The Southington | Plainville Citizen

WILD NIGHT

Library plan sees criticism over size

By Christian Metzger Record-Journal staff

SOUTHINGTON The library building committee has met criticism from the Friends of the Southington Public Library group, for what they feel has been a lack of communication about the future of their programming space.

Sending a letter to the chair of the board, Republican Town Councilor Jim Morelli, the group expressed concerns regarding the need for more communication and how the reduced size of the building from its original 30,000-square-foot proposal could impact their ability to operate in the new space.

With many of their members unable to come to the building committee meet-

Students, business team up to recycle

By Nicole Zappone

The Citizen

Wheeler Elementary School

is doing its part for the environment with a recycling initiative spearheaded by

the Student Council and aided by a local company. Recycling bins were placed around the school, and each week, Student Council members sort through the contents. Metal items, such as cans, wires and utensils

are transferred to larger bins outside. From there, HW Green Company, Inc. hauls the scrap to its recycling facility on South Washington Street.

See Recycle, A22

ings on a regular basis, many are unaware of what their new space will be like or if it will be adequate enough to accommodate their continued work.

The volunteer group, comprised primarily of seniors passionate about the library's role in the community, donate books to the library and help the staff pay for things outside of the normal operating budget having raised over $400,000 since their founding in 1996.

With a 600-square-foot bookstore in the basement of the current library, the group has expressed concerns that the 24,000square-foot building as planned won’t be big enough for themselves

See Library, A19

Seven Plainville High School seniors vied for the title of Mr. PHS 2023 on March 16 and the crown went to Kye McGraw. Also competing in the light-hearted, pageant-like event were Andrew West (first runner-up), Tyrell Melendez (second runner-up), Brandon Buckingham, Matthew Kuczynko, Nikolas Penta and Trevor Rau. The annual Mr. PHS competition raises funds for the senior class. More pictures on Page A23.

Photos by Brett Bogdan

PLAINVILLE – Frank T.

State’s presidential primary would move up to April 2 if bill passes

By Mark Pazniokas

The Connecticut Mirror

Connecticut’s Republican and Democratic state party chairs offered a united front Monday by jointly testifying in support of liberalizing state party fundraising rules and moving the presidential primary from the last to the first Tuesday in April.

Given the hyper-partisan nature of contemporary politics, cordial lobbying by the GOP’s Ben Proto and the Democrats’ Nancy DiNardo might seem odd, but the pair long has found common cause on the mechanics of politics. “And contrary to popular belief, we work together more often on things than might otherwise be known,” said Proto, a long-time operative and elections lawyer who became state chair in 2021.

The state party chairs testified before the legislature’s Government Administration and Elections Committee in support of House Bill 6904, the fundraising measure, and House Bill 6908, the primary scheduling bill.

Proto and DiNardo share a goal of making Connecticut an attractive place for presidential candidates to campaign and not just raise money, always a challenge for a small state with a limited cache of delegates.

“For too many presidential elections, Connecticut voters have been shortchanged in the primaries by being scheduled on the last Tuesday in April,” said DiNardo, who was state chair from 2005 to 2015 and returned in 2020.

Too often, the winners of the nominations are known be-

fore the end of April.

In 2020, for example, Bernie Sanders ended his presidential campaign on April 8 and endorsed Joe Biden on the 13th.

(Thanks to COVID-19, and the fact that Biden and Donald J. Trump had their nominations assured, the presidential primary was delayed in 2020 to August, when the primaries for state offices in Connecticut are held.)

Under current law, the state’s 2024 presidential primary wouldn’t be held until April 30.

The bipartisan bill would move it to April 2.

Voter interest and the state economy benefit when the primary is held when the outcome is in play, Proto said.

The state party chairs, Republican Ben Proto and Democrat Nancy DiNardo, jointly testified. Image via CT-N

Senior Health

Mulberry Gardens

Mulberry Gardens, an independent and assisted living community located at 58 Mulberry St., Southington, will host an open house Wednesday, March 29 from 3 to 6 p.m. Registration is recommended. To reserve a time, call 860-276-1020.

Understanding Lymphedema

The World Health Organization estimates that over 250 million people worldwide live with Lymphedema or chronic swelling. It is a disease that can cause pain, limit mobility and cause us to be insecure about ourselves. Friday, March 31, from 11 a.m. to noon, join a Certified Lymphedema Therapist from Hartford HealthCare Rehabilitation Network, to learn about the ways to manage it. Call 1855-442-4373 or go to HartfordHealthCare.org/VirtualClasses.

Call-in support

Looking for a safe space? Talk to a professional about questions and concerns you may have regarding dementia, Fridays from 2 to 3 p.m. This call-in support group is facilitated by Kristine Johnson, dementia specialist, Hartford HealthCare Center for Healthy Aging. Call 1646-876-9923 (Meeting ID 92408181873#).

Dementia caregivers

Are you a caregiver and feeling overburdened? Are you responsible for making financial decisions, managing changes in behavior or even helping a loved one get dressed in the morning? Join this call-in support group Tuesdays from 10 to 11 a.m.

Facilitated by Michelle Wyman, dementia specialist. Call 1-646-876-9923 (Meeting ID 92408181873#).

SOUTHINGTON SOCCER CLUB

Spring Teams now forming for the 2018 SEASON

Boys & Girls born between 1999 & 2014

For more information & to register, visit southingtonsoccer.org

For more information & to register, visit southingtonsoccer.org

Boys & Girls born between 2016 & 2020 R259068

SOUTHINGTON CUISINE

Chicken & waffles restaurant to open

By Jesse Buchanan Record-Journal staff

SOUTHINGTON

Founders of a chicken and waffle franchise restaurant are working to open their next location on Queen Street.

Lou and Shateema Sterling started Rooster’s Chicken & Waffles in 2020 on the Silas Deane Highway in Wethersfield. They’ve since expanded to seven locations and are looking to add a Southington one in April at 1217 Queen St.

“It’s a prime location,” Lou Sterling said. “I did my

homework on Southington, it’s a very restaurant-friendly town.”

The focused menu consists of chicken tenders and sandwiches along with waffles. Sides include fries, onion rings, macaroni and cheese, corn fritters, biscuits, fried plantains and tater tots.

Once a firm opening date is established, the couple wants to get their liquor permit for the location to serve wine, beer and mixed drinks.

That’s a feature of the Middletown location.

Rooster's Chicken & Waffles at 1217 Queen St. in Southington on Monday, March 20. Owners Lou and Shateema Sterling hope to open the restaurant April 1. Dave Zajac, Record-Journal

Eversource aims to develop future workforce

Press Release

With a high demand for skilled utility workers across the state, Eversource is partnering with Housatonic Community College and the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local Unions 420 and 457 to prepare the next generation of electrical lineworkers in Connecticut.

The Lineworker Certificate Program provides students valuable training in the electric utility industry and the

opportunity to progress into Eversource’s paid apprenticeship program.

“Our industry is seeing incredible growth, and as we look toward a clean energy future, it’s critical that we continue to ensure we have a well-trained workforce to maintain a safe and reliable electric system while delivering excellent service for our customers,” Eversource President of Connecticut Electric Operations Steve Sullivan stated. “We’ve had great success with our popu-

lar certification program at Capital Community College and are excited to expand that collaboration with Housatonic Community College. We value our partnership with the Connecticut State Community College system and know it will help us train highly skilled lineworkers who will have strong employment opportunities after completing the course. ”

Nearly 150 students applied for 15 spots in the 13-week certification program.

The students began virtual classroom learning and hands-on training at the Eversource outdoor training complex in Berlin in early March.

Their extensive course work includes electrical theory, CPR, and safety – preparing them for employment with electrical lineworker responsibilities and tasks.

“We are happy to expand this program with Eversource, which started with Capital Community College

students in 2021,” said CT State Community College President John Maduko, M.D.

“Through partnerships like this,” he added, “we are able to quickly meet workforce needs in our community while our students prepare for in-demand jobs that pay family-sustaining wages.”

Visit Eversource.com for more information on the Lineworker Certificate Program and to stay updated on the next available class.

Proposed legislation would expand access to health services

By Cris Villalonga-Vivoni Record-Journal staff

The national maternal mortality rate for non-Hispanic Black women was nearly three times higher than that for non-Hispanic women in 2020.

In Connecticut, state health officials reported that babies born to Black mothers were significantly more likely to die before their first birthday than babies born to white women in 2017. Babies born to Black mothers are also twice as likely as babies from white mothers to have a low birth weight, under six pounds, which can lead to severe health and development issues.

“In our state and in this nation, we have a maternal health crisis where Black birthing people are suffering consequences more than any other birthing population,” state Public Health Commissioner Dr. Manisha Juthani said testifying before

the legislature’s Public Health Committee, March 14.

The committee hearing was held to discuss Gov. Ned Lamont’s proposed Senate bill that would implement numerous statutes and programs to increase access to maternal health services.

SB 986 hopes to address these disparities by creating a license category for birth centers, establishing state certification processes for doulas and midwives and opening a universal nursing visitation program for new parents.

Licensed birth centers

Unlike a maternity ward in a hospital, birth centers are freestanding healthcare facilities licensed to provide prenatal, labor, delivery and postpartum care to persons with low-risk pregnancies, according to the bill. If passed, SB 986 would create

a new license category to open more birthing centers throughout the state, said Juthani. “This will allow birth centers to fill both geographic gaps that may exist within our state and also provide lower cost and family-friendly opportunities for earning people to have less

medicalized births in our state,” she said in her testimony.

The Connecticut Childbirth and Women’s Center is the only standalone birthing center in the state.

Located in Danbury, the center is staffed by midwives

and focuses on natural childbirths, according to its website. The two-story clinic has numerous birthing rooms with queen-sized beds and a big bathroom with a Jacuzzi tub.

Birthing centers would be licensed through the state and may have specific service guidelines. Juthani explained that each certified birth center would work with nearby hospitals, in case emergency care was needed.

Committee Co-Chair, state Sen. Saud Anwar, D-South Windsor, raised concerns about the mandatory relationship between the birth centers and the larger healthcare system.

Anwar, a physician, noted that the legislation could lead to unintended selection bias as the major hospitals would receive more complicated pregnancy cases. Similarly, the Connecticut Hospital Association submitted testimony saying that the bill’s language doesn’t mandate regulations and protocols for the license. Instead, they write that the language needs to be updated to ensure that “mandatory clinical guidelines” are met.

State Rep. Liz Linehan, DCheshire, told the RecordJournal she fully supports birthing centers but wants to

Legislators wary of extending income tax cut to the richest

By Keith M. Phaneuf The Connecticut Mirror

To say Gov. Ned Lamont’s call to cut state income taxes enjoys strong support among legislators might be an understatement.

But while the governor wants broad-based relief for as many as 1.1 million taxpayers, lawmakers from both parties are wary of doling out cuts to some of Connecticut’s higher-earning households.

Not over-reaching, some legislators say, increases the likelihood any new tax cuts won’t vanish in a year or two if the global economy slips.

“Doing things we can sustain is important to me,” said Rep. Maria Horn, D-Salisbury, co-chairwoman of the Finance, Revenue and Bonding Committee, which must propose a tax and revenue plan for the next budget cycle by April 20. “I’d rather not promise a lot of things … and have people disappointed on all sides.”

When Lamont proposed a $50.5 billion budget back in February for the next two fiscal years, the centerpiece was a $500 million-plus package of tax cuts, topped by the first major cut in state income tax rates in Connecticut history.

Connecticut taxes most income using a blend of up to seven different rates. For example, a couple earning $110,000 annually would be charged 3% on the first $20,000 in adjusted gross income, 5% on the next $80,000 and 5.5% on the final $10,000 of adjusted gross earnings.

Lamont proposed reducing the two lowest rates starting in January 2024: 3% would become 2% and 5% would become 4.5%. The administration says many middle-income couples would save as much as $600 per year.

But because of the blendedrate system, many upper-income households also would benefit from this proposed cut. Only singles earning more than $540,000 and couples earning more than $1 million have all of their earnings taxed at one or two of the top marginal rates, which are 6.9% and 6.99%.

“It’s fair to say that you’re not a middle class wageearner at $500,000 or more,” said Sen. Henri Martin of Bristol, the ranking Republi-

can senator on the Democrat-controlled finance panel.

See Tax, A21

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With over 35 years of experience as a PA, he prides himself on his kind and empathetic care.

Stephen is excited to join doctors Peter Harris, David Roy, Oosman Tariq and Ashley Bogue, PA-C to continue to serve the Plainville community.

For an apponitment, call 860.747.5766 or visit starlingphysicians.com for information.

Starling Welcomes Stephen Sales, PA-C to our Internal Medicine Department at 184 East Street, Plainville.

Prom wear

Plainville High School’s Prom Wear Boutique, located at the PHS Learning Commons, will be open Friday, March 24 from 3 to 5 p.m. More than 100 gowns will be available. Prices range from $1 for jewelry to $20 for floor length gowns.

Women writers

In recognition of Women’s History Month, the Plainville Historical Society will present “Writing Women,” a program which will highlight a diverse and fascinating group of women authors and journalists with Plainville connections. The “Writing Women” program will take place Saturday, March 25, 1:30 p.m., at the Plainville Historic Center, 29 Pierce St. Elevator access is available. Register by sending an email to plvhistorical@gmail.com with your name, contact information, and the number of people attending.

Transfer station

Plainville’s transfer station on Granger Lane is set to

open for the season Saturday, April 8.

Hours of operation will be 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., Saturdays only. The transfer station is for Plainville residents only. ID is required.

Direct questions to 860-7930221 ext. 7176.

Pierogi sale

Holy Trinity Polish National Catholic Church, 200 Summer St., Plantsville, is selling homemade pierogi (cheese, sauerkraut, potato and cheese, and sweet cabbage). Call Kathy at 860-977-5010 to place your order.

Veteran assistance

The Town of Southington Veterans Service Office is located in Town Hall, 75 Main St. Veterans may seek assistance with an array of issues.

Office hours are Tuesdays, 10 a.m. to noon, and the first and last Thursday of the month, 5 to 7 p.m.

To make an appointment outside of these hours, leave a message at 860-276-6299 or e-mail veteranscommittee@southington.org.

“We know that when the candidates come to a state they spend a lot of money, not only on their media buys, but also within our hospitality industry, on salaries, on staff,” Proto said. “So there’s a tangential benefit to doing this to making a competitive state that candidates want to come to.”

Connecticut was one of 20 states that made a bid for an early primary to the Democratic National Committee, which had made clear it was intent on shaking up the primary calendar by raising the profile of states with populations more diverse than the early primary caucus state of Iowa and primary state of New Hampshire.

State legislatures set the dates in conjunction with the political parties and sometimes at odds with them.

The parties establish a window for the states to hold

their primaries, which can only be enforced by threatening to deprive states of delegate spots if they do not comply.

The Democrats’ new calendar would strip New Hampshire of its first-in-the-nation primary status by scheduling South Carolina for Feb. 3, Nevada and New Hampshire for Feb. 6, Georgia for Feb. 13, and Michigan for Feb. 27.

New Hampshire is expected to defy the Democrats’ new calendar, since state law requires its presidential primary to be at least seven days before any other state’s primary.

Republicans still would begin with a New Hampshire primary on Feb. 13.

Even with a primary on April 2, Connecticut still would be relatively late.

In addition to the five states with February primaries, another 14 will hold primaries on March 5, dubbed “Super Tuesday.”

The Super Tuesday lineup

includes the New England states of Maine, Massachusetts and Vermont, along with delegate-rich California and Texas.

The other issue on which DiNardo and Proto agree is money.

They want the maximum contributions to the state

party to be raised from $10,000 to $15,000.

“Our small donors are our lifeblood, and they really make our party hum,” Proto said. “But our maximum donors are also instrumental in helping us pay our everyday costs, and like any other business, and we do have a business side of this, our

cost to do business has increased over the last 10 or 12 years. And we needed an opportunity to be able to pay for those costs as well.”

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

Women’s history shines in Connecticut

March is Women’s History Month, a time set aside to “commemorate and encourage the study, observance and celebration of the vital role of women in American history,” as the National Archives states.

In recognition of this, let’s take a look at a few entries in the Connecticut Women’s Hall of Fame, a roster of distinguished women, some familiar, some perhaps surprising, who have made their mark on the state and in many cases the world.

Rosa Ponselle, a Meriden native, is an excellent example of a distinguished member of the Hall. She became a world famous opera singer, debuting at the Metropolitan Opera, in 1918, at just 21 years of age, according to her CWHF biography.

Enrico Caruso had invited the young soprano to audition for a leading role and this was the start of a triumphant 20-year career at the Met and worldwide fame. Ponselle and her older sister Carmella had performed together on Broadway.

Other inductees include Kristin M. Griest, of Orange, the first female infantry officer in the U.S. Army.

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A 2011 West Point graduate, she is one of the first two women to graduate from the U.S. Army Ranger School when the “grueling” program, as it’s widely described, first opened to women as a pilot program. Griest now is an instructor at the Ranger School. In 2016, she was on Fortune maga-

zine’s list of the World’s Greatest Leaders.

Hartford native and Nobel Prize winner Barbara McClintock is “one of the greatest geneticists of the 20th century,” states her CWHF biography.

Inductees in 2022 include Susan Whaley, professional golfer and first woman president of the PGA of America and Lhakpa Sherpa, a Nepal native who now resides in West Hartford, who reached the summit of Everest 10 times.

The inductee list is full of many names that may be familiar, women from sports, sciences, politics, the arts and other domains.

Helen Keller, Katherine Hepburn and her mother (a political activist), Rebecca Lobo, Dorothy Hamill, Jane Pauley. What may not be as familiar are the many areas of accomplishment these women became involved in, beyond the obvious. For instance, Pauley is an advocate for mental health

awareness due to her own struggles with a bipolar diagnosis.

The CWHF offers programs and other support to help women and girls succeed and “believe in their unlimited potential.”

The 118 inductees serve as “role models for women of all ages and their stories are proof of all that women can accomplish,” according to a statement by the organization.

What’s written here is only a glimpse into the impressive roll call of Conn ecticut’s women of note. Those 118 stories are well worth a read, from earliest days to the current era, women with roots in Connecticut have emerged as leaders, shaping the landscape where we live and far beyond.

Whether a well-known name or one who worked in relative obscurity, their accomplishments loom large and have opened doors for all women.

Growing YOUR business is OUR business for 85 years!

Southington Distinguished Business and Community Achievement Award Recipients Announced

The Greater Southington Chamber of Commerce, Inc. hosts the Annual Southington Distinguished Business and Community Achievement Awards program to recognize the dedication, leadership, and valued contributions of our area’s most engaged professionals and businesses.

The Chamber Board of Directors is pleased to announce the 2023 award recipients who will be honored at the Chamber’s 85th Annual Evening of Excellence Business and Community Achievement Awards Dinner and Auction on Thursday, June 8, 2023, from 6 to 10 p.m. at the Aqua Turf. Additional information may be found on southingtonchamber.com

Carmine Votino, President, CV Tool Company, will receive the Riccio Brothers Business Person of the Year Award. Carmine is one of the longest continuous members of the Southington Chamber having joined in 1980 when he first established CV Tool Company.

Throughout his more than 40 years in business he has consistently demonstrated a commitment to the mission of the Chamber to support the business growth and community vitality of

greater Southington. His nomination for this award is a testament to the professional and personal respect he garners among his colleagues, peers, and family.

Great men often lead quietly by example. Carmine’s humble approach in sharing the successes of his labor is well admired. This award recognizes his generous contributions in giving of his time and resources to support many causes and organizations that service the needs of our residents and community including the Southington Chamber of Commerce, Southington Community Services, Unico National, Italian American Festival, St. Thomas Church, Southington YMCA, Bread for Life, and sponsoring the festival fireworks, to name a few.

Rob Paradis, President, Junk Bear, will receive the Industry Leader of the Year Award. Rob is being recognized for his entrepreneurial efforts and dedication in taking Junk Bear from a side hustle, while working a full-time corporate job, to a wholly operating company in a short period of time. His business model evolved as he found solutions to challenges and made investments in equipment to streamline effi-

ciencies and reduce labor hours. This allowed him to secure additional jobs on any given day and expand his company to include a building and fleet of trucks and several employees now servicing the entire state of Connecticut. Rob is a true visionary and is passionate about providing a lifelong employee culture for his team of bears. By his example others have entered the arena attempting to imitate the quality standards he has set in the junk hauling industry. Rob and his team are active participants in multiple Chamber programs, events, and services.

William Dziedzic and Joseph Calvanese III, developers with Precision Realty, will receive the Mat Florian Renaissance Award. This prestigious award

continued on page 6

INSIDE PAGES:

Carmine Votino

Paradis

Dziedzic and Joseph Calvanese III

Chamber News is a publication by The Greater Southington Chamber of Commerce, Inc. Layout and design by Perfect Type, LLC 31 Liberty Street – Suite 210, Southington, CT 06489

Phone: 860.628.8036 |www.southingtonchamber.com

Email: info@southingtonchamber.com

Facebook: southingtonchamber1 and SouthingtonChamberMembersForum

Instagram: SouthingtonChamberofCommerce

PRESIDENT & CEO: Barbara Coleman-Hekeler

PROGRAMS & EVENTS: Jordan P. Clemens

Chamber Travel Program Presents the French Riviera

The Southington Travel Program has announced it next destination is to the amazing French Riviera departing October 18, 2023. An online information session is being held on Monday, March 27, at 5:30 p.m. To register or login to this meeting visit southingtonchamber.com. For more information call the office at 860.628.8036.

OFFICERS:

CHAIR: Susan Urillo Larson / Perfect Type, LLC

VICE CHAIR: Robert Thomson / Thomson Financial Services

PAST CHAIR: Dana Rickard / CompuMail Corp.

TREASURER: Lucia Chubet / Mugford & DiBella, LLC

SECRETARY: Mar yAnn Stanley / Asphalt #1 Paving

DIRECTOR-AT-LARGE: Michael Hartman / Chick-fil-A

LEGAL ADVISOR : Matthew O’Keefe / Jackson / O’Keefe

DIRECTORS:

Taylor Deegan / Worldwide Wine & Spirits

Johanna Furgalack / CPA

*Only $3,399 if deposited by March 31, 2023

HIGHLIGHTS:

7 Nights at a 4-star hotel in Cannes –home of the world famous Cannes Film Festival, plus:

◆ Monaco

◆ Monte Carlo

◆ Eze

◆ Lerin Islands

◆ St. Tropez

◆ Grasse

◆ St. Paul De Vence

◆ San Remo

◆ Antibes

◆ Nice

David Girouard / Hospital of Central Connecticut

Kaylah Milligan / Community Foundation of Greater New Britain

Louis Martocchio III / Martocchio & Oliveira, LLP

Kevin Moriarty / Rogers Orchards, Inc.

Gilbert Wade / Southington Security Services

Diana and Garrett Henry celebrate the opening of their new thrift store, Hidden Treasures located at 1656 Meriden-Waterbury Turnpike in Plantsville.

Welcome New Chamber Members!

Please join the Board of Directors of the Greater Southington Chamber of Commerce in welcoming the newest member businesses. We encourage you to patronize these highly recommended businesses that invest in your Chamber and your community. Applications for Chamber membership are accepted on a rolling schedule all year and reviewed and voted upon monthly by the Board of Directors at its regular scheduled meeting. To obtain an application for membership: 860 628 8036 | southingtonchamber.com | info@southingtonchamber.com.

Complete Fire Protection, LLC

renamed Conti’s Wines & Spirits. With the help of the staff we did a lot of work on the interior of the business, and we are very happy with how the new look turned out. It’s rewarding to own a store in the town where I personally grew up. We look forward to sharing our expansive selection of beer, wine, spirits and single barrel whiskey picks, for which we’re known, with the wonderful folks of Southington.

860-276-9889

nick@drinkbetter.com | contiswines.com

235 Queen Street, Southington, CT 06489

Hidden Treasures Thrift Store

Precision Property Management

to keep properties earning income. Contact us today to learn more.

860-518-9183

precisionmgmt1@gmail.com

www.precisionpropertymngmt.com

778 South Main St., Plantsville, CT 06479

Kate DiBenedetto

Our Company provides commercial and residential properties with all fire suppression needs, including design, installation, retro-fitting, servicing, maintenance, repair and inspection. We are licensed and fully insured which will provide you peace of mind. We are dedicated to promoting reliable commercial and residential fire safety solutions by providing state of the art fire sprinkler protection while rendering outstanding customer service through communication and professionalism.

860-302-7659 | jim@completefirect.com www.completefireprotectionct.com

P.O. Box 78, Plantsville, CT 06479

Conti’s Wine & Spirits

Unlock your thrifty needs shopping at Hidden Treasures where you will find quality gently used and new items for everyone! Come find your treasures!

475-313-9981

hiddentreasuresstorellc@hotmail.com

1656 Meriden-Waterbury Turnpike Plantsville, CT 06479

Holiday Inn Express

Whether you are an investment property owner or a condo association, Precision Property Management understands the frustration that comes with trying to get the job done. When you hire us, that’s never going to be a problem. Fully licensed and insured, we have the expertise to run your property efficiently saving you both time and money. Serving residential and commercial clients, we’re here to help you maintain the upkeep of your property. We employ a maintenance staff dedicated to staying on top of the property’s needs and a group of licensed leasing agents

Kate has been helping homeowners and buyers get the financing they need for over 25 years. We have the knowledge and experience to help clients find the loan that meets even the most unique situations. Committed to providing excellent customer service to our customers and our referral partners.

609-870-8326

totalmortgage.com/bankers/kate-dibenedetto kdibenedetto@totalmortgage.com

340 Hebron Ave., Suite 101, Glastonbury, CT 06033

Professional Leads & Networking Group Chamber in the Morning

April 19 • 7:45 a.m.

The Holiday Inn Express® provides guests with friendly service. Pickup your favorite snack at the 24hour market. Each morning, you can fuel up at the complimentary full hot breakfast, which has both hot and cold items. Whether traveling for business or leisure, Holiday Inn Express® Southington is your home away from home. Make your reservation today!

860-276-0736

hie.southington@gmail.com

We recently purchased Southington Wine and Spirits, which we have

Advertise

Your

Reach and frequency are key elements in any advertising and marketing campaign. The Chamber’s Linear Trail advertising program offers both at an affordable annual price for all size businesses. The Linear Trail has grown in popularity becoming a town favorite for recreation and leisure. It is used by thousands daily.

Along the path are three

www.ihg.com/holidayinnexpress

120 Laning Street, Southington, CT 06489

Business

Chamber in the Morning is a great way to promote products and services, exchange ideas, and to establish sound partnerships with fellow members. It also provides a venue to share industry specific resources, expertise, and knowledge; engage in critical dialogue; inspire, motivate, lead, and learn; and help one another in the community. Each participant is given the opportunity to present to the group and is invited to register as a spotlight speaker for an upcoming event.

All industries are invited to participate in the Chamber’s monthly networking group. Employees who work for a Chamber member business are invited to attend Chamber in the Morning to connect with other professionals and business leaders in the community. CITM is held monthly on the third Wednesday, from 7:45-9 a.m. at the Titanium Theatre, 447 N. Main Street, Southington. The next session is on Wednesday, April 19, 2023.

Registration is required for this event must be made online through the events calendar on the Chamber website at www.southingtonchamber.com. Participation in Chamber in the Morning if FREE for member businesses. Not Yet members may attend as a guest, one per year per company, for $25 per person, which is applied to their membership should they join in the same month. For additional information call Jordan Clemens, Membership Services & Events Director, at 860.628.8036.

Along 4.1 Miles of Southington’s Linear Trail

kiosks located in Milldale by the Cheshire line; in Plantsville next to Zingarella’s; and in downtown Southington at the intersection of High and Center Streets across from Factory Square. The Chamber Kiosk Advertising Program provides an affordable and yearround opportunity for businesses to drive customers their way. Advertising includes name of busi-

ness, location, QR code, and a map marker designation.

Businesses may choose one, two or all three locations. Advertising rates are for one year, with a first right of refusal upon renewal.

Currently, the Southington Linear Trail is 4.1 miles in length. It runs from the Cheshire/Southington town line north to Lazy Lane. The Southington “Rails

to Trails” pathway is part of the Farmington Canal Heritage Trail. When completed, the trail will span more than 80 continuous miles from the campus of Yale University in New Haven, CT up to Northampton, MA.

For advertising rates and qualifications, call the Chamber at 860.628.8036 or email info@ southingtonchamber.com

Chamber Hits the Airwaves at Business After Hours at Advise Realty Services

Business After Hours Set for April 11 at Karabin Farms

The Southington Chamber of Commerce will host its next Business After Hours Networking Event at Karabin Farms on April 11, from 5:30 to 7 p.m.

Karabin Farms started in 1972 as a way to instill a sense of responsibility in their children, today, in addition to the orchard, there are four greenhouses, 15 acres of Christmas trees and a country store. Besides fresh fruit and vegetables, Karabin Farms offers local

honey, maple syrup, jams, pickles, soup mixes, gourmet treats and much more! All beef, pork, chicken, and turkeys are grown humanely on the farm. Karabin also features numerous country furniture items hand-made by artisans in Pennsylvania and Maine.

Business After Hours is a popular informal monthly business networking event and is co-hosted by the Chamber and one of its members at their individual

business. The event is an opportunity for businesses to promote their products and services, meet potential new clients, socialize in a casual manner, and introduce employees to members of the business community. This event is just one of the many benefits included in Chamber membership open to all employees.

Registration is required for this event must be made online through the events calendar on the Chamber website at southington-

chamber.com. Participation in Business After Hours is free for member businesses and their employees. Not-yet-members may attend as a guest, one per year per company, for $25 per person, which is applied to their membership should they join in the same month. To register scan the QR code or call Jordan Clemens, Membership Services & Events Director, at 860.628.8036.

The team at Advise Realty Services, located at 35 North Main Street, Suite 2H, downtown Southington.

Jen Hogan, Light Heart Wellness, on how being a Chamber member has helped her business.

Jordan Clemens, Chamber Membership and Programs Director, shares benefits of Chamber membership.

Chamber Award Recipients Announced…

continued from page 1

was established in 2022 in memory of the countless contributions made by Mat Florian to Southington. As the first recipients of this award, Bill and Joe are being recognized for their efforts in helping to revitalize and encourage the economic growth of Plantsville Center. In keeping with an attention to design and detail they completely renovated the structure at 778 South Main Street sitting in dire need of new life and transformed it into an aesthetically pleasing and architecturally significant Class A building for commercial and residential use. Their commitment to making sure that the environment surrounding their renovation projects is also improved is a testament to their integrity as developers and their passion to see our community thrive. Their efforts in working with the Town of Southington to use their land to create much needed public parking in Plantsville will help neighboring businesses thrive

as well. Their work has just begun and is not limited to Plantsville. We look forward to the completion of several other projects they have in the works. We appreciate all their entire team is doing to create positive change to benefit our community.

Shelly Meister, broker/owner, Realty 3 CT, will receive the Gail DePaolo Community Service Award. Shelly is being recognized for her commitment to forging the mission of the Chamber to support the business growth and community vitality of greater Southington. Shelly is always engaging her team in Chamber programming and events, utilizing, and referring the services of fellow Chamber businesses, and encouraging other companies to join the Chamber. Her efforts lend example to the strength of the

Chamber network of businesses. This award recognizes Shelly’s generous contributions to the many organizations and causes that help service our residents in need including the Chamber Holiday Toy Drive, Southington Apple Harvest Festival, Bread for Life Food Drive, Blanket Drive for Southington Community Services, and collecting supplies for the Southington Dog Pound. There are countless others. Shelly is always thinking of new ways to bring people together to support one another including hosting the Realty 3 CT tag sale and book drive. In just five years since purchasing the business, Shelly has become one of the leading real estate brokers in the state.

Isa Criscitello, co-owner, ServiceMaster Apple Valley CT, will receive the Southington Chamber Member

of the Year Award. Isa is being recognized for demonstrating a sound commitment to furthering the mission of the Chamber of Commerce to collectively support one another in promoting business growth and employee development. Isa is a very active Chamber member who looks to maximize her Chamber benefits and engage all areas of her company’s team in networking opportunities, special events, volunteering on committees, and participating in educational programs. Isa is an active in the Women’s Leadership Network and serves as an inspiration to others both personally and professionally. Isa is co-owners of Service Master Apple Valley CT with her husband Ric. Together they generously support Chamber publications, events, and sponsorships. Isa also gives her time to share her industry knowledge and expertise in group

Shelly Meister

Isa Criscitello continued on page 7

Chamber Award Recipients Announced…

continued from page 6

and individual settings to help benefit other Chamber member businesses. Isa is an ambassador in promoting the value of a Chamber membership and encouraging other businesses to join. She is always looking to retain and make referrals for the services of fellow Chamber member business. Isa’s efforts lend example to the strength and value of the Chamber network.

Crystal Chamberlain from The Groggy Frogg will receive the Southington Chamber Ann Hauver Employee of the Year Award. Crystal has been a part of The Groggy Frogg team for more than 10 years. She was recruited away from another restaurant when the owner of The Groggy Frogg noticed something special in her. The patrons of The Groggy Frogg

obviously agree. Crystal was nominated by her community peers and customers for her warmth and positivity in always making everyone feel welcome at The Groggy Frogg. In their nomination they shared their admiration for her positive personality and caring way she takes the time to get to know her customers personally.

They expressed their appreciation for her encouragement toward better days when people are feeling down. They love her infectious smile that lightens up the room, and her genuine ability to make people laugh and how she naturally just spreads happiness.

Her loyalty and commitment to always speak highly of The Groggy Frogg and its team members is noticed by many. Reciprocally, the team at The Groggy Frogg appreciates Crystal’s dedication and loyalty to their restaurant family.

Ticket information to attend

the Awards Gala in support of the honorees will be available on the Chamber website at southing-

860.628.8036 | info@southingtonchamber.com.

tonchamber.com |

David Girouard Named Chair of the 30th Annual Southington Chamber Cup Classic Golf Tournament

David Girouard, Director of Pharmacy for the Hospital of Central CT and member of the Chamber Board of Directors, will serve as the Chairman of the 30th Annual Southington Chamber Cup Classic Golf Tournament to be held this year at Hawk’s Landing Country Club on September 20. The Chamber Cup Classic offers bites and brews along the course, spirit tasting, contests, prizes, raffle, dinner, and more! Reserve your foursome and sponsorships today at southingtonchamber.com.

The Chamber tournament was initiated by the late William Thomson, founder of Thomson Financial Services. It is a milestone year for the Chamber as we also celebrate 85 years of unparalleled service to promoting business development and community vitality in greater Southington. Anyone wishing to serve on the Chamber Golf Committee may call Jordan Clemens, Chamber Membership Directory at 860.628.8036. Volunteers do not need to play golf. The tournament is a great way for you to connect with other business leaders in the community and enjoy an amazing outdoor event.

Crystal Ann Chamberlain

David Girouard

Southington Restaurants Named Among Best Wings in State Along CT Wing Trail

Hot, sweet, spicy, mild or exotic, there is no doubt that however you prefer your wings Southington restaurants remain unmatched in the best wings category.

For nearly 20 years the Southington Chamber Annual Wing Fest competition has put hundreds of wing recipes to the taste test. The competitors may be friendly but when it comes to wings it’s all about business.

The Wingaddicts, expert wing enthusiasts and celebrity judges for the Annual Chamber Wing Fest, recently named several Southington restaurants to the Connecticut Wing Trail which they’ve established over the past couple of years having consumed thousands of wings throughout the country. Southington restaurants always leave them coming back for more.

If you love wings, then gather a few friends and support our local winning restaurants along the Southington Wing Trail.

A great place to start is The Salty Dog in Milldale and then head on over to Hop Haus in Plantsville Village. Next, head to downtown Southington where all locations are within

walking distance of one another. We suggest beginning at Smokin’ with Chris before walking over to The Fire Place. Across the way is 75 Center.

Plan on an extended visit a block down at The Groggy Frogg, six-time winner of Best Overall Wings featuring a menu of more than 50 unique wing flavors.

Visit all six locations and bring your wing receipts to the Southington Chamber office and

receive $5 of a limited edition signature Southington Wing Fest tee shirt (originally $25).

For more information on Southington restaurants visit the Chamber Business Directory at southingtonchamber.com or call the Chamber at 860.628.8036. All restaurants in the directory have a link to their location.

Register Your Restaurant for Restaurant Week!

Southington Chamber of Commerce is kicking off the first week of summer 2023 by celebrating its Annual Southington Restaurant Week! All restaurants are invited to participate. The event begins on Monday, June 19, 2023, and runs through Sunday, June 25, 2023. The Chamber promotes this program statewide to help draw new customers to local restaurants. To register your restaurant, visit southingtonchamber.com or call 860.628.8036.

and the Southington community long term as it continues to expand.

“We're concerned with the amount of space that we have because we are able to give the library a reasonable amount of money every year. But if our space is cut, we will probably not be able to do as well as we have in the past,” President of Friends of the Southington Public Library Virginia Siton said. “We're just hoping we have enough room to display all the wonderful donated books that we get. The community has been very good to us regarding giving us books, and we just want to make sure we have enough room to display them.”

Morelli responded to the concerns at a library building committee meeting, saying he would compose a letter to the group. He also plans to hold a special meeting with them to go over the plans and explain in detail what they will and will not get.

Part of the disconnect between the groups, Morelli said, was likely the departure of the executive director of the library Kristi Sadowski back in October who was the main point of contact in communicating with the group.

In the conceptual plan for the new library, there is a space set aside for the Friends as well as a separate bookstore area, but the Friends’ space appears smaller than what they have available in the current library.

With the wealth of new programming space, however, the board contends it won’t be an issue.

Their “concerns are that we were going to minimize or degrade their space and not allow them work areas, which is a hundred percent wrong, ” Morelli said at the meeting. “There was a little disconnect. And I think part of that was when Kristi left... Nobody else picked up the conversation.”

The board has often reiterated throughout the planning process that although the new building is on paper 3,000 square feet larger than the current building, a large portion of the current space is not usable or adequate for the public especially in the basement. The new plan aims to maximize usable space and provide even better facilities for the staff.

“So what we're doing is very tough to do in this environment,” Vice Chair Paul Champagne said. “When you get the restrictions that we've had put on us, with the economy, people don't realize that they're getting a much better building. They keep saying it's only 3,000 square feet bigger it's not. You're counting in the basement and everything there, that's really not useful for the public.”

During the rest of the meeting, the board debated whether or not to use a camera to take photos of the construction site for the public to view. It would add

an additional expense of around $1,400, which board member Ralph Warner objected to seeing it as an unnecessary expense on a project already over budget.

The Friends are hopeful the facilities will be adequate for the future of the group, as they remain passionate about the library and want to continue to put the space to use for the whole community.

“We love it. I mean, we're happy,” Siton said. “It means a great deal to us, that's why we're volunteering to try to help them out.”

Started in the pandemic

Shateema Sterling said she and her husband have had to roll with the punches that inflation, labor shortages, a pandemic and skyrocketing food prices threw their way.

“We opened the first location just when everything was falling apart,” she said. “From there, we’ve seen great success.”

“Like every other restaurant out there, we’ve seen our fair share of problems,” Shateema Sterling said. “We’ve also seen our fair share of employee shortages.”

She credited the company’s employee sharing program with creating loyalty among workers.

“If the restaurant does really well and exceeds numbers, the employees gets a percentage of that,” Shateema Sterling said. “It helps a lo-

cation stay on top, it helps the employees run it as if they own it because they

have a piece of the pie.”

The couple have at times

Plans for growth

All the current locations are in Connecticut but the couple is talking to developers in Massachusetts, Texas and South Carolina.

“We’re looking to go national in about the next six months to a year,” Shateema Sterling said.

Connecticut locations include New Britain, Middletown, the Meriden Mall and the original Wethersfield location.

Jonel Joseph, a Hartford resident, will be manager for the Southington location. He’s done everything with Rooster’s from graphic design to cooking and cleaning.

Joseph said Monday that he’s ready to get started with good food and good service in Southington. Other than the Sterlings, Joseph said no one knows Rooster’s better than him.

taken shifts themselves to help cover unexpected labor shortages.

“There’s things you can control, other things you can’t,” Shateema Sterling said.

“Rooster’s is like my own business. I consider Rooster’s like my own business,” he said. “Lou is like family for me.”

jbuchanan@record-journal.com

203-317-2230

Twitter: @JBuchananRJ

Lou and Shateema Sterling, owners of Rooster’s Chicken & Waffles at 1217 Queen St. in Southington. Dave Zajac, Record-Journal

SOUTHINGTON

- Roger H. Lamontagne, 90, of Southington, died peacefully at home on Monday, March 13, 2023, surrounded by his loving family and his cherished wife, Dolores. In lieu of flowers, a donation in Roger’s memory may be sent to St. Jude’s Children Research Hospital (stjude. org). A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m. on Monday, March 27, 2023 at St. Dominic Church, 1050 Flanders Road, Southington. A burial will be held at a later date. A calling hour will be held before the service from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. at Plantsville Funeral Home, 975 S. Main St., Plantsville. For online condolences and directions, please visit plantsvillefuneralhome. com.

Obituaries

Margaret Santagata

SOUTHINGTONMargaret (Milo) Santagata, 96, of Southington, passed away peacefully at her home on Saturday, March 11, 2023, surrounded by her family. She was the loving wife of the late John Santagata. Margaret was born on March 19, 1926 in Southington, to the late Antonio and Caroline (Esposito) Milo and had been a lifelong Southington resident. In her younger years, Margaret worked at GE in Plainville, before staying home to raise her daughter. After her husband John passed, she went back to work at DePaolo Middle School and enjoyed this position well into her 80s. Margaret always stayed active. She enjoyed shopping with her daughter, especially their trips to New York City, going to church, cooking, reading, traveling, bowling, trips to the casino and playing cards every Sunday with her friends. She also enjoyed her daily walks and was an avid New York Yankees fan. Margaret is survived by her daughter, Kimmarie Simons and her grandson, Brian Simons, both of Southington, her sisterin-law, Lucille Mastrianni and her husband Richard of FL, her brother- in-law, Edward Kiely and many nieces, nephews, greatnieces, nephews and

Congregational Church of Plainville, UCC, 130 W. Main St.

The following Holy Week services have been scheduled: April 2 at 10 a.m. –Palm Sunday Worship, April 6 at 7 p.m. – a Taize (Contemplative Christian) service with Communion, April 7 at 7 p.m. –Good Friday Service with the Rev. DJ Don, April 9 at 7 a.m. – Sunrise Easter Service at Tomasso Nature Park (weather permitting).

friends. In addition to her husband John, she was predeceased by 5 brothers James, Michael, Johnny, Louis and Frank Milo and 4 sisters; Carmela Cari, Mary Grimsley, Helen Ruffino and Josephine “Anna” Roper, along with 4 sisters-in-law, Anna Sirerol, Carol Kiely, Vivian Bleau, Janice Santagata and her father-in-law and mother-in-law, James and Victoria (Ferrucci) Santo. In lieu of flowers, donations in Margaret’s memory may be made to the Alzheimer’s/Dementia Association, 225 N. Michigan Ave., Fl. 17, Chicago, IL 60601 (https:// act.alz.org/). Plantsville Funeral Home has been entrusted with handling the arrangements. For online condolences, please visit www. plantsvillefuneralhome. com/.

Lenten soup supper will be held Thursday, March 30, at 6:30 p.m.

The third Sunday of the month, the church hosts The Arthouse at Coffee Hour, where local artists are invit-

ed to showcase and sell their work.

To inquire about being showcased at an Arthouse event, email churchoffice@ uccplainville.org.

Plainville United Methodist Church, 56 Red Stone Hill

The church will host a Community Easter Egg Hunt Saturday, April 8 at 4 p.m.

This is a free event and all ages are welcome.

An American Red Cross Blood Drivewill be held Monday, April 10, 1 to 6 p.m. Call 1-800-733-2767 or go to redcrossblood.org to make an appointment.

A7

Though committee members will continue deliberating details for several more weeks, Horn said if the committee endorses a rate cut, she would prefer to focus relief on households making no more than $200,000 or $250,000 per year.

When asked whether the Lamont administration was

open to excluding wealthy and upper-middle-income households from any income tax rate cut, officials deflected the question.

Chris Collibee, Lamont’s budget spokesman, simply stated what already is well known: that after the legislature’s budget panels complete their recommendations, the administration would negotiate with them “so that together we can pass a budget that is in the

best interest of Connecticut families and businesses.”

The governor’s tax relief plan also includes boosting the state income tax credit for the working poor, sending an average of $211 extra to households earning less than $64,000 per year.

Read the full story on the website of The Connecticut Mirror, www.ctmirror.org.

•

as the others, at half the average cost.

Roger H. Lamontagne

Left photo: Frank T. Wheeler Elementary School teacher and Student Council advisor Sarah Miller displays a metal ID kit used as part of a recycling program at the Plainville school.

Nicole Zappone, The Citizen

Right photo: Student Council members Sean Harris and Mia Brown read a book about recycling to fellow Wheeler Elementary School learners.

Recycle

From

According to its website, HW Green Company has more than 40 years of experience in the metal recycling indus-

try, and offers “a wide variety of services, from purchasing recycled metals from individuals and businesses, servicing industrial accounts, and managing the recycling of demolition sites throughout the eastern United States.”

The Plainville-based company reached out to Wheeler Elementary School about teaming up, and the idea was passed along to Student Council advisor Sarah Miller.

“I decided that this was the perfect project for the students to take on and keep busy with,” Miller said.

“I used to work in Animal Kingdom at Disney World, where I taught. I was an education presenter, and recycling was one of the big things we discussed,” said Miller, who teaches fifth grade at Wheeler.

The Wheeler Student Council consists of 15 fourth- and fifth-graders.

As a kick-off to the recycling push, Student Council members read a book on the subject to their fellow Wheeler learners, and created an informational video.

Wheeler Principal Andrew Batchelder said the recycling drive “has had a significant impact on our school.”

“The students in all grade levels have collectively become more in tune with recycling and its importance, evidenced by our bins being filled every week,” the principal added.

"[A]nd they have taken it seriously, because no other trash or items not meant for recycling have been thrown into the bins.”

Sarah Miller said the recycling effort is going strong, and she hopes to see it continue beyond this school year.

Contributed photo by Sarah Miller

ensure that their patients receive adequate post-delivery education, such as essential screening tests for newborns and vitamin K injections for blood clots caused by vitamin K deficiency bleeding.

Certifying doulas

Founder and host of Labors of Love podcast, Hafeeza Ture, highlighted the importance of certifying doulas by speaking about her own pregnancy journey at the hearing.

The mother of three described the “sacred experience ” of her delivery, saying that she did not use any medications or experience any complications, which she attributed to the constant support from her birth team and doulas.

Ture said her “birth team” consisted of friends, family, a doula and a midwife. A doula is a trained, nonmedical professional that helps a pregnant person before, during and after birth.

The passage of SB 986 would create an optional state certification pathway for working doulas seeking those credentials and streamline certification. State Rep. Lezlye Zupkus, R-Prospect, raised concerns about cost and its affordability, but noted the importance of doula services.

Universal nursing

State Early Childhood Commissioner Beth Bye spoke on the benefits of having a nurse visit new parents after birth. The first few weeks are crucial and scary for both the baby and new parents, she said, so having a nurse can help ease the transition. “You don’t need any kind of degree to bring that baby home, but a little guidance can go a long way,” she said. A pilot of the universal nursing program is set to launch in May, Bye said. Based out of Bridgeport, new parents will be paired with a nurse who would visit their home one to three times to provide

suggestions and guidance as they settle into their new life. Afterward, the nurse will connect the parents with a local community health worker so they have easy access to resources.

Bye said the nursing program follows the Family Connects International model.

According to its website, FCI nurses are trained to assess the needs of the family and provide services at no cost to the families. The model is currently used in 19 other states.

However, a community health worker is a unique addition.

The other participating states only work with nurses, said Debbie Poerio, durational project manager for the Universal Home Nurse Visitation Program, in her testimony.

Although supportive of this section of SB 986, Zupkus

said she’s concerned about the price and sustainability of a universal nursing program.

She hopes that with a few more discussions and a few tweaks to the language of SB 986 could make a tremendous, positive impact.

Dr. Manisha Juthani, commissioner of Connecticut Department of Public Health.

Image via CT-N

LEGAL NOTICE PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION PLAINVILLE, CONNECTICUT

The Town of Plainville Planning and Zoning Commission will conduct a Public Hearing Tuesday, March 28, 2023 at 7:30 p.m. at the Plainville Municipal Center, One Central Square, Plainville, CT to consider the following item:

1. PZ 02-23 #06 – Zoning Map Amendment – TWM Development Co. – 109 Park Street – Split GC and R-10 zones to R zone.

Information is available for public inspection in the Planning Department. At this hearing, interested persons may appear and be heard, and written communications may be received.

Respectfully submitted, Mathew Weimer, Secretary, Plainville Planning and Zoning Commission. Dated at Plainville, CT March 2, 2023.

R259608

ELECTRIC UTILITY GENERAL MANAGER

The Town of Wallingford Electric Division seeks a strong manager and leader to direct all aspects of a municipal-owned electric utility located 10 miles from New Haven, CT. The electric utility serves 25,000 customers in a 50+ square mile distribution area with a peak demand of 130 MW and an excellent rate structure. This executive-level position involves responsibility for planning, directing, and coordinating all of the activities necessary for the efficient operation of the utility. Applicants should possess 12 years of progressively responsible experience in the electric utility field including at least 5 years in a management position, plus a bachelor’s degree from a recognized college or university in electrical, mechanical, civil, or environmental engineering, business or public administration, or related field, or an equivalent combination of education and qualifying experience substituting on a year-for-year basis. Salary: $137,774 to $176,287 annually, plus an excellent fringe benefits package that includes medical insurance, pension plan, paid sick and vacation time. Applications may be downloaded from the Department of Human Resources Web Page and can be mailed to the Department of Human Resources, Town of Wallingford, 45 South Main Street, Wallingford, CT 06492, or emailed to: wlfdhr@wallingfordct.gov by the closing date of April 17, 2023. Phone: (203) 294-2080; Fax: (203) 294-2084. EOE

DIRECTOR OF HUMAN RESOURCES

Town of Cheshire seeks highly qualified, experienced HR professional to fill vacancy due to pending retirement. A draft of the proposed, revised job description & information on how to apply can be found on the Town web site at www.cheshirect.

org Knowledge of development & administration of personnel structures & management of modern municipal human resources program to include recruitment, examination, retention, classification, compensation, training, safety, wellness & workers’ compensation. Bachelor’s degree in Public Administration, Business Administration or related field, preferably with a Master’s Degree in Public Administration, Business Administration or Government.

Five (5) to ten (10) years of increasingly responsible technical & supervisory experience in public or private administrative or human resources management, or any combination of training & experience. Salary: DOE/DOQ. Interested candidates must apply NLT the close of business on 4-10-23. Town of Cheshire is EEOE, M/F/D/V

CONSTRUCTION

LABORER WANTEDCall (860) 919-7127.

MEDICAL RECEPTIONIST FT - Friendly, organized & computer savvy, for front desk, scheduling patients & working phones. (203) 887-9065 to apply.

PAYROLL

PAYROLL CLERK

Performs responsible office work in the processing of all general government payrolls and maintain all payroll records. The position requires a H.S. diploma or G.E.D, plus 5 years of experience in responsible office work involving typing, accounting, bookkeeping, data entry and payroll processing. $27.22 to $32.68 hourly plus an excellent fringe benefit package.

Apply: Department of Human Resources, Town of Wallingford, 45 South Main Street, Wallingford, CT 06492. Forms will be mailed upon request from the Department of Human Resources or maybe downloaded from the Department of Human Resources Web Page. The closing date will be the date that the 50th application form/ resume is received, or April 10, 2023, whichever occurs first. EOE

TOWN CLERK

TOWN CLERK

Responsible for public records management and supervision of a Municipal Town Clerk’s Office The position requires a H.S. Diploma or GED with five (5) years of responsible office experience in records management. (1) year of supervisory experience is required. Municipal government experience is preferred. Wages: $66,273 $84,794 plus an excellent fringe benefit package.

Apply: Department of Human Resources, Town of Wallingford, 45 South Main Street, 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 or emailed to: wlfdhr@ wallingfordct.gov by the closing date of April 10, 2023. EOE

SCHOOL BUS DRIVERS

Needed for Southington/ Meriden/Berlin/Rocky Hill - Must be 21yrs or older and possess a driver’s license for at least 3yrs – Paid training to acquire CDL license and endorsements available –The opportunity to bring your children to work, No Childcare$$ - Contact Sheila at New Britain Transportation (860) 8280511 ext. 221 or visit us at, 257 Woodlawn Rd., Berlin, CT

TREE LENGTH

FIREWOOD

CALL FOR DETAILS

203-238-2149

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

ALWAYS TOP CASHFor Your Grandma’s Costume Jewelry Stash. I’ll Come to You. Julie, 203-443-9602.

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

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.

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

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

PREMIUM SCREENED TOPSOIL $25/yard delivered, 3 yd, $100 min. delivery Call Jim 860-982-4819

NEW MOTORIZED WHEELCHAIR - Permobile M3 Corpus. Best offer. (203) 2353794.

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

PREMIER ESTATE JEW-

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

TIMELESS TREASURES

ESTATE AUCTIONS -

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

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

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

YORKIE POM PUPPIESReady now. 1st shots & wormed. $750 ea. Call 603.630.2258.

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

JUNK REMOVAL

Hot Tub Removal, Furniture, appliances, entire contents of: homes, sheds, estates, attics, basements, garages & more.

*SPRING YARD Clean-ups* FREE ESTIMATES. LIC & INS. DUMPSTER RENTALS 203-535-9817 860-575-8218

JM Lawn Care Comm. & Res. Lawn Mowing, Spring Cleanup, Hedge Trimming, Tree Service, Mulch, any color. 860.796.8168

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

A pressureless house washing system can save you money, ask how! The Power-Washing Kings. House & roof washing, decks, patios, etc. Others Wash We Clean! 860.839.1000 thepowerwashing kings.com

SPRING SPECIALSWhole House up to 5 rms. $269. 6’ sofa, $109. CarpetCare Solutions, 203.427.5165.

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

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

GARY WODATCH

Hedge & tree trimming. Trim overgrown properties. Calls returned. #620397. 860.558.5430

ALEX EUROPEAN MASONRY - 30 yrs.

W. BOOBER MASONRY -

Over 35 Years Experience All Types of Masonry CT License #626708 (203) 235-4139

Insurance claim.storm damage.roofing.siding. gutter.chimney flashing. Office:203.754.3071 Cell:203.510.3830

Stormshieldct@gmail. com HIC.0664452

RT RELOCATION

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

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

IF YOU Mention This Ad SPRINGYard Clean-Ups Brush, branches, s torm damage **JUNK REMOVAL** Appl’s, Furniture, Junk, Debris, etc WE CAN REMOVE ANYTHING Entire house to 1 item removed! FREE ESTIMATES Sr. Citizen Discount LIC & INS. DUMPSTER RENTALS 203-535-9817 860-575-8218

OVER 28 YEARS EXP

Stonewalls, patios, sidewalks, chimneys, pool areas, fireplaces, fire pit steps, all types of masonry work. Free est. (860) 274-4893.

#1 PAINTER’S EDGE

Ext. & Int. Painting.

Sheetrock.Popcorn Repair. Wallpaper Remv’l. Decks. 25 yrs exp. Free est. Sr. disc. #0656136. Ins. 860.538.5520

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

Adelphia Café

476 Washington Avenue North Haven, CT 06473 203-535-0149

Family owned/operated. Former proprietors of the Neptune Diner in Wallingford. Extensive menu for all tastes. Breakfasts, luncheons and special dinners. All baking on premises.

Colony Diner

611 N Colony Road Wallingford, CT 06492 (203) 269-9507 colonydiner.com

Wallingford’s place to go for oldfashioned breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Proudly serving up delicious and hearty meals daily. Voted Best Diner 4 years running by Record Journal. Open seven days. Breakfast served all day.

Athena II Diner 320 Washington Ave, North Haven, CT 06473 203.239.0663 www.athena2diner.com Open