cheshirecitizen.com
Volume 11, Number 55
Thursday, October 22, 2020
Crafting tools ‘meant to last’ By Joy VanderLek The Cheshire Citizen
Jason Polaski admits he was probably born in the wrong century. Called an old soul by some, this Cheshire-based small business owner believes in making quality, handcrafted products. Products that are made to last. His business, Yellow Birch Outfitters, caters to those who love the out-
doors, and spend time in it, whether it’s camping, hiking, biking, hunting, or fishing. Yellow Birch Outfitters really began out of necessity, recalls Polaski. He is a left-handed outdoorsman and found many of the tools he needed were not made for him. A fixedblade knife sheath, for example, was made for right-handed people.
“It’s the wrong side for lefties,” he said. Polaski is a disabled veteran, married, a father to four and he has a grandchild, too. “I like to keep busy and I need to be self-sufficient.” That was another incentive to start his own business. He tested gear while serving in the Army Infantry in South Korea and Fort Lewis in
Yellow Birch Outfitters founder and craftsman, Jason Polaski, is shown at his work bench creating heirlooms for See Outfitters, A5 those who love the outdoors.
ReRead Books gives young adults with special needs a place to succeed By Joy VanderLek The Cheshire Citizen
Andrea Costello and her mother Barbara are not waiting around for something to happen — they’re making things happen. Together with the recently-formed Connecticut Community Empowerment Foundation, the Costellos are breaking through barriers to employment for young adults who are “differently able” as they break down walls for a new Cheshire bookstore called ReRead Books.
Andrea Costello is shown breaking through a wall during construction of the new space for ReRead Books in the lower level Watch See Books, A8 Factory Shoppes.
Lights of Hope readies 16th year Since 2005, Cheshire’s Lights of Hope has raised money to help those in need within the community. This year the goal is to reach $1 million. One night every November, the streets of Cheshire are lit up with nearly 50,000 luminary bags, a symbol of the community’s commitment to helping those in need and supporting one another — neighbors helping neighbors. This year, the 16th annual event will take place on Saturday, Nov. 14.
“We invite you to support this year’s event in the form of sponsorship. With the historic circumstances of this year, ‘neighbors helping neighbors’ means more than ever to those living in our community,” stated an announcement from the Chamber of Commerce. The event depends on the support of local businesses and residents who purchase a candle that is then placed in a luminary bag. Upwards of 100 volunteers
See Lights, A4
235041