Southington Citizen July 10, 2020 by Record Journal

Volume 17, Number 28

Friday, July 10, 2020

www.southingtoncitizen.com

Upgrades underway at parks

Studio artist Lindsey Hottin prepares a variety of paints for an art class on July 2 at Art Studio of Connecticut, 1850 West St., Southington. Dave Zajac, Record-Journal

By Jesse Buchanan Record-Journal staff

Highway and Parks Department Superintendent Annette Turnquist said the town also is considering fountains for the Recreation and Memorial park ponds to help prevent algae. Workers with BMP Construction of Danbury began renovations to the concession stand at Memorial Park, located off Woodruff Street, about a month ago and See Upgrades, A4

Jon Rustek, left, and Peter Anop, both from Southington, reminisce about Timberlin Golf Course in Berlin on July 3. Aaron Flaum, Record-Journal

Art studios adapt to pandemic By Jessica Simms Special to the Record-Journal

Even in a pandemic, art studios are providing ways to unleash creativity, including paint nights, at-home art kits and art camps.

Before COVID-19, art studios offered paint night classes for customers to spend time with friends and learn how to paint. At Board & Brush in Southington, the customers would take a piece of raw wood and turn it into something beautiful.

“One of the first things we say to them is ‘take a picture of what is sitting in front of you — this raw wood. You can prove to yourself and others that you created this,’” said Dawn Cronin, Board & Brush owner. See Studios, A10

50 years at Timberlin Golf Course By Sean Krofssik Record-Journal staff

head golf professionals over the half century.

BERLIN — Timberlin Golf Course is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year and there is plenty to toast about the course.

It all began with the inaugural pro Lindsey Hansen (1970-2006), followed by Jeff Coderre (2006-2010) and current pro Marc Bayram, who has held the post since 2011.

The course opened on July 1, 1970, and has been under the watch of three

See Timberlin, A2 R232002

Park work underway or planned for this summer includes new tennis courts, new basketball courts and a renovated concession stand at Veterans Memorial Park.

The Southington Citizen | southingtoncitizen.com

Friday, July 10, 2020

“I look forward to continuing the many traditions that has made Timberlin such a special place for 50 years,” Bayram said.

The course host matches for the boys and girls Berlin High School squads. The Redcoat boys have won nine state titles and the girls have garnered four. Timberlin also boasts strong Men's and Ladies Club organizations, as well as a top-notch Junior Golf program. Bayram was honored as the recipient of the 2015 Youth Player Development Award because of the strength of the junior golf program. The town acquired Timberlin's 365 acres in 1966. In 1969, the Parks & Recreation Commission led by Dr. Jack Kiniry developed the plans for an 18-hole golf course, tennis courts, parking area, access roads, maintenance buildings, and a two-story multi-purpose building that included the clubhouse, pro shop, and

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Southington resident Peter Anop also grew up in Berlin and started playing at Timberlin when he was 12. He was also on hand the day the course opened.

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“When it first opened the pro shop was a trailer in the parking lot,” Anop said. “It has blossomed so much since.”

Southington resident Jon Rustek grew up in Berlin and Anop said golfing kept him and his friends out of trouwas a caddie the day the ble. He said they used to course opened. jump into the pond on hole “The town put out an article No. 12 to collect golf balls. in the New Britain Herald to see if kids would like to cad- Now 62, Anop plays at Timberlin three days a week at dy,” Rustek said. “I signed up. There was a bunch of us an 11-handicap. kids there and we were able Timberlin has been recogto have a great time learning nized as one of the about sports.” state’s top public golf courses over the years and and Rustek was 15 at the time has been the recipient of the and recently turned 65. CTPGA Walter Lowell Award He still plays Timberlin almost every day with his wife. presented to the public golf course that serves as the model public golf course “We walk 18 holes every each year. day,” Rustek said. “It’s a great walking golf course. “Throughout my 10 years at There are about 25 trees on Timberlin, I have been fortuthe course that have been dedicated to my friends over nate to build so many relathe years. It’s a nice tribute.” tionships with the town, the customers, and the residents Rustek grew up on Chamof Berlin,” Bayram berlain Highway and his said. “Timberlin Golf Course parents bought him a season is a very special place and a beautifully designed public pass and the golf course is where he spent the summers golf course. It is great for any skill level and has 18 great of his youth. holes of golf.” “I remember when I was in

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Timberlin has produced some of the best players in the state's history including four-time Connecticut Open champion and Connecticut amateur champ Kyle Gallo as well as Cody Paladino, also a CT Open and state amateur champion.

Al Zikorus designed a high quality golf course that could be maintained at a reasonable price. It was built by general contractor Angelo Tomasso Inc. The first event on July 1, 1970 was an 18hole shotgun event. The golf course was unveiled by opening tee shots by Head Pro Lindsey Hansen and Mayor Arthur Powers. The tradition of the golf professional hitting the first tee shot of the season continues to this day.

grammar school and we would see the bulldozers out there and the greens being built,” Rustek said. “Fifty years went by in a heartbeat.”

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Friday, July 10, 2020

Healthy aging series Hartford Healthcare is presenting its Brain Health Series via Zoom July 14, 21 and 28 at 6:30 p.m. The series is led by Patty O’Brian, CDP, Hartford HealthCare Center for Healthy Aging, and sponsored by Hartford HealthCare Center for Healthy Aging. Register at southingtonlibrary.org by clicking on the Events Calendar or call the Reference Desk at 860-6280947 option 5. This series offers tips to keep your brain sharp and activities to challenge the mind,

all while having fun. Participants are encouraged to attend all sessions. Session topics are: July 14: Benefits of a Purposeful Life: Finding Meaningful Engagement as You Age July 21: Good Sleep and Brain Power: The Importance of Sleep and Your Brain

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munity. 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 203639-0210. The Citizen will print only one letter per person each month. Letters are limited to 300 words. We reserve the right to edit letters. Letters should be on topics of general interest to the com-

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Friday, July 10, 2020

Upgrades

contractors will regrade the area around the stand so water doesn’t flow into the bathrooms, a problem in the past.

From A1

plan to finish in the fall. The Southington Midget Football League renovated the kitchen a few years ago, Turnquist said, but other areas needed attention.

Workers for West Haven-based Hinding Sports Builders scrub the tennis courts at Veterans Memorial Park July 6. Dave Zajac, Record-Journal

“The main part is the bathrooms. They were in rough shape, they were outdated, they weren’t up to ADA standard,” she said. “(The exterior) is getting a nice facelift with some stone, a new roof.”

The work is going to cost just under $300,000, less than the town’s initial estimate, according to Turnquist. “They’re moving along really great on that project,” she said. “I think it’s going to look really great when it’s done.”

The stand has had problems with flooding. Turnquist said

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The concession stand is mainly for the Southington Midget Football League. League president Thomas Goldfuss couldn’t be reached Monday. Adam Tarfano, president of the Southington North Little League, said his group uses the bathrooms at the football concession stand during the year. They were in need of improvement “big time.”

First Installment of Taxes: Taxes on the Grand List of October 1, 2019 are due and payable July 1, 2020. The final date to pay without penalty is October 1, 2020. Motor Vehicle taxes are payable in one installment only. If payment is not received within 3 months of the due date, the installment will become delinquent and will immediately be subject to 6% interest. From then on, the accrued interest will be added at the rate of 1-1/2% per month (18% annually). The minimum interest charged is $2.00 as specified by the CT State Statutes.

“Generally, the town keeps them very clean. But they’re

Tax Office Hours are Monday through Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Thursday evenings until 7:00 p.m. Taxpayers are encouraged to mail their tax payment to avoid long lines. Mail to: Southington Tax Collector, PO Box 579, Southington, CT 06489.

The town is also resurfacing tennis and basketball courts this summer. Turnquist said they’ll be doing the work at one park at a time to keep some playing surfaces in town useable. “We’ve had them patched over the years, but this is a whole resurfacing,” Turnquist said. The town’s website, www.southington.org, has information on which tennis and basketball courts will be closed. Those at Memorial Park were closed as of Monday. Turnquist is considering fountains to keep water moving at the Memorial and Recreation park ponds. The Memorial park pond may not be deep enough, she said. Fountains would keep the water moving and prevent algae from covering the surface. jbuchanan@record-journal.com 203-317-2230 Twitter: @JBuchananRJ

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It is the taxpayer’s responsibility to make sure the tax is paid since failure to receive a bill does not invalidate the tax or penalties, should a tax become delinquent (CGS. 12-70, 12-130). Please call the office with any questions at 860-276-6259.

Other than the renovated bathrooms, the inside will remain mostly the same.

outdated and they need a little refresh,” Tarfano said.

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Friday, July 10, 2020

In Brief Foster parenting

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More than ever, Klingberg Family Centers are looking for families, couples and single adults to provide a safe and supportive home environment for children and teens in Connecticut. To learn about the foster parenting licensing process and how you can make an impact as a Therapeutic Foster Parent, visit klingbergfosterandadoption.org or contact Nicolin Carr: nicolin.carr@klingberg.com, 860817-3918.

People in Connecticut – whether they are healthy or sick – can help inform heath officials and doctors by using the How We Feel app and self-reporting their daily symptoms through a series of short prompts. It only takes users about 30 seconds each day to report any symptoms they may be experiencing.

Talk it out The Department of Children and Families has partnered with United Way of Connecticut 2-1-1 and community providers to establish a "When it Builds Up, Talk it Out" campaign. Any parent who wishes to access support is invited to call 833258-5011 or visit talkitoutct.com and engage with trained professionals. The Talk it Out line is available Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., and weekends from 1 to 8 p.m.

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Art, equine therapy The Cove Center for Grieving Children and Bright Strides Art and Equine Therapy in Meriden is looking for teens (13 to 17) to start a virtual grief program to engage and provide support during this time. Visit cognitoforms.com/TheCoveCenterForGrievingChildren/TeenGriefProgramApplication.

Alzheimer’s walk The Alzheimer’s Association Central Connecticut Walk to End Alzheimer’s will take place Sept.13 at Lake Compounce in Bristol. For details, visit act.alz.org/. The Alzheimer’s Association See Briefs, A6

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Friday, July 10, 2020

SoCCA dinner

Southington Community Cultural Arts will once again host its Dinner Under the Walk to End Alzheimer’s is Stars – but instead of a table the world’s largest event to set for 100 on the Town raise awareness and funds Green, diners will particifor Alzheimer’s care, support pate virtually in their own and research programs. homes while supporting local restaurants and farms.

From A5

Summer classes

Hungerford Nature Center’s dynamic Summer Discovery Programs are full of fun activities, exploration and crafts. Classes take place Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Registration is required. Hungerford Nature Center is located at 191 Farmington Ave., Berlin. Visit newbritainyouthmuseum.org or Facebook.com/ HungerfordNatureCenter, call 860-827-9064 or email hungerfordnaturecenter@ gmail.com.

Established in 2019, Dinner Under the Stars is a community-wide, farm-to-table event that featured local produce and chefs. The premier event entailed a five-course meal prepared by Flair Restaurant, Smokin’ With Chris, Craft Kitchen, Anthony Jack’s and Paul Gregory’s. The main entrée, a beef brisket, was provided by Karabin Farms. Guests enjoyed the sumptuous offerings as they dined at one long community table

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Tickets are $100 each and participants will get a choice of one $50 gift card or two $25 gift cards to the restaurant or farm of their choice.

Bread for Life

Join SoCCA for two Zoom meetings per week. Be in touch with All Access Director Lauri MacLean at maclean.lauri@gmail.com and join the group on Facebook for weekly check-ins, to share and view artwork and to catch all-inclusive mind and body videos, too.

Bread for Life remains dedicated to meeting its mission to ensure that no one goes hungry in Southington. Hot meals are provided in takeout containers and distributed to clients from the front porch of Bread for Life, 31 Vermont Ave. All programs offered in the dining room and visits by substance abuse counselors, behavioral health counselors, local barbers and hair stylists, and weekly therapeutic coloring have been halted for the time being. Donations may be mailed to Bread for Life, P.O. Box 925, Southington, CT 06489 or can be made securely online at southingtonbreadforlife.org/donateonline.

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Friday, July 10, 2020

Elections are right around the corner To participate in the general election, you must be a U.S. Citizen, resident of Connecticut and 18 by Nov. 3, 2020. The easiest way to register is online, using a CT driver’s license or another DMV-issued ID at voterregistration.ct.gov. If you do not have a DMV-issued ID, you may also register by mail using the last 4 digits of your Social Security number. Download a registration form in English or Spanish at portal.ct.gov and mail it to your local registrar’s office. You may also register in person if they are open. For more information about special circumstances or to obtain an absentee ballot application, visit portal.ct.gov.

The registration deadline is Oct. 27 for the Nov. 3 election. For information about candidates visit vote411.org. Once you have completed the registration process, you will receive a letter in the mail confirming your registration and where you will go to vote. There are two primaries on Aug. 11 — one for the Republican Party and one for the Democratic Party — but Connecticut is a “closed” primary state so that only those registered in those two parties may participate. If you are already registered in a party (and this includes the Independent and Working Families parties) it is too late to switch parties. Voters registered as “Unaffiliated” for at least three months See Elections, A8

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Friday, July 10, 2020

Door-knocking begins in August for Census Over the next decade, lawmakers, business owners, and many others will use 2020 Census data to make critical decisions. The results will show where communities need new schools, new clinics, new roads, and more services for families, older adults and children. The results will also inform how hundreds of billions of dollars in federal funding are allocated to more than 100

programs, including Medicaid, Head Start, block grants for community mental health services and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, SNAP. In short, your response matters. Currently, the national rate of response is 61.9 percent, while 65.3 percent of Connecticut residents have responded.

Your answers are so important that the Census Bureau will come knocking on your door to count people living in your household. Because of the pandemic, the Census Bureau is adapting or delaying some operations to protect the health and safety of staff and the public while still making sure the population is counted.

low-up, (a.k.a. door-knocking) was due to begin midMay. It will now be postponed until mid-August. What does this mean? If you would prefer to avoid that knock on the door, then fill out the Census for your household. Respond at 2020Census.gov or call 844330-2020 for English and 844468-2020 for Spanish.

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makers, business owners, teachers, and many others use to provide daily services, products, and support for you and your community. Every year, billions of dollars in federal funding go to hospitals, fire departments, schools, roads, and other resources based on census data.” Also, results determine the number of seats each state will have in the U.S. House of Representatives, and are used to draw congressional and state legislative districts. It's also in the Constitution: Article 1, Section 2, mandates that the country conduct a count of its population once every 10 years. The 2020 Census will mark the 24th time that the country has counted its population since 1790.”

Elections From A7

may affiliate before the primary but should do so as soon as possible, preferably online, since many town and city halls have limited office hours, and mail-in changes may take additional time. — Press Release

Friday, July 10, 2020

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A10

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Friday, July 10, 2020

Studios

Emily Wargo, 8, of Cheshire, paints an owl figure as part of an art camp at Catalyst Art Studio, 88 Center St., Wallingford.

From A1

Board & Brush had to discontinue paint nights when the studio closed in March due to pandemic restrictions. Beginning in May, the studio reopened for curbside pickup of at-home kits and backyard games.

Dave Zajac, Record-Journal

The $25 at-home kits included a stained piece of wood, a stencil, paint brushes, paint cups, sandpaper, cloth, a color mixing guide and instructions. The backyard games include cornhole, backyard dice and backyard Some of the backyard games available at Board & Brush in towers. Southington.

“People were still at home, looking for something to do either on their own or with their kids just as a creative outlet,” Cronin said.

allow social distancing. There will also be plenty of sanitizer available.

Cronin plans to restart workshops at the end of the month. Employees and guests will be required to wear masks. Reusable aprons will be laundered or disposable ones will be provided. Tools will be sanitized and tables will be set up to

“It will be a little bit different. We’ll still have the music,” Cronin said. “It’ll take on a different look and feel...most people are used to that now and will expect some sort of distancing.” At Catalyst Art Studio in Wallingford, paint parties

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and other workshops are held on Zoom. The studio also sells art kits that can be used with a pre-recorded video. Even though it is a virtual experience, people want to do something creative, said Catalyst owner Alyssa Marquardt. “People are bored at home,” Marquardt said. “I’ve seen a huge increase in the desire to do these kinds of things.”

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“We have to wear masks, the kids do not,” Marquardt said. “We’re kind of limited on materials as well because I need to disinfect things. For example, if we use clay, I can’t reuse the clay again, that kind of thing.” Marquardt does not plan to fully reopen until fall. She is worried that even then people will be hesitant to resume indoor activities. “I am wondering what the interest would be there,” Marquardt said. “... Until then, virtual does work. It’s pretty cool.” Art Studio of Connecticut in Southington is holding in person paint nights at half capacity. The classes are filling up faster than expected, according to the studio owner Dawn Toce. “The mood and the attitude

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of the people have been amazing,” Toce said. “… It’s been the same great night out that we experienced with our customers and we’re seeing a lot of new faces, so that’s telling us that people are really anxious to get out and get their mind off of things and have a good time.” Before reopening, the studio offered free videos from their artists and $10 art kits that included a canvas, paint and brushes. The studio is following sanitary guidelines to keep employees and customers safe. Disposable aprons are provided and there are sanitizing stations throughout the studio. Most tools are now disposable. Art Studio of Connecticut is exploring a tent to help accommodate more people. “Just been really pleased and thankful for the support of our customers and people coming out, even during our family paint time, children have been coming out,” Toce said. “It’s been really great.” jsimms@record-journal.com 203-317-2208

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The Southington Citizen | southingtoncitizen.com

Friday, July 10, 2020

Community foundation distributes eight grants After a virtual board meeting on June 24, the Community Foundation of Greater New Britain approved its second round of grants to a wide variety of community programs serving Berlin, New Britain, Plainville and Southington.

Fund for Strategic Planning.

The $63,500 in Community Response funds are discretionary grants selected by the board to meet a variety of community needs. Grants were made to eight programs and organizations serving the foundation’s four-town service area.

Hospital of Central Connecticut, $10,000. From the A. W. Stanley Discretionary Fund for the Breast Cancer Early Detection program.

Education Berlin Upbeat Program, $4,000. From the A. W. Stanley Discretionary Fund for two development-training programs in 2020. Girl Scouts of Connecticut, $2,000. From the A. W. Stanley Discretionary Fund for Leadership Experience for youth in CFGNB's catchment area. Literacy Volunteers of Central CT, Inc., $5,000. From the A. W. Stanley Discretionary

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Kensington Garden Club, Inc., $2,500. From the A. W. Stanley Discretionary Fund for their Volunteer Park project. Lewis Educational Agriculture Farm, $20,000. From the A. W. Stanley Discretionary Fund to support the LEAF's winterization project. In addition to these grants, the community foundation has also made over $207,000 in emergency grants to support local organizations during the COVID-19 pandemic. Given the impact of COVID19, CFGNB will have an additional round of grants this year. Letters of Intent are due Aug. 31. If your organization is invited to submit a full application, the deadline for the full application is Sept. 30. Final funding decisions will be made on Dec. 9. See Grants, A12

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The Southington Citizen | southingtoncitizen.com

Friday, July 10, 2020

Readers’ Opinions Imperfect explorer

Madison owned over 100 slaves but was the father of our Constitution. George Washington owned 317 slaves but was a founding father and a general in wars for independence. Do we throw those accomplishments out, too?

Nor seek to destroy their memory.

an Italian American holiday should be no more than that of St. Patrick's Day for Irish Americans.

their police department and also have complaints about Editor : it. It is totally reasonable to So when you think about question how much money Boston, Miami, Pittsburg, Columbus know that he was we put into the police deProvidence, Richmond, one of those imperfect men Rick G. Klimowicz partment, and to ask if some Sacramento and St. Paul who did great things. Plantsville of that money could be bethave something in common. ter spent elsewhere. Police Sherwood J. Anderson Statues of Christopher are not the answer to every Southington Question police Columbus have been dequestion. Quite a large stroyed or moved in those Columbus committed Editor : amount of police departcities and the list is growing. crimes against humanity Unwanted statues ments across this country Police have their purpose in and was part of the slave have needed the federal govPeople in Cleveland want its Editor : every community. They are trade. He was also a world ernment to come in after beColumbus statue removed supposed to serve and proclass navigator and changed ing plagued with corruption. for a Chef Boyardee statue. This is in regards to a story tect. However, this does not the course of history with his Southington is not immune People in Columbus, in the June 26 edition of The mean they always do what explorations. He’d bring from corruption. Ohio want to rename its city Southington Citizen: "Coun- they are supposed to. Inthings back from the new “Flavortown.” Many towns cil to hold hearing about deed, there are many people Not everyone out there critiand cities celebrate “Indige- world from his four voyages statue of Columbus." who want to defund the po- cizing police want to see across the Atlantic Ocean nous People’s Day” instead lice and get rid of them thereby marrying two them completely eradicated I believe every statue to a of Columbus Day. completely. This does not worlds. or defunded. To completely Confederate who defended mean people have lost the dismiss all those people is No matter how many statues slavery needs to be taken So what should Southington ability to think; this means a ignorant and even dangerare demolished our history down. I would rather have do with its bust of Columbus won’t change. Eighteen statues of Frederick Douglas lot of people have had many ous. Perhaps the most bad experiences with the salient reason for all the Presidents owned slaves. But outside the John Weichsel and Harriet Tubman erectMunicipal Center? Destroy police in their community, protests and riots across this many of those presidents ed. it? Stash it in a town garage and they have had enough. nation is that people have were among the greatest next to the snow blowers? I believe Christopher One can disagree with the felt absolutely ignored and achievers this country has Columbus statues need to notion of getting rid of the silenced for far too long. known. Thomas Jefferson No. Keep it where it is, open be taken down, as well. He police, but the reason peoThere are countless videos owned more than 600 slaves for all to see. We should was not the first European to ple want to do that should of police brutality online. It but he wrote the Declaration learn about these men but discover the Americas. The not be dismissed. It is a was going on long before of Independence. James not romance about them. Vikings arrived in the Ameri- good and healthy thing to George Floyd was killed – cas long before him. question things. yet, time and time again – RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL • DRIVEWAYS • PARKING LOTS Now, Italian American clubs Southington is a great town, police would get away with it. Enough is enough. may want the Columbus P AVING and it has a relatively good RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL • DRIVEWAYS • PARKING LOTS statues and to celebrate a police department; This Richard T. Cooper ASPHALT # Asphalt is a Petroleum Product holiday. However, Columbus does not mean it is without Plantsville SOUTHINGTON’S Lock in your price now! Insured & Licensed Day need not be a state and problems. One can support Over 40 Years Lic. Reg. HIC0654781 of Experience LLC federal holiday. Its status as • Asphalt • Curbing • Repairs • Stone • Crack Repair • Seal Coating ASPHALT • CURBING • REPAIRS Best candidate (860) 276-1130

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Grants From A11

For questions on COVID-19 emergency funding, contact Joeline Wruck at jwruck@ cfgnb.org or Kaylah Smith at ksmith@cfgnb.org. To make a gift to the COVID19 Initiatives Fund, visit cfgnb.org/donate-now or mail your check, made payable to CFGNB, to CFGNB, 74 Vine St., New Britain, CT 06052. Write COVID-19 Fund in the memo.

— Press Release

The Southington Citizen | southingtoncitizen.com

Friday, July 10, 2020

A13

COMMENTARY

When ‘it’s complicated’ is a good answer By Jeffery Kurz Record-Journal staff

Statues are coming down across the nation, and it has not been pretty. Taking down the statue in Wooster Square in New Haven the other day — where it had been for more than 125 years — provoked a clash of protesters. Christopher Columbus is a focal point of Italian-American pride, and 125 years is a long time of focus. A comment from a woman who had grown up in New Haven, quoted in the Connecticut Mirror, summed up the distress: “I’m upset that they’re taking down this statue of Christopher Columbus,” said Rose Monaco. “Good, bad, or indifferent, this is part of my heritage, this is part of the history, and I feel as though they’re taking away all history.” The contention over Colum-

Letters From A12

necticut Republicans are being asked to vote in a primary in order to finalize the Republican slate of candidates for November’s election. Voters in Berlin and Southington who live in Legislative District 30 have a very important decision to make. While Donna Veach is the Republican-endorsed candidate for state representative she is being challenged by Pastor Jim Townsley of Southington.

We need to take back our

In Connecticut, Columbus statues in Middletown and New London have also been taken down, and there are plans to remove one in Hartford. A statue of Columbus in front of the John Weichsel Municipal Center in Southington has been a source of controversy since it went up, and now the town’s leaders want to hear what residents think about it at a public hearing next month. It’s important to pause for a moment and applaud this development in Southington. This is a divisive issue, and as difficult as it may be, it’s important to bring it out in the open and let residents have their say. Let the sunshine in, as we like to say in journalism. state and it begins by putting the best qualified Republican candidate forward in November’s election. I truly believe this is Donna Veach. Donna with her husband Jeff, who is a Berlin police officer, is a long time resident of Berlin (30 years). She has been extremely active in town (Town Council, Berlin Youth Services, Berlin Children’s Fund and numerous other organizations). Donna has been a Eucharistic Minister at St. Paul’s Church for the past 10 years. She’s currently the development/ marketing director for the New Britain Youth Museum and Hungerford Nature Center. Having witnessed Donna in some of these roles, I am convinced she is the right candidate for us. She approaches every challenge with enthusiasm, vigor and a “can do” attitude. She will

“We’ve received a lot of communication from the public,” Chris Palmieri, a Democrat and Town Council minority leader, said. “It’s not unique to our community. I think it’s important to offer the public an opportunity to speak for or against the statue.” Columbus is hardly the only symbol of discomfort over the nation’s history. Statues of Confederates are also going down and there’s a move to rename military bases named for them as well. You can see it as a long overdue reckoning with the nation’s past. The question is: What is the best way to reckon with it? And answering that question has not been easy, nor will it be. As Columbus Day was approaching in 2018, the Journal Inquirer, of Manchester, had a story about a statue in Windsor of John Mason, an English settler who had helped found Windsor, Old serve the 30th District well. Please remember to vote in the Republican Primary on Aug. 11. Vote for Donna Veach. To find out more about Donna, find “Veach 2020 for State Representative” on Facebook.

Most

Saybrook and Norwich. So far, so good. But Mason had also led a night raid in 1637 that wiped out the Pequot Tribe. As I mentioned in a column at the time, we no longer consider that worth honoring, but “had he not done so we might all not be here.” “Ours is a great nation, indeed,” I wrote, “but built at the expense of other peoples. We do ourselves no favors by ignoring it.” As the JI reported at the time, students from Central Connecticut State University were given the opportunity to explore the Mason statue as a teachable moment, as educators like to say, or, in this case, a teachable monument, and offer input about what might be added to acknowledge Mason’s actions during the Pequot War. One student noted the importance of teaching the “whole story.” That approach could serve

Berlin has demonstrated her ability to take on the task. She is the party-endorsed candidate and the most qualified person for the job. We need a strong person who can win the next election.

For this upcoming primary Andra Lou Millerd on Tuesday, Aug. 11 and Berlin subsequent election, remember to vote Donna Veach. qualified

Editor : This upcoming election is a pivotal time for our state. For many years Democrats have run our state and we continue to see the negative effects of single-party rule. Now is the time, more than ever, to support a fair-minded, talented and smart Republican, Donna Veach. Donna Veach is on the Berlin Town Council and through her time serving

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Southington well as it deliberates over the Columbus statue. My column in 2018 includes a quote by Alfred Brophy, a law professor at the University of Alabama: “By taking monuments down or hiding them away, we facilitate forgetting. There is value in owning our history.” A museum, or a museumlike setting, is the best available alternative. Such a setting helps communicate the distinction between the importance of remembering, and honoring. It also retains an important message, which is that our nation’s history is complicated. Reach Jeffery Kurz at 203317-2213, or jkurz@recordjournal.com. This column was previously published in the Record-Journal.

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bus is not new, and has been brewing over many years. The “discoverer” of America has become a symbol of aggression who, as one article put it, “opened the Americas to European domination.”

A14

The Southington Citizen | southingtoncitizen.com

Friday, July 10, 2020

THANK YOU

AMERICA for Another Great Year Aakhi, Officer Barrett and Tiernan.

OPEN LETTER TO AMERICA Every year around America’s birthday I take a moment to say thanks to a country that took me in with $80 in my pocket decades ago. In search of the American dream I fell in love with a warm, optimistic and loving country that offered hope to a young Irish immigrant. Over the years nothing has swayed my gratitude. Although not perfect, America is still that beacon of hope because of her people. Local people stepping up, going out of their comfort zone to help other Americans. These individuals go about their lives with a focus and a purpose that is truly inspirational. No matter the circumstance, they still follow their calling.

Tiernan (Hartford Bags of Love) and his family doing a project for the homeless at our office.

I have an understanding for people that find themselves homeless as I found myself years ago in that predicament. I also have a deep appreciation for people who lend a helping hand. Tiernan Cabot was nine years old when a chance meeting with a homeless man on Christmas Day, 2016 while volunteering at Bushnell Park changed the course of his young life. Tiernan heard the man’s story and became inspired to help by starting his own non-profit, Hartford Bags of Love. Now years later, the charity has grown and he has been invited down to Washington DC by Senator Blumenthal and recognized by State Senator Saud Anwar. Tiernan and his younger brother Aakhil visited Yankee Home to show our team how the bags of toiletries are put together along with handmade cards to personalize each bag. Tiernan works with another local inspiring individual, Hartford Police officer Jim Barrett, a true champion for the city’s homeless. A 21 year Army Veteran, Officer Jim has pictures of homeless people on his office walls and tells me he knows 850 of Hartford’s less fortunate by name. He takes a personal interest and forges relationships often on his own time and with his own money. Last year he successfully helped a suicidal man off a city bridge. His reward is seeing people better themselves. His selfless efforts of helping people get back on their feet are inspirational to watch and hear about.

Team Member Kara, her daughter Naraya and their neighbor Kaylee from the story.

Then in April, a covid-19 nurse returns home at midnight after a 12 hour shift to see her home in flames. A Yankee Home team member Kara Mainville steps up to take in the nurse’s daughter who lives on her street, who is now without a home. Could not be prouder to see a Yankee team member step up like this. The community then rallied and came together to help this family rebuild by generously contributing to their Gofundme page. Heartwarming to see Americans looking out for Americans. As an immigrant witnessing some of these selfless acts makes me appreciate this wonderful country even more. Ordinary people doing extraordinary things. This immigrant’s view of America remains unchanged. While not perfect she is still the optimistic, warm and loving country he set foot on decades ago. Thanks for reading. Thank You America. Happy July 4th and God bless her as She rebuilds.

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The Southington Citizen | southingtoncitizen.com

Friday, July 10, 2020

A15

EDITORIAL

We the people ... While it’s clear that we’re going to look back on 2020 as the year of the pandemic, it is also shaping up as a year of awakening to the racial and ethnic disparities that continue to dog this country more than 150 years after the Civil War and more than half a century after the landmark civil rights laws of the 1960s. And it is an encouraging sign that, according to a recent Pew poll, two-thirds of U.S. adults say they support the movement, with 38 percent saying they support it strongly. This is a result, not just of the demonstrations that have been sweeping the nation — most of them peaceful, some not — but even more so by the continuing series of reports in the news of Black people killed by police: George Floyd, Rayshard Brooks, Breonna Taylor, Tamir Rice, Michael Brown, Eric Garner, Philando Castile; or by self-styled vigilantes: Amaud Arbery, Trayvon Martin.

Statistically, a Black person in America is roughly three times more likely than a white person to be killed by police. Thus the street demonstrations we’ve all seen — not just in the big cities but also in places like Meriden, Middletown, Wallingford, Berlin and elsewhere. And the protesters look increasingly racially mixed, another encouraging sign. The response from state and local governments has generally been supportive, with a Black Lives Matter flag flying over the Capitol in Hartford on Juneteenth (the celebration of emancipation that’s marked every year on June 19); and with lawmakers inside announcing their commitment to a multitude of legislative proposals aimed at addressing systemic racial inequities, including wide-ranging police reforms; and with similar messages coming from city and town halls.

The Southington Coalition for Social Justice, formed last year, is delving into issues including disproportionate rates of discipline experienced by students of color, and how to diversify the school workforce. This kind of self-examination is just what we need at this time, at the local, state and national levels.

Instead, what we get from Washington is some initial stirring of legislative action while the president urges police to “dominate” the streets when dealing with protests, and the secretary of defense refers to those streets as “the battle space.” But those protesters are not an invading army; they are, increasingly, we the people. Meanwhile, the goals of the demonstrations have expanded to include the removal of statues glorifying

officials and officers of the Confederacy as well as other historic figures — including Christopher Columbus — who are seen as figures who oppressed African slaves and native peoples. In fact, statues of Columbus have already been removed in New Haven, New London, Norwalk and Middletown, and the issue is now frontand-center in Meriden and Southington as well. There are deep feelings on both sides of this question, and

it’s too early to say how it will turn out. But it’s not too early to say that 2020 has turned out to be a year of reassessment, a year of soul-searching, a year when millions of Americans have hit the streets in order to form a more perfect Union. And that’s as American as apple pie. This editorial was previously published in the Record-Journal.

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The Southington Citizen | southingtoncitizen.com

Friday, July 10, 2020

A17

GROCERY SHOPPING IN THE PANDEMIC

Cashier Jared Rivera works behind a piece of plexiglass as he cashes out Jim and Rita Gagnon, of Southington, at Tops Marketplace on Tuesday, June 30. The plexiglass was installed to protect the cashiers from the spread of Covid-19. Photos by Aaron Flaum, Record-Journal

Mike Rogers, of Southington, checks out the paper products that are available.

State of Connecticut delays third phase of reopening State residents will have to wait longer to enjoy a drink in a bar or attend larger indoor and outdoor gatherings. They’ll also have to wait longer for the capacity limits to be increased in places likes restaurants and gyms. Democratic Gov. Ned Lamont announced Monday he is postponing the state’s third phase of reopening “for the foreseeable future,” expressing concern about the number of positive COVID19 cases spiking in other states and those governors deciding to reverse their earlier reopening decisions. On Friday, Texas Gov. Greg Abbott, a Republican, shut down bars again and scaled back restaurant capacity to 50 percent because of large increases in infections. “Look, I’d like a beer at the bar as much as the next person. I know how frustrating this can be,” Lamont said. “But right now, with this pandemic flaring up in a majority of other states, this is not the time to take a risk.”

The Connecticut Restaurant Association has stressed that bar seating will still be allowed as part of a restaurant’s current 50 percent indoor capacity limit, so long as certain criteria are met, such as physical barriers in place that separate customers from the bar space and restrictions against serving customers who are standing.

Additionally, the capacity limits will remain in place for indoor dining, different entertainment venues and gyms.

Meanwhile, the occupancy limit will remain at 25 percent for large outdoor facilities that have a fire code associated with them, such as racetracks.

There have been 259 more positive cases since Friday and three more deaths, for a total of 4,338.

Also, indoor private gatherings will remain limited at up to 25 people and outdoor private gatherings will still

be capped at 100 people. Both were scheduled to increase in mid-July.

Lamont’s decision comes as Connecticut still has one of the lowest infection rates in the country, less than 1 percent.

Meanwhile, the number of hospitalizations dropped over the weekend by 26, to a total of 69.

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For most people, the virus causes mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and

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Words of Wellness by Dr. Stacey Raya

TRAVEL TIPS While driving long distances, it is worthwhile to know that prolonged sitting leads to a buildup of pressure in the blood vessels of the lower legs. In order to avoid the resultant leg soreness, the American Chiropractic Association (ACA) recommends that riders increase the blood flow in their legs by stretching and alternately contracting and relaxing their muscles. Travelers on long rides should make conscious efforts to open their toes as wide possible and count to ten. Then, they should count to five while tightening calf muscles, then thigh muscles, then gluteal muscles. It also helps to roll the shoulders forward and back. Driving should be viewed less as a passive activity and more as an athletic event. The wear and tear of countless hours driving on the road put stress on the body. This excessive amount of stress can lead to pain, loss of mobility, and decreased flexibility. Chiropractic care is one of the most popular treatments available, especially if you’re looking for a way to decrease your pain and increase your comfort. To schedule an appointment for chiropractic care, please call our clinic at 860-621-2225. We are located at 200 Queen St., Southington. P.S. Drivers on long trips should avoid using a “death grip” on the steering wheel and, instead, alternate tightening and loosening their grip to improve hand circulation and decrease muscle fatigue in the arms, wrists, and hands.

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A18

The Southington Citizen | southingtoncitizen.com

Friday, July 10, 2020

Reopening

Federal lawsuit filed to allow mail-in voting in CT

Lamont and Secretary of the State Denise Merrill, both

The July 2 lawsuit marks the third legal action filed in recent weeks regarding mail-in voting in Connecticut. The first two were filed in state courts by critics of the concept including four Republican congressional “No Connecticut voter candidates on the primary should be forced to choose ballot who are part of a between protecting their group called Fight Voter health and casting their Fraud Inc. They filed a ballot,” Merrill said in a lawsuit July 1 with the written statement. “As I Connecticut Supreme have said for months, the Court, asking the court to legislature should come in order Merrill to stop sendto special session immedi- ing out the voter applicaately to allow Connecticut tions “that misinform the voters to cast their votes by true legal requirements for absentee ballot in Novem- voting by absentee ballot.” ber.” Democrats, have urged the General Assembly to pass legislation in an upcoming special session to allow all voters to use absentee ballots in the general election. No date has been set.

From A17

existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness or lead to death. In other coronavirus news:

Contact tracing Lamont said 100 percent of the state’s local health departments are participating in the state’s contact tracing program, uploading data and making calls on a regular basis. He said 885 people have signed up to perform contact tracing, 120 of whom are volunteers. Nearly all of the positive cases reported to local health departments for contact tracing are followed up within 48 hours.

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Ultimately, about 47 percent of the cases have been successfully contacted.

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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While state officials would like to see more cases successfully contacted, Josh Geballe, Lamont’s chief operating officer, said having all of the local health departments involved in the system gives Connecticut “a huge advantage as a state to be able to pass contacts across jurisdictional lines.”

It also gives officials insight on a statewide level of where possible outbreaks might occur.

Poll workers After seeing other states struggle to find poll workers during the pandemic, Democratic Secretary of the State Denise Merrill on Monday announced a statewide effort to recruit poll workers in Connecticut for the upcoming primary and general election. Voters interested in working at polling places can sign up online.

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An executive order signed by Democratic Gov. Ned Lamont said any eligible Democratic or Republican voter will be allowed to use an ab-

sentee ballot to vote in the Aug. 11 primary. Applications are being sent to the state’s 2 million eligible voters. However, because the governor’s public health emergency order expires Sept. 9, he cannot mandate that the ballots be made available for the Nov. 3 general election.

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HARTFORD (AP) — A federal lawsuit was filed Thursday, July 2 to make mail-in voting for the November election available to all eligible Connecticut voters during the coronavirus pandemic.

The population of poll workers in Connecticut tends to be older and Merrill said many may not be able to volunteer this year. But she noted that polling places will feature social distancing and personal protective equipment.

The Southington Citizen | southingtoncitizen.com

Friday, July 10, 2020

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The Southington Citizen | southingtoncitizen.com

Friday, July 10, 2020

State still waiting on $91 million in PPE orders In a New Britain warehouse, state officials are trying to

By Gregory B. Hladky © The Connecticut Mirror

amass a 90-day stockpile of personal protective equip-

ment for medical personnel by the end of July in case Connecticut gets hit with the COVID-19 surge now rav-

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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.

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aging many other states. The problem is that most of this critical PPE stockpile — more than $91 million worth — has been ordered but not yet delivered. State and hospital officials in Connecticut are worried that the soaring U.S. demand for critical coronavirus-related equipment like respirator and surgical masks, gloves and gowns could once again cause major supply problems here. “It’s something we are following very closely and are concerned about,” said Josh Geballe, Gov. Ned Lamont’s chief administrative officer and the person in charge of building up the state’s coronavirus reserve of PPE. The state stockpile is intended to serve as an emergency backup for hospitals, nursing homes and other medical facilities that are also seeking to build up their own supplies of PPE. The Yale New Haven Health system currently has a 30day to 90-day supply of different types of PPE, according to Lorraine Lee, the system’s vice president for corporate pharmacy and supply chain services. YNHH operates five hospitals across southern Connecticut and Rhode Island, including those in Greenwich, Bridgeport and New Haven. But Lee and other hospital officials warn that keeping their facilities supplied with adequate amounts of PPE depends on a lot of complex factors, such as the number of COVID-19 patients both here and around the nation and on medical equipment manufacturers and distribution networks. “It depends on the supply chain… and the ability of manufacturers to keep up with demand,” Lee said Tuesday.

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Friday, July 10, 2020

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