The Southington | Plainville Citizen

Police chief tops list of town earners

By Jesse Buchanan Record-Journal staff

SOUTHINGTON Principals, administrators and police were among the highest-paid municipal employees last year.

Police took nine of the top 10 spots on the town government side, boosted by overtime and private duty payments. Top school administrators and principals were the highest-earning school district employees during the previous fiscal year. Overall, police Chief Jack Daly earned the most in 2022. His base salary of $160,755 combined with private duty jobs he took worth $60,313 for a total of $221,768.

School superintendent Steven Madancy was the

Lake Compounce and others seek new hires for

summer positions

By Christian Metzger Record-Journal staff

SOUTHINGTON Lake Compounce is making a final push for seasonal hires ahead of their impending April 29 opening. The park is just but one of several businesses in the area that are looking for people to fill seasonal positions as the busy summer season is about to begin.

See Jobs, A22

First responders cook up chili for a cause

By Nicole Zappone Record-Journal staff

Police Chief Jack Daly poses in his office at the Southington Police Department on Aug. 25, 2022.

Dave Zajac, Record-Journal

second highest public employee in Southington with a salary of $196,095 for the 2021-22 fiscal year.

Police and town manager earnings

Police officials said the opportunity for extra work leads to high earnings for officers willing to put in the additional hours.

Daly’s private duty earnings, which include managing traffic during utility work, weren’t as high as other officers such as Christopher LaPorte who earned $98,264. Others earned between $40,000 and $73,000. Daly said those earnings represent many hours worked outside of an officer’s normal 40-hour shift.

See Earnings, A26

PLAINVILLE – It was a heated battle, but in the end, the fire department prevailed in a chili cook-off with the police department. This inaugural contest between Plainville first responders drew a sell-out crowd of tastetesters to the VFW hall on March 19.

See Chili, A28

Senior Health

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 virtual class Tuesday, May 2, 10 to 11 a.m. The class is facilitated by Michelle Wyman, dementia specialist, Hartford HealthCare Center for Healthy Aging. Registration is required. Call 1-855-442-4373 or go to HartfordHealthCare.org/VirtualClasses.

Call-in support

Looking for a safe space? Every Friday, 2 to 3 p.m., starting May 5, talk to a professional about questions and concerns you may have regarding dementia. This call-in support group is facilitated by Kristine Johnson, dementia specialist, Hartford HealthCare Center for Healthy Aging. Call 1-646-876-9923 (Meeting ID 92408181873#).

Garden club

Managing back pain

Join this virtual class Tuesday, May 9, 11 a.m. to noon, and learn more about the causes of back pain and ways to manage it. Presented by Erica Bruno, exercise physiologist, Hartford HealthCare, GoodLife Fitness.

Registration is required. Call 1-855-4424373 or go to HartfordHealthCare.org/VirtualClasses.

Caregiver support

Do you care for someone diagnosed with dementia? This virtual support group meets the second Wednesday of the month, 6:30 to 8 p.m., starting May 10. The group is facilitated by Patty O’Brian, CDP, dementia specialist, Hartford HealthCare Center for Healthy Aging.

Call 1-855-442-4373 or go to HartfordHealthCare.org/VirtualClasses.

In Brief

Mentoring

The next meeting of The Orchard Valley Garden Club of Southington will be held Tuesday, April 25 at the American Legion Hall, 64 Main St. The program will feature Sebby Milano, head grower at Winterberry Gardens.

Doors open at 9:45 a.m. and the program begins at 10. Guests are welcome for a $5 donation. For more information, visit orchardvalleygardenclub.weebly.com or follow the club on Facebook.

Renters rebate

State law provides a reimbursement program for Connecticut renters who are elderly or totally disabled, and whose incomes do not exceed certain limits.

Persons renting an apartment or room or living in cooperative housing, or a mobile home may be eligible for this program. Applications are accepted between April 1 and Oct. 1. Visit portal.ct.gov/OPM.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Connecticut is an affiliate of Big Brothers Big Sisters of America, the 119-year-old national youth mentoring organization.

Based in Hartford, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Connecticut offers life-changing programs to at-risk children in all of the state’s 169 municipalities. Learn more about Big Brothers Big Sisters by visiting ctbigs.org.

Theater

Castle Craig Players, Meriden is celebrating its 30th season. On sale now: “The Marvelous Wonderettes: Dream On,” May 5 to 20; “Into The Woods,” July 28 to Aug. 12. For ticket information, visit castlecraigplayers.org.

Railroad talk

The Plainville Historical Society will present the program “Time Was ... The Last Generation of Railroaders” Saturday, April 22 at 2 p.m. Guest speakers Al Virelli and Bill Sample will detail the history of the railroad in Plainville and surrounding towns. The April 22 program will take place at the Plainville Historic Center, 29 Pierce St. Doors will open at 1:30 p.m. Register by sending an email to plvhistorical@gmail.com with your name, contact information, and number of people in your party.

Roundnet tourney

CJK Foundation, a central

Connecticut-based nonprofit focusing on depression and mental illness, has announced that the CJK Classic Roundnet Tournament will be held at YMCA Camp Sloper in Southington Saturday, May 13 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. In Roundnet, teams of two take turns ricocheting a ball towards their opponents off of a round net on the ground. Similar to volleyball, teams aim to return the ball so their opponents cannot control it and send it back, enabling them to score. To register a team, visit cjkfoundation.org. Sponsorship opportunities are also available.

Shred-it Day

The Arc of Southington’s

13th Annual Community Shred-It Day will be held Saturday, May 6 from 9 a.m. to noon at The Arc of Southington, 201 W. Main St., Plantsville. Make any size donation to shred up to two boxes (per vehicle) of old documents for safe disposal. Please remove all plastics and binders before shredding. Call 860-628-9220 for more information.

Spring Dance

PARC, Inc.’s Spring Dance will be held Saturday, May 6, 7 to 11 p.m., at Testa’s, 26

South Center St. in Southington. The $60 ticket price includes a dinner buffet, music with DJ David Robinson, and dancing. A reduced ticket price of $35 is offered to members and students. Tickets can be purchased via parcdisabilitiesct.org or by calling 860-747-0316.

Balloon fest

The Plainville Fire Company’s Hot Air Balloon Festival will take place at Norton Park the evening of Friday, Aug. 25, and all day Saturday, Aug. 26. Anyone inter-

ested in helping is encouraged to sign up. Volunteers are needed from Friday through Sunday. To access the volunteer application, visit plainvillefireco.com.

50th reunion

The Southington High School Class of 1973 will celebrate its 50th reunion Oct. 7 at the Back Nine Tavern. Tickets are $50. RSVP to Shs73_50threunion@ aol.com. Send checks payable to Maureen Cassidy to: 46 Dunham St., Southington, CT 06489.

State mulls Medicaid reimbursement for community health workers

By Katy Golvala The Connecticut Mirror

Last month, Roshaun Hoggard experienced stomach issues and loss of appetite so

severe that he ended up in the emergency room for three days. The ER doctor diagnosed him with diverticulitis, a digestive tract infection, and told him to follow

up with his primary care provider.

After he was discharged, Hoggard reached out to Monya Saunders, the community health worker at Transitions Clinic Network in New Haven. His doctor was booked solid that Friday, but Saunders told him to come in anyway and she’d make sure he got seen.

“She’ll basically do everything but hold your hand out the door when the doctor’s done with you,” said Hoggard with a laugh as he listed all the ways in which Saunders has supported

him, with everything from refilling prescriptions to reminding the doctors to get back to him when he reaches out with questions.

Transitions Clinic Network provides primary care to formerly incarcerated people with chronic illnesses. The clinic has three locations in Connecticut New Haven, Hartford and Bridgeport with an aim to add more in other cities with high rates of incarceration, like Waterbury, New London and New Britain. Each location employs a community health worker with a history of incarceration.

Saunders said she wishes community health workers had been around when she left prison, nearly two decades ago. Her mother supported her as much as she could, but there was so much about her experience that her parents couldn’t understand.

“They were preachers and pastors,” said Saunders, who openly discusses her past experiences with mental health challenges, substance use and domestic violence. “They couldn’t really identify with the things I was going through and really didn’t even know how to deal with it.”

Saunders said people coming from incarceration face different pressures, like getting turned down for jobs and reestablishing relationships with children, that only someone who has also been through the experience can understand. “Who better to support them and navigate for them than somebody who has already experienced that?”

The role of a commu-

nity health worker

Community health workers, also known as outreach workers, health coaches, patient navigators and promotores de salud, help people navigate health care and social services. They have an encyclopedic knowledge of all the resources available to residents in need, and they are experts in navigating the infinite obstacles that can come up when trying to access them.

Two bills currently under consideration by the legislature Senate Bill 10 and Senate Bill 991 aim to make it easier for organizations to employ community health workers by making their services reimbursable

Some 900 members of the Quinnipiac University community took part in the 14th annual Big Event on Saturday, April 15, a day of community service that connects QU students, faculty, staff and alumni with community partners in the Greater New Haven area and beyond. During this year’s Big Event, Quinnipiac formed teams and spruced up sites in Bethany, Branford, Cheshire, Durham, Hamden, Meriden, New Haven, North Branford, North Haven, Orange, Southington, Wallingford, West Haven and Woodbridge. Pictured: Quinnipiac University students Katherine Braccia, Marianna Colabello and Gabriela Moreno volunteer at Camp Cedarcrest in OrangeonApril15.

Contributed photo

Plainville choir to perform at CCSU

Press Release

The Plainville High School Chamber Choir will join the New Britain Symphony Orchestra for a Sunday, April 30 concert entitled Dvorak & Gershwin: New Beginnings. Under the direction of Todd Helming, the Chamber Choir will perform Oscar Peterson’s Hymn to Freedom and Bonse Aba, a traditional Zambian folk song. The Berlin High School Madrigals and the Children’s Chorus from the University of Hartford also will perform.

The New Britain Symphony Orchestra, under the baton of Maestro Toshiyuki Shimada, will perform George Gershwin’s American in Paris, Antonin Dvorak’s New World Symphony and Polina Nazaykinskaya’s Tales of Sorrow.

The concert will take place at 3 p.m. at Welte Hall on the

campus of Central Connecticut State University. Tickets are $25 and may be purchased at the door, or online at newbritainsymphony.org. There is no charge for students and those age 17 and under. For more information, email newbritainsymphony@gmail.com, or visit the group's website.

Vote For Your Favorite Local Businesses!

Our Annual Best of Awards reader’s poll is back. This is your chance to nominate and vote for your favorite people, places and businesses in your local area. It’s a great way to support your local businesses.

VOTE: Online voting begins April 13 and ends Sunday, April 23.

WIN $250: If you nominate at least 25 businesses you will be entered to win a $250 gift card. A random drawing will take place at the end of the contest. We will also give away a $250 gift card for the voting round!

myrecordjournal.com/BestofAwards

Growing YOUR business is OUR business for 85 years!

Five Realty 3 CT Realtors® Nominated as Best Realtor® — Agency Nominated as Best Real Estate Agency

Helping clients sell their homes with highly trained agents who have successfully represented clients throughout Connecticut is one of the many reasons Realty 3 CT has once again been nominated as Best Real Estate Agency by readers of the Record Journal.

Realty 3 CT achieved this milestone in 2021 and again in 2022. Known as an indsispensable real estate resource in Southington, this boutique-style agency is home to many award-winning agents. Among those are five who have been nominated by Record Journal readers as Best Realtor, 2023.

more than 15 years. Skilled in marketing and negotiations, she has a long list of ver y happy clients who return to her whenever the need for a Realtor arises. Diane is also Million Dollar Club member for 2022.

Ashley Furstein is always ready to help with your real estate needs. Her values of hard work, integrity and outstanding client service mean she will get the job done whether you are buying or selling your property.

Sandi Liquindoli is a Multi-Million Dollar Club member for 2022. She brings integrity and commitment to all her real estate dealings. She is known for providing her clients with thorough data, research and knowledge of the market.

from them and was so satisfied. Within two years I found another condo through Realty 3 CT and they helped me sell my first purchase, and purchase my second. Their knowledge and professionalism in the industry helped me transition to my second home without a worry or headache. I recommended them to two friends who also purchased homes through them. Much gratitude Realty 3 CT!

Mary Bouchard has been a Multi-Million Dollar Club member for several years. Her warm and engaging personality coupled with her extensive real estate knowledge makes her the perfect agent for anyone looking to buy or sell property. Mary received the Best of Award as Best Realtor 2022.

Diane Epps has been a successful Realtor for

Shelly Meister Zamudio is the owner/broker of Realty 3 CT. She is also a member of the Multi-Million Dollar Club for 2022. Shelly has direct experience in site management, client relations, marketing and sales. With her bright, cheery, positive outlook she continues to provide successful outcomes for both buyers and sellers.

Here is what one client has to say about Realty 3 CT: “Fantastic agency! I purchased my first condo

Please vote for Realty 3 CT and their agents for the Best of Award 2023. Scan the code to the right to vote for Realty 3 CT!

INSIDE PAGES:

Mary Bouchard Ashley Furstein Diane Epps Sandi Liquindoli Shelly Meister

2023 Southington Chamber Business Directory & Community Guide Now Available

Features Top Recommended Businesses and Attractions – Get Your Complimentary Copy Today!

The 2023 Southington Chamber of Commerce Business Directory & Community guide is now available. As the Chamber celebrates 85 years in promoting business and community, we invite you to explore all Southington has to offer and LOVE SOUTHINGTON as much as we do. This annual publication is a valuable resource for business, leisure, recreation, and adventure! Whether you are visiting, relocating, or a lifelong resident, you will be sure to find something new and exciting to fit your interests, lifestyle, and target market.

The guide offers recommendations for the top businesses in Southington including restaurants, cafés, bakeries, pubs, breweries, retail shops, gyms, spas, personal and professional services, and so much more! Looking for something fun to do? It’s all inside including information on Southington’s ski mountain, golf courses, driving ranges, drive-in movie theater, amusement park, bowling, billiards, arcades, line dancing and music hall, mini golf, hiking trails, mountain climbing, biking trails, linear path, pick your own orchards, hayrides, farms, museums, and so much more.

To get your copy stop by the Chamber office, 31 Liberty Street, Suite 210, Southington, the Town Clerk’s Office, or Southington Public Library. The guide is also available at some member area attractions and businesses. Guides may be mailed for a small fee by ordering online at southingtonchamber.com.

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. For more information call the office at 860.628.8036. 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

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

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

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

Author Kathleen St. Ours is Guest Speaker at Chamber’s First ‘Woman to Woman’ Series on May 11

SHARING HER STORY ON OVERCOMING CHILDHOOD SEXUAL ABUSE

‘Woman to Woman’ is a new empowerment series hosted by the (WLN) Woman’s Leadership Network of the Greater Southington Chamber of Commerce. The WLN was formed in 2021 to establish a forum where women could come together and have open and candid discussions on a variety of topics that contribute to their successes in life personally and professionally. This new series is designed to provide an intimate and safe space for an open and honest dialogue on a variety of issues affecting the lives of women. Each event will focus on a specific topic and include experts in the related field.

In this first event, ‘Woman to Woman’ hosts guest speaker Kathleen ST. Ours, Author of The Other Side of the Wall, who will read excerpts from her book and share her personal story of overcoming lifelong trauma from childhood sexual abuse by a family friend. Now in her 70’s, Kathleen is a retired hospital nurse who also volunteered as an emergency room advocate for victims of sexual assault. She hopes to help other victims of abuse by talking

about what gave her the courage to tell after so many years, how her family reacted, the help she received, and how she became an advocate at the crisis center to help others. Kathleen will take questions from participants to facilitate an open discussion.

“We wanted to go beyond just helping the members of the WLN and reach out to girls, teens, and women throughout our community,” state Karen Bobick, WLN Member. “It is important for females of all ages to know they are not alone and do not have to go through the darkest moments alone.”

The Chamber will also have professional advocates from the New Britain YWCA Sexual Assault Crisis Center participate in the

Engage Your Employees! Join a Chamber Committee

The Southington Chamber of Commerce plays a vital role in the continued growth and revitalization of the Southington community. Being a Chamber member has many benefits and one of the most valuable is the opportunity to help shape our organization and community by serving on a committee.

Through committee involvement, you can help drive change in areas like business, quality of life, education, and government. The Chamber has a variety of committees in place so you can choose the ones that best fit your passions.

Committees often facilitate programs and plan events that recognize community achievements, promote leadership, and draw attention to the positive aspects of living and working in the Greater Southington community.

Committee participation is open to all Chamber member companies and their employees. Joining a committee is also a great place to network with fellow Chamber members and work with community leaders.

For more information on joining a Chamber committee call the office at 860.628.8036 or email info@southingtonchamber.com | Southingtonchamber.com.

event. CCOG

Women’s Health is sponsoring the event along with individual female realtors from Chamber member businesses. CCOG will provide additional literature and resources for women.

“The room where the event is being held is a private and safe space for women,” stated MaryAnn Stanley, Chair of the WLN. “Our goal is to create an environment which encourages everyone to ask questions and if they choose, they can share their stories as well.” Kathleen said she often receives calls or is approached privately after events by women needing additional help or having more questions.

‘Woman to Woman’ will be held on Thursday, May 11, from 6-8 p.m., in the Orchards Room at

Homewood Suites on West Street, Southington. Registration prior to the event is required due to limited capacity. Reservations may be made on the Chamber website at southingtonchamber.com. The event is general seating. Lite refreshments will be served. For more information call the Chamber office at 860.628.8036.

Sponsored by:

CCOG

Women’s Health

Connecticut

Registration required. Seating is limited.

SCAN TO REGISTER

Register Your Team for the Chamber Cup AHF

The Chamber Corporate Cup returns to the Y’s AHF Road Races this year. The team with the lowest time average of three runners will win the prestigious Chamber Corporate Cup Trophy (one trophy each for males and females) which can be prominently displayed for the upcoming year.

A plaque will also be given to

Road Race

the company/agency that wins to keep permanently.

Top three male and female finishers in the Chamber Corporate Cup division will also receive medals.

The cost is $30.

Business wishing to put together a team and run for the coveted trophy may contact John Myers jmyers@ sccymca.org or 860-919-1193 to get their company included.

Chamber Annual Meeting Speaker CBIA President Chris DiPentima Addresses

Impact of the 2023 Legislative Session on Your Business and the CT Economy

HELD AT THE CLARK ROOM AT KINSMEN BREWING APRIL 28

Chris DiPentima, President & CEO of the Connecticut Business and Industry Association (CBIA), will be the keynote speaker at the Greater Southington Chamber of Commerce 85th Annual Meeting and Business luncheon on Friday, April 28, 2023. He will discuss the policies outcome from the current 2023 legislative session and the impact they will have on your business and the state’s economy.

DiPentima, prior to the CBIA, was division president of Leggett & Platt Aerospace, a unit of S&P 500 company Leggett & Platt, leading operations at the company’s Middletown-based Pegasus Manufacturing facility with locations in Washington, California, and France. He joined Pegasus, then family-owned, in 2002 as general

counsel and was named president in 2006.

Prior to joining Pegasus, DiPentima spent eight years as an attorney representing corporations and individuals on a broad range of issues, including labor and employment, contracts, workers’ compensation, and mergers and acquisitions. He is a former chair of CBIA’s board of directors, he chairs the Connecticut Manufacturers’ Collaborative (CMC), serves on the board of the Connecticut Manufacturing Innovation Fund (MIF), and the Governor’s Blue Ribbon Panel tasked with creating a long term plan to address the childcare crisis.

He is a past president of the Aerospace Components Manufacturers (ACM) and served on

Feature Your Business!

Donate a Silent Auction Item

IT’S LIKE A MINI BUSINESS

The Chamber’s biggest community night returns on Thursday, June 8, as the 2023 Southington Distinguished Business and Community Achievement Awards Recipients are honored at the Annual Gala & Auction at the Aqua Turf. This highly anticipated event recognizes the dedication, leadership, and valued contributions of Greater Southington’s most engaged professionals.

Businesses wishing to be highlighted at this widely attended event may do so by donating items and or services, or a themed basket to the silent auction.

All donated item(s) will be beautifully displayed along with promotional mention of your company. You are encouraged to be as creative as possible in your donation and packaging so that your item will receive the highest possible bid. With an expected attendance of more than 300

EXPO

guests, your donated auction item is a great way to help increase your brand exposure and bring new customers to your door. As an auction donor you are invited to provide business brochures and business cards for display on our donor table. It’s like a mini-business expo!

Visit the Chamber website for an auction donation form or call the office at 860.628.8036 or request one by email at info@southingtonchamber.com. Your consideration in returning your form with your item to the Chamber office by Friday, May 19, 2023, is appreciated. Auction items may be dropped off at the Chamber office or you may request a volunteer pick up by calling 860.628.8036.

For more information on the Annual Awards Dinner or to purchase tickets, www.southingtonchamber. com.

the Connecticut Employment and Training Commission, the National Governors Association (NGA) Policy Academy for Best Practices in Manufacturing, and the board of the Connecticut Technical High School System.

DiPentima has a bachelor’s degree from Boston College and received his juris doctorate from Quinnipiac Law School. He is admitted to the bar in Connecticut, New York, and the District of Columbia.

The luncheon is open to the public and will be held in the Clark Room at Kinsmen Brewing Company in Milldale.

Tickets are required for this event and may be purchased for $35 per person at southingtonchamber.com.

The event includes a network-

ing social at 11:30 a.m. followed by lunch starting at noon and then the program shortly after. Lunch includes a spread of wood-fired gourmet pizzas, specialty sandwiches, and cash bar.

Guests are invited to stay and socialize in the Brewery at the conclusion of the program. This event is presented in sponsorship with the Town of Southington, Lovley Development, ION Bank, and Kinsmen Brewing Company. For more information or to register call the Chamber office at 860.628.8036.

The Salty Dog Tavern to Host Chamber Business After Hours Happy Hour Networking on May 9

The Southington Chamber of Commerce will host its next Business After Hours Networking Event at The Salty Dog Tavern, 1783 Meriden-Waterbury Turnpike, Milldale, on May 9, 2023, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

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.

“The Salty Dog Tavern is an upbeat Sports focused Tavern featuring great food, domestic / local craft beer and delicious handcrafted cocktails. Their menu also features vegetarian and gluten-free items for the sports fans

not looking for the same old bar selections. Whether you’re cheering for your favorite sports team or just enjoying a night out with some great food and cocktails, The Salty Dog Tavern is a refreshing new destination in Southington CT. The Salty Dog Tavern is another top-rated restaurant of The Hop Haus Restaurant Group. The Salty Dog Tavern has already won accolades and been named as one of the best CT restaurants for wings as listed on the CT Wing Trail by local celebrities the Wingaddicts.

Registration is required for this event must be made online through the events calendar on the Chamber website at www.southingtonchamber.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. For additional information call Jordan Clemens, Membership Services & Events Director, at 860.628.8036.

WELCOME NEW CHAMBER

The Greater Southington Chamber of Commerce welcomes this newest member business. We encourage you to patronize this highly recommended business that invests in your Chamber and your community. To obtain an application for membership: 860 628 8036 | southingtonchamber.com | info@ southingtonchamber.com.

KMC Beauty

Welcome KMC Beauty! We are a new salon here in Southington, CT. We offer the latest trends for hair, makeup and nails. Our mission is to provide the best experience and services from the moment you walk in the door. We specialize with color, extensions, acrylic nails and more. We are expanding our team to other creative-passionate hairstylists looking to booth rent. To contact us please call salon owner Kalien, 203-441.0588.

203-441-0588 | kmcbeautyllc@gmail.com

Riccio Brothers Business Person of the Year

Carmine Votino CV Tool Co.

Shelly Meister Realty 3 CT

Gail DePaolo Community Spirit Award Industry Leader of the Year

Rob Paradis Junk Bear Chamber Member of the Year

Criscitello ServiceMaster Apple Valley Crystal Ann Chamberlain The Groggy Frogg

Ann Hauver Employee of the Year William Dziedzic & Joseph Calvanese III Precision Realty

Mat Florian Renaissance Award

Professional Leads & Networking Group Chamber in the Morning

May 17 • 7:45 to 9:00 a.m.

Relationship building is vital to growing your business, and networking is vital to establishing relationships. The Greater Southington Chamber of Commerce has been unmatched in connecting professionals across all industries with one another and providing accessibility to community leaders and professional resources for 85 years.

Professionals from all industries are invited to participate in the Chamber’s popular monthly networking group. Employees at all position levels 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, May 17, 2023. Lynx Systems, LLC is the spotlight speaker.

Participating in Chamber in the Morning is a great way to promote products and services, exchange ideas, and to establish sound part-

nerships 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.

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

chamber.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.

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 and be included in the marketing visit Southingtonchamber.com or call 860.628.8036. 2023 sponsors include Pepsi a of Bristol and Connecticut Appliance & Fireplace Distributors.

THOMAS CONKLIN

LYMAN HALL TRACK

There was only one male double-winner at the Record-Journal Invitational on Saturday and it was Lyman Hall’s Thomas Conklin. The sophomore brought home the 800 meters in 2:03.82 and the 1600 in 4:43.04. Expect those times to come down as Conklin builds toward the postseason. He qualified for nationals during the indoor season and was a staple of the SCC champion 4x400 relay.

TANNER DROBISH

SHEEHAN LACROSSE

The Titans continued their mastery over rival Lyman Hall with a 10-7 victory on Friday. Not surprisingly, Tanner Drobish drove the attack. The senior captain scored half of Sheehan’s goals, with three of the five coming in the first quarter alone. The victory extended Sheehan’s win streak to four and extended Tanner’s goal count for the season to 24. Drobish also scored five goals vs. Notre Dame.

BOBBY HERZMAN

WILCOX TECH BASEBALL

Kevin Youkilis was called the “Greek God of walks.” Wilcox Tech’s Bobby Herzman is right there on Olympus with him. Through WT’s first five games, Herzman drew 15 base on balls and got on base 19 times. The sophomore has pop, too. He doubled and tripled in the same inning Monday as the Wildcats thumped Vinal Tech to improve to 7-0. On the mound, Herzman sports a record of 2-0

STELLA CICERO MALONEY SOFTBALL

Regarding the softball performances of freshman Stella Cicero, allow us to channel our inner Stanley Kowalski: HEY, STELLA! With both her pitching and hitting, the rookie has that streetcar named Maloney barrelling along at 5-1. Top acts have included a nine-inning shutout of Berlrin, a 5-inning no-hitter over Wilcox and key hits in the most recent wins over E.O. Smith and Bristol Eastern.

MOLLY LANZ CHESHIRE TRACK

They call Molly Lanz “Squirrel,” and the CHS junior can certainly run and jump like one. At Saturday’s Record-Journal Invitational, Lanz won the 100 hurdles in 15.42 and the 400 meters in 60.66. Both times were personal-bests for an athlete whose best event is actually the 300 hurdles. Lanz is coming off an indoor season in which she placed third in the SCC in the 55 hurdles and 300 meters.

MAKENZIE MAREK

SOUTHINGTON TRACK

One of the top all-around female athletes in Southington’s Class of 2023? Right here: Makenzie Marek. In the fall, Marek was the All-Conference and All-Record-Journal libero for the SHS volleyball team that won the CCC crown and advanced to the Class LL semifinals. Now competing in track, Marek won both the javelin (106-4) and discus (106-11) at Saturday’s R-J Invitational.

Jobs

In the local Southington area, Lake Compounce is among the largest drivers of seasonal hires to supplement their workforce - seeking 1,000 hires as young as 16 to cover all manner of positions from ride operations, lifeguards, concessions, and security, with wages ranging between $16 and $18 per hour depending on the position.

Currently the park is still seeking to fill around 300

positions, with plans to keep applications open all throughout their summer operating season.

Despite having that many positions remaining, park operators say they’re still more than prepared for their opening in two weeks and that they’ve brought more people onto their team ahead of their opening than the prior two years since the pandemic.

“The hiring never stops around here,” Lynsey Winters said, communication manager at Lake Compounce, “Our seasonal team

members are really the most important team members for our park and for our park to be able to operate fully. Without them, we wouldn’t be able to have rides running, we wouldn’t be able to have our water park open. They’re really who makes the park function day to day.”

The park only has around 20 full-time staff members, and 30 maintenance crew, so the portion of part-time help is significant to their daily operations.

Staff at the park welcome people of all ages onto their team, though they support a significant portion of highschool and college-aged individuals through their firsttime jobs.

The surplus of new hires they feel is especially welcome for this season, organizers say, as for the 177th season they’ve made signifi-

cant renovations to their famous wooden Boulder Dash coaster to make it go even smoother and faster, along with upgrades to many of their concession stands.

With bringing in so many seasonal jobs, the staff at the park are proud to be a staple of the local area. “I think it’s a great place for the community to come together, whether they’re working at the park or visiting their park with their friends and family, it’s just a fun summer place to be. So, I’m sure that our employment is a huge positive impact on the local community, and the number of jobs that we bring to the local community - we’re really proud of that.”

Applications are available online.

The Town of Southington itself is also taking on new

See Jobs, A28

Obituaries

Year Round Tree Service

In order to continue delivery to your home or business, we need to have each resident or business let us know that, by filling out our on-line requester form at myrecordjournal. com/southington-plainville-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 Southington & Plainville Citizen to your home or business, will end.

NEWINGTON - David Tate Matusko, 54, of Church St. in Newington, CT, passed away April 10, 2023, at the Hospital of Central Conn. He was born in Northampton, May 10, 1968, the son of Eugene Matusko and Marcia Prokop. He graduated from Plainville High School. David lived at the Church St. Group home with five other guys and staff for over thirty years. David loved everyone he met and was quite a character. He was predeceased by his father Eugene Matusko. He leaves his Mother Marcia Prokop and her husband Bill; his sister Samantha Prokop and her son Blake; his brother Billy Prokop (Shannon) and his daughter Mia; his Aunty Sandy and Uncle Frank who always looked out for him; his many aunts, uncles and cousins; and he will be especially missed by his Church Street group, George, Mark, Jose, Greg and Wayne. All services are Private with burial at the Holy Rosary Cemetery. Czelusniak Funeral Home is in charge. Memorials in David’s Memory can be made to the DDS Trust Fund, CC395 Church St., Newington Ct. 06111. Please go to Czelusniakfuneralhome. com for online condolences and tribute book.

David Matusko

Spa looks to create ‘calm, peaceful space’ for pets

By Christian Metzger Record-Journal staff

SOUTHINGTON The Spot

Pet Spa is the newest locally owned business to open in Riverbend Plaza, 1049 Queen St.

Owned by 26-year-old Melissa Russo, the spa aims to create a holistic and intimate experience to make pets and their owners as comfortable as possible when they come in for a visit.

While the spa opened earlier this month and is already booking appointments, an official grand opening is planned on Sunday, April 30 from 12 to 4 p.m. Visitors will be able to meet Russo and her dog Pongo, and are encouraged to bring their own pets as well.

The spa services dogs, rabbits, and even guinea pigs. Russo hopes to expand to cats soon and is in the process of getting additional training to offer that service.

“I was a hairdresser for quite a long time and I think that I just never found this overwhelming connection with people. Don't get me wrong, people are great, but there was just this time that I hit a wall and I was like, ‘I'm really just not happy,’” Russo said. “I did some digging and I wound up reaching out to someone who became my mentor. She showed me what really giving animals time and space is and how to respect them and through that I fell in love with it.”

Russo is a Connecticut native who gained experience with a mobile grooming service that served Fairfield County, along with Brooklyn and Queens, New York. She’s since gotten her master’s degree in holistic arts for pet grooming. While she enjoyed her experience working for the mobile unit, it had its own challenges, including time constraints when grooming the volume of pets they were trying to serve.

To give the animals an experience she thought they de-

served, Russo got the inspiration to open up her own brick and mortar store.

“Pets are like kids and I think sometimes we forget that, but they're just like children,” she said. “I have pets and I treat them like my kids and if I brought my dog to a grooming salon or even when I bring them to the vet, I want to be a part of everything. I want to know what's going on, I want to understand so I can be better,” Russo said. “I really just wanted to create a really calm, peaceful space that pet parents were able to walk through the door and say, ‘wow, I know that my pet is going to be shown patience, love, and kindness here.’ And those are just really big, important things to me. I wanted that to be something that was available for people who valued those same things as I did.”

Russo was drawn to South-

ington because she saw it was a growing area with a thriving local business community.

Despite being open for such a short period of time, Russo says that members of the community and other tenants at Riverbend Plaza have been welcoming and supportive of her endeavor.

“People have been super supportive, super kind, especially all of my neighbors that I work next to. They come peek through the windows and they check on me and that's been really great,” she said. “The customers who have come in so far have all been very receptive and open to the business, which is really neat.”

To officials, the opening of new local businesses is a continuing sign of the town’s attractiveness to business owners.

“Southington is a great town to live, to work, to travel, to visit, to patronize businesses. And we're very happy to have this new business open up. I know that plaza is a great plaza. It's got great businesses in it,” said Town Councilor Mike DelSanto, chair of the Economic Strike Committee. “Even though we're in a down economic time, people still want to open businesses and thrive in Southington … We're hoping that things are gonna be turning around sometime soon and we'll be able to accommodate some of the industry and business that want to come to town.”

For more information about The Spot Pet Spa, visit thespotpetspa.com, or find the business on Facebook.

Melissa Russo, owner of The Spot Pet Spa, gives her toy poodle “Pongo” a brush at her new business in the Riverbend Plazaat1049QueenSt.inSouthingtononWednesday,April12.

Photos by Dave Zajac, Record-Journal

The pet wash tub at The Spot Pet Spa in the Riverbend Plaza.

Class of 1973

The 50th reunion planning committee for the Plainville High School Class of 1973 is searching. If you are a graduate, or know of one, email crczellecz@comcast.net.

Reading challenge

The Hartford Yard Goats

Baseball Club, in partnership with Eversource, has announced the return of a student reading challenge for the 2023 season. Students (K through 8th grade) who read five books outside of the school curriculum will earn two tickets to a Yard Goats game at Dunkin’ Park in Hartford. A parent or guardian can register stu-

dents on the Yard Goats website (yardgoatsbaseball.com) through May 6.

Transfer station

Plainville’s transfer station on Granger Lane is open for the season. Hours of operation are 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., Saturdays only. The transfer station is for Plainville resi-

dents only. ID is required. Direct questions to 860-7930221 ext. 7176.

Certification

Eversource is partnering with Housatonic Community College and the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local Unions 420 and 457 to pre-

pare 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.

For details, visit Eversource.com.

by Medicaid. Currently, the funding for their roles is piecemeal and largely sustained through grants, which can be insufficient and unreliable.

Lisa Puglisi, a physician and the director of Transitions in Connecticut, said the change would enable Transitions to hire more community health workers. The New Haven clinic currently sees roughly 240 new patients a year, but the need is far greater.

“We need so many more. Monya is one person in New Haven. We have 900 people coming home a year, 80% of whom likely have a chronic health condition, as best we can tell,” she said.

Community health workers can work at a variety of organizations, including federally qualified health centers, hospitals, community based organizations and foundations, often serving as connectors between systems of care and underserved communities.

And building trust between the medical system and people it has historically ignored is no small feat, said Puglisi.

“To help build that trust, it’s full-time effort. It is work,” said Puglisi. “And that’s a lot of what the CHW helps us do.”

Women of color serve as a cornerstone of the workforce. According to a survey, 85% of community health workers in Connecticut identify as women. Fortyfour percent and 27% identify as Latino and Black, respectively.

At Transitions, Saunders assists people with traditional medical needs like refilling prescriptions, scheduling doctor’s visits and arranging transportation to the clinic. She actively participates in appointments, serving as an advocate and ensuring the doctor understands a person’s needs. There’s even one patient who refuses to get a shot without Saunders by her side.

But she also supports people in whichever ways they’re looking to rebuild the foundations of their broader health and well-being, which often starts by getting them ID cards and connecting them to food pantries, job opportunities and housing.

“Sometimes primary care is at the bottom of the list,” said Saunders. “And I get it because if [someone] doesn’t have anywhere to stay, how is she going to get to the doctor?”

At Transitions, Saunders is particularly passionate about working with the women who come through the clinic’s doors. She runs a weekly support group where women can come together to hang out over pizza and snacks.

Meetings start with everyone sharing “why they’re glad” and “why they’re sad”— a high and low moment from the past week. The conversation hits plenty of serious topics, like preparing for pending court dates or par-

enting under DCF mandates, but also breaks out into laughter often. “These women are amazing,” gushed Saunders. “I love them so much.”

One week, a regular attendee walked in with a black eye and bruises from an abusive partner. Everyone in the room offered her hugs and words of solidarity. Saunders encouraged her to see a doctor at the clinic and

then went straight to work finding her a safe place to stay. With Saunders’ help, the woman contacted 211, the state’s hotline for essential services and crisis intervention. She managed to get in touch with someone, but, after a couple days, they still hadn’t found her somewhere to go.

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

“They don’t work private duty while they’re working,” he said. “They’re willing to work on their days off, on their weekends off.”

There’s lots of opportunity for overtime and private duty, Daly said, and there’sa handful of officers who take every opportunity offered to them.

“It’s there if they want it.” he said. “It’s going to a certain

number of people because there’s also a group that doesn’t want to work. We don’t make them go out there and work private duty if they don’t want to.”

While it’s unusual for a police chief to work private duty, Daly’s agreement with the Board of Police Commissioners allows him to do so. He takes private duty jobs after officers have had their pick.

“I am the absolute last person offered,” Daly said. Town Manager Mark Sciota

was the only non-police employee to be included in the top 10 earners on the town government side. He made $183,097 in 2022.

Pension boost under consideration

Steve Kalkowski, police commission vice chairman, said private duty and overtime earnings count towards an officer’s salary for the purposes of calculating their pensions. While the town doesn’t pay private duty, Southington is responsible for paying into the pension system.

Southington’s compensation and pension is attractive and does help with recruitment, Kalkowski said, but he questioned how sustainable the system was in light of budget difficulties this year.

“I think it’s something we need to look at,” he said. “Can the town and the citizens and the taxpayers of this town continue to afford benefits at this level?”

Top education earners

The first and second top school district earners were Madancy and assistant su perintendent Frank Pepe who made $185,000 in the 2022 fiscal year. The only

s

other non-principal on the list was Rebecca Cavallaro, the district pupil services director.

She’s in charge of special education, which comprises about 25 percent of the district’s $100 million budget. Madancy said Cavallaro is responsible for more than 1,000 students.

“It’s a pretty high stakes job in terms of the pressure,” he said.

Madancy, Pepe and Cavallaro are not represented by a union. School principals’ salaries are set by union contracts, leading to many principals making the same amount. Earnings by principals are set by negotiated contracts. Senior principals make more than those with fewer years in the role.

When determining principal salaries, the first step is usually to look at earnings of surrounding and comparable towns according to Madancy. That’s true for non-union positions like his as well.

“I think we’re pretty comparable to Meriden and Wallingford,” he said.

Colleen Clark, Board of Education chairwoman, said Southington’s top administrators earn a bit less than those in comparable positions elsewhere. Principals in town are on the high side

From A26 Earning Welcome to On The Menu. Let us help you find the perfect place to eat. Whether it’s a celebration, date night, or just grabbing a bite to eat, this list of local restaurants is sure to satisfy your taste buds.

Adelphia Café

476 Washington Avenue North Haven, CT 06473

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.

of area salary ranges and teachers are in the middle.

Twitter: R257140

groups, ” Clark said. “I’m glad the majority of our employees have contracts that are set.” VOLUNTEER DRIVERS NEEDED SENIOR TRANSPORTATION SERVICES 860-224-7117 | seniorrides.org

Obituaries

Mary P. Dennison

SOUTHINGTON - Mary (Perry) Dennison, 93, of Southington, passed away at her home on Saturday, December 10, 2022. She had been the loving wife of the late John Dennison for 60 years. Mary was born on July 20, 1929 in Windsor, CT, to the late John and Mary (Linonis) Perry and had been a longtime Southington resident. Mary graduated from Bloomfield High School, Class of 1947. She was an avid reader and enjoyed crossword puzzles and gardening. She also loved flowers, especially chrysanthemums, irises and gladiolus. Mary is survived by her 2 daughters, Kathleen Messner and her husband David of Bristol and Nancy Soucie and her husband George of Southington, 3 grandchildren, David Dennison, Nikki Ferland and her husband Zach and Eric Soucie and 2 greatgrandchildren, Brycen and Harper. She is also survived by her sister, Ruth Jefferis of Windsor and many nieces,nephews and cousins, as well as her special neighbor,

Jobs

From A22

seasonal hires, specifically for lifeguard positions for the Memorial Park pool. They’re accepting anyone 16 or older with reliable transportation. Interested applicants are encouraged to also apply online or call the recreation department for additional questions.

Local restaurants and eaters are also preparing for a busier summer season, which will necessitate a need for more seasonal hires. Ice cream and confectionary shops especially are in high demand during the summer months as patrons try and beat the summer heat.

Jay. In addition to her husband John, Mary was predeceased by 2 sons, David Dennison and Michael Dennison and her sister, Dorothy Roth. In lieu of flowers, donations in Mary’s memory may be made to the American Cancer Society www.cancer.org. A graveside service will be held at 11:30a.m. on Saturday, April 22, 2023, at St. Thomas Cemetery, Southington. Plantsville Funeral Home has been entrusted with handling the arrangements. For online condolences, please visit www. plantsvillefuneralhome. com.

Sweet Claude’s Ice Cream in Cheshire is one such business, that is seeking high school students to stick with their team more long-term to help them through their busy summer season and beyond.

Having recently moved into a larger location at the Ball & Socket Arts building on 493 W Main just beside the Heritage Trail, the store is seeking more staff for what they anticipate a busy first summer at their new location, especially given the proximity to the trail.

Chili

A fundraiser for the Plainville Food Pantry, the cook-off pulled in $2,755.

“I think the turnout was awesome, ” George Davey Jr. of the Plainville Fire Department said, pointing out that “between 150 and 175 people” attended.

Police officer Shane Dufresne helped organize the cook-off, which is expected to return in 2024.

“The VFW donated the hall, and we received several donated raffle items from Plainville and Southington businesses,” Dufresne said.

“We hope to make this an annual event.”

While the Plainville PD, represented by six chili cooks, collected several

awards, the seven-member fire department contingent earned most of the big ones: best overall, most spicy and most unique.

Michael Schneider, with the fire department team, claimed the best overall award for his chili, and his name will be featured in the top spot on a cook-off plaque which organizers hope will fill up over the years.

From A1

Michael Schneider from the Plainville Fire Department, center, was the overall winner of the first annual chili cook-off held Sunday, March 19. Schneider stands between GeorgeDaveyJr.,left,andShaneDufresne.

Photos by Nicole Zappone, Record-Journal

Student volunteers from Plainville High School at the chili cook-off. From left: Julian Steward, Sophia Leonetti, Nathaniel Cranson, Matthew Collado and Gianna Marciano.

Obituaries

Darryl D. DeSorbo

Darryl D. DeSorbo

SOUTHINGTON -

SOUTHINGTON Darryl

D. DeSorbo, 58,of Southington,passed awayunexpectedly onSaturday, April 15, 2023. He was a loving husband, father and best friendtohiswifeConstance (Malizia)DeSorbo andhis daughter, MeganDeSorbo. DarrylwasbornonOctober 1, 1964in Southingtonto

the late Johnand Helen (Pernal) DeSorbo.He graduated from Southington High School,Class of1982 and wasthe ownerand operatorof DeSorboLandscape Construction for over 25 years. Darryl was a friendto everyoneand would give the shirt off his backto anyonewhoneeded it.He livedevery dayto the fullestand especially enjoyed golfing and fishing.Family andfriends were the most important part of his life. He lovedtrips to the casinoandcruisingwithhis wife and daughter and cherishedtheirfamilyvaca-

Darryl D. DeSorbo, 58, of Southington, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, April 15, 2023. He was a loving husband, father and best friend to his wife Constance (Malizia) DeSorbo and his daughter, Megan DeSorbo. Darryl was born on October 1, 1964 in Southington to the late John and Helen (Pernal) DeSorbo. He graduated from Southington High School, Class of 1982 and was the owner and operator of DeSorbo Landscape Construction for over 25 years. Darryl was a friend to everyone and would give the shirt off his back to anyone who needed it. He lived every day to the fullest and especially enjoyed golfing and fishing. Family and friends were the most important part of his life. He loved trips to the casino and cruising with his wife and daughter and cherished their family vacations to Myrtle Beach. Darryl will be missed deeply by his family and many friends. In addition to his wife Connie and daughter Megan, Darryl is survived by his brother, John F. DeSorbo and wife Donna of New Hampshire, brother and sister-in-law, Alan and Mary Provencal of Southington, sister-inlaw, Toni-Marie Landino of Plantsville, brother and sister-in-law, Dominick and Cheryl Malizia of Meriden, Dean Landino, Jimmy Palumbo and girlfriend Janine, all of Southington

tionstoMyrtleBeach.Darryl willbemisseddeeplybyhis familyand manyfriends.In addition to his wife Connie anddaughter Megan,Darryl is survived by his brother, John F. DeSorbo and wife Donna ofNew Hampshire, brother and sister-inlaw, Alanand MaryProvencalof Southington,sisterinlaw, Toni-Marie Landino ofPlantsville, brotherand sister-in-law, Dominick and Cheryl Maliziaof Meriden, Dean Landino,Jimmy Palumbo andgirlfriend Ja-

and his niece and nephews, Gina Provencal, Joseph Landino and Louis Landino. He is also survived by his aunts and uncles, Dolores and Joseph LaPorte, Donald and Jan DeSorbo and Molly DeSorbo, all of Southington, as well as many cousins. In addition to his parents, Darryl was predeceased by his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Anthony and Dolores Malizia. In lieu of flowers, donations in Darryl’s memory may be made to the Megan DeSorbo Special Needs Fund, c/o Liberty Bank, 60 N. Main St., Southington, CT 06489. Darryl’s family would like to thank the Plantsville Funeral Home family for their support and guidance through these difficult times. Plantsville Funeral Home has been entrusted with handling the arrangements. For online condolences, please visit www. plantsvillefuneralhome. com.

nine, all ofSouthington and his nieceand nephews,Gina Provencal, Joseph LandinoandLouisLandino. He isalso survivedby his aunts and uncles, Dolores and JosephLaPorte, Donaldand JanDeSorboand Molly DeSorbo, all of Southington, aswell as many cousins.In addition to hisparents, Darrylwas predeceasedby hisfatherin-law and mother-in-law, Anthony and Dolores Malizia.Inlieuofflowers,donations in Darryl’s memory maybe madeto theMegan DeSorbo SpecialNeeds Fund, c/oLiberty Bank,60 N. Main St., Southington, CT06489. Darryl’s family would like to thank the Plantsville FuneralHome family fortheir supportand guidancethroughthesedifficulttimes. PlantsvilleFuneralHome hasbeenentrustedwith handlingthe arrangements. Foronline condolences, please visit www.plantsvillefuneralhome.com.

Ann E. Cherney

MERIDEN - Ann E.

(Wight) Cherney, 95, of Meriden, CT, formally of Southington, CT, passed away peacefully on April 7, 2023, surrounded by her family. She was born on August 10, 1927, in Germany. She is survived by her children, Norman Wight (Brenda), Larry Wight (Elza), Jeffrey Wight (Alison), Michael Wight and Eileen Wight. She is also survived by 13 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren.

The family would like to thank the staff of the MidState Medical Center for their compassionate care during this difficult time.

Services shall be private for the immediate family.

LEGAL NOTICE

Plainville Cemetery Association, Inc.

The annual meeting of the Plainville Cemetery Association, Inc. will be held Thursday, April 27, 2023, at 11:00 A.M. in the Council Chambers of the Plainville Municipal Center, 1 Central Square, Plainville, CT. for the purpose of transacting the following:

1. The election of trustees and officers for the ensuring year.

2. To act on any other business proper to come before said meeting.

Karen Morrison Secretary

SEWER LABORER

PUBLIC HEALTH

SCHOOL BUS DRIVERS

PREMIUM SCREENED TOPSOIL

R260563

LEGAL NOTICE

PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION PLAINVILLE, CONNECTICUT

On April 11, 2023, the Plainville Planning and Zoning Commission took the following actions:

APPROVED a Site Plan Revision for F. J. Hubeny (Frontier Communications) to construct an above ground fuel storage tank and associated screening at 70 West Main Street in a CC Zone.

APPROVED a Site Plan Revision for PDS Engineering (Cad Cam Machine) to construct a manufacturing addition at 150 Robert Jackson Way in a RI Zone.

Respectfully submitted, Matthew Weimer, Secretary, Plainville Planning and Zoning Commission. Dated at Plainville, CT this 12th day of April, 2023.

R260528

Involves manual work in construction and general maintenance activities for The Town of Wallingford’s Sewer Division. Operates vehicles, trucks and a variety of power equipment. Must have a minimum of six (6) months experience in performing related manual work at the laborer level and a High School Diploma or G.E.D. Must also possess and maintain a valid State of Connecticut motor vehicle operator’s license. Wages: $20.26$24.02 Hourly. Application Forms may be obtained at the 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. Fax: (203)

294-2084 Phone: (203) 294-2080. The closing date will be the date the 50th application or resume is received or May 2, 2023, whichever occurs first. EOE

SANITARIAN

Professional public health work in the enforcement of statutes and regulations relating to public and environmental health. Applicants should possess a bachelor’s degree in environmental health or closely related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience, substituting on a year for year basis. Must possess and maintain a valid State of Connecticut Motor Vehicle Operator’s License. Must be able to obtain within 6 months CT certification as a food inspector. Salary: $63,116 - $80,755 annually plus an excellent fringe benefit package. Apply to: 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. Phone # (203) 294-2080, Fax #: (203)294-2084. The closing date will be May 8, 2023 or the date the 50th application is received, whichever occurs first. EOE.

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

WALLINGFORD - 1 BR apt., 3rd fl., $900 per mo + 1 mo. sec. Fully appl. KIT. Call (203) 269-5980.

ROOMS FOR RENT$575, $625 or $675 mo., modern rooms, plenty of parking in Meriden. Nice neighborhood. Must have refs. & sec. Call Charlie, 347641-1135.

FURNITURE - Sofa, 91” Ashley Dorsten, color Sisal, less than 2 yrs old, $250; 2 end tables, espresso, $25 ea.; Coffee table, deep brown, $50; all in great condition. (860) 736-5092.

$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

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

For Junk or unwanted vehicles, Toyota’s etc.

Please call Mike @ 203284-8562 8am-5pm.

OFFICE POSITIONWe are looking for a self-motivated, friendly and responsible person who has strong customer service skills and computer knowledge to work in our Self Storage office. Secure facility with longterm tenant base.

FERRIS 48” WALKBEHIND LAWNMOWER - 5 SPEED KAWASAKI 14 HP ENGINE W/ GRASS CATCHER, $300. (860) 302-2561. -

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.

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

2005 VW BEETLE CONV - 102K miles, running but needs work, asking $2,000. Call 203-5359193.

TRUCK DRIVERS

Geremia Greenhouse is looking for customer friendly individuals to drive a 26’ box truck to make deliveries of live plants, full- or part-time. A valid driver’s license and clean driving record is required. CDL is desired but not required. Apply in person Mon.-Fri., 9am to 12pm at 415 Barnes Road, Wallingford, CT.

Part Time: Friday, 9-5 p.m., Saturday 9-2 p.m. (can be alternate Saturdays). Call 203-605-1494.

PT BUS DRIVER - For Senior Center, 1 day per week and as needed. Public Service license with Passenger endorsement required. Applications now being accepted at the Wallingford Senior Center, 238 Washington St. 203-265-7753 Equal Opportunity Employer: disability/veteran.

SHIPPING TEAM MEMBER

Geremia Greenhouse is looking for greenhouse workers to ship seasonal plants. Previous experience is not necessary, but helpful. Must have reliable transportation and be willing to work flexible hours, including some weekends. Apply in person Mon.-Fri., 9am to 12pm at 415 Barnes Road, Wallingford, CT.

MATERIALS DISTRIBUTION

Screened Topsoil $30/ per yd; 2.5” screened gravel, $18 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 @ 860-9824819 for delivery

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.

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 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.

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

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

GUTTERS PLUS 25+yrs. Exp. Call today for Free estimate. 203-440-3535 Ct. Reg. #578887

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

#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

A-1 QUALITY POWERWASHING

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

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

W. BOOBER MASONRYOver 35 Years Experience All Types of Masonry CT License #626708 (203) 235-4139

Low Rates Call Dennis 203.630.0008

GARY WODATCH - Tree Removal. All calls returned. CT# 620397. Quick courteous service. 860-558-5430.

150 TAG SALES

In one location under the Festival Tent on Saturday, April 22,

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

Let Us BEAR Your Junk! Junk Removal in CT

#1 CHEAP Sm. Yard Mowing. Spring Clean-Up. Light Hauling. Sr. & Veteran disc. 203.600.3836. Mike’s Helping Hands.

ACCEPTING - New customers for wkly mowing, thatching, aerating, hedge trimming . Ryan 860.515.1302

GARY WODATCH

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

SPRING CLEANUPS

JUNK REMOVAL Tree Removal, Fence Work & more! No job too small or large. 860.719.3953

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.

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

POWER WASHING

Is Spring Cleaning on THE OUTSIDE FREE Estimates #569127 Call Kevin 203-440-3279

POWERWASHING

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

ED’S JUNK REMOVAL (203) 494-1526

Fully ins. Free Estimate. Call Ed, we will take it to the dump for you!

OVER 28 YRS EXP Stonewalls, patios, sidewalks, chimneys, pool areas, fireplaces, fire pit steps. 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

Painting Int. & Ext. Gutters Cleaned Free Ests. Ins. Refs. Rodrigo, (203) 565-7745.

CustomColonial Painting.com Since ‘99 Lic’d 0630904 & Ins’d Senior Discount Warranty. Financing 860-306-0270

Insurance claim.storm damage.roofing.siding. gutter.chimney flashing.

Office:203.754.3071

Cell:203.510.3830

Stormshieldct@gmail. com HIC.0664452

MERIDEN REPUBLICAN TOWN COMMITTEE

Chicken Tenders, Sweet Potato Fries, Italian Wedding Soup, Fresh Squeezed Lemonade

COUNCIL OF NEIGHBORHOODS

Silver City Waffle, Strawberry Sundae, Hot Fudge Sundae, Water

MERIDIAN LODGE #77

Mini Donuts

AMERICAN LEGION

Meatball Grinders, Water

NESIT

Snow Cones, Slushy Frozen Drinks

NOAH’S ARK OF HOPE

Kettle Korn: Small, Medium, Large or Jumbo, and Gatorade

NORTH ITALIAN

HOME CLUB

Fried Dough, Water

SATURDAY,

APRIL 29TH

FOOD VENDORS

DEMOCRATIC TOWN COMMITTEE

Pizza Slice, Brownie Sundae, Italian Ice, Water, Powerade

ST. MARY’S CATHOLIC CLUB

Steamed Cheeseburgers, Homemade French Fries, Homemade French Fries with cheese, Corn Dogs, Hot dog on a stick, Water, Soda

MERIDEN TURNER SOCIETY

German Bratwurst with Kraut, Pork Schnitzel, Deep Fried German Hot Dog with Kraut, Ribbon Fries with Cheese, Deep Fried Oreos, Funnel Cakes, Gatorade, Soda, Water

A.O.H

Kielbasa Sandwich w/wo Kraut, Kielbasa on a Stick, Breakfast Sandwich, Water

SOUTH CHURCH M2

Cannolli, Coffee, Iced Coffee, Water

MERIDEN KIWANIS CLUB

Fried Dough, 1/2 Piece Fried Dough, Water

IGLESIA DE DIOS CASA DEL ALFARERO

Dinner (Rice/Chicken/Macaroni Salad), Empanadas - Chicken & Beef, Shish Kabobs - Pork & Chicken, Non-alcoholic Pina Coladas, Passion Fruit Juice, Soda

AMICI DELLA VIGNA

Sausage & Pepper Grinder, Jumbo Hot Dog, Jumbo Chili Dog, Pasta Fagioli, Pink Lemonade

MERIDEN RAIDERS

Walking Tacos, Beef Patties, Chicken

Patties, Cocoa Bread, Pickles, Soda, Water

MERIDEN LIONS CLUB

Hamburgers, Cheeseburgers, Hot Dogs, Chili Dogs, Bowl of Chili, Egg Sandwiches, Water

MERIDEN/WALLINGFORD

NAACP

Chicken & Waffles, Water

MAKE A WISH

Hot Lobster Rolls, Cold Lobster Rolls, Water, Craft Soda

ST. ANDREWS CHURCH

LITTLE MISS DAFFODIL & HONOR ESCORT CEREMONY

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 26 6:30 P.M • TENNIS COURTS

SATURDAY, APRIL 29 “DAFFODILS ON PARADE” 11:30 A.M.

GRAND MARSHAL: BUDDY ALTOBELLO

ONGOING

CRAFT FAIR: Juried crafters from all over the eastern United States will be displaying and selling their artistic products by Mirror Lake, occupying over 70 spaces from 10am to 8pm Saturday and 10am to 5pm on Sunday.

AMUSEMENTS: will operate Friday from 5pm to closing; Saturday from 10am to 8pm and Sunday from 10am to 5pm. Wristbands on Sunday for $25.O0 from 10am-1pm - ALL AMUSEMENTS ARE

WEATHER DEPENDENT!!

JUSTIN PICCIRILLO’S sale and signing of his new book on the history of Hubbard Park both Saturday 4/29 and Sunday 4/30 from 11am to 4pm on the Midway.

MUSIC, MUSIC, MUSIC...

SUNDAY, APRIL 30

12:30

DIS-N-DAT BAND

10:45 - 11:30 JEFF PRZECH WITH DENNIS FANCHER

12:00 - 12:45 A PALLET FOR THE SHOAL

1:15 2:00 SPARKLE AND FADE

2:30 - 3:30 BROTHER OTHER

4:00 - 5:00 BEPW

JAMES J BARRY BAND SHELL STAGE

12:00-1:00

11:30 - 12:30 RAMBLIN DAN STEVENS

1:00 - 2:00 JAKE KULAK AND THE MODERN VANDALS

2:30 - 3:30 SHADED SOUL

4:00 - 5:00 SMALL TOWN GAMBLERS

FOOD TENT STAGE

11:30 - 12:30 GOZA LATIN BAND

1:00 - 2:00 SETH ADAM

2:30 - 3:30 ORQUESTA AFINKE

4:00 - 5:00 THE BLUE RHYTHM BAND

THE 2023 MIDSTATE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS & COMMUNITY EXPO

AT THE 43ND ANNUAL DAFFODIL FESTIVAL APRIL 29 - APRIL 30 UNDER THE EXPO TENT ON THE TENNIS COURTS - OPEN TO ALL DAFFODIL FESTIVAL VISITORS. Free Admission. HOURS: Saturday 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM & Sunday 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM

CHILDREN’S SHOWS

SATURDAY, APRIL 29

THEATER

SUNDAY, APRIL 30

SOLOMON GOFF HOUSE demonstration of 1700 living, both days from 11am to 4pm in Hubbard Park near the Skatehouse.

FREE: CASTLE CRAIG SHUTTLE will take you to the Castle at 1,000 feet above sea level both Saturday and Sunday. Please check Shuttle schedule upon arrival.

FREE: Round trip SHUTTLE BUS service from Platt High School and the Meriden Mall both Saturday and Sunday starting @ 8am.

ACTION ZONE STAGE

2:00 & 5:00PM

WHACKY CHAD STUNT COMEDIAN

12:00 & 3:00PM

DANIEL GREENWOLF CELTIC MAGICIAN

1:00 & 4:00PM

MIKE STEIDLEY’S MOUNTAIN BIKE STUNT SHOW

ACTION ZONE STAGE

YOUTH THEATER 1:30 THE LAB 2:00

VOICE

ACADEMY

www.daffodilfest.com