The Southington Citizen June 18, 2021

Volume 18, Number 25

www.southingtoncitizen.com

Friday, June 18, 2021

Apple Harvest Festival set to return this fall

By Devin Leith-Yessian Record-Journal staff

Residents will be able to get their fritter fix this fall with the return of the Apple Harvest Festival being confirmed for October.

“It was unfortunate we had to cancel so yeah we're glad to be back this year,” Festival Coordinator David Lapreay said.

The festival will begin on Friday, Oct. 1 and continue for that week

and the following weekend, concluding on Oct. 10. The festival’s advisory committee approved holding the festival’s parade and fireworks show on Oct. 3, with a rain date of Oct. 10. The parade will follow its usual route through downtown.

The Town Council announced Vertical Horizon will headline the Apple Harvest Festival’s music offerings.

The national act had a Billboard Hot 100 chart topper in 2000 with the See Festival, A2

Shift to doctors’ offices aims to reach those hesitant to take the vaccine

Southington softball players celebrate their 4-3 victory over Fairfield Ludlowe in the CIAC Class LL state championship game Saturday at West Haven High School.

By Jesse Buchanan Record-Journal staff

Aaron Flaum,

Walk-off rally lifts the Lady Knights to 19th state crown

By Sean Krofssik Record-Journal staff

WEST HAVEN — The Southington softball team was down, but not out in a memorable Class LL final Saturday afternoon.

The resilient top-seeded Blue Knights scored two runs in the bottom of the seventh inning to top No. 2 Fairfield-Ludlowe 43 at Frank Biondi Softball Field.

Jazmin Lasane played the hero

for the Knights with a walk-off single up the middle to plate Class LL Most Outstanding Player Ashlyn Desaulniers with the winning run.

Vaccinations have slowed according to health experts who are planning a shift from mass vaccination sites to doses given at doctor’s offices.

Most who wanted the vaccine have gotten it, leaving those either opposed to getting it, hesitant or waiting for more information, according to Shane Lockwood, PlainvilleSouthington Regional Health District director.

“We’re happy that people really wanted it at the beginning. Now we’re just providing enough information so that those who haven’t received it can make the best deci-

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Friday, June 18, 2021

"I understand why people wait. I think too often we try From A1 to just push it out without sion for them and their fami- listening to some people's lies,” Lockwood said. concerns. I think it's important to listen to the concerns Shifting challenges out there," Lockwood said.

About 65% of eligible people in Southington and Middle- Matter of trust field, a town in the health Lockwood had a pastor condistrict, had received the tact him asking for informavaccine as of early June. tion to pass on to a parishAbout half of the eligible ioner. population in Plainville "That person was more inhad as well. terested and had larger trust Early on the in the vaccinawith their pastor than a tion campaign, the hurdle health director that they've was the number of doses be- never met before," Locking produced and transport- wood said. "If you're hesied to vaccination sites. tant now, (the vaccine) is goThere are now plenty of dos- ing to be available. Take your es, according to Keith Grant, time, do your research." senior system director for inLarge vaccine sites run by fection prevention with Hartford HealthCare, such as Hartford HealthCare. DeMidState Medical Center in mand for those doses has Meriden or the Bradley hosdropped, though. pital campus in Southington, “It’s decreased exponential- will remain open for now, ly,” he said. but Grant said planning has begun for closing those sites Lockwood said he’s seen a and shifting vaccination to similar decline in vaccinadoctor’s offices. He expects tions. He said most who more people will be comwere eager for a vaccine fortable taking a vaccine rechave received it by now. ommendation from their doctor.

Those who have waited should continue to seek out “You hope that people have trusted information on the that level of trust and rap-

From A1

Instead, the look of the festival will largely be formed by the number of vendors that sign on to line the streets downtown. The festival committee has already con“We bring in thousands from firmed over 40 vendors for all over Connecticut, even the festival and is in talks out of state as well. So it's a with several more at this great showcase for our town time, lower than the approxright here in the downtown imately 70 they had lined up area … we’re grateful that we last year, though Lepreay have this festival in town,” said vendors can join until Lapreay said. just before the start of the festival.

Since the state has lifted most of the coronavirus re“It should be the same footstrictions, Lepreay expects print … but it all depends on this year’s festival will look how many vendors we have,” much the same as past celehe said. brations. song “Everything You Want.”

Vertical Horizon, an alternative rock band, was most active in the early 2000’s.

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The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention last month recommended “increasing the proportion of vaccines allocated to primary care providers medical offices to promote health equity and address disparities in adult COVID-19 vaccination.”

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Committee member Chris Palmieri said the reserve fund might as well have been called the “COVID fund” because holding the festival in the wake of the pandemic fits the purpose of setting money aside.

“That is exactly what it’s for,” he said.

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“It changes the opportunity for us to socialize as normal people,” he said.

Most of the advisory committee’s discussion on holding the parade centered on the $5,000 cost, which could cause the festival to run at a loss and require drawing on its reserve fund.

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The new guidelines recommend that at least 60% of doses distributed to medical offices be allocated to those in the most socially vulnerable communities in each jurisdiction.

Having vaccines given at a doctor’s office like the flu shot could help normalize the process, Grant said.

There are also societal reasons to get the shot as some reopening liberties are contingent on vaccination.

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“There’s really not much we have to do, folks just have to be safe out there,” he said.

port with their primary provider than the general medical community,” Grant said. “There may be people who are waiting to have that in-depth conversation with their personal provider.”

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Friday, June 18, 2021

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Friday, June 18, 2021

Parents react to middle school video on LGBTQ

By Jesse Buchanan Record-Journal staff

it’s being handled as a personnel matter.

Parents and other residents reacted last week to an incident where a video on being an LGBTQ ally was shown to Kennedy Middle School students. Nearly all asked the Board of Education to ensure sexuality issues weren’t presented to children without parents’ consent.

Tim Connellan, school superintendent, said the video was not part of the curriculum and only shown to a “small number” of students.

School officials and board members have declined to discuss many details of the showing of the video, saying

The YouTube video includes suggestions for heterosexual students to support non-heterosexual friends, such as starting a gender and sexualities alliance. The cartoonstyle video was produced by amaze.org, a sex education organization.

It centers primarily on a heterosexual character who interacts with non-heterosexual friends. Two male characters are shown kissing in a scene.

The video can be found at https ://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=xS5FMErj0SE. Southington recently concluded gay pride events organized by Southington Pride Inc. It was the first such celebration for the town.

Parents, residents react

Several residents and parents spoke at the Thursday, June 10 Board of Education meeting, with all but one opposed to the video being shown to middle school students.

Valerie Ragucci, a district parent, was concerned that teachers were taking it upon themselves to show unapproved videos on sexuality to children “behind parents’ backs.”

LAWNS MOWED

“This is not teaching love and inclusion, this is causing confusion, stress in our children,” Ragucci said.

Tom Galvin said showing the video “undermines parental rights” and that the school district shouldn’t be teaching on “fundamental moral, religious and philosophical issues.” Parents should be the ones deciding whether and when to talk to their children about sexual issues, he said.

Effie Moutogiannis, mother of a DePaolo Middle School student, had no objections to the video. She said education on inclusion could help gay students that are dealing with shame or thoughts of suicide.

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Teaching that there are a multitude of genders or introducing ideas such as being pansexual was an “attack on our children,” she said.

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The Southington Citizen | southingtoncitizen.com

Friday, June 18, 2021

Video

No details from officials

From A4

While board members thanked parents and residents who spoke June 10, they offered no details on the incident or indicated what changes might take place.

“I don’t think we’re promoting sexuality, we’re promoting they’re accepted and supported,” Moutogiannis said. “I’d like to think that we’re going to promote a “Whether it’s things related community of support for the kids no matter what their to curriculum and what we’re teaching kids, it’s iminclinations are.” portant to make sure we’re doing it effectively and we’re Changes in doing it across the board efcurriculum? fectively too,” said Joe Val DePaolo, a Southington Baczewski, board vice chairPride organizer and Town man.

Council member, said she One speaker, Susan Zabounderstood parents’ concerns about a video on sexu- honski, told board members that they needed to show ality that wasn’t part of the school board oversight of the approved curriculum. She hoped the pride group could issue. work with the Board of Edu“I think the public needs to cation on ways to inform know how this is going to be youth about non-traditional handled with the two teachlifestyles. ers who put this into a curriculum when they weren’t “If (the video) is talking supposed to,” Zabohonski about being an ally and being supportive, that could be said. “We’d liked to see what kind of action takes place, a very positive thing, especially from what I hear form how it’ll be handled in the future.” the youth,” DePaolo said in an interview. “They need to jbuchanan@record-journal.com have some education on this 203-317-2230 Twitter: @JBuchananRJ and some awareness. They’d like to hear more about it.

FACEBOOK.COM/ “I just think it’s good for RECORDJOURNAL people to be aware of all the NEWSPAPER different types of people TWITTER.COM/ who are in this world and how people identify themRECORD_JOURNAL selves and what type of famINSTAGRAM.COM/ ily they are,” she added.

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The Southington Citizen | southingtoncitizen.com

Friday, June 18, 2021

In Brief Trail meeting The Department of Transportation will conduct a Virtual Public Information Meeting concerning the proposed Farmington Canal Heritage Trail – Phase 1, Town Line Road to Norton Park project on Tuesday, June 22 at 7 p.m. The meeting will be live streamed via Microsoft Teams Live Event and YouTube Live. A question-and-answer session will

follow the presentation. Instructions on how to access the meeting and how to provide comments or ask questions can be found at the project webpage, portal.ct.gov/DOTPlainville109173. Persons with limited internet access may request that project information be mailed to them by contacting William Hogan: william.hogan@ct.gov, 860594-2575.

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Summer lunch

Wednesday and Friday from 11:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. Hot Bread for Life announces its Grab and Go Lunches are alChildren’s Summer Lunch so available at Bread for Life, schedule for the summer of 31 Vermont Ave., Monday, 2021. Beginning June 21, Wednesday, Thursday and Bread for Life will be provid- Friday 11:45 a.m. to 12:15 ing healthy lunches at no p.m. Additionally, lunch and cost for children and teens activities will be provided at in Southington. Lunch is free Summerbrook Apartments and no registration is needMonday, Wednesday, and ed.

Friday from noon to 1 p.m.

The Southington Recreation Department's 27th Annual Music on the Green Concert Series will take place from 7 to 9 p.m. Wednesday evenings July 7 through Sept.

1 (rain date: Thursday) at the Southington Town Green, Main Street (Route Grab and Go Lunches may Call the Bread for Life office 10). Enjoy free live music and weekly car shows. Visit be picked up at DePaolo at 860-276-8389 for addithe Recreation Department's Middle School Monday, tional information. webpage at southington.org for more information. Concert schedule: July 7 - The Legends of Country Music (Classic Country). Sponsors: Friendship Lodge No. 33 AF & AM; Marcus Holcomb Chapter of DeMolay; Two Brothers Ice Cream. July 14 Rick Larrimore & Atlantic Crossing (The Ultimate Rod twenty Stewart Tribute). Sponsors: Edward McMahon Insurance Agency; Richard Chevrolet. July 21 - The Sam Vinci Orchestra (Italian & American Classics). Sponsors: Sons of Italy; UNICO Club of Southington. July 28 - The Glamour Girls (Dance Hits from the '40s-Today).

Sponsor: Attorney Elizabeth Kopec. Aug. 4 - Soul Sound Are you planning a get together?

Revue (Soul, R&B, Dance/ Party Band). Sponsors: Southington Police Union LEAS; Tighe & Bond. Aug. 11 - Southern Voice (Contemporary Country). Sponsor: Billy Carlson Heating & Air Mediterranean inspired, Conditioning, LLC. Aug. 18 mixed with American favorites.

Jukebox 45 (Hits of the '50s There is something for everyone to enjoy! & '60s). Sponsors: Kiwanis Club of Southington; Polish

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The Southington Citizen | southingtoncitizen.com

Friday, June 18, 2021

A7

Windsor resident charged with manslaughter, DUI SOUTHINGTON — Police have charged the driver of a vehicle that crashed into a utility pole with manslaughter and driving under the influence after the passenger of his vehicle died from injuries sustained in the crash.

Briefs From A6

Falcons of America Nest 307; Southington Lions Club.

Aug. 25 - Ball in the House (A Capella R&B, Soul & Pop). Sponsors: Rotary Club of Southington; The Summit at Plantsville. Sept. 1 - The Linda Ronstadt Experience (Tribute featuring American Idol Finalist Tristan McIntosh). Sponsors: Ali's Nursery; Aqua Turf Club.

Robert Perkins, 26, of 37 Lepage Road in Windsor, was charged June 4 with second-degree manslaughter, first-degree reckless endangerment, reckless driving and driving under the influence.

The crash occurred on Feb. 25 at approximately 11:50 p.m. near the intersection of Queen Street and West Queen Street. According to police,

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Perkins was driving south on Queen Street at over 100 miles per hour when he swerved to avoid a vehicle in front of him. His vehicle went over the curb, striking two utility poles and a mailbox before stopping in the southbound land of Queen Street.

Both Perkins and his passenger, who were not wearing seat-

program will take place Monday-Thursday for two weeks, July 19-22 and SoCCA will host youth sum- July 26-29. Registration is mer workshops for ages 7 to open to Southington resi12, Monday through Friday 9 dent students entering grades 2-12. Camp activa.m. to 1 p.m. For more inities will take place at formation, call 860-276-1581 Derynoski Elemenor email southingtonarts@ tary School from 12:15 to gmail.com.

3 p.m. daily. The cost to participate is $120 per child.

Complete program details Camp RISE are available on the RecreRegistration is now open for ation Department’s webthe Southington Recreation page at southington.org.

Department’s Camp RISE summer program for children with special needs. The

belts, were ejected from the vehicle, police said. he passenger.

No other vehicles were damaged as a result of the crash.

Perkins has been released on a $150,000 bond and is scheduled to appear in New Britain Superior Court today, June 18.

Swim lessons The Southington Recreation Department is now accepting online registrations for

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Congratulations Anthony Joszczyk!

We are pleased to announce that Anthony Joszczyk of Southington CT, the inventor of the Grow Bowl, has advanced to Connecticut Invention Convention, State Finals that were held on May 23, 2021 where he won US Nationals Invitation, Earth and Sustainability Award and Nucor Sustainability Star Award.

One of the CIC judges praised Anthony: “Love the focus on the environment and a new way to encourage people to compost!”

Anthony will be one of the young inventors representing CT at the Convention US Nationals event on June 24th, 2021. Almost 6,000 students participated in local invention conventions throughout the state, and over 500 students have advanced to State Finals.

Pictured above are Amy Zappone presenting Anthony a medal, Great Idea Award certificate for excellence in his category and a trophy at Kelley Elementary School on May 28, 2021.

Pictured below are Anthony and his 5th grade teacher Mrs. Raczynski at Kelley Elementary School.

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By Devin Leith-Yessian Record-Journal staff

A8

The Southington Citizen | southingtoncitizen.com

Friday, June 18, 2021

Briefs

ment’s webpage at southington.org.

webpage at www.southington.org for further information and online registration.

2021, the CFGNB will host an all-new series of workshops for nonprofits to continue the work of the initiative and aid organizations in current fundraising techniques.

Red Cross

The Red Cross is teaming up with INDYCAR to urge peoTennis programs ple to help keep the blood dren only, ages 5 and up.

Aerobic s supply on track by donating The Southington Recreation blood or platelets. Schedule Lessons at Recreation Park Department will offer begin- The Southington Recreation a donation appointment by pool will begin the week of ner and advanced level ten- Department will offer an Since the initiative began, downloading the Red Cross June 21; lessons at Memorial nis programs for SouthingAerobics in the Park prolocal nonprofit organizations Blood Donor App, visiting Park pool will begin the ton resident adults and chil- gram for adults Tuesdays have benefited from multiRedCrossBlood.org, calling week of June 28. The cost is dren ages 4 and up. Class lo- and Thursdays,through July ple trainings, workshops and 1800-733-2767 or enabling $65 per child. There is a 8, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., at Recre- webinars designed to help cations, dates, and times the Blood Donor Skill on any family rate of $135 for ation Park in Plantsville. vary by program and age them address the increasing- Alexa Echo device. three children or $150 for Power walking will be the fo- ly difficult challenge of susgroup. There is a fee to parfour children within the ticipate and advance regiscus on Tuesdays; aerobics taining programs and sersame household. Complete tration is required. on Thursdays. Program devices during lean fiscal Meet the Bradleys program details are available tails and registration are times. The Initiative also Class sizes are limited.

Visit on the Recreation DepartMeet the Bradleys. Gather at available on the Recreation provides organizations with the Recreation Department’s Department page at souththe Ichabod Bradley House access to an on-site library for an unforgettable experiington.org. and resource center with ence June 19 and 27, 10 to RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL • DRIVEWAYS • PARKING LOTS free access to printed and 10:30 a.m. You will be greetP A VING online resources focused on RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL • DRIVEWAYS • PARKING LOTS Workshop sessions securing and writing grants, ed in the Tavern Room of the ASPHALT # Bradley Home — a historical Asphalt is a Petroleum Product The Capacity Building Initia- governance, and a variety SOUTHINGTON’S Lock in your price now!

Insured & Licensed treasure that is on the NaOver 40 Years of professional areas.

During tive of the Community FounLic. Reg. HIC0654781 of Experience LLC • Asphalt • Curbing • Repairs • Stone • Crack Repair • Seal Coating the pandemic, some of these tional Registry. The room dation of Greater New has nine working fireplaces ASPHALT • CURBING • REPAIRS (860) 276-1130 resources are available onBritain was started in 2018 FREE ESTIMATES and seven authentic colonial STONEMARION • CRACK REPAIR • SEAL COATING to provide local nonprofit or- line. Visit cfgnb.org/capacimurals. Learn about the histy-building-for-nonprofits ganizations with resources tory of the Bradley family aimed at strengthening orga- for more information. that lived in the house for 25 YEARS nizational functioning. In SERVING SOUTHINGTON 120 years, and the Tuttle family that lived there for FREE ESTIMATES another 80 years. Tours are offered throughout the year.

Featuring: Visit bradleymountainMOTORCA 29th Annual E G A • Pre-War Concours d’Elegance R farm.com for more informaNT • Traditional Car Show Saturday, June 19, 2021 tion.

From A7

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The Southington Citizen | southingtoncitizen.com

Wheeler golf

Wheeler's 36th Annual Golf Classic will be held Wednesday, Sept. 15 at the Country Camp for children age 5 to 7. Club of Farmington. ProThe program will run Monceeds will benefit Wheeler day through Friday, June 28 Clinic’s Basic Needs Fund, through July 2, 9 a.m. to 12 which addresses a range of p.m. daily at DePaolo Middle environmental and social School, 385 Pleasant St. Stu- factors that interfere with a dents will be taught the espatient’s health and well-besentials of baseball, basketing, but which are not adball and soccer. The fee is dressed by other means of $135. Registration and payfunding. Visit wheelerclinment are due by Wednesday, ic.org for details.

June 23. Program details and registration are available on the Recreation Department Energy monitoring page at southington.org.

Eversource is making it possible for customers to monitor their energy use with the Festival sponsors Kill A Watt electricity usage sought meter. Along with the meter, each kit contains an instrucSponsor contributions play a tional booklet that explains big part in the success of the how to measure and record Apple Harvest Festival. If the amount of electricity beyou are a local business that ing used and offers tips to wants to make a positive reduce energy use and costs. contribution to this celebra- The Kill A Watt kits are availtion, contact Melissa Cocuz- able for borrowing from za at appleharvestfest@ nearly 200 libraries around aol.com; 860-276-1966. the state. A list of participating libraries can be found at

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eversource.com. Customers Visit HappeningHere.org for can also take advantage of upcoming events. the Green Button – an online tool that allows customers to download their energy usage Wellness expo data.

The Passport to Health & Wellness Expo will take place Sunday, July 18, 10 Utility assistance a.m. to 4 p.m., at The Bristol Eversource customers DoubleTree by Hilton. The can enroll in one of its paybenefit holistic fair, presentment plans or assistance ed by the Holistic Commuprograms to protect them nity Professionals, will feafrom service disconnection ture more than 75 vendors by calling 800-286-2828. and readers, free raffles and Both residential and nonres- a grand prize, as well as idential customers are eligi- a drum healing closing cereble for payment arrangemony. The expo is seeking ments at this time. Cusvendors and speakers. For tomers can learn more more information, call about payment programs and enroll at Eversource.com/BillHelp.

Arts alliance The Greater New Britain Arts Alliance welcomes the warmer weather and the opportunity to: Expand your cultural horizons. Engage your minds. Entertain your hearts. Entice you to go outside and enjoy springtime.

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Shirley Bloethe at 860-9890033, email YourHolisticEvents@gmail.com or visit PassItOnLLC.com.

Blood drive Plainville United Methodist Church will host an American Red Cross Blood Drive Monday, June 21, 1 to 6 p.m.

Call 1-800-733-2767 or go to redcrossblood.org to make an appointment.

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Briefs From A9

Foundation grants A second round of Community Foundation of Greater New Britain grant applications will be accepted this summer. Letters of Intent are due July 1. If your organization is invited to submit a full application, the deadline is Aug. 1. For more information, visit cfgnb.org.

Catalyst Fund

Army reunion

Community Foundation of Greater New Britain Catalyst Fund members consider funding requests from charitable organizations addressing that issue and choose a grant recipient to receive up to $12,500. A brochure and application form are available at cfgnb.org/catalystfund. Membership donations can be paid by check or through the foundation’s website. For more information, contact Joeline Wruck at jwruck@cfgnb.org or 860229-6018, ext. 307.

The Second (Indianhead) Division Association is searching for anyone who served in the Army's 2nd Infantry Division at any time.

Visit 2ida.org or contact Bob Haynes: 2idahq@comcast.net, 224-225-1202.

Woman’s Club The Suburban Woman’s Club of Greater New Britain, one of 26 in Connecticut that are part of the General Federation of Woman’s Clubs, is dedicated

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The Queen Ann Nzinga Center, Inc., which provides arts enrichment activities for children age 5 to 17, is accepting new participants.

The center promotes positive youth development among children of all races and abilities throughout Connecticut, but primarily to children in the greater Plainville, Berlin, Bristol and New Britain area. For more information, visit QANC.org.

The purpose of the Community Foundation of Greater New Britain’s Disaster Response Fund is to make resources available to local government community service departments and crisis coordinators to meet the basic needs of residents from the foundation’s four-town community who are displaced for an extended period of time due to a natural disaster.

If you are interested in making a gift to the disaster relief fund, send check to 74A Vine St., New Britain, CT 06052 with “Disaster Fund” in the memo. Or, vis-

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Calcagni HOME LIFESTYLE TREND: OUTDOOR KITCHENS REAL ESTATE

Outdoor spaces are enjoying a resurgence—and today’s latest lifestyle trend has Connecticut homeowners rethinking the way they use their decks, patios, and backyards to create outdoor kitchens and living spaces that bring all the comforts of inside out into nature. It seems there’s no better time than now—when we’re having to rethink where and how we spend our free time—to get creative with outdoor living and entertaining.

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The Southington Citizen | southingtoncitizen.com

Friday, June 18, 2021

Obituaries

Letters Policy Virginia E. Lewandowski

thanked. Names of businesses are not allowed. Letters must be signed and names will appear in print.

Include a phone number so The Citizen can contact you for verification. Letters must be submitted by 5 p.m. on Monday to be considered for publication the following Friday.

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Email letters to news@thesouthingtoncitizen.com ; mail to 500 South Broad St., Meriden, CT 06450 or fax to 203-639-0210. Letters are limited to 300 words. The Citizen will print only one letter per person each month. We reserve the right to edit letters. We do not list names of people, organizations and businesses being

SOUTHINGTONVirginia E. (Kowalczyk) Lewandowski, 78, of Southington passed away on Friday, June 11, 2021 at the Summit at Plantsville.

She was the beloved wife of Conrad Lewandowski.

Born August 31, 1942 in Middletown, she was the daughter of the late Stanley and Jennie (Wastafski) Kowalczyk.

Ginny attended local schools in New Britain graduating from New Britain High School in 1960 where she met her high school sweetheart Conrad. After graduation she was employed by New Britain Bank and Trust until her marriage to Conrad in August of 1964.

At that point, she became a stay at home Mom and took on the immense task of raising and shaping the lives of our three (3) children, Laurie, Robert and David and running our household and the challenges of everyday life they presented. Never one to sit still, in her later years after the children were grown she decided to reenter the work force and was employed by H&R Block where she worked for several years.

Ginny was my first love, my wife, soul mate, my best friend and the Rock of our family. She filled all our family’s life with love and happiness and was my reason for being for the 57 years of our marriage.

She loved and was loved by all around her. Our love for her will always be in our hearts and minds and we will forever savor all the memories we created together to help fill the emptiness created by her passing.

As a wife and mother she had a strong family orientation. She raised three (3) strong, confident and loving children. Ginny focused on the wants and needs of the family and always found a way to

provide for those wants and needs. She was always there to listen to all of our concerns and everyday problems and offer guidance, opinions and in some cases strict instructions to address them. There were always the car trips to “Marshall’s” when she sensed one of the children needed to talk about whatever was bothering them. The purpose of the trip was not to necessarily buy anything but just to have some one on one time with one of our kids. These trips usually resulted in setting everything straight. Ginny had a knack of finding a way forward for most all of the big or small problems and issues our family faced over the years. She was a good listener and together with her calm demeanor and sensitivity always left you with a feeling that everything was going to be ok.

Ginny had a wide range of interests and skills and there wasn’t anything she couldn’t do or wasn’t willing to try. The end products that resulted from her efforts were amazing. She would sew clothes and costumes for the kids, curtains and drapes for the house, sew patchwork quilts, paint watercolors, knit afghan blankets and garden. She took an upholstery course and did an amazing job of reupholstering our family room chairs and couches.

She was creative and enjoyed arts and craft.

As a Grandmother Ginny enjoyed all of our grandchildren. She spent many hours with them just listening and talking, playing board games, cards, attending their athletic events, dance recitals or just watching TV game shows. She truly loved them all.

One of her very favorite pastimes was spending an afternoon playing the slot machines and having dinner in the evening at one of the casinos. She would play her favorite slot machines for hours on end and enjoyed the thrill and excitement that resulted when she won.

In addition to her husband she leaves her three children, Robert Lewandowski and wife Sarah of Stonington, David Lewandowski and wife Jodi of Farmington and Laurie Swanson and husband Don of Westerly, R.I.; five grandchildren, Eric Swanson and wife Jenna, Ellie Hart and husband Neal, Mia, Marina and Misha Lewandowski; two brothers, Robert Kowalczyk of Southington and Richard Kowalczyk of Plainville; a brother-in-law, Tony Matukaitus of Southington and several nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by a sister Diane Matukaitus.

Memorial calling hours will be Friday from 4-7 p.m. Her funeral will be held on Saturday, 9:15 a.m. from the DellaVecchia Funeral Home, 211 N. Main St., Southington, to Immaculate Conception Church, 130 Summer St., Plantsville, for a Mass at 10 a.m. Immediately following Mass there will be a reception at Testa’s Banquet Facility (26 South Center St., Southington). For online condolences and directions please, www. dellavecchiasouthington. com

The Southington Citizen | southingtoncitizen.com

Softball

Obituaries Robert John Gorske

Craig Stephen Scanlon

GLEN ROCK, PA- Robert John Gorske, 69, of Glen Rock, PA passed away Sunday, June 6, 2021 at his residence. He was the loving husband of Desiree (Paradis) Gorske to whom he was married 42 years.

Born in New Britain, CT he was a son of Stephanie (Orzech) Gorske of CT and the late Joseph Gorske.

Robert was a very talented artist and enjoyed airbrush painting and custom painting on vehicles. He also enjoyed artwork, woodworking and building custom guitars. Robert enjoyed spending time with his family.

Surviving in addition to his wife, and mother, are three children Jessica, wife of Jason Allen, Matthew Gorske and Michael Gorske; two grandchildren Emily and Hunter Allen; two brothers Ted Gorske and Jim Gorske.

Services will be held at the convenience of the family. Hartenstein Funeral & Cremation Care, Inc of New Freedom, PA is assisting the family with arrangements. www.HartensteinCares. com

BERLIN- Craig Stephen Scanlon of Berlin, formerly of Plainville and Southington, passed away on Sunday, May 30, 2021, at St. Francis Hospital.

Craig was born October 31, 1960, a son of Walter Scanlon and the late Margaret “Peggy” Scanlon.

He was a graduate of Plainville High School and matriculated at the University of Southern Maine for three years, where he was an active member of Phi Mu Delta fraternity.

He is survived by his father, Walter, and his four children: Marykate, Bridget, Fiona, and Sean.

He is predeceased by his mother, Margaret, his brother, Brian, and his baby sister, Mary Bridget.

Craig was an avid reader and intellectual, as well as a deep lover of music, the New York Giants, and the Boston Red Sox. He also loved animals, especially rescue dogs.

Craig’s family would like to extend their deep thanks to the staff at the St. Francis Intensive Care Unit for their excellent care and kindness.

There will be no calling hours, and a private memorial service will be held.

In lieu of flowers, Craig’s children ask that you instead donate to your local animal shelter in his name.

203-317-2312

From A1

“It felt amazing off the bat,” Lasane said of the game-winning hit. “Before that, I was overwhelmed, and as soon as I got into the box I had to discard that and I coudn’t let The crown was also the second in a row for that get to me. the Blue Knights, who had won it all in 2019 before the lost pandemic season of “To come back and get that hit meant ev2020. They finished 26-1 this year, the win- erything to me,” Lasane added. “I should ners of 25 straight. consider it the biggest hit of my life.”

And with that, Southington celebrated its CIAC record 19th state softball title.

“I'm really happy for our six seniors,” said Southington coach Davina Hernandez.

“They missed their junior year and weren't sure if they would have a senior year. I'm happy for the team, the school, but most importantly, our seniors.”

Southington’s winning rally came right after Ludlowe (22-2) had gone on top 3-2 with a two-out RBI single in the top of the seventh off Southington right-hander Julia Panarella.

Panarella would get her redemption. She led off the bottom of the seventh and got things going with a single.

Courtesy runner Elyse Picard was forced out at second base on a fielder's choice

by Alison Rembish, but Rembish swiped second and advanced safely to third on a fielders choice off the bat of Desaulniers.

On the play, speed on the bases was key.

Desaulniers reached and Southington had runners on first and third with one out.

Lauren Verrilli followed and tied the game with a RBI single.

Verrilli was forced on a fielder's choice off the bat of Sam Rogers, but that just set the stage for Lasane. The senior attacked a

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Panarella (21-1) earned the win on the mound. She allowed three runs on seven hits, one walk and four strikeouts.

She was aided by several standout defensive plays, including two critical double plays.

Saturday’s game also included few things not normally seen. Two illegal pitches were called — the first a critical call in the fifth that allowed Southington to tie the game.

There was also an 8-3 groundout, as Desaulniers threw out a Ludlowe batter at first base from center field.

Desaulniers (2-for-3, 2 runs) also got Southington out to a quick 1-0 lead in the first inning, leading off with a ringing single to left field.

Verrilli hit a grounder to the left side that third baseman Kate Tournas picked up and threw to second in a bid to erase Desaulniers from the base paths. Problem was, no Ludlowe fielder was covering the bag.

The throw sailed into right field and See Softball, A14

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heater and drove it into center field to score Desaulniers and launch the on-field celebration.

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Friday, June 18, 2021

Softball

Why an Irrevocable Trust May Be Superior to Outright Gifts.

From A13

Southington was set up first and third with no outs.

On the first pitch to Rogers, Verrilli took off for second and was caught in a rundown and eventually tagged out. She got hung up long enough, however, to allow the speedy Desaulniers to race home from third without a throw.

Parents and other family members who want to pass on assets during their lifetimes may be tempted to gift the assets. Although setting up an irrevocable trust lacks the simplicity of giving a gift, it may be a better way to preserve assets for the future.

A trust is a legal entity under which one person -- the "trustee" -- holds legal title to property for the benefit of others -- the "beneficiaries."

The trustee must follow the rules provided in the trust instrument.

An "irrevocable" trust cannot be changed after it has been created. In most cases, this type of trust is drafted so that the income is payable to you (the person establishing the trust, called the "grantor") for life, and the principal cannot be applied to benefit you or your spouse. At your death the principal is paid to your heirs. This way, the funds in the trust are protected and you can use the income for your living expenses.

Ludlowe freshman pitcher Alex Lewey retired the next two hitters in order. (Another unusual element to this affair: Lewey was announced into the game after Southington’s first at-bat; sophomore Anna Gedacht was initially penciled in as Ludlowe’s starting pitcher.)

The Falcons didn’t miss out on their opportunity to score in the fourth. Caitlyn Romero worked a leadoff walk and Villar slammed a home run well over the center field fence to give the Falcons a 2-1 lead.

In more than 225 innings, it was the first (and only) homer Panarella surrendered all season.

Despite being down 2-1, Southington finished the fourth with all of the momentum as Desaulniers chalked up the 8-3 rarity.

With two out and no one on, Verrilli flashed some leather Lewey lashed a line drive at third base in the bottom of single to center. Desaulniers the second inning. She charged it from mid-censnared a wicked one-hopper ter, grabbed it on the second off the bat of Chelsea Villar hop and fired to Sam Sulliand threw her out. van at first base to nab a hustling Lewey.

In the third, with Ludlowe runners at second and third “I've been working on that

While gifting assets outright is much simpler process than setting up a trust, the following are some of the advantages of setting up a trust instead: Income. Putting assets in a trust means you can receive income from the assets to continue to pay for living expenses. Depending on how the trust is set up, you can receive regular income payments or the trustee could have discretion to make payments.

Control. With an irrevocable trust, you as the grantor can maintain some control over the assets. You get to choose the trustees and establish the rules of the trust. You can also retain the right to change beneficiaries with a power of appointment in your will.

Asset protection from creditors. If you give money to a family member directly, that money could be lost to the recipient’s carelessness, creditors, or divorce. Keeping the funds in a trust protects the assets for the future.

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Southington tied the game in the bottom of the fifth via the illegal pitch call.

Kate Griffin, who would eventually scoring the run, was hit by a pitch with one out. Panarella (2-for-3) singled to set up first and second. Rembish sacrificed both runners into scoring position.

That’s when Ludlowe coach Lou Bunosso deployed Gedacht to the circle.

She intentionally walked Desaulniers to load the bases.

Here's where the controversy came in. With Verrilli at-bat, Gedacht was called for an illegal pitch.

The umpires huddled to discuss the play and eventually they ruled Griffin was safe.

Bunosso and one of his assistants came out of the dugout to contest the call. It stood and the game was tied.

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. secondstreet.com/Southington-Citizen-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 Citizen to your home or business, will end.

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Lewey got a shutdown inning for Ludlowe in order in the bottom of the fourth.

Southington, in turn, used its second straight double play to keep Ludlowe off the board in the fifth, this one turned by second baseman Ali Rembish, who caught a line drive and doubled a runner off first.

“It was confusing," Griffin said. “I didn’t do anything.

My coach said, ‘Just go home.’ and I said, ‘Yes, coach, and I'm like, whatever!' Then they started throwing the ball back and I was already home. Then they tried to throw Elise out. Honestly, it was chaotic, but the chaos built up our energy.”

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Medicaid. If you anticipate needing long-term care benefits in the future, then it is important to plan. If you give away money or fund an irrevocable trust within the five years (the "look-back period") before applying for Medicaid, you may face a period of ineligibility for Medicaid benefits. The actual period of ineligibility will depend on the amount gifted or transferred to the trust. Putting assets in a trust allows you to plan while retaining some income and control over the assets.

all season," Desaulniers said.

“I always tell Sam to be ready. I want to get that out.

It really paid off today.”

With confusion on the field, Hernandez told Griffin, by that point at third, to take off for home. She scored.

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Taxes. If the trust is structured properly, it can have a tax advantage for your beneficiaries. Assets that have gone up in value will receive a “step-up” in basis on your death, which means your beneficiaries will pay less in capital gains taxes. Assets that are gifted do not receive a “step-up.”

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and one out, Maddy Reyes hit a low liner to Rogers at short. The sophomore snared it just above the ground. The runner at third had broke for home and Rogers doubled her off to end the inning.

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“I just think the ump called an illegal and went to explain it to my pitcher why she called it illegal and she allowed the runner to score,” Bunosso said. “I just didn’t understand how you could do that at the same time.

See Softball, A15

The Southington Citizen | southingtoncitizen.com

“I’m not questioning the umpire; they got together and made the call and you have to live with it sometimes,” he continued. “In my opinion, you shouldn’t interrupt the game by trying to explain something while the runner is running.

“It is what it is … I've seen illegal pitches before, but I’ve never seen a run being allowed to score while an ump is explaining the rule to the pitcher. They they said the ball was live. I’ve seen a lot of illegal pitches over the years, but not one that extreme that impacts a game on such a high level. But that’s not the reason we lost.”

In between innings, the home plate umpire told a few reporters behind the plate that it was an illegal pitch with a delayed deadball and a steal of home.

"At that point the play was live," Hernandez said. “The catcher had come up to talk

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“The rules constantly change in this sport; that’s one of the rules that changed a couple of years ago,” Hernandez added. “She never called a dead ball. You have to let the play finish out and then it's a dead ball.”

Rogers turned in another defensive gem at shortstop in the sixth. She dove for a grounder by Maddy Reyes and threw her out from her knees. Sullivan made a great scoop at first to complete the play.

Join our interactive class right from the comfort of your phone, computer or tablet and learn more about: ■

Gedacht was charged with another illegal pitch to extend Southington's sixth.

Nicole Greco singled after the illegal pitch call. Southington had two on with two out, but a pop-up ended the inning and the Falcons wriggled out of trouble.

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Ludlowe’s seventh-inning rally started with a walk

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See Softball, A16

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From A14

to the pitcher, but the play was live at that point … That play isn’t dead until there is a timeout. If the ball was hit, it would have been a different story.

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The Southington Citizen | southingtoncitizen.com

Friday, June 18, 2021

Softball

were going to come back and put some runs up.”

From A15

And they did. Panarella and her fellow seniors — Rembish, Greco, Verrilli, Lasane and Elizabeth Urcinas — go out as champions like 18 Southington senior softball classes before them.

to Ellie Gallagi. Grace Geary entered as the courtesy runner and moved to second on a sacrifice bunt by Lewey.

After a groundout, Della Jackson lashed a triple down the left field line to put the Falcons on top — until Southington rallied for two runs in the bottom of the frame.

“I had full faith in my teammates,” Panarella said.

“We've been in a lot of close games and I had full faith we

Southington’s Blue Knights enjoy the moment Saturday after winning the CIAC 2021 Class LL state softball championship at West Haven High School.

Photos by Aaron Flaum, Record-Journal

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Friday, June 18, 2021

Summer movie season begins for Southington Drive-In From the safety of their cars, hundreds watched as the infamous great white shark stalked the seas around Amity Island for the Southington Drive-In’s season opening showing of “Jaws 2” Saturday, June 5.

“We were getting a lot of requests to open up the drivein,” said Mike Fasulo, chairperson of the drive-in’s volunteer committee. “ … It’s a lot of fun. The best part of it is seeing people come from all over and hearing their stories.”

showing movies nearly every Saturday until the season closes with the Sept. 11 screening of “We Bought A Zoo.” Since nearly all capacity restrictions have been lifted on outdoor gatherings, the movie-going experience will be much the same for return customers. Physical education teacher Eric Korp will be returning to provide an hour of entertainment for children before the movies begin.

The only noticeable difference will be the lack of students from Southington High’s Deca club staffing the After missing most of the concession stand; since summer season last year due there’s been a limited numto limitations on outdoor ber of kids in school, the gatherings, the town-owned club’s faculty didn’t feel they theater switched on its prowould be able to train jector to show “Jaws 2” on June 5 and will continue See Drive-In, A77

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Friday, June 18, 2021

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Friday, June 18, 2021

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The Southington Citizen | southingtoncitizen.com

Friday, June 18, 2021

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Friday, June 18, 2021

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Friday, June 18, 2021

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The Southington Citizen | southingtoncitizen.com

Friday, June 18, 2021

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Friday, June 18, 2021

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The Southington Citizen | southingtoncitizen.com

Friday, June 18, 2021

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Friday, June 18, 2021

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Friday, June 18, 2021

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The Southington Citizen | southingtoncitizen.com

Friday, June 18, 2021

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Friday, June 18, 2021

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Celebrate Diversity •FrPride • June 10, 2021 | 1 iday,Month June 18, 2021

MORE CONTENT FROM THIS SPECIAL SECTION CAN BE FOUND ONLINE AT:

www.myrecordjournal.com/pride

A34

2 | Celebrate Diversity • Pride Month • www.myrecordjournal.com/pride Friday, June 18, 2021

The Southington Citizen | southingtoncitizen.com

DIGNITY, EQUALITY, VISIBILITY Early in our discussions about Pride Month coverage, we knew it needed to be about more than journalism. Our involvement needed to be participatory and so the Record-Journal, in addition to putting together this special section, also is coordinating Pride activities this month for employees, their families and the greater community.

Some of the activities will include joining in with the Southington Pride festivities. Some will center around education and discussion on LGBTQIA+ topics.

to leadership in their partnerships and into the communities they serve.There are Pride celebrations around the world, often held in June or other summer months. Locally, the town of Southington plans its first formal foray into hosting Pride events from May 22 through June 6.

Mark Palmieri and Jolene Micelli are leading the education committee of the Southington Pride celebration. Palmieri said the local LGBTQIA+ community works to support the community (such as collaborating with local businesses on donations One way we’re encouraging support and to the local food pantry). He’s thrilled that participation is with the Pride Month poster the town is supporting the Pride effort, even found in this special section. Readers can purchasing a rainbow flag for the celebracut it out, tape it to their window or door and celebrate along with all who support the tion. In anticipation of a planned flag raising, inherent rights of the LGBTQIA+ community. Palmieri said, “I might get a little teary eyed when that happens.”

We introduce our special coverage of Pride The Record-Journal is committed to continMonth with a statement from the United Nations Free and Equal Campaign for world- ually improving the diversity of our publiwide acceptance of sexual orientation and cations as well as our workplace. We have gender expression. created a Diversity & Inclusion Committee with a mission “to take actions that will “I appeal to all governments and societies to create and support a workplace and products promote the values of tolerance and respect that are inclusive, diverse and representative for diversity, and to build a world where no of the communities we serve.” one has to be afraid because of their sexual orientation and gender identity,” said UN Secretary-General António Guterres.

The UN campaign addresses topics from bullying to global business standards – asking businesses to foster diversity and promote a culture of respect and equality that extends

We are taking multiple approaches to ensure that our content, community outreach, and hiring practices remain equitable and representative of our community. One example of our outreach is “listening”. This is done through a program called Voices, a chance

for us to hear opinions, on current topics, directly from local people. We host a Latino Communities Reporting Lab, another opportunity for us to get direct input. By listening to our community, we can better provide our readers with focused content to keep you informed and engaged.

We also support local students by offering minority internships and scholarships, and we’re developing new ways to attract and retain diverse and representative talent.

As part of the Record-Journal’s ongoing diversity and inclusion initiative, we’re here to tell the stories from the LGBTQIA+ community and excited to bring our readers Pride Month coverage. Many of us are still learning about what all those identifiers – the letters – represent. In these pages you’ll find more about that as well as more resources to promote understanding and to support individuals and families.

Jason Collins, the first openly gay athlete in a major American team sport put it this way in a Sports Illustrated essay: “Openness may not completely disarm prejudice, but it’s a good place to start.”

We hope our readers enjoy today’s presentation and will join us on the Record-Journal Facebook page June 14 at noon for a virtual community discussion facilitated by the Stonewall Speakers group, an LGBTQ+ education and advocacy group.

Record-Journal Diversity & Inclusion Committee

RJ DIVERSITY & INCLUSION COMMITTEE CO-CHAIRS OLIVIA LAWRENCE, COURTNEY WENGENROTH ADVISORS RALPH TOMASELLI, LIZ WHITE MEMBERS NORWYN CAMPBELL, JEREMY COTE, ERIC COTTON, MARIAH MELENDEZ CONTRIBUTORS LORRAINE S. CONNELLY, LINDA LANKOWSKI, LISA CAPPALLI, NADYA KORYTNIKOVA, MARIAH MELENDEZ, JEFFERY KURZ, JESSICA SIMMS, JOY VANDERLEK, FAITH WILLIAMS, MARIAH MELENDEZ, JEFFERY KURZ, ASHLEY KUS, OLIVIA LAWRENCE , GLENN RICHTER, RALPH TOMASELLI, DAVE ZAJAC GRAPHIC DESIGNERS ERIK ALLISON, MARK DULLEA, GRADY STEPHENSON, BARTOSZ ZINOWKO WEBSITE RON RAINEY, RICHIE RATHSACK

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Riot

A that rocked the world Record-Journal staff Pride Month events are held worldwide each year, usually in June, and while the emphasis is on celebration, the origins began on a very different kind of occasion.

Pride Month has its beginnings in the Stonewall Riots, sometimes called the Stonewall Uprising.

While there is a wide variety of histories regarding events surrounding “Stonewall”, here are the basics that most researchers, observers and analysts agree on.

In 1969, there were laws prohibiting homosexual activity. During that time, the Stonewall Inn was a popular gay bar on Christopher Street, New York City.

Sometime after midnight on June 28, 1969, police raided the inn.

Their attempt to disperse or arrest patrons was not successful.

From the National Archives: “Officers were forced back into the bar by the crowd until riot-control reinforcements arrived several hours later, but protesters refused to disperse until 4:30 a.m. The riots continued for several days and

Stonewall Inn, Christopher Street, New York City, is the birthplace of Pride Month. | New York Public Library

expanded to the neighborhoods surrounding Christopher Park. By the final day of the riots on July 3, the crowd exceeded several thousand people.”

The turmoil brought attention to issues that went beyond the Stonewall Inn and raids on gay bars, putting the spotlight on harassment and discrimination, legal and otherwise, based on sexual orientation.

The event sparked the formation of scores of gay rights organizations, including the Human Rights Campaign, OutRage!

The first Pride parades were held on June 28, 1970, the one-year anniversary of the Stonewall Riots.

Parades were held in New York City, San Francisco, Chicago and Los Angeles.

The anniversary has been celebrated ever since and events and festivities have expanded. In 2019, to celebrate the 50th anniversary, about 5 million people participated in WorldPride NYC. At that event, New York City Police Commissioner James P. O’Neill rendered a formal apology on behalf of the New York Police Department for the actions of its officers at Stonewall in 1969.

Numerous historical documents, including information from history. com and harvard.edu, were used in this report.

Join us on Facebook June 14 You’re invited to a virtual community discussion with the Stonewall Speakers, a program of the Connecticut Stonewall Foundation, Inc. The all-volunteer speaker's bureau is comprised of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender people and their allies.

We’ll talk about this Pride Month special section, including a Q&A session with our panelists.

When: Noon to 1 p.m., June 14 Where: Record-Journal Facebook page

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Connecticut

Pride Factors

Pride Factor: Same-sex marriage has been legally recognized in Connecticut since Nov. 12, 2008, following a state court decision that found the state’s civil unions failed to provide same-sex couples with rights and privileges equivalent to those of marriage. Connecticut was the second state to do so after Massachusetts. As of June 26, 2015 the Supreme Court issued a decision that same-sex couples can marry in all 50 states.

This 1974 photo originally captioned “These parents are doing ‘Pride’ right”, is part of the LGBTQ+ History-Archives Collection.

What is PRIDE all about?

There are many definitions when it comes to the concept of Pride Month, but the underlying message of equality is always at the core. Here are a few takes from a variety of sources.

“It’s a movement that celebrates sexual diversity. For lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people it’s a way of protesting about discrimination and violence. It promotes their dignity, equal rights, self-affirmation and is a way of increasing society’s awareness of the issues they face.” – International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association “Pride Month commemorates the ongoing pursuit of equal justice for the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer community and celebrates the accomplishments of LGBTQ individuals.” – Britannica “PRIDE stands for Promote Respect, Inclusion, and Dignity for Everyone. There’s also a gay political organization that uses the acronym as Personal Rights in Defense and Education.

– Wikipedia “Gay pride or LGBT pride refers to a worldwide movement and philosophy asserting that lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender individuals should be proud of their sexual orientation and gender identity. The movement has three main

premises: that people should be proud of their sexual orientation and gender identity, that sexual diversity is a gift, and that sexual orientation and gender identity are inherent and cannot be intentionally altered.” – National Women’s History Alliance “Gay pride events, including gay pride parades and festivals were started in major urban centers to improve the visibility, acceptance and legal protections for LGBTQ+ people living in those communities. While the aim of Pride Day started with a political nature, many cities around the world have such wide acceptance and legal protections that many events have become a celebration of pride for the local LGBTQ+ community.” – International Gay and Lesbian Travel Association “The word ‘pride’ is an integral cultural concept within the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex community, representing solidarity, collectivity, and identity as well as resistance to discrimination and violence. Its associated symbolism (e.g., rainbow colors) – communicates to individuals that LGBTQI members are welcome as valuable members of the community.” – University of California, LGBT Resource Center – Record-Journal staff

Pride Factor: Connecticut is regarded as one of the most LGBTQ+-friendly U.S. states, due to its early adoption of LGBTQ+ rights legislation. According to a 2017 survey by the Public Religion Research Institute showed 73 % of Connecticut residents support same-sex marriage.

Pride Factor: Hartford ranks among the places with the highest percentage of adults who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender, according to a 2015 Gallup Poll study of the top 50 U.S. metropolitan areas.

A total of 4.6 percent of residents in Hartford identify as LGBTQ+, putting the Connecticut capital in a tie with Denver and Los Angeles. For the purposes of the study, Hartford includes West Hartford and East Hartford. The national average, among the top 50 metropolitan areas, is 3.6 percent.

San Francisco ranked No. 1.

Pride Factor: Southington Pride Week brought the celebration to town this spring. Local members of the gay, lesbian and bisexual community planned the festivities.

Events included: raising a rainbow flag, painting a rainbow crosswalk on Apple Alley and youth events at Camp Sloper. “Our main goal was to come together as a town and celebrate pride,” said Alicia Novi, a committee member.

– Record-Journal staff

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a brief

history of pride

Pride milestones go back long before the modern day celebrations.

Here are just a few highlights from history – with a focus on progress in the LGBTQ+ movement. For a deeper look at the timeline check out resources used to create this outline: lgbtqhistory.org and the Out in All Directions Almanac, the National Archives as well as numerous other sources.

1732 Lesbian as a term, meaning women who loved women, was first used by William King in his book, The Toast, published in England.

1852

Meet our Guest Editor

When I was in college, I wrote one of my senior papers on the importance of LGBTQ+ community centers in Trump’s America, and I can safely say many of the points I made in that essay still I lived in Cheshire my whole life Guest editor Mariah Melendez ring true today. No matter who with my parents until recentwith her bulldog, Khaleesi. you are, you should be able to ly when I moved into my own live your life 100% authentically, apartment in Wallingford. My family circle now includes bulldog Khaleesi, and most regardless of gender or sexuality. recently my new cat, Elmer.

I hope some of the articles in this section speak to you The LGBTQ+ community has been my safe place for most of my life. When I started high school in Cheshire, I noticed the severe lack of LGBTQ+ di-

Writer J.D. Bothwick reports his attendance at a “miner’s ball” – a men’s only dance held in Angels’ Camp in California.

1890 Birth of Alan Hart, who pioneered the use of the X-Ray for tuberculosis diagnosis and one of the first transgender men in history.

1907 Gertrude Stein meets Alice B. Toklas, sparking a legendary romance. In Paris, the two women set up a salon for writers and artists, including gays. Stein publicly declares her love for Toklas in print in The Autobiography of Alice B. Toklas, published in 1933.

1917-1935 The Harlem Renaissance. Many historians say the renaissance was Continued on page 7

and help widen your idea of sexuality and gender.

– Mariah Melendez

COMMENTARY

LGBTQIA CENTERS

1886 Henry James writes the book, The Bostonians, about a long term relationship between two women and the term “Boston Marriages” develops to describe two women living together, independent of financial support from a man.

versity in our community, and wanted to make a change. A few of my friends and I started Cheshire High School’s very first GSA (gay/straight alliance) and I am proud to say the club is still running to this day.

Hey everyone! My name is Mariah Melendez and I am 26 years old. I graduated from New York University in 2017 with a dual degree in journalism and anthropology (and I was just one credit away from a minor in American Sign Language). I’ve been working at The Cheshire Herald (part of the RJ Media Group) as a general assignment reporter for the past two years and I love it.

provide supportive community

By Mariah Melendez Herald Staff Finding a sense of community is hard. When I was in high school, I knew I stood out but I couldn’t understand why. I had frizzy curly hair, a flair for the dramatic, and a nearly non-existent self-esteem from years of unprocessed trauma and general confusion over my own gender identity. For many aspects of my early life I was forced to fit into boxes that I knew were either temporary or disingenuous, at least it was until I learned I could create my own box.

When I entered my sophomore year at Cheshire High School, a

few friends and I thought of the idea of creating a Gay Straight Alliance. We talked about the overall lack of any kind of LGBTQIA awareness at our school, and how rampant anti-LGBTQIA bullying was at the time. If only we could create a safe place for LGBTQIA students, and a place to educate our peers on LGBTQIA issues that were important to us.

Luckily, we received a lot of support early on from many school administrators. We quickly got a class advisor, Mrs. Milone, and were set on the path to start holding club meetings and planning events, with no idea how much this club would impact the entire

school community.

From the first meeting held in early September, we were onto something.

Mrs. Milone’s classroom was standing-room only as we passed around a contact sheet for students to write their email addresses. Students were spilling out into the hallway as they clamored for a pencil, piece of paper, anything to get their information written down. They were just as hungry for a sense of community as I was.

While our numbers thinned out as the year went on, the club’s first year was incredibly successful.

Continued on page 13

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COMMENTARY

a catalyst for

Business & Growth

By Paul Whitman

Over one third of the Fortune 500 recognize this certification and partner with NGLCC to create fully LGBT-inclusive supply chains. A ‘Certified Business’ designation levels the playing field.

The Connecticut Gay and Lesbian Chamber is the voice of the LGBTQ+ business community in Connecticut.

Members also include allied business professionals, those supportive of LGBTQ+ causes including diversity and inclusion in and outside of the workplace. Together, as a group, the CTGLC seeks to increase the economic strength of both LGBTQ+ and allied organizations through business development, leadership, advocacy, and visibility.

The chamber represents more than 165 businesses from all major industries around the state. Locally, some members include Comcast in Berlin, the law practice of Mancini, Provenzano & Futtner in Southington, the Wheeler Clinic in Plainville and Pilothouse Communications in Cheshire.

The beginnings Since the group’s founding in 2007 as the Connecticut Alliance for Business Opportunities, it has become and remains an important voice in the LGBTQ+ community.

In fact, one can safely say that it’s now an integral part of the state’s small-business engine.

The CTGLC is an affiliate of the National LGBT Chamber of Commerce. It is non-partisan, but will always remain politically concerned, especially regarding health,

Executive Director John Pica-Sneeden and former Lt. Gov. Nancy Wyman at the One Big Event in 2018.

Courtesy of the Connecticut Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce.

equality, justice, fairness, and the many civil rights issues that impact the LGBTQ+ community Chamber President Martin L. Heft says that the CTGLC promotes business networking among its members and within our community at large. This network fosters a sharing of information, ideas, contacts, and products and services. In the end, it strengthens and expands our businesses, careers and our community.

‘Certified Business’ The CTGLC is the exclusive third-party certifying body for Certified LGBT Business Enterprise® (Certified LGBTBE®) companies.

Noack’s Meat Products Home of the Finest Bratwurst

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HAPPY PRIDE MONTH! 1112 East Main Street, Meriden, CT • (203) 235-7384

OPEN Tues–Thurs 8–5:30 • Fri 8–6 • Sat 8–5 • Closed Sun & Mon

On its website, The National LGBT Chamber of Commerce (formerly NGLCC) states that its Supplier Diversity Initiative offers businesses a tool to make connections and opens doors with America’s top corporations, several federal government agencies and other certified businesses. The SDI certifies Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and/or Transgender owned Business Enterprises (LGBTBEs) and works to provide opportunities for LGBTBEs to gain exposure within government and corporate procurement processes either as a contractor or a subcontractor.

Major impact There is a major impact on small businesses that choose to affiliate with a chamber of commerce, according to the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives.

It’s interesting to note that a national survey of 2,000 adults conducted in 2012 by The Schapiro Group, revealed that 49% of consumers were more likely to think favorably of a local business if it was a member of the local Chamber. What is more, there is a 73% increase in consumer awareness, a 68% increase in its local reputation, and an 80% increase in the likelihood that consumers will patronize the business in the future.

LGBTQ+ and ally business professionals are encouraged to join Connecticut’s most influential LGBTQ+ business organization.

For more information, contact John Pica-Sneeden, Executive Director at 860-612-8351, john@ctglc.org. Or visit ctglc.org.

Paul Whitman is secretary for the Connecticut Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce.

LGBTQIA+ What do the letters represent?

Record-Journal staff Most of us are familiar with LGBT, LGBTQ and LGBTQ+ – referring to lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender/transexual identities. The Q is for the broad concept of “queer” but also frequently understood to represent those who are questioning any aspect of their gender expression or sexual identity.

The “plus” is for any and all other aspects of human sexual expression or identity.

In recent years, “I” and “A” have been added to the mix to acknowledge intersex, asexual, agender and aromantic individuals. Often included as part of the “A” are “allies” – people who don’t necessarily identify as part of the community but who support and advocate for those who do. You may see an added “P” for pansexual/polyamorous.

But more likely, you’ll see LGBTQIA expanded with a plus.

At Texas Tech, the Office of LGBTQIA Education and Engagement explains the categories this way: “When thinking about all these different identities, they all fall within several buckets: Gender Expression; Gender Identity; Sex Assigned at Birth; and Sexual and Romantic Orientation. The terminology used for these identities is extensive and that is a good thing as it gives added ability for labeling (labels are not all bad some are very affirming).”

The use of the terms LGBT, LGBTQ, and LGBTQ+ continue to be widely used, especially in speaking – and are the accepted style for news organizations - but the broader abbreviation that includes “I” and “A” has gained acceptance and also is widely used.

Leadership from the LGBTQ+ community Record-Journal staff In the 2018 state election cycle, 10 candidates who identified as LGBTQ+ ran for office, six Republicans and four Democrats.

While not all were successful in their bid, the fact that a significant number of LGBTQ+ individuals were looking for political leadership roles was noted in the media. The Hartford Courant dubbed this activism a “rainbow wave.”

State Sen. Beth Bye of West Hartford and Rep. Jeff Currey of East Hartford are Democrats. Both won re-election and both are openly gay.

Bye married Dr. Tracey Wilson on Nov. 12, 2008. They were the first gay couple to be married in Connecticut. Tracey Wilson is West Hartford town historian and the couple live with their four children. Bye was the first member of the legislature to enter into a civil union Raghib Allie-Brennan, a Democrat from Bethel, won his 2018 bid for state representative.

State Sen. Alex Kasser, a Democrat from Greenwich, won a second term in 2020.

The six Republican candidates who ran in 2018 were from all corners of the state. While many were new to the state level of campaigning, most had held local leadership positions. Those candidates were: John Scott of Mystic; A.J. Kerouac of Brooklyn; Ken Richards of Groton; Mary Fay of West Hartford; Robert Smedley of New Britain; and Shaun Mastroianni of Stonington.

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Books, Movies, events & more Pride Month is an opportunity to explore and there are many fun, inspirational, entertaining and educational ways to go about that. Families, friends, book clubs, church groups and other gatherings might look to books, film, music, art exhibits and other cultural activities as a way to discuss their experiences and ideas about gender, sexual orientation and the changes in attitudes, law and society over the past decade or so.

Whether you are learning, celebrating, validating, experimenting, curious, questioning or otherwise interested in LGBTQ+ topics, here are a few favorites curated by guest editor Mariah Melendez along with contributions from LGBTQ+ educator and advocate Linda Lankowski.

Books Giovanni’s Room, by James Baldwin. Adult fiction. In the 1950s Paris of American expatriates, liaisons, and violence, a young man finds himself caught between desire and conventional morality.

Annie on My Mind, by Nancy Garden. Youth fiction. The story of two teenage girls whose friendship blossoms into love despite pressures from family and school that threaten their relationship.

Transgender History, by Susan Stryker. Nonfiction. An in depth walk through the history of transgendered individuals in the United States.

Fun Home, by Alison Bechdel.

Graphic novel, now also a Broadway show. The story of a closeted father and his lesbian daughter.

Tomorrow Will Be Different: Love, Loss, and the fight for Trans equality, by Sarah McBride. A story of trans acceptance through told through McBride’s own transition.

The Deviants War: The Homosexual vs. The United States of America- by Eric Cervini. First LGBTQ+ history book to make the NYT best seller list in over 25 years. Documents gay activism in the early ‘50s and ‘60s.

Broken Horses, by Brandi Carlile.

The five-time Grammy Award winner’s autobiography tells how she overcame the barriers of poverty and sexual orientation.

This is the Fire: This is What I say to my Friends About Racism, by Don Lemon. Autobiography by the CNN News anchor and gay activist.

One Life, by Megan Rapinoe. A professional soccer player, Rapinoe tells her story and advocates for gender, fiscal and racial equality, especially in women’s sports.

Continued on page 15

history

Continued from page 5 “as gay as it was Black.” Lesbian, gay or bisexual people in this movement includes writers and poets such as Langston Hughes and Zora Neale Hurston; and entertainers Ma Rainey, Bessie Smith, Ethel Waters and Gladys Bentley.

1924 The Society for Human Rights, the first gay rights organization, was founded in Chicago by Henry Gerber, a German immigrant. The organization ceased to exist after most of its members were arrested.

1950 The Mattachine Society formed in Los Angeles, California by activist Harry Hay and is one of the first sustained gay rights groups in the U.S. It continues to this day.

1952 Christine Jorgensen became one of the most famous transgender people when she underwent a sex change operation and went on to a successful career in show business.

1966 Compton’s Cafeteria Riot, San Francisco. Transgender and drag queens in San Francisco react to ongoing police harassment. One result: the National Transsexual Counseling Unit in support of transgender people.

1967 The Oscar Wilde Memorial Bookshop is opened in New York City by Craig Rodwell. The bookshop — devoted to gay history and gay rights — is believed to be the first of its kind in the U.S.

1969

State comptroller Kevin Lembo, a Democrat, won re-election. He was Connecticut’s first openly gay statewide official and was

The Stonewall Riots, New York City. The Stonewall Inn was a gay bar in Greenwich Village in New York City. In response to an unprovoked police raid on an early

Continued on page 13

Continued on page 9

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legal issues for LGBTQ are the specialty of this connecticut BAR GROUP

By Nadya Korytnikova Record-Journal staff

Same sex couples who say

“I do”

By Joy VanderLek Special to the Record-Journal

involved with helping same sex partners tie the knot since the start.

Since same-sex marriage became legal in Connecticut in 2008, thousands of couples have taken the plunge.

From 2009 to 2018, the state has seen more than 12,087 same-sex marriages officiated.

Same-sex marriage has been legally recognized in Connecticut since Nov. 12, 2008, following a state court decision that found the state's civil unions failed to provide same-sex couples with rights and privileges equivalent to those of marriage.

Justice of the Peace Lea Pomaszewsk, owner of “The Wedding Ladies of Middlesex County”, with her mother, the late Eleanor Pomaszewski, also a justice of the peace and founder of the Wedding Ladies service.

Taking the rights of same sex couples a step further, on July 16, 2014, the Connecticut Supreme Court, reversed judgments in lower courts and ruled unanimously that a same-sex couple in a relationship established before the state afforded legal recognition to their relationship has the same rights as other married couples.

After a bump in 2009, after legalization took hold, the number of same sex couples choosing marriage has remained fairly consistent in recent years: 543 in 2008; 2,706 in 2009; 1,791 in 2010; 1,262 in 2011; 668 in 2012; 1,356 in 2013; 1,057 in 2014; 689 in 2015; 704 in 2016; 672 in 2017; and 639 in 2018.

Across the country, according to estimates from the 2019 Current Population Survey Annual Social and Economic Supplement, there are 543,000 same-sex married couple households and 469,000 households with same-sex unmarried partners living together.

None of this is news to local justices of the peace.

The Wedding Ladies of Middlesex County have been

Second generation justice of the peace, Lea Pomaszewsk, is the owner of “The Wedding Ladies of Middlesex County.” Her mother, the late Eleanor Pomaszewski, was a justice of the peace and the original “Wedding Lady of Middlesex County.” Her father also was a justice of the peace.

Her mother officiated same sex weddings “as soon as it became legal in Connecticut,” said Lea Pomaszewski. “I am proud of my mother. I am proud of her being an early proponent of same sex marriages,” she said, adding, “She was one of the first.”

Same sex unions didn’t always receive that level of support. According to a headline in the Connecticut Post, July 7, 2008, “For civil unions Justices of the Peace can say ‘I won’t.”

The Post wrote that “Connecticut Secretary of State Susan Bysiewicz, said public employees, such as town clerks who give marriage and civil union licenses, are prohibited from discriminating. But justices of the peace are simply nominated by their political parties and are therefore in a different category. Just like a lawyer can refuse a case, a JP can say no to civil union request.”

The LGBTQ Section of the Connecticut Bar Association is a professional association of gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender attorneys, judges, paralegals, and law students who provide an LGBTQ presence within Connecticut’s legal community.

“We try to provide support and resources to people who are practicing law and are providing services to LGBTQ clients,” said Grayson Holmes, chair of the LGBTQ Section of the Connecticut Bar Association. “At the end of the day, it really does take a community of LGBTQ lawyers to help protect and promote the legal rights of LGBTQ members in our state.”

According to the LGBTQ Section, the organization strives to create an open, inclusive, and engaging space for all federal practitioners - LGBTQ and allies alike. It promotes recognition of civil and human rights, sensitivity to legal issues faced by the LGBTQ community, and enhances the practice and professional expertise of lawyers who serve or who are members of the LGBTQ community. In addition to providing resources, the LGBTQ Section is providing educational seminars for all members of the bar association. On April 28, it held a webinar teaching lawyers to create a safe and welcoming environment for transgender clients and colleagues.

The LGBTQ Section will continue holding similar programs, which can be found at ctbar.org/events.

Lea Pomaszewski recalled that when same-sex marriage was first legalized the calls started coming in and couples would say they had searched for officiants to marry them, and often would get negative feedback.

“You would be amazed by how many different areas of the law, LGBTQ people are affected,” Holmes. “We provide a collective resource for attorneys who need to solve legal issues that are

Continued on page 13

Continued on page 13

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history Continued from page 7 Saturday morning in June, over 400 lesbian, bisexual, transgender and heterosexual people protested for days.

1970 A gay Hispanic group, Unidos, meets for the first time.

1972 “Coming Out!” a play by Jonathan Ned Katz, is performed for the first time in New York and provides a historical perspective of gay life from the colonial period to the present.

a deeper look at the

Wedding Cake Case

By Lisa Cappalli In 2012 Messrs. Craig and Mullins asked Mr. Phillips’ bakery to bake them a wedding cake to celebrate the couple’s upcoming marriage.

Mr. Phillips declined because of his religious opposition to same sex marriage. He offered to sell them other cakes. The couple then complained to the Colorado Civil Rights Commission that Mr. Phillips’ refusal was a violation of a state law that prohibits a place of business engaged in the sale of goods or services to the public from discrimination based on sexual orientation. The Commission agreed with the couple. It ordered Mr. Phillips, among other things, to stop selling wedding cakes only to heterosexual couples. Mr. Phillips appealed, ultimately, to the United States Supreme Court.

The Supreme Court decided in favor of Mr. Phillips. It nullified the Commission decision because it found that the Commission acted improperly by failing to give Mr. Phillips the respectful and neutral hearing that his Constitutional right to freely exercise his religion required.

Because the decision was based on improper conduct of the Commission, the case was neither a win nor a loss for same-sex couples or those with religious opposition to same-sex marriage.

The Supreme Court did set out principles to be considered in cases like this: “The first is the authority of a State and its governmental entities to protect the rights and dignity of gay persons who are, or wish to be, married but who face discrimination when they seek goods or services. The second is the right of all persons to exercise fundamental freedoms under the First Amendment [of the US Constitution] … both the freedom of speech and the free exercise of religion.”

It recognized that it is a “delicate question” to reconcile the constitutionally protected rights of decent people, like Messrs. Craig, Mullins and Phillips, who, when you get behind labels, are simply trying to live their lives according to genuine and legitimate beliefs.

The Supreme Court opinion concluded: “The outcome of cases like this in other circumstances

must await further elaboration in the courts, all in the context of recognizing that these disputes must be resolved with tolerance, without undue disrespect to sincere religious beliefs, and without subjecting gay persons to indignities when they seek goods and services in an open market.”

Time will tell when and how the next “Wedding Cake Case” or cases like it will be resolved. Read the Supreme Court decision at: www. lcappalli-familylaw.com/masterpiece-cakeshop-ltd-et-al-v-colorado-civil-rights-commission-et-al.

Lisa J. Cappalli is Of Counsel at the law firm of Freed Marcroft, LLC. She can be reached at lisa@ freedmarcroft.com or 203-2713888. This column should not be construed as legal advice or legal opinion Lisa J. Cappalli or Freed Marcroft, LLC on any specific facts or circumstances. The content is intended for general information only and you are urged to consult an attorney to advise you personally concerning your own situation and any specific legal questions you may have.

1973 American Psychiatric Association removes homosexuality as a mental illness.

1977 Harvey Milk is elected county supervisor in San Francisco and becomes the third “out” elected public official in the U.S. and the first in California.

1978 In San Francisco, the Rainbow Flag is first flown during the Gay Freedom Parade, June 25.

1978 Harvey Milk is assassinated Nov. 27 at San Francisco City Hall by former county supervisor Dan White. Also killed in the incident was the city’s mayor, George Moscone. White was later convicted of voluntary manslaughter, a verdict that sparked the “White Night Riots.”

1979 Chapters of the national organization of Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG) are founded across the United States.

1980 Continued on page 11

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college campuses create centers of support and connection

By Jessica Simms Special to the Record-Journal As a way to support the LGBTQ+ community on campus, area colleges and universities have a variety of support groups, student clubs and resources available to students.

Quinnipiac University At Quinnipiac University, the Gender Sexuality Alliance is a student-run organization that serves as a safe space for students who identify as members of the LGBTQ+ community and their allies. Along with support, the alliance educates students on issues facing the LGBTQ community.

“I think that GSA gives a lot of young adults experience in LGBTQ+ culture because they’re away from their families for the first time,” said Mary Vidallon, GSA president. “It’s kind of a new space where (students) can feel safe and step into finding themselves especially being alone and independent. I think the club offers that in a way.”

Before COVID-19, the GSA held in-person events and activities. However, meetings and events were via Zoom this past year.

“I feel like COVID-19 really changed things, but I feel like we still found a way to have fun events,” said Athena Cuttle, past president of GSA. “We’ll have game nights, sometimes we’ll have more educational meetings depending on holidays or other things happening within the week and just do different things to make sure everyone has a safe space and a comfortable place to come spend time with friends.”

Cuttle also worked with the university to create gender inclusive housing options for the 2021-22 school year and Vidallon expressed optimism that more initiatives can be put in place for the LGBTQ+ community on campus.

“I know Athena has made a ton of strides especially including gender inclusive housing,” Vidallon said. “... Even more accessibility for LGBTQ+ students and maybe opening more gender inclusive bathrooms or maybe opening a women or LGBTQ center would be ideal in the next steps...”

University of Connecticut The Rainbow Center at the University of

Connecticut is one of five cultural centers on campus, with the “mission to operate in the service of a more equitable world for all students, faculty and staff,” according to its website.

It officially opened in September 1998 and provides resources and services to the UConn community.

One program is the FAMILEE mentoring program, which stands for Fostering Academics, Maturity, Independence, Leadership, Empowerment & Excellence.

It “pairs new first-year students and second-year students with continuing students for participation in one-on-one meetings and larger group events. This program is designed to assist students in their first and second year at UConn-Storrs (including those coming from regional campuses and transfer students) with their transition,” according to the website.

The center’s Out to Lunch Lecture Series is another program that includes academic lectures and discussions with guest scholars and community activists. Due to the pandemic, this past year’s presentations were held online.

Wesleyan University The Queer Resource Center was created by students who were looking for a space for the LGBTQ+ community to gather. In 2015, students started to advocate for an expansion to the center to include more staffing and two years later, the resource center was created to serve the LGBTQ+ community, students of color, students who identify as women and first generational low income students.

The center focuses on race; ethnicity and nationality; gender and sexuality; socioeconomic status; social and political activism; and disability, sustainability and spirituality.

“We really have to think about the whole person and not just little bits of it,” said Demetrius Colvin, center director. “How can we learn about, develop and teach about the whole person?”

The resource center works with student leaders across campus to support the LGBTQ+ community. This includes implementing programming and events.

“We have our pride reception at the begin-

ning of the year during orientation where the new incoming queers end up meeting the old returning queers and faculty and staff as well,” Colvin said.

Central Connecticut State University The school’s LGBT Center opened in 2009.

“We have a lot of students who come up to the center and take part in the activities we do,” said WIlliam Mann, center director. “We have programming, we have support groups and we have resources as well — both health resources and also just resources for the community. It’s become a very vital cultural center at Central.”

Connecticut College At Connecticut College, there are three student groups on campus. CQ2, which stands for Connecticut College Queer and Questioning, is a biweekly closed group for students who identify as members of the LGBTQ+ community.

QTPOC, Queer and Trans People of Color, is a biweekly group for queer and trans people of color to come together to discuss their experiences.

PRISM is the queer student association on campus that acts as more of a social group and is open to allies of the LGBTQ community.

“The LGBTQIA Center also offers our queer peer mentorship program which matches typically queer upperclassmen with queer first year and sophomore students,” said Erin Duran, center director. “Connecting folks with maybe more experience within the queer community and navigating queerness… with folks who are a little newer to the community.”

Duran also expressed hope that the center and the groups will continue to help individuals within the community to connect.

“I’m very proud of the progress (Connecticut College) has made in terms of being a really queer inclusive institution and a lot of that really manifests on campus in forms of these groups and the opportunity for connections,” Duran said. jsimms@record-journal.com 203-317-2208 Twitter: @jessica_simms99

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The Southington Citizen | southingtoncitizen.com

history

Continued from page 9 The American Psychiatric Association adds Gender Identity Disorder as a mental illness. This categorization refers to depression, anxiety and other issues related to orientation.

1982 Wisconsin becomes the first state to outlaw discrimination based on sexual orientation.

1988 The first national Coming Out Day is celebrated Oct. 11.

1991 Microsoft recognizes the first gay employees group in the U.S. Amanda Strom, art teacher and GSA Advisor, talks about the "Did You Know" display set up by the Gay–Straight Alliance club for Pride month at Maloney High School in Meriden, Fri., Apr. 30, 2021.

The display lists facts, flags and famous people to help bring awareness to the LGBTQ community.

Dave Zajac, Record-Journal

At area high schools, students promote unity, education for LGBTQ+

By Faith Williams Record-Journal staff

how to respond when witnessing bullying.

Local high school students are raising Pride awareness through Gay-Straight Alliance clubs.

“When you feel like you don’t belong, it hurts and it affects you so much,” Lentini said. “So I want to make sure those kids know that they do belong.”

Gay-Straight Alliance clubs are student-run organizations to unite LGBTQ+ and allied youth to build community and organize around issues impacting them in schools and communities, according to GSA Network.

Fe Lentini, a senior at Cheshire High School, said it is important to educate other students about the issue.

“I’m presenting to select freshmen health classes,” Cheshire’s GSA club president said. “It teaches them about the LGBTQ community, gender identity, sexuality, romantic identities and how to support those in the community.”

Lentini offers tips to students and teachers on what she calls “acts of allyship” — such as asking someone what their pronouns are and

Maloney and Platt high schools combined their GSA clubs following the pandemic. Platt is lead by Bryan Sorak and Peggy Borrelli, while Maloney students are lead

by Amanda Strom and Keith Lombardo.

“At Platt, I decided to go with GSA because it’s a long standing club with national recognition,” Sorak said. “I figured it’s good to create a safe space to give our LGBTQ+ students.”

The clubs use virtual meetings to educate and discuss what students are experiencing personally.

“It’s helpful if there is anything I am questioning or trying to figure out about my identity.” said Brooke Montalvo, a club member.

“These are people that have gone through what I’m going through and can help me.”

The schools declared May “High School Pride Month.” There will be a display that includes little known facts and photos as well as books, movies and music anthems that reflect the community.

“Pride Month is about queer people finally being accepted more, celebrating their queerness openly and not be as fearful as they would have before,” Montalvo said.

The Maloney group has other plans like a gender-neutral bathroom, while Platt is working on getting students to have graduation stoles to wear to represent their position in the LGBTQ+ community.

1995 Executive Order signed by President Clinton establishes uniform policies for allowing employees of the federal government access to classified information, stating the government “does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or sexual orientation in granting access to classified information."

1996 The Defense of Marriage Act is signed into law by Clinton.

This defines marriage for federal purposes as the union of one man and one woman, and allows states to refuse to recognize same-sex marriages granted under the laws of other states.

In 2013, the act's provisions were ruled unconstitutional or left effectively unenforceable by Supreme Court decisions.

1998

Sheehan High School’s GSA club participates in “Ally Week” and “Day of Silence” to bring more awareness to the LGBTQ+ community.

Matthew Sheppard, a gay student at the University of Wyoming, is beaten, tortured, and left to die near Laramie on the night of Oct.6,1998. One month later the Matthew Shepherd Bill added

Continued on page 15

Continued on page 13

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12 | Celebrate Diversity • Pride Month • www.myrecordjournal.com/pride Friday, June 18, 2021

The Southington PRIDE Resource Center provides this list for access to local and national community resources.

Here you will find 24-hour help/text lines, websites, and a variety of local community resources. In a true medical emergency, please dial 911 or proceed to your nearest local Emergency Room.

Local community organizations that would like to be listed in in the resource guide or if you have a suggestion for a resource/organization, please message Southington PRIDE via Facebook Messenger.

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (24 hours - for everyone of all ages) Call: 1-800-273-8255 Online Chat: suicidepreventionlifeline.org/chat Crisis Text Lifeline (24 hours - Serving Everyone of All Ages) Text "HOME" to 741741 Facebook Messanger Option: www.facebook.com/crisistextline Website: www.crisistextline.org The Trevor Project (24 hours - Serving LGBTQIA+ youth ages 13-24) Call: 1-866-488-7386 Text: "START" to 678678 Website / Online chat option: www.thetrevorproject.org/get-help-now Trans Lifeline (24 hours - Serving trans/questioning individuals) Call: 1-877-565-8860 Website: https://translifeline.org National Runaway Safeline (Serving runaway youth, parents/ guardians) Call: 1-800-786-2929 Text: 66008 Website / Online chat option: www.1800runaway.org

The Southington Citizen | southingtoncitizen.com

Resources RAINN - National Sexual Assault Hotline (Serving all ages) Call: 1-800-656-4673 Online chat option hotline.rainn.org/online

National Human Trafficking Helpline (Serving all ages) Call: 1-888-373-7888 Online reporting of human trafficking: humantraffickinghotline.org

Telling a parent or other close family or friend about one’s sexual orientation or gender identity can be a big step. A “coming out” letter can help. This sample letter from pointofpride.org is in regards to a transgender reveal, however there are similar resources online for other coming out announcements. The points made in this letter illustrate the many feelings and concerns individual members of the LGBTQ+ community may have when seeking acceptance. Point of Pride also recommends that individuals planning to come out, especially youth, get support first, and make sure that it is safe to do so in their situation. One resource for support is https:// www.lgbtcenters.org/LGBTCenters.

Dear [parent], This letter is a bit difficult for me to write, but I feel that it is important for me to write it. There is something I have been carrying inside of myself for some time now, and I now feel ready to come to you with it.

I am transgender. Specifically, I identify as [insert gender identity here], which means that I [insert either the proper definition of your gender, or the most easily understood explanation for your gender identity that you feel they will understand (i.e. “I feel like a girl on the inside.”)].

I know this may be a bit difficult to understand at first, and it may be very new to you, but it is something I have known for some time. I trust you with this information about who I am, and I would like if in return that you start calling me by my chosen name, which is [if applicable, here], and using my pronouns, which are [here].

I plan to [insert aspects of social transition you plan to pursue here, such as changes to your presentation. If you plan to pursue a medical transition in the near future, such as hormone replacement therapy or surgery, you may mention this here, too.] This is to help me feel more at home in my body as well as the world, and it’s a feeling I hope that you can understand.

I’m still your child, with the same likes and dislikes – I’ll just be living more authentically as the true me. And I know that you may have some slip-ups calling me [Name] or using [pronouns] at first, and that is okay. I would just like to know that you are trying your best to learn, understand, and support me. If you do slip-up, you do not have to make a big deal out of it. Correcting yourself is enough for me to see that you care about and respect who I am.

If you have questions, I want to talk about them and help answer them. I also understand you may want to speak with other parents of trans children to learn more. There are plenty of resources for parents and families in person and online, and I am happy to show you some of them.

Thank you for your understanding and your support, [Your name] For more information go to: pointofpride.org/coming-out-as-a-trans-ornon-binary-youth-sample-coming-out-letter-support-resources/ Compiled by Record-Journal staff.

Department of Defense Safe Helpline (Serving military individuals of all statuses) Call: 1-877-995-5247 Online chat option safehelpline.org/live-chat

SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration) (Serving all ages) Call: 1-800-662-4357 Website: https://www.samhsa.gov

Remedy Live (Serving all ages) Text: 494949 Website / Online chat option: www.remedylive.com Housing and Homeless Services for Connecticut (Serving all ages) Call: 211 or 1-800-203-1234 Website: portal.ct.gov Search for Homeless Services Connecticut Department of Children and Families Careline (Reporting of child abuse/neglect) (Serving individuals reporting child abuse/neglect in Connecticut) Call: 1-800-842-2288 Website: portal.ct.gov/dcf Southington Youth Services (Serving youth in grades 6-12) Services: supportive counseling for grades 6-12, volunteer opportunities for 13-15 year olds, substance misuse prevention, parent education series, and mentoring.

Call: 860-276-6284 Email: youthservices@southington.org Website: www.southington.org Search for youth services Southington Bread For Life (Serving all ages) Services: food pantry, senior services, meal delivery, lunch/dinner program, Fuel For School (school snack program), children's summer program.

Call: 1-860-276-8389 Website: southingtonbreadforlife.org Email: Info@southingtonbreadforlife.org Southington-Cheshire Community YMCAs (Serving all ages) Services: health/wellness, sports performance and personal training, childcare, day camp, community outreach and special fundraising programs, financial assistance, diabetes prevention program, LIVESTRONG (cancer survivor program), youth sports/programs, teen programs, family activities, aquatic programs and swim team.

Call: 860-628-5597 Website: www.sccymca.org

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Celebrate Diversity • F Pride Month June 10, 2021 | 13 riday, June •18, 2021

The Southington Citizen | southingtoncitizen.com

LGBTQ+ LEADERSHIP

CT BAR GROUP

Continued from page 7

Continued from page 8

the only LGBTQ statewide candidate in 2018.

Andrew J. McDonald is an associate justice of the Connecticut Supreme Court. He previously served as a member of the Connecticut State Senate from 2003 to 2011, representing the state’s 27th district in Stamford and Darien as a Democrat.

affecting the LGBTQ community, whether it’s criminal defense, housing, employment, family.”

McDonald married Charles Gray in 2009. He is one of 10 LGBTQ+ state supreme court justices currently serving in the United States.

Joseph Grabarz, who served in the Connecticut House of Representatives from 1989 to 1993, was Connecticut’s first state legislator to come out as gay.

For more information about LGBTQ Section of the Connecticut Bar Association, visit www.ctbar.org Andrew J. McDonald, associate justice of the Connecticut Supreme Court.

history

LGBTQIA CENTERS

Continued from page 11

Continued from page 5 Teachers would stop me in the hallway and tell me how thankful they were we had started the club.

Students that I never met before would come up to me and say “thank you” — and I had finally felt as though I was making a difference. The year culminated with a trip to the UCONN conference called “True Colors” where GSA’s from all over the state share experiences and learn from each other.

I came home from the first True Colors conference sobbing. For the first time I was able to open up to my peers and explain to them the inner tumult I was going through, and the same was true for my classmates.

When I went to college at NYU I fully immersed myself in the New York City LGBTQIA culture.

I attended weekly drag shows, volunteered at LGBTQIA home-

less shelters, and even lived in an apartment above the legendary Stonewall Inn for a semester. I found my tribe and I was doing all that I could to support a community that had opened its arms to me.

Then Donald Trump got elected as the 45th President of the United States, and my community was under fire.

As he began rolling back rights, I saw firsthand my friends, coworkers, and peers begin to crumble under the weight of his policies. As things became more dire for those in the trans community, I began to notice an important pillar which stood between his discriminating policies and the people they were aimed at.

LGBTQIA community centers are so much more than what the name suggests. They not only create a

sense of safety in a community that is often targeted, but they provide valuable resources which otherwise would not be available. They provide STD/STI testing and HIV/ AIDS screenings. In some cases they can even provide housing for those who need it the most.

crimes related to a victim’s sexual identity to the existing definition of hate crimes.

The LGBTQIA community is resilient but, like any marginalized group, needs support from the communities they live in. Southington has done an excellent job at creating that sense of safety for those in the LGBTQIA community, and I hope many other towns follow suit. It is my wish that from this PRIDE issue, and the efforts going on by many local organizations, that we can generate LGBTQIA centers all over Connecticut to help address the growing needs that the community faces day-to-day.

2003

Continued from page 8

The first same sex ceremony Pomaszewski’s mother officiated was for two men. The couple lived in Washington, D.C., but was getting married in Middletown at one of their sister’s houses, she said, adding that a lot of weddings are done at private homes.

Another memorable ceremony was for a couple who came all the way from Alabama, where same sex marriage was not legal at the time. “The women also had their entourage follow—in three cars from Alabama,” said Pomaszewski.

The women were married on the beach in Old Saybrook.

Initially, Pomaszewski. and her mother created a ceremony specifically for same sex couples. However, “We found same sex couples didn’t want to be treated different,” Po-

2000 CT voted to allow same-sex civil unions.

Coretta Scott King calls on civil rights advocates to include gay rights in their efforts. Some criticized her for this position.

2004 First legal same sex marriage happens in Mass.

2011 Don't Ask Don't Tell was repealed

2015

SAME SEX MARRIAGE Pomaszewski said, “when they asked my mother if she would marry them, she would say, ‘sure.’ We are big believers in love. We wanted to be a part of it.”

nKorytnikova@record-journal.com 203-317-2444 Twitter: @n_korytnikova

maszewski said. “We found that everyone wanted the same thing. They wanted the traditional ceremony,” Pomaszewski said same sex couples want to choose between the traditional wedding vows; add or leave out portions, or some couples write their own vows. “Your wedding, your way,” is how Pomaszewski sums up the way her mother officiated and how she carries on.

“It just has to be meaningful to you.

Not a cookie-cutter ceremony but tailored to the person.”

Obergefell v. Hodges, Supreme Court Decision. The Court votes 5-4 that the fundamental right to marry is guaranteed to same-sex couples nationwide.

2016 Aug. 16, the U.S. Navy ship Harvey Milk is dedicated, the first named for an openly gay leader. Milk had served in the U.S. Navy during the Korean War aboard the submarine rescue ship USS Kittiwake (ASR13) and held the rank of lieutenant (junior grade) at the time of his honorable discharge.

– Record-Journal staff

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14 | Celebrate Diversity • Pride Month • www.myrecordjournal.com/pride Friday, June 18, 2021

The Southington Citizen | southingtoncitizen.com

OPINION

the question of fair play No need to take pre-emptive measures against transgender athletes

By Jeffery Kurz Record-Journal staff

grilled about the transgender issue during his nomination hearing.

When I was in high school my football team lost a game by the score of 44-0.

My thinking about it could be characterized as flummoxed, but that generalized uncertainty has gained some clarity thanks to a recent letter Clearly, we didn't belong on the to the editor by Lexie Farkash, of same field that day, but as I recall there were no calls for us to form our Wallingford. She also experienced own league or, better yet, for them to challenges as a student athlete, in her form their own league. Let's call it the case playing field hockey. "I know there will always be those who have league for overachieving jerks. a natural edge over me," she said.

Such lopsided results are far from She found the more proper response uncommon and take place every to be working harder, as opposed to year, all over the nation, all over the "insisting there be a separate league." world. It's an integral part of the The transgender population is small, whole wide world of sports. One of and the percentage of transgender the last games I saw in person, before athletes tiny, but the issue surroundthe pandemic, was a lopsided win by ing them has become huge. You Daniel Hand over Wethersfield. You could say it has hit a nerve. wonder how there's enough time in a high school football game to accom- As The Associated Press just recently reported, more than 20 states are modate such high scoring. fielding legislation that would ban There are all sorts of reasons for transgender girls from participatuneven outcomes, including size, ing with high school girls' sports speed, natural ability, coaching teams. "Yet in every case," says the skills - you can go on and on trying to report, "sponsors cannot cite a single explain it. instance in their own state or region Sometimes it seems to result from an where such participation has caused problems." unfair advantage.

That perspective was at play in Connecticut when transgender runners Terry Miller and Andraya Yearwood won 15 championship races over a couple years, sparking a lawsuit and a national conversation, to put it mildly.

It's the Connecticut case that has sparked the upsurge in proposed legislation. "It's their Exhibit A, and there's no Exhibit B - absolutely none," Shannon Minter, legal director for the National Center for Lesbian Rights, told the AP.

The new education secretary, Miguel Cardona (you don't need me to tell you he's from Meriden, right?), was

States are taking action as a preemptive measure. In one case, it's to counter the possibility that "the next generation of female athletes

in South Carolina may not have a chance to excel," as Rep. Ashley Trantham was quoted as saying. In Tennessee, the bill is necessary to be "proactive," said House Speaker Cameron Sexton.

This is a big response. Yet there's no "authoritative count" of the number of trans athletes who have competed in high school or college sports, according to the AP, and what count there is says it's minimal.

In her letter, Farkash talked about competing against players who had been playing since kindergarten, similar to my experience, and found that "instead of getting upset or insisting there be a separate league,

we embrace our diversity and train harder."

And, it's worth noting, as the AP did, that one of the Connecticut cisgender girls, Chelsea Mitchell, "defeated Terry Miller - the faster of the two trans sprinters - in their final two races in February 2020."

My own feeling when it comes to what's to come is that more worrisome competition will involve artificial intelligence. When it comes to human beings, the path toward acceptance and inclusiveness is the better way forward.

Jeffery Kurz is the Record-Journal’s editorial page editor. This column originally appeared on March 5, 2021.

Times are changing I write in response to the letter by Mr. Frank Milano Jr. on March 2 regarding the "fairness" of integrating transgender athletes with cisgender athletes and his resulting opposition to Dr. Cardona's nomination. I encourage Mr. Milano and residents who may feel similarly to consider the facts and implications.

First, there is no single biological factor that determines sex. Scientists have said this, advocates have repeated this, yet critics seem to ignore this when it's time to support discrimination.

Second, how exactly should we confirm the gender of each student-athlete, given that hormone levels and body-types naturally vary? Should referees pull down students' pants to verify before each game?

Finally, even if transgender women did have some magical athletic ability that outshone cisgender women - which, to be clear, they don't just 0.42% of the population is transgender (according to one survey). An even smaller number are transgender women. This is not some astronomical amount that will upend sports teams and suddenly dominate.

On a personal note, as a former student-athlete, I know there will always be those who have a natural edge over me. My stubby legs will never outrun those whose legs reach my eyebrows. Likewise, the difference between my high school in Wallingford playing field hockey against Cheshire was stark; one team had players who had been playing since kindergarten while my school, well, typically did not. Instead of getting upset or insisting there be a separate league, we embrace our diversity and train harder.

HAPPY PRIDE MONTH!

Times are changing and becoming more inclusive.

88 East Main St. Meriden | 03.235.3338 | jferryfh.com

R242037

Funeral Home

There will always be naysayers complaining about progress and shouting at the sky that the world is turning upside down. But I, for one, applaud Dr. Cardona for his compassion and dedication to students of all genders.

Lexie Farkash, Wallingford Originally published in the Record-Journal March 5, 2021.

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Celebrate Diversity • F Pride Month June 10, 2021 | 15 riday, June •18, 2021

The Southington Citizen | southingtoncitizen.com

Books, Movies, events & more Continued from page 7 Memorial,by Bryan Washington. A novel. A gay, African American man living with his Asian American lover in Texas, delivers an unexpected lesson in how little we really know ourselves Less, by Andrew Sean Greer. A Pulitzer Prize winning novel about a gay writer fleeing an invitation to the wedding of his ex to another man.

Boy Erased, by Garrard Conley. In his autobiography, Conley writes about his struggles after he is outed in college and his parents force him to attend a faith-based “school” to cure him.

Raising My Rainbow, by Lori Duron. The author and her family navigate the challenges and rewards of learning how to accept their gender-variant son into their home and community.

Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe, by Benjamin Saenz. A young adult novel that depicts the relationship between two Mexican-American teens who must overcome familial and societal cultural biases, and peer bullying.

October Mourning- A Song For Matthew Shephard, by Leslea Newman, who is also the author of Heather Has Two Mommies. Newman wrote 68 poems about an attack on Shephard, due to his sexual orientation, that led to his death.

Music Betty, by Taylor Swift. This song from Swift’s Foklore album is interpreted by some listeners as a gay anthem due to the ambiguity of lyrics that don’t specifically refer to the gender of the song’s characters who are involved in a love triangle.

You Need To Calm Down, by Taylor Swift. A song about the hate she has received for having gay friends. Considered by some listeners to be a gay acceptance anthem.

Same Love, by Macklemore. Written about Macklemore’s gay uncles and his own experience with sexuality, and as a rallying cry for the Marriage Equality Act. Born this way, by Lady Gaga. Written as a response to the repeal of Don’t Ask Don’t Tell, which allowed LGBTQ+ members of the armed forces to be out and proud. It’s about celebrating yourself no matter who you love and who you are.

A variety of songs by RuPaul: CoverGirl, Born Naked, Modern Love. RuPaul was the first drag superstar. He’s a musician and host of a popular television shows, RuPaul’s Drag Race, a drag competition show seen internationally.

Him, by Sam Smith. A boy’s experience with coming out and grappling with his religion at the same time.

Todos Me Miran, by Gloria Trevi. Spanish song about loving yourself the way you are. The song translates to literally mean “Everyone looks at me”.

Film Paris is Burning. Documentary about the drag/ gay underground culture in New York in the ‘80s. A pivotal time in LGBTQ+ history. Directed by Jennie Livingston.

RENT. New York in the ‘80s-’90s. This story of an apartment building and its tenants references AIDS, LGBTQ+ culture, and shines a light on people who were considered to be living on the “fringe” during the time. Cast includes Taye Diggs, Idina Menzel, Rosario Dawson, just to name a few. Directed by Chris Colombus.

Moonlight. A story about growing up Black and gay. Released in 2016, directed by Barry Jenkins MILK. The life and death of Harvey Milk, San Francisco’s first openly gay mayor. Directed by Gus Van Sant.

Carol. A story about two lesbian women in the 1950s. Directed by Todd Haynes How To Survive a Plague, by David France. Documentary film. An exploration of the AIDS epidemic.

Event

UConn True Colors Conference

This event brings together Gay/Straight Alliance groups from local schools and communities to focus on a wide variety of issues with workshops for students and teachers. Check it out at www. ourtruecolors.org/conference. and rainbowcenter. uconn.edu/true-colors-conference/#.

– Record-Journal staff

Students promote unity Continued from page 11 Peter Borzillo, Sheehan’s GSA club president, said students participating in “Day of Silence” go the entire school day without speaking and then at the final bell, they all gather to finally break the silence, which could be a collective scream or simply conversation.

This day symbolizes how silenced members in the community feel and to give those not in the community a symbolic glimpse into their life.

“It’s less about trying to force our beliefs” Borzillo said. “We are just trying to promote an atmosphere where people feel safe and accepted.”

Cheshire Academy offers LBGTQIA student clubs and groups on campus. The focus of the groups is determined each year by club members and student leaders. One year, they focused on pride through arts activities, said Julie Anderson, head of school. The club has also focused on other issues, including microaggression or how to garner support.

“Everyone is on a different place in their journey,” said Anderson.

Anderson said the school encourages language and norms that are inclusive. She cites examples such as using the term “partners” and “family” and not husband or wife or mom and dad. In another instance, students wanted a change to the dress code, to make it gender neutral. The protocol of girls wearing skirts or dresses and boys wearing blazers and shirts was changed.

“It’s really (about) listening and understanding how the world is changing, and how we need to be supportive,” Anderson said. fwilliams@record-journal.com 203-317-2373 Twitter: @faith_williams2 Joy VanderLek contributed to this story.

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16 | Celebrate Diversity • Pride Month • www.myrecordjournal.com/pride Friday, June 18, 2021

The Southington Citizen | southingtoncitizen.com

MXCC STUDENTS PROMOTE EQUALITY, ACCEPTANCE & KNOWLEDGE

MIDDLESEX COMMUNITY COLLEGE

Your College • Your Future mxcc.edu

860-343-5719/ 866-526-6008 (toll-free) 100 Training Hill Road, Middletown, CT

“While I was never a member of SPEAK, I did always appreciate the ally trainings SPEAK would do. Especially when they created an atmosphere where it felt safe to ask any honest questions you have and not be judged on it.”

— Benjamin Palazzo, MxCC class of 2016

R242019

M

iddlesex Community College (MxCC) LGBTQ+ students have found safe space with like-minded individuals through many supportive programs and activities as they navigate through their collegiate experiences.

For more than a decade, the campus club SPEAK (Students Promoting Equality, Acceptance and Knowledge) has brought LGBTQ+ students together with each other, staff members and alumni. The primary purpose of the club is to provide support and assistance to those within the gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and questioning community and allies who seek it.

“Middlesex Community College gives SPEAK members participated me a chance to stay connected with in events such as the Connecticut the queer community, to contribute to Health Information Management a student union that is both diverse Association Conference, where and inclusive, and for that I am they presented a panel about immensely grateful. Having queer role models such as the club advisors, how LGBTQ+ individuals face allows me to put my trust in this difficulty when giving information college, live authentically, and have related to health matters. the peace of mind to excel in my In 2019, SPEAK and college academic endeavors.” community members marched — Josh Rushworth, in the state’s first Pride parade, SPEAK president, manufacturing which took place in Middletown.

“MxCC gave me a place to feel The group is also appearing in like I wasn’t broken or that I Middletown’s 2021 virtual parade on June 5. The club regularly conducts needed to be fixed for who I ally trainings, drag events, dances, Karaoke nights, fundraisers as well as was. It expanded my worldview participates in the True Colors youth event at UConn each year. In 2018, to different orientations and MxCC hosted the Connecticut State College and University (CSCU) Pride identities, and made them Conference, an all-day forum with workshops, discussions, networking and more normalized to myself and entertainment. others.”

Last year, the college formally established the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion — Marina Capezzone, Council to reaffirm its commitment for maintaining a campus environment MxCC class of 2018 where all are valued, respected and included. Register now for summer and fall classes at mxcc.edu

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BEST

BEST

LOCAL Used Independent SUP PLOORCTS Y O R RLTOYCO AU L R Auto S U P Car P O R T Dealer YO RService AU L P PUO DEALER D LE ENRT Detailing EE PA EN EDNETPRepair D EA EN I Dealer N D E P E N D Department E INNTDD L EIDN RAuto

Now through July 4, 2021

BEST

BEST

Used Car Dealer BEST BEST

BEST

BEST

Dealer Service Independent Department Auto Repair

BEST BEST

BEST BEST ST BE

AWARDS

BEST CAR SALESWOMAN - LIZA GONZALEZ

BEST

Auto Detailing BE ST

AWARDS

AWARDS

AWARDS

2019

2020

2021

ST BEBEST

BE ST ndent Dealer Service Independent Used Car Independent Auto Dealer Service ler Service Indepe DeaAuto d Car se U to Repair Department AuDetailing Dealer Auto Department Auto Repair Detailing tment eparRepair D Dealer

Used Car Dealer

A49

Auto Detailing

Win $ 00 5

CtStarAuto.com

203-630-2926

242702_v2

The Readers’ Choice Awards celebrates the best businesses, organizations, people and more that YOU think deserve 333 S Broad Street to be named the best!

R242535

2021

Make nominations 333 S Broad Street CtStarAuto.com m 203-630-2926 203-630-2926 online333 S onceBroad a day Street now 333 S CtStarAuto.com Broad Street CtStarAuto.com 203-630-2926 203-630-2926 tarAuto.co CtS et re St d oa 333 S Br through July 4, 2021.

PLEASE NOMINATE US FOR BEST DENTIST AND BEST PEDIATRIC DENTIST

MyRecordJournal.com/RC Nominate us again this year!

FREE

We Ship & Deliver

AWARDS

2021

Thank you for voting us a winner in Best Gift Store!

Thank you for voting us a winner in Best Gift Store!

242480

AWARDS

2018 - 2018 2015

AWARDS 93209-01

2018 - 2018 2015

Deliver!

& er!ing! We Ship & De ralivpp ip W e Sh ift WG g! in AWA EE RDS pp FR ra W FREE Gift 1165 • 203-2502015 201 eshire 8 n8 - 201 St., Cheshire 1115 S. Mai S. Main St., Ch 9320

1115

65 • 203-250-11

93209-01

1115 S. Main St. • Cheshire 203-250-1165

Thank you for voting us a winner in Best Gift Store!

!

R242431

Gift Wra pping

The Southington Citizen | southingtoncitizen.com

Friday, June 18, 2021

Serving Families of all Faiths in the Community Since 1884.

AWARDS

2021

Blaire L. Bouchard

Licensed Funeral Director & Embalmer, Lifelong Resident of Plainville

Thank You for Nominating Us Best Funeral Home in Central Connecticut for Readers Choice 2021.

We Strive To Be The Best In Serving Our Community.

AWARDS

2020

48 Broad Street, Plainville, CT 06062 860-747-2295 | www.Bailey-FuneralHome.com

242585

A50

The Southington Citizen | southingtoncitizen.com

Friday, June 18, 2021

A51

Residential + Commercial

AUTO ~ HOME ~ BUSINESS ~ RECREATIONAL VEHICLES

Trust LA Rich LLC With Your Next Roofing & Siding Job In Connecticut!

for BEST AUTO INSURANCE, BEST LIFE INSURANCE

ROOFING, SIDING, STORM DAMAGE

NOMINATE US & BEST COMMERCIAL INSURANCE

READERS CHOICE WINNER 2014, 2016, 2018, 2019 & 2020

AWARDS

2021

Nominate us as your #1 Best Siding & Roofing Company!

(860) 747-4427 | (860) 622-9800 www.larichremodeling.com LIC # 632484

242482

LA Rich Roofing, LLC 100% Financing Available

IT’S THAT TIME AGAIN...

Nominate Your Favorite Businesses!

Now through July 4, 2021

Nominate us for Best Candy Store!

Win $ 00 5

Make nominations online once a day now through July 4, 2021.

MyRecordJournal.com/RC

1879

SINCE

NA 242702_v2

The Readers’ Choice Awards celebrates the best businesses, organizations, people and more that YOU think deserve to be named the best!

son Chocol p m at ho

e

T

2021

TUR

A L L Y DE L I C I O U

S

Thompson Chocolate Factory Store 80 South Vine St., Meriden, CT www.ThompsonChocolate.com (203) 235-2541

Meriden made for over 140 years!

R242537

AWARDS

A52

The Southington Citizen | southingtoncitizen.com

Friday, June 18, 2021

“There are no strangers here, only friends we have not met.”

Please nominate us in the Best Dentist & Best Pediatric Dentist Categories

AWARDS

2020

Please Nominate Us! EVENTS: Prime Rib Night, Golf Tournament, Lobster Festival, Cookie Swap, Super Bowl Party, Holiday Parties, St Paddy's Bar Crawl, Full Service Menu

Cold Beer & Cocktails serving Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

We’ve been treating patients of all ages for over 50 years!

242398

There is something for everyone at AJ's!!

142 Hanover St. Meriden • 203.634.4912

IT’S THAT TIME AGAIN...

R242523

203-235-5588 • DentalGroupCT.com 298 Broad St. Meriden

Nominate Your Favorite Businesses!

Now through July 4, 2021

PAU L’S M A S ON RY NOMINATE MY DAD FOR BEST MASON!

AWARDS

Stonewalls, Patios, Chimneys, Fireplaces, Sidewalks, Concrete, Retaining Walls, Pool Patios, Brick Works, New and Repairs

The Readers’ Choice Awards celebrates the best businesses, organizations, people and more that YOU think deserve to be named the best!

ALL TYPES OF MASONRY WORK

Ct Licensed & Fully Insured HIC# 0635508

Make nominations online once a day now through July 4, 2021.

242481

We Service the Best • Years of Experience For Free Estimates call 203-706-9281 or visit paulsmasonry.net

Win $ 00 5

MyRecordJournal.com/RC

242702_v2

2021

The Southington Citizen | southingtoncitizen.com

Friday, June 18, 2021

A53

Cindy’s Unique Shop Home Decor Consignment

Nominate us for Best Antique Store, Best Consignment and Best Furniture Store

AWARDS

2021

EVERYDAY DISCOUNTS

$10 OFF

with purchase

of $60 or m

ore.

Excludes sale m er ch an di se .

Not to be com bined with othe r offers.

Hours: Tues–Sa

t 10–5

Call for Consignment Details 203-269-9341

242470

65 North Colony St, Wallingford

A54

The Southington Citizen | southingtoncitizen.com

Friday, June 18, 2021

IT’S THAT TIME AGAIN...

Nominate Your Favorite Businesses!

NOMINATE US

Now through July 4, 2021

for Best Home Builder, Best Home Contractor & Best Home Remodeler

AWARDS

The Readers’ Choice Awards celebrates the best businesses, organizations, people and more that YOU think deserve to be named the best!

A family owned business since 1985

Contact us today for your next dream project!

SAFE

AUTO SERVICE

242472

387 S Main Street | Wallingford, CT 06492 Ph: (203) 269-1834 | www.ciprianiconstruction.com

Vehicle Diagnostics Experts in Meriden, CT, Wallingford, CT, and Surrounding Areas Safe Auto Service provides local drivers with a trustworthy, friendly, knowledgeable option for all their vehicle needs.

NOMINATE US FOR BEST HEATING, BEST OIL AND A/C COMPANY! OIL – PROPANE – EQUIPMENT – SERVICE

TUXIS

2 years 24,000 mile warranty on all work.

www.tuxisohrs.com

Our Specialties Include

Heating Oil

Diesel Fuel

Gasoline

OHRʼS

203-639-3513

242258

· Heat & Air Conditioning · Engine Repairs · Exhaust · Transmissions · Radiators · Wheels · Electrical Systems

Serving all of Connecticut R242546

Nominate us for Best Independent Auto Repair!

281 East Main Street • Meriden, CT 06450 203-237-4311 • safeautoct.com

Make nominations online once a day now through July 4, 2021.

MyRecordJournal.com/RC

We accept all car care one credit card for financing.

· Check Engine Lights · Diagnostics · Alignments · Brakes

Win $ 00 5

242702_v2

2021

860-589-4328

POWER-FUELS.COM • TUXISOHRS.COM

The Southington Citizen | southingtoncitizen.com

Friday, June 18, 2021

A55

We are an innovator, not an imitator.

AWARDS

2021

NOMINATE US Best Tree Surgeon!

Voted Best Tree Surgeon 2018, 2019 and 2020.

BEST OF...

AWARDS 2 0 2 1

Call today to find out why we are the best!

CHESHIRE • (203) 272-4485 242579

HIC# 0581892 • B-3163

A56

The Southington Citizen | southingtoncitizen.com

Friday, June 18, 2021

IT’S THAT TIME AGAIN...

Nominate Your Favorite Businesses!

Now through July 4, 2021

AWARDS

2021

Nominate Us! AWARDS

Try something new this Spring

2021

SANS SOUCI Restaurant and Lounge

Nominate us as your #1

Win $ 00 5 Make nominations online once a day now through July 4, 2021.

Steakhouse American Restaurant Happy Hour Early Bird Dinner Seafood Restaurant Join us on our new patio!

Tuesday Evening Special!

5 Courses for $15.95

Thursday Night $6 Martini Night

2003 N Broad St. (Berlin Turnpike) Meriden, CT Closed Mondays • 203-639-1777 • SansSouciRestaurant.com

R241647

MyRecordJournal.com/RC

242562

118 Center St. Wallingford | 203.265.4419 serenityofwallingford.com

242702v4

The Readers’ Choice Awards celebrates the best businesses, organizations, people and more that YOU think deserve to be named the best!

20% OFF any new service!

WALLINGFORD HEARING WALLINGFORD HEARING WALLINGFORD HEARING CONNECTS HEARINGUS

The Southington Citizen | southingtoncitizen.com

Friday, June 18, 2021

A57

190 CENTER STREET ❀ 2 190 CENTER STREET ❀ 203-265-1514 Quality & Depen 190 CENTER STREET ❀ 203-265-151 Quality & Dependability Nominate us best florist inQuality the RC 2021 Awards &Fabulous!!

Dependability 90 CENTER STREET ❀ 203-265-1514 Always Fresh!

Always Always Satisfying!!!

CONNECTS US CONNECTS Best Life Hearing Center is here CONNECTS USUS to help you live your best life. Our

Jennifer Micacci, Au.D. Doctor of Audiology

Jennifer Micacci, Au.D. Micacci, 850Jennifer N MAIN STREET EXT BLDG 1 ·Au.D. SUITE C1 Doctor of Audiology Jennifer Micacci, WALLINGFORD, CT 06492 Au.D. Doctor of Audiology

Best Life Hearing Center is here to help you live your best life. Our Best Life Hearing Center audiologist, Dr. Jennifer Micacci, hasis herehas audiologist, Dr. Jennifer Micacci, Best Life Hearing Center is here been practicing audiology forlife. over to help you live best your best life. Our to help you live your Our been practicing audiology for over 20 years.

Dr. Micacci the team at audiologist, Dr.and Jennifer Micacci, has audiologist, Dr. Jennifer Micacci, has 20 years.

Dr. Micacci and the team at Best Life Hearing Center have helped been practicing audiology for overfor over been practicing audiology hundreds ofHearing people hear better. have helped Best Life Center 20 20 years.

Dr. Micacci and the team years.

Dr. Micacci and theatteam at Best Life Hearing Center have helped hundreds ofHearing people hear better.

Help us defend Best Life Center have helped hundreds of people hear better. our title of Best

hundreds of people hear better.

Audiologist.

Help defend Help us us defend Help us defend our title ofBest Best our title of Nominate us today! our title of Best Audiologist.

Audiologist.

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Quality & Dependability Always Fresh! Always Fabulous

Doctor of Audiology

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WALLINGFORD, 06492 850 N MAIN STREET EXTCT BLDG 1 · SUITE C1 WALLINGFORD, CT 06492

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CALL 203-774-5493 TODAY TO BESTLIFEHEARINGCENTER.COM us today!

BESTLIFEHEARINGCENTER.COM Nominate Nominate us today!

MAKE YOUR APPOINTMENT! BESTLIFEHEARINGCENTER.COM

AWARDS

www.wallingfordflower.com 2021

Audiologist.

Nominate us today!

MAKE YOUR APPOINTMENT!

242467

Featuring the Most Beautifu Always Fresh! Always Always Satis 190 CENTERFabulous!!

STREET ❀ 203-265-1514 Fruit Baskets, Gourm Quality & Dependability Check outFeaturing our all newthe Most MAKE YOUR APPOINTMENT! Beautiful Floral Designs, s Fresh! Check Always Fabulous!!

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Fruit Baskets, Gourmet Baskets Always Fresh!

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Featuring the Most Beautiful Floral Designs, Gymnastics Center classes andwith new new curriculum.

Fruit Baskets, Gourmet Baskets www.wallingfordflower.com classes and new $ 0curriculum. www.wallingfordflower.com Win 5 0 www.wallingfordflower.com CALL 203-774-5493 TODAY TO MAKE YOUR APPOINTMENT! CALLCALL 203-774-5493 TODAY 203-774-5493 TODAYTO TO

242487

IT’S THAT TIME AGAIN...

Featuring the Most Beautiful Floral Designs, Fruit Baskets, Gourmet Baskets

Now through July 4, 2021

Meriden YMCA Athletic Center 74 Cambridge Street Meriden, CT 06450 Meriden YMCA Athletic Center (Follow North Colony Street to “Napier” building)

DS AWARCambridge 74 Street Make nominations online once a Meriden, CT 06450 2021

We appreciate all of your nominations for

day now through (Follow North Colony Street to “Napier” building)July 4, 2021.

242702

MyRecordJournal.com/RC

Best Heating and A/C Service!

AWARDS

2021

NOMINATE THE

MERIDEN - NEW BRITAIN www.meridenymca.org BERLINVisit YMCA or call 203-235-6386 for

,

for Best Daycare/Child Care more information.

Visit www.meridenymca.org Best Gym/Fitness Center or call 203-235-6386 for moreSummer information. Camp/Day Camp Best

CT License # S-1 303257 & SM-1 005738

FREE ESTIMATES • FULLY INSURED • SERVICE PLANS AVAILABLE REPLACEMENTS • INSTALLATIONS • REMODELS • ADD-ONS • SERVICE

CELEBRATING

27 YEARS

IN BUSINESS

Here for& Operated Good by Norm Wium Locally Owned

Like uToday s on Follow272-6676 us on Call (203) Here for1187 Good HIGHLAND AVE • CHESHIRE, CT 242389

HERE FOR GOOD. FOR A BETTER YOU

203-235-6386 | www.meridenymca.org 860-229-3787 | www.nbbymca.orgLike us on HERE FOR GOOD.

Follow us on www.CALLEASTCOAST.com

Home Automation

242414

RESIDENTIAL & LIGHT COMMERCIAL

A58

The Southington Citizen | southingtoncitizen.com

Friday, June 18, 2021

IT’S THAT TIME AGAIN...

Nominate Your Favorite Businesses!

Now through July 4, 2021

Please Consider Nominating Us for Best Home Contractor & Home Remodeler!

AWARDS

We would be honored to receive your nomination and appreciate your support.

The Readers’ Choice Awards celebrates the best businesses, organizations, people and more that YOU think deserve to be named the best!

BENCAR BUILDING SYSTEMS, LLC 210 North Plains Industrial Rd, Wallingford, CT 06492

Win $ 00 5

242518

203-269-9204 www.bencarbuildingsystems.com

Nominate Us for Best Brunch & Diner!

Classic diner fare, international dishes & Greek specialties mingle at this family owned favorite.

MyRecordJournal.com/RC

THANKS

AWARDS

2021

242517

242538

320 Washington Ave • North Haven, CT • 203-239-0663 • Open 24/7

Make nominations online once a day now through July 4, 2021.

242702_v2

2021

The Southington Citizen | southingtoncitizen.com

Friday, June 18, 2021

A59

VOTE FOR US FOR BEST PIZZA IN MERIDEN & ITALIAN FOOD!

AWARDS

We specialize in pizza, grinders WE DO and great Italian food!

CATERING!

361 Liberty Street • Meriden, CT bellalunameriden.com (203) 238-1380 • (203) 440-9393 • (203) 440-9922 Open 7 Days • Mon–Thurs 11AM–10PM Fri & Sat 11AM–11PM • Sun 11AM–10PM

FAST DELIVERY DAILY TO ALL OF MERIDEN

with a minimum $10 order!

242592

2021

A60

The Southington Citizen | southingtoncitizen.com

Friday, June 18, 2021

IT’S THAT TIME AGAIN...

Please nominate us for Best Real Estate Company and Best Place to Work (25-100 employees)

Nominate Your Favorite Businesses!

Now through July 4, 2021

AWARDS

2021

(Family Owned Business)

203-672-4499

Make nominations online once a day now through July 4, 2021.

MyRecordJournal.com/RC

116 Center St. Wallingford CT 06492 www.harrimanre.com

242476

Win $ 00 5

242702_v5

The Readers’ Choice Awards celebrates the best businesses, organizations, people and more that YOU think deserve to be named the best!

AWARDS

2021

Please nominate us for us for Best American Restaurant Best Breakfast Restaurant · Best Breakfast Sandwich Best Burger · Best Diner · Best Local Coffee Shop Best Pancakes · Best Place to Work Let Dads do the work for your next event and relax at your next party!

740 N. Colony Rd. • Wallingford, CT Visit dadswallingford.com for full catering menu

242488

CALL TODAY! 203-265-4868

The Southington Citizen | southingtoncitizen.com

Friday, June 18, 2021

A61

LIBBY’S

IT’S THAT TIME AGAIN...

Nominate Your Favorite Businesses!

Italian Pastry Shop

Now through July 4, 2021

“Family Owned & Operated Since 1922”

NOMINATE US!

AWARDS

AWARDS

We want to thank everyone who voted for us in the Readers’ Choice and Best of Awards! We want to thank everyone for their support for the last 11 years!

2021

Win $ 00 5 MyRecordJournal.com/RC

(203) 772-0380

Please continue to visit us at our New Haven location!

Nominate us as your favorite Law Firm, Elder Care Attorney and Personal Injury Attorney.

AWARDS

2021

Since 1974, our experienced legal team has been dedicated to helping our clients meet their legal goals.

636 Broad St. Meriden, CT 203.238.1010 • MQMLawyer.com

R242525

Make nominations online once a day now through July 4, 2021.

139 Wooster St, New Haven

242702v4

The Readers’ Choice Awards celebrates the best businesses, organizations, people and more that YOU think deserve to be named the best!

242556

2021

A62

The Southington Citizen | southingtoncitizen.com

Friday, June 18, 2021

Indoor & Outdoor Seating • Take Out, Curbside & Delivery

Nominate

Us For Best Diner, Best Vegetarian & Best Early Bird Dinner

“Our #1 priority is to continue to offer our loyal customers the best quality food & service”

242474

has been awarded Readers Choice “Best Diner” 9 Years in a row by the Record Journal!

The Southington Citizen | southingtoncitizen.com

Friday, June 18, 2021

IT’S THAT TIME AGAIN...

While we continue to conduct business during the COVID-19 crisis, we keep in mind your safety.

For those who continue to have concerns, we offer live meetings and consultations via the GoToMeeting platform.

Nominate Your Favorite Businesses!

Now through July 4, 2021

AWARDS

2021

MyRecordJournal.com/RC

PLEASE NOMINATE US FOR BEST LAW FIRM AND BEST PERSONAL INJURY LAWYER

242702_v5

Make nominations online once a day now through July 4, 2021.

242491

The Readers’ Choice Awards celebrates the best businesses, organizations, people and more that YOU think deserve to be named the best!

Win $ 00 5

A63

221 N Main St, Wallingford

attorneycervoni.com (203) 265-5789

Nominate us for Best Floor Covering Company and Flooring Store!

242477

Heritage Floor Covering Co.

VISIT OUR SHOWROOM!

Family owned and operated Serving the community since 1966 We employ our own installers and stand by every job.

CARPET AND AREA RUGS • HARDWOOD AND LAMINATE TILE • VINYL • WINDOW TREATMENTS 892 North Colony Road, Wallingford • 203-269-8626 • heritagefloorcoveringco.com

A64

The Southington Citizen | southingtoncitizen.com

Friday, June 18, 2021

IT’S THAT TIME AGAIN...

NOMINATE US FOR BEST SEPTIC SERVICE

Nominate Your Favorite Businesses!

Now through July 4, 2021

AWARDS

2021

Make nominations online once a day now through July 4, 2021.

MyRecordJournal.com/RC

CALL US TODAY! 203.623.1352 CT Septic License 006373

|

R242599

Win $ 00 5

Site work, drainage, septic systems installs & repairs, grading, topsoil, pool removals, stumping and much more!

242702_v5

The Readers’ Choice Awards celebrates the best businesses, organizations, people and more that YOU think deserve to be named the best!

CT HIC 00661660

R242596

AWARDS

2021

NOMINATE US AS YOUR FAVORITE STEAKHOUSE!

Newington • 860.666.2202 • 2513 Berlin Turnpike

The Southington Citizen | southingtoncitizen.com

Friday, June 18, 2021

PLEASE NOMINATE US!

A65

IT’S THAT TIME AGAIN...

Nominate Your Favorite Businesses!

Now through July 4, 2021

AWARDS

2021

375 Center St, Wallingford, CT (203) 269-7756 wallingfordlawyers.com

Make nominations online once a day now through July 4, 2021.

MyRecordJournal.com/RC

PLEASE NOMINATE US

R242527

242475

Please Nominate Us for Best Law Firm, Best Elder Care Attorney, Best Place To Work and Best Family Owned Business

Win $ 00 5

242702_v5

The Law Offices of Farrell & Grochowski

The Readers’ Choice Awards celebrates the best businesses, organizations, people and more that YOU think deserve to be named the best!

No obligation pre-arrangement consultation available. We specialize in traditional and cremation funeral services. Veteran’s Benefit Assistance and Medicaid Approved Prepaid Funeral Trusts Available.

Please visit our website at www.wallingfordfh.com to download a free copy of our Funeral Planning Guide.

A66

The Southington Citizen | southingtoncitizen.com

Friday, June 18, 2021

IT’S THAT TIME AGAIN...

NOMINATE US FOR

Nominate Your Favorite Businesses!

Now through July 4, 2021

“Best Flooring Company” “Where Friends Send Friends”

AWARDS

2021 The Readers’ Choice Awards celebrates the best businesses, organizations, people and more that YOU think deserve to be named the best!

Colonial

Colonial

OFFER EXPIRES 10/31/2021. PRESENT AT ORDER PLACEMENT. CANNOT BE COMBINED WITH OTHER OFFERS.

242702_v5

1116 North Colony Road (Rt. 5, across from Staples) Wallingford

203-774-3280

ColonialFlooringAmerica.com

MyRecordJournal.com/RC

242521

Win $ 00 5

Make nominations online once a day now through July 4, 2021.

$100 OFF ANY PURCHASE OF $1,000 OR MORE $200 OFF ANY PURCHASE OF $2,000 OR MORE $300 OFF ANY PURCHASE OF $3,000 OR MORE

HIC#0578725

Colonial YOUR FAMILY DENTIST

Proudly serving the staff and families of Yale-New Haven Hospital and Amazon!

R242551

Where Beautiful Smiles Begin Dr. Aruri

We specialize in the following services • Invisalign® • Dental Crowns • Veneers Now Accepting New Patients! We Accept Most PPO Insurance Plans. ASK about our In-House Membership.

AWARDS

2021

Nominate us - Readers choice 2021 for Best Dentist

The Southington Citizen | southingtoncitizen.com

Friday, June 18, 2021

A67

IT’S THAT TIME AGAIN...

Nominate Your Favorite Businesses!

Now through July 4, 2021 R242434

AWARDS

2021

AWARDS

We Need You!!!

Please nominate us for Best Gourmet Foods!

Nominations are June 17th – July 4th!

106 Elm St, Cheshire, CT | www.oliveandhenry.com @oliveandhenryfinefoods | (203) 806-1450

The Readers’ Choice Awards celebrates the best businesses, organizations, people and more that YOU think deserve to be named the best!

Win $ 00 5

Make nominations online once a day now through July 4, 2021.

242702_v5

2021

MyRecordJournal.com/RC

NOMINATE US

VILLAGE PET SPA & KENNEL

242485

BEST DOGGIE DAY CARE, PET BOARDING FACILITY, & PET GROOMER FOR 2021 READERS CHOICE

AWARDS

2021

A68

The Southington Citizen | southingtoncitizen.com

Friday, June 18, 2021

IT’S THAT TIME AGAIN...

Thank you for nominating us #1 Best Pool Store and Supplies!

Nominate Your Favorite Businesses!

Now through July 4, 2021

Here’s to another great summer season. It goes without saying, if we wouldn’t have that pool or spa in our yard, it won’t be in yours!!

AWARDS

2021 The Readers’ Choice Awards celebrates the best businesses, organizations, people and more that YOU think deserve to be named the best!

MyRecordJournal.com/RC

AWARDS

In-store water analysis, pool/spa chemicals and supplies, maintenance/service. Visit your neighborhood Pool and Spa store today! Mahalo!!

Hours: Mon. - Fri. 9:30 am - 6:30 pm

242702_v5

Make nominations online once a day now through July 4, 2021.

2021

Sat. 9:30 am - 5 pm • Sun. 10 am - 2 pm

1101 South Main Street, Cheshire, CT (203) 250-POOL • alohaswimmingpools.com

Nominate us for Best Pizza!

2021 242479

314 Main St, Wallingford, CT 06492 (203) 294-9004 | www.ourfavoritepizza.com

DINE IN, CURBSIDE AND FREE LOCAL DELIVERY

Mon: CLOSED, Tues-Sat: 11am-10pm, Sun:12pm-9pm

R242411

Win $ 00 5

AWARDS

The Southington Citizen | southingtoncitizen.com

Friday, June 18, 2021

IT’S THAT TIME AGAIN...

PLEASE NOMINATE US FOR BEST CHAMBER OF COMMERCE!

Nominate Your Favorite Businesses!

Now through July 4, 2021

AWARDS

2021

2021

The Quinnipiac Chamber has been supporting the Business Community of Wallingford and North Haven since 1915!

The Readers’ Choice Awards celebrates the best businesses, organizations, people and more that YOU think deserve to be named the best!

50 N. Maincontact St. Please us at 203-269-9891 Wallingford, CT or visit our website at 203-269-9891

quinncham.com

quinncham.com

Now!

rs

rtising QUN - $500

THE OFFICIAL CHAMBER OF WALLINGORD AND NORTH HAVEN

- *Restrictions

work Event

rship for 1 Year

value!

Make nominations online once a day now through July 4, 2021.

MyRecordJournal.com/RC

At Ulbrich, We Deliver Precision® thanks to our highly-skilled and dedicated workforce. For over 97 years, we’ve recognized that talented individuals are the key to our success.

Quinnipiac Chamber staff: (l-r) Gary Ciarleglio-Business Development Executive, Dee Prior-Nesti-Executive Director, Maribel Carrion-Operations Manager, Garrett Sheehan-President

For more information on the Quinnipiac Chamber of Commerce call 203-269-9891 or visit our website at www.quinncham.com

Rewarding Career Opportunities in a World-Class Environment Voted #1 Chamber in the region Join now and receive $1,500 in incentives.

More information on the next page!

Ulbrich Steel 1 Dudley Avenue Wallingford, CT 203-239-4481 ulbrich.com

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer.

242484

(Wallingford)

Win $ 00 5

Please nominate us again for best place to work in central CT! Repeat Winner - 2019 and 2020!

$200 value) eception

te for 1 Year

242558

IT IS BECAUSE OF YOU WE ARE A SUCCESS AND WE THANK YOU!

242702_v5

AWARDS

A69

The Southington Citizen | southingtoncitizen.com

Friday, June 18, 2021

NOMINATE US!

AWARDS

2021

WE’RE OPEN AND READY TO SAFELY SERVE YOU! COME IN TODAY AND CELEBRATE WITH US BY GETTING A PORTERHOUSE FOR EACH MEMBER OF YOUR FAMILY! -13, 16 & 24 OZ.

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The Readers’ Choice Awards celebrates the best businesses, organizations, people and more that YOU think deserve to be named the best!

Known for our years of FRIENDLY, EXPERT SERVICE The home of Rawberry

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The Southington Citizen | southingtoncitizen.com

Friday, June 18, 2021

A71

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Holy Trinity School Faith, Knowledge, Success

ONE SCHOOL PRE-K TO 8TH • COMMUNITY ORIENTED SCHOOL VALUE OF CHARACTER AND FAITH BASED EDUCATION • HIGH ACADEMIC STANDARDS

11 North Whittlesey, Wallingford • 203-269-4476 • www.hts-wallingford.org facebook.com/holytrinityschoolwallingford • Instagram - @hts_wallingford

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A72

The Southington Citizen | southingtoncitizen.com

Friday, June 18, 2021

IT’S THAT TIME AGAIN...

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NOMINATE

us again for Best Home Builder, Best Home Remodeler and Best Home Contractor!

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The Readers’ Choice Awards celebrates the best businesses, organizations, people and more that YOU think deserve to be named the best!

Make nominations online once a day now through July 4, 2021.

See our website for a full list of capabilities.

24/7 Emergency Services Available.

www.extrememaint.com • 203-272-8010

Noack’s Meat Products Home of the Finest Bratwurst

MyRecordJournal.com/RC Nominate us for Best Antique Store In Central CT for Readers’ Choice 2021.

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NOMINATE US FOR BEST MEAT MARKET!

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ONE OF NEW ENGLAND’S OLDEST AND BEST

170 S. Turnpike Rd. Wallingford, CT 06492

EVERY FRIDAY-SATURDAY-SUNDAY Antiques, Collectibles, New & Used Tools, Jewelry, Coins, CDs, Crafts, DVDs, Clothes, Flowers, Produce, Groceries, Fresh Baked Goods, Gifts, Household Items-New and Used Rt.15 (Merritt Parkway): left off Exit 64, 2 mi.

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The Southington Citizen | southingtoncitizen.com

Friday, June 18, 2021

A73

THE BIG HYUNDAI STORE NOMINATE US! AWARDS

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We carry Natural & Holistic pet foods & treats at an affordable price.

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Voted Best Independent Living Community since 2018!

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Voted #1 since 2005, stop by and find out why!

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A74

The Southington Citizen | southingtoncitizen.com

Friday, June 18, 2021

IT’S THAT TIME AGAIN...

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Kitchens • Bathrooms • Hardwood Flooring Tile • Carpet • Vinyl • Wallpaper • Window Treatments

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MyRecordJournal.com/RC Nominate Us For Best Vet Clinic!

Vote for us for Readers Choice Award 2021

Thank you for voting us Readers Choice Award winners 2020!

We need your help to hold our title!

Choose Comprehensive Hearing.

If you or a loved one is experiencing hearing loss, contact us today and find out why we were voted Best Hearing Aid Center by Record Journal readers and our patients!

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The Southington Citizen | southingtoncitizen.com

Friday, June 18, 2021

Nominate us!

please nominate us for best pest control 203-238-3396

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A76

The Southington Citizen | southingtoncitizen.com

Friday, June 18, 2021

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The Southington Citizen | southingtoncitizen.com

Friday, June 18, 2021

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From A17

enough students to operate the stand. Instead food trucks will be on hand to serve hungry patrons.

Over a dozen local non-profit and civic organizations will be returning this summer to provide volunteers to run the ticket booths and guide cars to parking spaces.

The theater serves as a fundraising opportunity for the organizations, as the profits from ticket sales are divided among them at the end of the season.

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.

Find great local eats - MenusCT.com 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 24 hours a day 7 days a week.

Serving breakfast, lunch, & dinner.

Accept Q Cards. Serving North Haven for 30 years. Daily specials and full liquor available.

Duchess of Wallingford 124 Church St. Wallingford, CT 06492 (203) 265-9431 www.facebook.com/pages/ Duchess -of-Wallingford/119682821380599 Celebrating Over 25 Years in Wallingford!

Our Success comes from dedication to quality,freshness & variety! Breakfast cooked to order. Open 7 days for breakfast lunch & dinner.

The theater has raised a total of around $275,000 for the organizations it partners with in the dozen or so years since movies returned under town ownership.

“They’re grateful for the opportunity to raise some money for the organization,” he said.

While the amount of space allowed under COVID restrictions made movie showings last summer infeasible, organizers were able to work with Encore Live to host a handful of concerts throughout the season.

Shane Lockwood, director of the Plainville-Southington Regional Health District, said when the theater did begin playing movies again in September 2020, organizers were careful to abide by capacity and spacing requirements and added places where customers could wash their hands.

While those restrictions are no longer in place, he said it’s still good to be cautious.

“While masks are not required, there’s nothing saying you can’t wear one,” he said. “ … Maybe space out a little bit more than you did before the pandemic. That's never a bad thing.”

That said, he believes people have earned the right to enjoy themselves this summer after abiding by the restrictions for so long.

“I think it's good that people get out. We missed a lot of activities last year,” he said.

“So I think people should get out and enjoy themselves, while still remembering those other factors.” dleithyessian@ record-journal.com 203-317-2317 Twitter: @leith_yessian

A78

The Southington Citizen | southingtoncitizen.com

Friday, June 18, 2021

It’s National Adopt a Cat Month Cats star in some of the most viral videos on the Internet and some even grow to celebrity status on Instagram with millions of followers (looking at you, Nala Cat).

Yet some of the coolest cats remain undiscovered at shelters and rescues across the country. Since cats are also the most at-risk pets across America, accounting for 69 percent of animals killed in shelters, it’s crucial to find them loving homes.

Adopt a Shelter Cat Month takes place every June to highlight the immense need for cat adoptions and why a shelter is the best place to find your next feline friend.

“By adopting a cat, you’re not only saving that particu-

lar cat, but you also make space for the next cat coming into a shelter,” said Samantha Bell, cat expert at Best Friends Animal Society.

“Adoption is also very costeffective, as cats are usually fixed, vaccinated, microchipped and ready to go home with you for one low fee.”

According to Bell, cats make great pets for just about anyone. “Whether you are hardly ever home or you are a total couch potato, there’s a ‘purrfect’ cat waiting for you at a shelter or rescue,” she added.

Bell offers the following tips on how to pick the right cat for your lifestyle:

Residential + Commercial

ROOFING, SIDING, STORM DAMAGE

Busy? There are cats for that : Shelters and rescues often have two adult cats who have grown up together and would be happy to go home together. It’s heartwarming to see a pair of cats who are already friends get to stay together. And while you're away, they’ll have each other for company and security.

other cats. But once they’re in a home with you, they’ll flourish.

Involve the whole family: It’s important to take everyone in the home, especially children, to meet all prospective cats so you can observe how they interact with the cat. Every child has their own unique energy, and every pet reacts differently to every child.

Consider a solo artist: There are many cats who are great with people but terrified of other cats. They don’t always make a great first impression on potential adopters, especially if they’re in a shelter surrounded by

Still not certain? Give the shelter team an opportunity to play matchmaker.

“Talk to the staff and volunteers at the shelter about your lifestyle. Let them know if you live with others, including any pets, as well as who/what you come in contact with on a regular basis,

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To find your new best feline friend, visit bestfriends.org, where you’ll find more than 3,300 network partners of shelters and rescues.

Best Friends Animal Society is a leading animal welfare organization working to end the killing of dogs and cats in Keep an open mind: Don't America’s shelters by 2025.

Founded in 1984, Best get hung up on color, sex or Friends is a pioneer in the age. Not all cats’ personalities fit into stereotypes. Evno-kill movement and has helped reduce the number of ery cat is an individual, so don’t discount a cat because animals killed in shelters they aren’t male or female or from an estimated 17 million orange or fluffy. By doing so, per year to around 625,000. you'll have the best odds of finding a great match.

Extroverts need love, too: If you are home quite often, then you’ll have more time to play with an active kitty who needs lots of wand toy play time. Some cats can even be trained to walk on a leash or go for stroller rides.

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and let them guide you to the cats that they think would mesh well with your life,” Bell said.

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The Salvation Army annually helps nearly 23 million Americans overcome poverty, addiction and economic hardships through a range of social services. By providing food for the hungry, emergency relief for disaster survivors, rehabilitation for those suffering from drug and alcohol abuse, and clothing and shelter for people in need. Volunteer opportunities are available.

Contact Katie Perrett, Volunteer Coordinator for The Salvation Army Southern New England Division: Kathryn.Perrett@use.salvationarmy.org, 860-702-0042.

The Southington Citizen | southingtoncitizen.com

Friday, June 18, 2021

Legal Notices & Classifieds

A79

Reach over 310,000 readers.

Call us today 203-238-1953

RJ MEDIA GROUP | Record-Journal | myrecordjournal.com | HOMEBASE Digital | Berlin Citizen | Cheshire Citizen | North Haven Citizen | Plainville Citizen | Southington Citizen | Town Times | The Post Apartments For Help Wanted Lawn and Garden Wanted To Buy Wanted To Buy Wanted To Buy Rent

Need to Earn Income ASAP? Earn up to $1,200 mo. + Tips!

MERIDEN - 115 Atkins St., 1 BR apts. for rent, appl. KIT, GAR, large fenced in yard, call (917) 922-0740.

Routes available in the following towns:

NORTH HAVEN - State St., newly remodeled 4 BR apt, all new appliances, W/D, $2,200 per mo. Call John Apuzzo, 203-687-5207.

The perfect and easiest part time job - Newspaper Delivery Routes Available - Earn up to $600.00 every Two weeks +Tips (Depending on area)

MIDDLETOWN, CROMWELL, OLD SAYBROOK, MERIDEN, PLAINVILLE, NEW BRITAIN, WATERBURY Must be 18 or older. Must have valid drivers license, reliable vehicle and be available early mornings. Make extra cash before you go to work making early morning newspaper deliveries using your own vehicle. NO experience necessary.

Must able to deliver early mornings, 7 days a week. MUST be dependable, and be able to read a route list with specific delivery instructions. We will demonstrate the route to you.

Routes average 1.5 to 3 hours daily. No collections required.

Business Opportunities

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

ASSISTANT TEACHER

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Not Temp Work. Retirees, Stay at Home Mom’s, and Veterans are also welcome to apply. Make extra cash to pay rent, mortgage, bills, save money, or a great vacation.

Autos Wanted

For Meriden pre-school, FT, required HS diploma, and 540 hours exp. working with pre-school children, and enrolled in Associates ECE program. Resume to tcruz@ccaoh.org

CONNECT WITH US SOCIALLY FACEBOOK.COM/ RECORDJOURNAL NEWSPAPER TWITTER.COM/ RECORD_JOURNAL INSTAGRAM.COM/ RECORDJOURNAL

ASSISTANT TOWN ENGINEER

Re-posted Town of Cheshire seeks qualified candidates to be involved in the construction, investigation, development, review & design of Town’s Public Works projects. Starting salary $80,000/yr DOQ. Refer to the Town’s web site @ www.cheshirect. org for details on applying & job description.

Submissions must be received NLT close of business on 6-28-21.

Town of Cheshire is an EEOE, M/F/D/V

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY - In Southington Take over as owner of this 40+ year old year round landscaping and yard maintenance business. Owner retiring, all equipment and customer info available.

May split up 4 seasons, call Paul 860-621-6332 no texting.

Stores and Offices For Rent

ALWAYS BUYING CASH PAID Vintage Electronics, Musical Instruments, Amps, Ham Equipment, HiFi, Radios, CB, Guitars, Audio Equipment, Antiques.

860-707-9350 MATERIALS DISTRIBUTION Screened Topsoil $25/ per yd; Sand-$15 per yd; Millings-$10 per yd; Screened Millings $30 per yd; Clean Fill $8 per yd: $100 minimum delivery. No pickup truck service. Minimum 16 yd pickup at our yard. Call Jim @ 860-982-4819 for delivery

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

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

NORTH HAVEN - Washington Ave., 700-1500+ . Top Soil . Compost . . Wood Chips . sf.ft. of office/storefront, w/separate utili- FOR SALE. Catering to ties, call John Apuzzo, small deliveries. Call Bob 203-687-5207.

(203) 415-0723

Construction Equipment and Tools CASH PAID For any Toyota any condition, running or not, crashed okay. Will take other makes and models.

(203) 600-4431.

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Sporting Goods and Health

STATIONCHAIN SAW - 16” bar, PRO-FORM ARY EXERCISE BIKE extra chains, $150; ELECTRONIC - Light router w/ table, $95; Weight. Excellent Conelectric drill 1/2”chuck, dition. 2 Years Old. $35; saws all, $80; Folds For Easy Storpneumatic paint spray age. $95.00. 203-439gun, $50; wood lathe, 0393 $400; c clamps various sizes, $5 ea. Call 203272-3488.

Wood Fuel Heating

For Junk or unwanted BUYING MACHINIST vehicles, Toyota’s etc.

Equipment TOOLBOXES - Tools Please call Mike @ 203- MACHINISTS MEASUR& tooling, contents of ING EQUIPMENT - Fix284-8562 8am-5pm.

TREE LENGTH machine shops, home tures & handtools for workshops and small FIREWOOD sale. Contact jbates. lathes. Call anytime CALL FOR DETAILS james@aol.com 860-985-5760

203-238-2149

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STUFF TO SELL? Call Us.

203-238-1953

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.

Pets For Adoption

MIA NEEDS A LOVING HOME! Mia is a 7 year-old domestic, short-haired tabby who is very affectionate. She is an indoor-outdoor cat. She would not do well kept inside all day. She is accustomed to roaming around and receiving lots of love. Her surviving human parent is now in assisted-living where Mia would not thrive. Please contact me as soon as possible if you are interested so that we can talk more! Mia is currently located in Durham, CT. 860-977-3699.

Business Owner / Service Provider?

LIST YOUR SERVICE

In Our Business / Service Directory

203-238-1953

Wanted To Buy

FAMILY SIZE WEBER GRILL - 1 year old, 1,2,3 Items or an Estate 44.5”Hx48”W, cover & $$$ CASH $$$ cooking utensils, $300 Todd Shamock obo. 203-623-7742.

Estate Sale Service Costume Jewelry, MUST SELL MOVING Antiques, Dolls, Toys, - 12,000 BTU Frigidaire AC with heater, 20 Paintings,Meriden Items 203-494-1695 months old, $450 obo.

Call 203-623-7742.

A-1 LOOKING - For Old Costume & Sterling Jewelry Box Lots & Lawn and Garden Other Doodads.”I Pay Top Cash For Your Grandma’s Costume BARK MULCH - $29 Yard Jewelry Stash” Julie & up, 7 varieties. Also 203-443-9602. native woodchips or clean top soil $15 yd., firewood $20 + up. AARON’S BUYING Pickup at 50 Mastrianni Old Machinist Tools, Place, Plantsville. DeLathes, BenchTools, livery, prep & spreadHand Tools & more. ing available. Call Paul, (860) 621-6332.

(203) 525-0608.

Classified ads are the best way to find what you need.

They are also the best way to sell your services, goods or items.

Call Monday thru Friday 8:30am - 5pm 203-238-1953

A80

The Southington Citizen | southingtoncitizen.com

Friday, June 18, 2021

Businesses & Services Attics and Basements Cleaned

Junk Removal

Landscaping

GARY WODATCH

Demolition Svs Sheds, pools, decks, garages, debris removal. Quick, courteous svc. All calls returned. Ins. #566326.

Cell, 860-558-5430

Carpentry CARPENTRY

Repairs, Decks & Porches, Sheetrock & Taping Water Damage Repairs.

Free Est. Ins. MC & Visa.

Call Bill (203) 901-2136.

CT. Reg. # 0647093

Paving

Roofing

D & G PAVING

ROOFING, SIDING, & STORM DAMAGE

Over 25 yrs exp. Paving, Seal Coating, Concrete, Reg#1312085, 203-237-6058

Plumbing CALL OR TEXT 203.605.2189. Senior, Vet, 1st Responder Disc.

Serving CT. We haul your trash not your cash!

SPRING CLEANUPS Tree Removal, Stump Grinding & more!

Seasons Prop. Maint.

DUMPSTER Rentals avail. 860.719.3953

Masonry

TEC ELECTRICAL

Gutters

GUTTERS DON’T WORK

CLEAN & REMOVE 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

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

CT# 569127

Power Washing

Let Us BEAR Your Junk!

Junk Removal in CT

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

OVER 28 YEARS EXP Stonewalls, patios, sidewalks, chimneys, pool areas, fireplaces, fire pit steps, all types of masonry work. Free est. (860) 274-4893.

Moving and Storage

GUTTERS PLUS 25+yrs.

Landscaping Exp. Call today for Free GARY WODATCH estimate. 203-440-3535 Hedge & tree trimming.

Ct. Reg. #578887 Trim overgrown properties. Calls returned. #620397.860-558-5430 HOME DOCTOR - 48 yrs exp. Odd jobs & remodeling, former US Navy, 15 yrs, #640689, 203.427.7828.

RT RELOCATION Your moving and storage specialists.

Call for a free estimate.

833-668-3978.

Home Improvements

Specializing in roofing, siding, kitchens, bathrooms, flooring, basement remodeling.

Senior citizen discount Insured. Free est.

203-265-5200 HIC#0631937

IF YOU Mention This Ad SPRING Yard Clean-Ups Brush, branches, leaves, storm damage **JUNK REMOVAL** Appl’s, Furniture, Junk, Debris, etc WE CAN REMOVE ANYTHING Entire house to 1 item removed!

FREE ESTIMATES Sr. Citizen Discount LIC & INS. DUMPSTER RENTALS 203-535-9817

A-1 QUALITY POWERWASHING Low Rates Call Dennis 203.630.0008

Skylights. Flashing.

Financing Available. #0649808 203.510.3830. lmconstructionct.com

Yalesville Construction Specializing in all phases of residential & commercial roofing.

Senior citizen discount Insured Free est.

203-265-5200 HIC#0631937

Tree Services

POWER WASH

GARY WODATCH - Tree Removal. All calls returned.

CT#620397 Quick courteous service. 860-558-5430.

POWER WASHING

Looking for a friend?

Painting Int. & Ext. Gutters Cleaned. Free Ests. Ins. Refs.

Rodrigo, (203) 565-7745.

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

Handyperson

100% Financing Avail.

GAF MASTER ELITE LA-RICH ROOFING LLC 860-747-4427 860-622-9800

GEORGE J MACK & SONS - Servicing the Meriden area since 1922. Toilet, faucet, sink & drain repairs.

Water heater replacements. 15% Sr citizen disc. 203-238-2820.

Electrical Services Service LLC All Phases of Electrical Work. 24 hr. Emergency Service.

Small Jobs Welcome.

203.237.2122

203-238-1953

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Roofing

Find litters of critters in Classifieds.

Painting Wallpapering

#1 PAINTER’S EDGE 15% off Houses.Decks.

Sheetrock.Popcorn Repair. Wallpaper removal. 25 yrs exp. Free est. Sr. disc. #0656136.

Ins. 860.538.5520

HONEST WORK!!!

Major Contractor (EVERYTHING FLAT ROOFING & REPAIR +LIC. SHINGLE EXPERTS!) (203) 8005545; Chris.V@ EliteRRLLC.com; HOME RENOVATIONS (203) 300-2013 Benny; PLZ, LET US beat your QUOTE! /Respectful;) HIC0673695

Specializing in tree removal, trimming, chipping & grinding.

Call for free estimate.

203-945-1808.

GROW YOUR BUSINESS Advertise with us.

203-235-1661