8562 8am-5pm. 248314

Text or call Peter at 860-846-0216 from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and start as soon as tomorrow morning.

MAINTAINER IIPerforms a variety of semi-skilled tasks in road and grounds maintenance. Must possess 2 years’ experience as laborer in construction work involving operation and care of trucks and other mechanical equipment used in construction OR two (2) years training in one of the skilled trades and one (1) year of experience in construction operations OR an equivalent combination of experience and training. Must possess and maintain a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL) Class B to operate equipment. (Provide a copy of your CDL license with your application) $23.73 - $27.82 Hourly. Applications may be obtained at the Department of Human Resources, 45 S. Main Street, Room 301, Wallingford CT 06492. Forms will be mailed upon request from the Department of Human Resources or may be downloaded from the Department of Human Resources Web Page. Fax (203)-294-2084

Phone: (203)-2942080. The closing date will be the date the 50th application or resume is received or January 9, 2023, whichever occurs first.

EOE

WALLINGFORD - 1st fl., 2 BR, KIT, lrg. pantry, DR, LR, full BA, nice porch, GAR in back.1 mo. rent & 1 mo. sec. (203) 6790032, (203)952-5243.

PREMIUM

SCREENED TOPSOIL

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

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

TIMELESS TREASURES

ESTATE AUCTIONSIs looking to purchase estate contents. From

& sec. dep. due at signing. Please call John 203.269.1426.

Detached two-story condominium, 1244 square feet, 3 bedrooms, 1.5 baths, & 1 car garage, available to those whose income is less than or equal to $60,840. The maximum sales price of unit 10 Sycamore Way, Wallingford, CT, is $175,921. For more information, contact Kristin Murphy at Calcagni Real Estate, 203-2651821 x1227.

TREE

LENGTH FIREWOOD

COSTUME & FINE ESTATE JEWELRY WANTED - New, Old, Napier, QVC, Gold, Silver, etc. “I Pay Top Cash For Your Grandma’s Costume Jewelry Stash”. I’ll come to you. 36 yrs exp. Julie Rees-Gorneault, 203-443-9602.

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

CARPENTRY

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

Let Us BEAR Your Junk! Junk Removal

in CT

1,2,3

FOR ANTIQUES - Call Todd Shamock, 203-4941695.

AARON’S BUYING

CHRISTMAS PUPPIES!

MATERIALS

DISTRIBUTION

Screened Topsoil $25/ per yd; Sand-$18 per yd; Millings-$22 per yd; Screened Millings $30 per yd; $100 minimum delivery. No pickup truck service. Minimum 16 yd pickup at our yard. Call Jim @ 860-982-4819 for delivery

ANTIQUES - Always buying old; Toys, military, jewelry, art, watches, musical instruments, signs, arcade games, cameras, pre 1970 sports memorabilia, plus more. One item or entire estate contents. Call 860718-5132.

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

GRASSY HILL AUCTIONS, - an Estate Sale, Liquidation, Attic & Basement Cleanout Company is Always Buying and providing services all over Connecticut. These are just a FEW of the things we are looking for: Antiques, Collectibles, Old/ Vintage Toys, Musical Instruments (Saxophones, Trumpets, Violins, Flutes, Clarinets, Trombone & SO MUCH MORE) Advertising Items, Wristwatches (Broken or Not), Pocket Watches, Tools (Machinist, Woodworking, & MORE) Doorstops, Clocks, Oil Paintings, Old Signs, Old Photographs, Old Postcards, Brewery Items, Hunting & Fishing, PEZ Dispensers, Costume Jewelry, Broken Jewelry, Gold & Silver Jewelry, Gold & Silver Coins, Military Items, Swords & Bayonets, Helmets & Patches, Medals & Uniforms, Pocket Knives, Lighters & Pipes, Foun tain Pens, Mechanical Pencils, Fraternal Or Items, Religious Items, Industrial Items, Win chester Items, Sikorsky Items, Pratt & Whitney Items, Colt Items, Na tive American Items, Vintage Electronics, Slot Cars, Toy Trucks, Matchbox & Hot wheels, Barbie’s, Folk Art, Statues, Bronzes, Trains, Cameras, Mid Century Modern Fur niture, Straight Razors, Shaving Items, Political Items, Comic Books, Sports Cards & Auto graphs…& THE LIST GOES ON! So please give us a call at your earliest convenience.

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

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

- Bichon Yorkie and Sheltie Teddy Bear puppies. Great Christmas presents! First shots and wormed. For more info call 603-6302258.

GUTTERS

DON’T WORK

If

gutter cleaning, Call Kevin (203) 440-3279 Fully ins. CT# 569127

IF YOU Mention This Ad FALL Yard Clean-Ups Brush, branches, leaves, storm damage **JUNK REMOVAL** Appl’s, Furniture, Junk, Debris, etc WE CAN REMOVE ANYTHING Entire house to 1 item removed! FREE ESTIMATES Sr. Citizen Discount LIC & INS. DUMPSTER RENTALS 203-535-9817

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

JM Lawn Care Tree service, junk removal. Comm/Res. 860.796.8168

CLEAN & REMOVE Furniture, applianc-

es, entire contents

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

BRADLEY’S PAINTING203.715.0771. 30 years in the business. Watch our video at bradleyshousepainting.com

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

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

Old Machinist Tools, Lathes, BenchTools, Hand Tools & more. (203) 525-0608.