Cheshire Citizen

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CA OPENS NEW SCHOOL YEAR

Thursday, September21, 2023

Details on new schools come into focus

By Peter Prohaska Herald Staff

On Sept. 7, Cheshire’s Board of Education was updated on the status of projects designed to bring two planned elementary schools from concept to reality.

The update was provided by Richard Gusenburg, chair of the Next Generation School Building Com-

mittee, who informed members that his group has “finished the first of three development phases, ” known as the schematic design phase. Tecton Architects, responsible for devising the plans for the two new elementary schools, gave a detailed presentation to the BOE about their progress, including plans for heating See Schools, A6

Big plans ahead for Ball & Socket Arts

It’s a new era over at Ball & Socket Arts and a large portion of the site will open to the public in the near future.

The team is excited to share the progress and to open new pedestrian amenities, our first gallery, and to bring writing classes into session.

The site’s southern direct entrance onto the Farmington Canal Linear Trail will open to public on Sept. 29, with a 5 p.m. ribbon cutting in partnership with the Town of Cheshire. The southern portion of the campus will be open to the public featuring a new direct entry point onto the

See Arts, A8

Cheshire Academy Convocation began with students gathering on Slaughter Field during the morning hours of Friday, Sept. 8. Kindness Club member Peyton Einhorn (left) and club advisor and Science Teacher Caron Quantick were both on hand. Photo courtesy of Cheshire Academy

Taking stock of what’s left on the curb

A loud crashing noise woke me up before the alarm the other morning. I figured the hubby set the trash out on the curb the night before, so I shrugged it off as garbage truck sounds. It was too early to get up, but as the noise didn’t stop, I got out of bed. I made coffee and looked out the front window.

Oh no.

I see a mess in my driveway. The trash cans are upside down and sideways, and there’s a ton of stuff strewn about the driveway and the street, and none of it looks like mine. Let’s go have a look.

Once outside, I realize it’s not only trash day, but this year is bulky waste pick-up. It appears that my neighbor’s discards are what I see broken and scattered about in front of my house and my driveway. Obviously, someone did a drive-by, picked up a few items, and then cast them aside. By the looks of it, they did so while traveling 75 mph. It is a disaster scene.

Among the wreckage is a collection of baby strollers, child car seats, furniture parts with all kinds of sharp edges and broken plastic. I sweep the smaller pieces and deposit them into our bin. I carry the large, heavy pieces back to my neighbor’s pile. Wow. The bulky waste pile on the lawn looks like more than half the household is being unloaded. Maybe they’re moving?

Driving around town, you can see there is an incredi-

ble number of things being thrown out. I see some folks put out mattresses. Bulky waste will not pick that up. Who is going to tell them? Not me.

Just about everyone has some metal they are putting out. Metal items are accepted. Since metal has a tangible value, that makes sense. Here in Cheshire, we’ve also had “ a guy ” who has been the local metal man, picking up scrap metal for years. My hubby and I have used him in the past. He comes to your house for free, hauls it away, and the metal is recycled. He probably put his kids through college with everything he’s picked up over the years.

The Coalition for a Sustainable Cheshire hosts an annual Repair Café. That’s an awesome idea. Residents bring broken items in to be fixed by volunteers. That helps keep some perfectly good items out of the trash. “There are so many options locally available to us to repurpose and recycle, and so we need to change both our mindsets and actions. Keeping even one item out of a landfill reduces the waste we are burning or sending to another state,” said Fiona Pearson, CSC Co-President.

Other alternatives include the online Buy Nothing Cheshire and Freecycle. Local redemption centers for recycling and Goodwill are options, too, said Pearson. I, myself, know that Habitat for Humanity takes furniture and building materials.

In talking with a friend, I bring up the topic of this year’s bulky waste and grouse about all the stuff we just throw out. In year’s past, I tell her, we tossed out quite a bit. Not this year. That’s mainly because I feel really bad about it. A lot of the bulky waste items I see piled up around town include perfectly good dining room tables and chairs, lamps, footlockers, bed nightstands and headboards they can all be repurposed or reused. Unfortunately, many of the items are left out and it rains. It means the items are ruined. They have no value any longer. No one can use them.

My friend nods her head, agreeing with everything I’ve said. Before we’re done, she makes me promise to keep my eyes open. It just so happens that my friend needs an outdoor table for her plants. Well, at least she’s repurposing, right?

Seasonal flu vax available at Stop & Shop

Stop & Shop has announced that seasonal flu vaccinations are once again available at its more than 70 pharmacy locations across Connecticut for both adults and children aged five-or-older. In addition to flu shots, Stop & Shop is also offering the newly approved RSV, respiratory vaccine to those 60 and older. Eligible customers can receive immunizations for both the flu and RSV during the same pharmacy visit, as the CDC has indicated that these vaccines

may be administered alongside each other. Vaccinations are administered by Stop & Shop’s trained & trusted pharmacists and are at no-cost with most insurance plans.

Stop & Shop offers several types of flu vaccines, and its team of licensed pharmacists can help each patient select the type that is best for them. Stop & Shop pharmacists will help customers by addressing concerns about allergies, preservatives, or potential side effects. In addition to

flu shots, customers aged five and older in need of a COVID-19 vaccine or bivalent booster can receive both the flu and COVID-19 vaccine at once per the CDC, with no need for a waiting period. Stop & Shop pharmacies have an ample supply of Bivalent COVID-19 vaccines for eligible patients available at no-cost with most insurance plans. An updated COVID-19 vaccine, that Stop & Shop will offer, is anticipated later this fall.

In addition, Stop & Shop

pharmacists are experienced in screening for risk factors associated with various health conditions and providing immunization support to help protect against shingles, RSV, pneumonia, and tetanus. Customers should consult their local Stop & Shop pharmacist for a full immunization review and to discuss other important immunizations that can help keep them, their families, and the community healthy.

“The health of our community is of utmost importance to Stop & Shop, and we welcome everyone to come and meet with one of our specially trained, dedicated pharmacists about flu shots and other immunizations,” shares Katie Thornell, Director of Pharmacy at Stop & Shop. “It’s never too early to start taking preventative measures to stay healthy, and we are happy to offer the flu shot as well

as COVID-19 boosters, RSV, pneumonia, and shingles vaccinations. We are wellstocked and offer same-day immunizations, either by appointment or simply walking in. Stop & Shop aims to make it easy for everyone to get the care they need to keep themselves and their loved ones healthy.”

Stop & Shop takes extensive health and safety precautions at its pharmacies and has secured additional stock of the flu vaccine. The immunization area also has strict disinfecting and sanitization measures in place between each patient.

To find a Stop & Shop Pharmacy near you, to view which vaccine is available in your local Stop & Shop Pharmacy, or to schedule an immunization appointment, visit www.stopandshop.com/pages/ss-pharmacy.

Mosquitoes thriving due to weather changes

This summer has been very humid and rainy, producing the perfect conditions for mosquitoes to flourish.

Although most mosquitoes are not harmful and are just a nuisance, there are approximately 12 species of mosquitoes that can carry diseases including West Nile virus, Zika, and in rare cases, Malaria.

The Chesprocott Health District is urging residents to take the following precautions to keep mosquitoes under control and prevent contracting a mosquitoborne disease this season.

Empty all standing water in outdoor containers and fill tree holes that collect water

Tightly cover all storage containers (rain barrels, buckets, etc.) so mosquitoes cannot lay eggs.

If you have a septic tank, repair cracks or gaps. Cover open vent or plumbing

pipes. Use wire mesh with holes smaller than an adult mosquito.

Repair any holes in window screens to prevent mosquitoes from coming in to the house.

Keep doors closed and avoid propping doors open

When possible, wear cloth ing with long sleeves, pants, skirts and long dresses as well as wear socks and shoes to stop mosquitoes biting your skin.

Use Environmental Protec tion Agency registered insect repellent with one of the fol lowing ingredients: DEET, Picaridin (known as KBR 3023), IR3535, Oil of lemon eucalyptus, Para-menthanediol, or 2-undecanone.

For more information visit the CDC websites at https:// www.cdc.gov/mosquitoes/ mosquito-bites/preventmosquito-bites.html

Organ Concert with Julliard School Professor Kreeger

Sunday, September 24th at 5:30 PM Contact the Church at (203) 272-4626 for tickets. Tickets are $25.

Cheshire United Methodist Church, 205 Academy Rd, Cheshire, CT

PURCHASE YOUR TICKETS TODAY!

Be sure to reserve your tix by September 26th

Please join us for the 20th Annual Artsplace Author Event

Celebrating Two Cheshire Authors!

Cindy House & Donna Norman Carbone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

The Manor Inn, Milldale, CT

Tuesday, October 3rd | Doors open 4:30pm

For more info call or email us at: 203-272-2787 | artsplace@cheshirect.org

The 1st Annual North Haven Festival & Business Expo has been designed to connect the North Haven and regional business communities to the residents for which they serve. It will be a daylong celebration of business on the North Haven Town Green.

We will be having a drawing for "Favorite North Haven Business" and "Favorite Exhibitor Booth" for a chance to win one of several giveaways, some of which include Avelo Airlines - Round Trip Tickets for 2 or a Weber Griddle 28" LP

FOR MORE INFO: maribel@quinncham.com

and cooling that avoid carbon-based fuels, but that may lead to significant costs.

There are floor plans showing where different “learning communities” will be located. Plans to restore wetlands near Norton by taking out invasive species are also on the table. There are render-

ings of the floor plan, the bus and car drop-off areas, and the buildings’ exteriors as well, as the firm gets ready for the next phase which project manager Justin Hopkins called “design development.”

The design development phase, Hopkins explained, is “a room by room analysis” and “development of the criteria that goes on in each of the spaces.”

An early image of what drop-off at Norton Elementary mightlookatinFallof2026. Submitted photo

The architects have also begun to consider interior design elements, including a consistent color scheme, the

Brilliant Basement

types of flooring and wall finishes that will enhance student performance, energy efficiency, furniture and acoustics, including mandated levels of “sound transmission coefficients” within instructional spaces.

A cost estimation exercise, Hopkins added, would follow the design development phase. Following that, construction documentation would be created. This is done, per Hopkins, “so that we can have some assurances during bidding that we’re getting accurate numbers and limiting the amount of potential changes during construction.”

However, Hopkins also admitted that there has been some “cost escalation” as the firm continues its design process.

The full version of this story appears in The Cheshire Herald September 14 edition. To subscribe to The Herald, visit www.cheshireherald.com.

Connecticut’s minimum wage will increase to $15.69 on January 1

By Mark Pazniokas © The Connecticut Mirror

After a series of annual $1 increases set by the General Assembly, Connecticut’s $15 minimum wage will rise by a relatively modest 69 cents on Jan. 1, the first of the state’s raises pegged to a federal index that tracks wages.

The increase announced Monday by Gov. Ned Lamont is the first computed under the terms of a 2019 law that ends decades of periodic partisan fights over the minimum wage and puts it on an annual autopilot

The law requires the state to automatically raise the minimum wage each year based on the Employment Cost Index, a measure of wage growth calculated by the federal Bureau of Labor

Statistics.

“I think work should pay,” said Lamont, a former businessman who has straddled a line between labor and business.

The Democratic governor has fought fiscal policies he deems a drag on economic growth, but he delivered on two promises to labor in his first year in office: Raising the minimum wage, and creating a paid family and medical leave.

Lamont announced the new minimum wage in Windham, a community of 24,000 that is the largest in northeast Connecticut and one of the poorest in the state. The mayor, Tom Devivo, said it ranks second-to-last in wages.

The impact will be muted by

a tight labor market that has pushed many fast-food and retail employers to set starting wages well above the minimum wage, but Lt. Gov. Susan Bysiewicz said the bump still will mean raises for many.

“We think it’s going to affect approximately 10% of our workforce 163,151 employees will be directly affected and will benefit with this change to $15.69,” Bysiewicz said.

While business groups fought the passage of the 2019 law, which also raised a $10.10 minimum wage to $15 in annual increments, the head of the state’s largest business group saw little immediate impact due to market conditions.

Connecticut’s wages rose by

4.4% from 2021 to 2022, giving the state the fifth-highest average wages in the U.S., said Chris DiPentima, the president of the Connecticut Business and Industries Association.

“We’re a high-wage state, so I think that increase in minimum wages is probably not a huge issue right now in this environment,” DiPentima said. Recruiting and re-

tention are employers’ biggest labor challenge, he said.

The announcement came on the same day the state Department of Labor reported that Connecticut had recovered all the jobs lost during the COVID-19 recession.

“Let me tell you today, they announced we have now

See Wages, A13

Farmington Canal Linear Trail.

Historical signage is planned for that area of campus. Hear directly from Town officials and Ball & Socket Arts leadership on the making of this partnership. Once open, members of the public will

be able to use the rear parking lot for trail use, as well as on-site events at Ball & Socket Arts.

Shared parking is expected to be a boon to the entire neighborhood and enhance traffic and make it much easier to host on-site events. The rear parking lot was completed in partnership with the Town of Cheshire and features 68 parking spots, which will serve both

Ball & Socket Arts (and onsite tenants) as well as those hoping to use the trail. Construction fencing will ensure that the continued work in Building 1 and Building 5 will not affect public use of the rest of the site.

On Oct. 9, Ball & Socket Arts will ring in a new era on-site with the opening of the Workshop Gallery with the first visual arts exhibition on-site!

In Building 3 (the former workshop for Ball & Socket Manufacturing), the first gallery show Rites of Passage will feature the early rock n’ roll photography of Charlie Erickson and Tom Hearn. These photos document seminal musical moments in collective history including Woodstock, early Ramones concerts, and more.

Images will be accompanied by text from Alan Bisbort and a throwback Zine celebrating a more old school method of printing.

The gallery will be free and open to the public four days

a week (expected hours are 12 to 4 p.m. on Thursdays and Fridays, and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays).

Ball & Socket Arts is seeking volunteer docents for all shifts who can commit to regular shifts.

The exhibition will remain on view until Dec. 15. The kick-off event will be a free public opening reception with the artists is planned for Monday, Oct. 9, from 4 to 7 p.m. with light bites and all three artists in attendance.

In October, Ball & Socket Arts will also launch “The Factory,” a creative writing program that offers longform classes in various disciplines of creative writing for adults at every level of experience.

Beginners and experienced practitioners are very welcome. Faculty for the first batch includes: memoir with Cindy House, acclaimed author of the recently published book, “Mother Noise,” and frequent opener for David Sedaris on tour; Poet-

ry with Pat Mottola, local poetry professor and prizewinning writer; and Comedy Writing with David Iscoe, a former staffer at “The Onion.” Memoir is on Monday nights, Poetry is on Wednesday nights, and Comedy is Saturday afternoons. These classes will operate for 10 weeks on-site. Tuition is $450 per class, with discounts available for those with interest and financial barriers to participation. Class size will be capped at 10 students providing an in-depth workshop experience.

To hear the latest news from Ball & Socket Arts, sign up for the email newsletters or check the website at https:// ballandsocket.org/.

Cheshire FD

Applications for membership to the Cheshire Fire Department are always welcome. Visit cheshirefd.org. Postings about Cheshire Fire Department activities can be found on the CFD’s website, as well as on Facebook (Cheshire Volunteer Fire Department) and Instagram (cheshirect.fd).

Land Trust

The Cheshire Land Trust is an all-volunteer, non-profit organization committed to conservation. The organization is wholly funded by members.

For more information, email CheshireLandTrust@ gmail.com.

Alert system

Residents can register to receive emergency notifications from the town. Exam-

ples include evacuation notices, bio-terrorism alerts, boil water notices and missing child reports. Visit cheshirect.org to register.

Office hours

Most Town of Cheshire offices are open 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday, with the following exceptions: the Registrars of Voters office is open 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday; the Human Services office is open 8:30 a.m. to 3

p.m. Monday through Friday and by appointment; the Collector of Revenue office is open for extended hours on tax deadline days.

Counseling

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

sessions can be arranged. For more information, contact the Youth and Social Services Department at 203271-6690.

Car seat inspection

To schedule an appointment, contact Cheshire po-

lice officer Kristian Johnson at 203-271-5544.

Arrange to bring your child and all safety seat instructions to the inspection. For more information on child safety and safety seats, visit Safekids.org.

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 online requester form at myrecordjournal.com/cheshire-requester Or, you can call us at 203-634-3933 and we can mail you a postage paid postcard to fill out and return. Without the necessary requester information, delivery of your Cheshire Citizen to your home or business, will end. Cheshire Citizen will be delivered to anyone who is not already a Cheshire Herald or Record-Journal subscriber only.

HELP

Lillian Derganc

MERIDEN Lillian

Derganc, a devoted mother, esteemed school teacher,and compassionate member of the community, passed away after a shortillness onSeptember6,2023,attheageof

90. Born onJune 4, 1933, inWaterbury, CT, she was the beloved daughter ofthe late Josephand Lillian(Ciarcia) Coscia. Having lived inCheshireandMeriden, Lillian wasa womanof great intellectand dedication, earningher B.A. degree inEnglish from theUniversity ofConnecticut andher M.S. degreein ClinicalCounselingfrom CentralConnecticut State College. She utilized her vast knowledge and love for teaching to nurture youngmindsfor26years

June Johnson

CHESHIRE JuneMottram Johnson, 90, passed awaySaturday,September 9, 2023 at her home in Cheshire.Shewasthewife ofthelateRichardN.Johnson.

Mrs. Johnson was born June 11,1933, in Meriden, daughterofthelateWilfred and Viola(Hall) Mottram. She assistedher husband of61years inhisstore, Town&CountryTV&Appliance,andhisbuildingmanagement company.June livedafull lifewithherloving husband,enjoying the timesshespentwithhimin Clinton,Vermont,andFlorida.

Mrs. Johnsonleaves be-

Obituaries

atthe Doolittleand Darcey Schoolsin

Cheshire. Lillian’s passion forhelping others extended beyondthe classroom,as shealso maintained a successful practiceas alicensed and certifiedpsychological counselor for over 26 years inCheshire andan additional 8 years in Torrington. Apart from her professionalaccomplishments, Lillianwas anactive member of the community. She was a respectedmember ofthe Cheshire Lutheran Church,whereshefound solace in her faith and shared her kindness with fellow congregation members. Lillian’s memory will foreverbe cherishedby hersurviving relatives, includingher loving son,Alan D. Oeschger andhis wife Lauren, theirchildren Adrienne and Andrew

and grandchildren, Sebastian and Avery, her brotherDr. JosephF. Coscia, Jr.and hiswife Ruth (Krock)Coscia, her sister Joan(Coscia) Faulkner and her spouse Kelli Filosa, her nephew Gregory R. Faulkner, her niece, Deborah(Faulkner)Crowell andmany other nieces and nephews.Her warmand nurturing presence will be dearlymissed byall who knew her.A memorialservice tocelebrate Lillian’slife willbeheld on Friday September 29th at 11:00 a.m. at the Cheshire Lutheran Church, located at 660 WestMain Street.Inurnment willfollow inthe columbarium atthe Cheshire Lutheran Church. The AldersonFord FuneralHome of Cheshire615SouthMain Street has careof arrangements.

In Brief

Connecticut Energy Assistance Program

The Cheshire Human Services Department will be taking applications for the Connecticut Energy Assistance program for Cheshire residents only.

The Energy Assistance program provides financial assistance to income eligible households in paying for a portion of their heating cost during the winter months.

Program eligibility is based on income and family size. Applicants must provide documentation of current income of all household family members over the age of 18 to apply for assistance. Applicant must provide current primary heating source bill and a copy of the most current utility bill.

longtime friend and supporter of the parish.

The Fore St. Pete’s Sake golf package includes 18 holes of golf, breakfast, use of the driving range and putting greens; tips and assistance from golf pros; post-golf dinner with an open bar (beer, wine, soft drinks); prizes; raffle and silent auction.

The cost is $150.00 for individual players; $. non players can have dinner/dessert and participate in the raffle for $25.

For more information and to sign up as a player or sponsor, visit St. Peter’s website: www.stpeterscheshire.org

Young Democrats Rally

hindherdaughters,Patricia GroveandherhusbandDr. Michael Fanizziof Fairlee, VT, and Jill Johnson of Jupiter FLand Cheshire, andher sons,Robertand hiswifeKathlynJohnsonof Miami, FL,Richard JohnsonJr.and hiswife,Kathleen Johnson of Cheshire, andDavidJohnsonofHartford. She will also be missed by her granddaughters, KaitlynSalvatore andAshley Walsh,her grandsons JamesAndrew Johnson,JosephJohnson, Dylan Walsh,and Jaiden Hatton, and her greatgrandchildren, Josephine Salvatore, and Ryland Welch. In addition to her husbandandparents,Mrs. Johnson waspredeceased

by herson, RonaldJohnson.

Mrs. Johnson’s family extends their deepest thanksto LorraineSkyers forher dedicatedandloving care fortheir mother duringherlast3years.

Arrangements: Services for Mrs. Johnsonwill be heldon Friday,September 15, 2023,at 10:00A.M., at the Alderson-Ford Funeral Homeof Cheshire,615 SouthMain Street.Burial will followin CheshireHillsideCemetery. Thereare nocalling hours.Memorial contributions, inher name, maybemadetoacharityof thedonor’schoice.Foronline condolences,to share a photo or a story, please visitwww.fordfh.com.

All heat sources are considered, including oil, propane, electricity, gas and wood. Renters who have their heat included in their rent must provide proof of rent and copy of lease. Applications will be taken by appointment only beginning the week of Oct. 9. Contact Kristen Cherry at Cheshire Human Services at 203-2716690.

*Note the Cheshire Human Services office is moving. As of Oct. 2, we will be located at 19 Wallingford Road, Cheshire, CT 06410. The office hours and phone number will remain the same.

11th Annual Fore

St. Pete’s Sake Tournament

St. Peter’s Episcopal Church in Cheshire is hosting its 11th annual golf tournament on Friday, Oct. 6 at Lyman Orchards Golf Club in Middlefield. “Fore St. Pete’s Sake” is the church’s biggest annual fundraiser, and this year it will honor the Rev. Ray Andersen, the founder of this popular event and

This year the Young Democrats Rally will take place at 6 p.m. Friday, Oct. 27, at Cheshire Senior Center, Maple Ave. This is a free event; refreshments will be served.

Elim Park Christian Women’s Connection

Elim Park Christian Women’s Connection is scheduled for Oct. 10, at 10 a.m. Elim Park Conservatory, 150 Cook Hill Road. Brunch 9:45 a.m. $20.00 (Payable at door); door prizes; fashion show – consignment originals; Speaker, Sharon Palmer; Music – Sharon K. Make reservations by calling Joann at 203-8832 or email kgill1948@gmail.com. RSVP by Oct. 1, Leave name and contact number.

Cheshire FD

Applications for membership to the Cheshire Fire Department are always welcome. Visit cheshirefd.org. Postings about Cheshire Fire Department activities can be found on the CFD’s website, as well as on Facebook and Instagram.

SARAH BECKERT

SHEEHAN VOLLEYBALL

Though Sarah Beckert was just a sophomore last year, the Sheehan volleyball team sorely missed her services when she went down with a season-ending injury. Back to full health as a junior, Beckert has the Titans off to a 5-1 start a year after they finished 4-16. The quick jump in 2023 has included a sweep of Lyman Hall that featured 9 assists, 8 aces and 6 digs by Beckert.

ELLIE MADANCY

LYMAN HALL SOCCER

All hail to the playmakers. In a sport like soccer, they are the ones who keep the wheel in spin. For Lyman Hall, that girl is Ellie Madancy. The sophomore midfielder scored the first goal in Friday’s season-opening 9-0 win over Wilbur Cross, then dished five assists. “Assists” and “Madancy” often appear in the same sentence. Madancy is also the point guard for LH basketball.

ERIN SOLA

PLATT CROSS COUNTRY

In both cross country and track, Erin Sola has amassed an impressive body of work in her first three years at Platt, including a 10th-place finish at the CIAC Heptathlon this spring. This fall, she launched her final season of cross country winning a tri-meet with Plainville and Bristol Central at Hubbard Park. Sola covered the 3.1-mile circuit in 21:23. Watch for that time to drop.

VOTE AND WIN!

C.J. DIBENEDETTO SOUTHINGTON FOOTBALL

One thing’s for sure: Heading into their Friday night showdown with Staples, Southington football knows it can throw the ball. C.J. DiBenedetto, Southington’s second-year quarterback, opened his senior season with a pair of 300-yards-plus games: 398 in Week 1 vs. New Britain and 330 this Sunday at Wethersfield. DiBenedetto is a combined 47for-70 with six touchdowns.

DONTE KELLY MALONEY FOOTBALL

We’ve got a hunch Donte Kelly could be Athlete of the Week every week and that maybe we should save him for later in the football season or in basketball or track. Well, we’re not waiting. Kelly certainly hasn’t. In the first two weeks of football, the senior caught 12 passes for 265 yards and three touchdowns and returned two kicks for scores as the No. 3 Spartans opened 2-0.

MATT JEFFERY CHESHIRE FOOTBALL

What we just said about Donte Kelly goes for Matt Jeffery, too. The All-American lacrosse player bound for Notre Dame is giving thought to walking on in football when he gets to South Bend. Why not? Jeffery, like Kelly, ranks as one of CT’s best to start the 2023 football season. Jeffery scored five touchdowns as Cheshire beat Ridgefield and Shelton to rise to No. 5 in the state poll.

Town announces upcoming bulky waste pickup schedule

The 2023 Town of Cheshire curbside bulky waste collection for residents is scheduled to begin the week of Sept. 11. The collection schedule is detailed here and is also available on the Town website at www.cheshirect.org/news/ 2023_bulky_waste_collection_schedule.

Collection will take place Monday through Saturday of each scheduled week; all acceptable bulky waste should be placed near the curb by the Sunday evening of the scheduled pick-up week. All items must be brought to the curb for this collection. Items should not obstruct vehicle or pedestrian traffic. Only acceptable items will be collected. A detailed listing of acceptable and nonacceptable items is available on the Town website.

The collection schedule is as follows:

Week of Sept. 18 – Zone 2 (Tuesday regular trash collection)

Week of Sept. 25 – Zone 3 (Wednesday regular trash collection)

Week of Oct. 2 – Zone 4 (Thursday regular trash collection)

Week of Oct. 9 – Zone 5 (Friday regular trash collection)

Week of Oct. 16 – Extra Week (if necessary)

Please contact the Public Works Department at (203) 271-6650 with any questions.

Election-related Letters to the Editor

Election Day is set for Tuesday, Nov. 7. Between now and then, anyone seeking to submit a letter to the editor regarding an election-related issue or a political endorsement is asked to limit their letters to 200 words. Any letters that exceed this word limit risk not being published prior to the election. Also, all letters are subject to review for content and appropriatness and can be rejected if determined to not meet the standards set forth for both.

While we will endeavor to print all letters submitted, publication is not guaranteed as it will be dependent on space limitations.

In Brief

surpassed peak employment in the state more than we had pre-COVID That’s a big deal. We have 90-plus thousand jobs going unfilled right now,” Lamont said.

Democrats once viewed an automatic minimum-wage increase warily as the loss of a valuable campaign issue.

But in 2019, a year after the Democrats regained strong majorities in the General Assembly, the party opted to enact a permanent mechanism with the support of labor.

“There’s the right thing to do, and there’s the political thing to do,” said Ed Hawthorne, the president of the Connecticut AFL-CIO. Hawthorne said the advantages of the 2019 law were clear.

“Instead of years where there’s no increases and other years where the minimum wage gets bumped so they

In

can catch up, there’sa steady rise that tracks inflationary trends,” he said.

“And finally, setting it means that the minimum wage will no longer be subject to politics.”

DiPentima said business groups still believe that wages should be set by market forces, not the government. A higher minimum wage creates upward pres-

Seat inspection

To schedule an appointment, contact Cheshire police officer Kristian Johnson at 203-271-5544. Arrange to bring your child and all safety seat instructions to the inspection.

For more information on child safety and safety seats, visit Safekids.org.

La Leche League

La Leche League of Hamden/North Haven meets the second Wednesday of each month at Grace & St. Peter’s Church, 2927 Dixwell Ave., Hamden. Attendees from throughout the greater New Haven area are welcome. RSVP to Anne.M@LLLCT.org.

sure on employers that forces higher pay for others.

Lamont said that is a good thing.

“I think help helps keep this economy moving for everybody,” he said.

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

the foyer at Windham Town Hall, Gov. Ned Lamont announces that the $15 minimum wage will increase to $15.69onJan.1. Mark Pazniokas, The Connecticut Mirror

ADMINISTRATIVE AIDE (MAYOR’S OFFICE)

The Town of Wallingford is seeking a highly qualified individual to perform a variety of responsible administrative duties in support of the Mayor. Requires an A.S. degree in office management or related field plus 3 years of progressively responsible clerical or office management experience, or a H.S. diploma plus 5 years of progressively responsible clerical or office management experience, or an equivalent combination of education and qualifying experience substituting on a yearfor-year basis. Must possess or be able to obtain certification as a CT ADA Coordinator within 1 year and as a Notary Public within 6 months of appointment. Annual salary: $69,587 to $89,039 plus an excellent fringe benefits package that includes pension plan, medical insurance, life insurance, 13 paid holidays, paid sick and vacation time. 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 October 2, 2023. Phone: (203) 294-2080; Fax: (203) 294-2084. EOE

SECRETARY

Senior Clerk: Performs a wide variety of responsible clerical duties in a municipal government office. The position requires 4 years of office work experience of a responsible nature and a H.S. diploma. $23.72 to $28.28 hourly plus an excellent fringe benefit package. Apply: Department of Human Resources, Town of Wallingford, 45 South Main Street, Wallingford, CT 06492. Applications may be obtained at the office of the Department of Human Resources or may be downloaded from the Department of Human Resources Web Page and emailed to wlfdhr@ wallingfordct.gov The closing date will be that date the 50th application form/resume is received, or September 27, 2023, whichever occurs first. EOE.

MATERIALS DISTRIBUTION

Screened

ALWAYS BUYING OLD TOOLS - Old, used, and antique hand tools wanted. MACHINIST, woodworking, engraving, and workbench hand tools. Hunting equipment and firearms also of interest. Fair and honest offers made in your home. Please call with confidence Cory (860) 322-4367.

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.

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

TOP CASH PAID

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

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

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

75 GAL AQUARIUM -

Complete with cabinet stand, filter, light, gravel, and many extras. Good condition no leaks. $300 OBO. Call 203-804-5626.

TREE LENGTH

FIREWOOD

CALL FOR DETAILS

203-238-2149

POOL CLOSING/OPENINGS - Avoid the hassle of closing or opening your pool, call Steve! (Service all types of pools). 203-506-6329.

1, 2, 3 CASH FOR YOUR ANTIQUES & JEWELRY

- Call Todd Shamock at 203-494-1695.

ALWAYS BUYING CASH PAIDVintage 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

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 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

COSTUME JEWELRY WANTED - Old & New. “I Pay Top Cash For Your Grandma’s Costume Jewelry Stash!” Julie, 203-443-9602.

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

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

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

ETHAN ALLEN - British Classics, Dining table, 8 chairs, buffet, curio, like new, $3,900. (860) 877-3999.

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

CARPENTRY

Repairs, Decks & Porches, Sheetrock & Taping Water Damage Repairs. Free Est. Ins. MC & Visa.

Call Bill (203) 901-2136. CT. Reg. # 0647093

CEILINGS & WALL REPAIRS - Free estimates, Call Erik, 203-5924242. HIC0565857.

GOOD RATES

BEST SERVICE

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

HOUSECLEANING

Sm House $75; Med. House $95; Lrg House, $120. Oven/Fridge free.

16 years exp. Refs. Fabiana, 203.565.7745.

DECKS & PORCHES

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

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

GUTTERS

DON’T WORK

If they’re dirty! For gutter cleaning, Call Kevin (203) 440-3279 Fully ins. CT# 569127

Let Us BEAR

Your Junk! Junk Removal in CT

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

RT RELOCATION

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

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

Cell:203.510.3830

Stormshieldct@gmail. com HIC.0664452

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

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

203-440-3535

Ct. Reg. #578887

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

Gutter cleaning, brush removal, comm. snow plowing, HIC0622783. (203) 530-4447.

OVER 35 YRS EXP Stonewalls, patios, sidewalks, chimneys, pool areas, fireplaces, fire pit steps. Free est. 860.274.4893.

TREE REMOVAL

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

JM Lawn Care Lawn Mowing, Fall Cleanup, tree service, junk removal. 860.796.8168

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

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

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

POWER WASHING Is Spring Cleaning on THE OUTSIDE

FREE Estimates

#569127 Call Kevin 203-440-3279