www.southingtoncitizen.com
Volume 18, Number 29
Friday, July 16, 2021
Town looks for ways to lower sewer rates By Jesse Buchanan Record-Journal staff
With a sewer plant upgrade nearly complete, town leaders are determining if sewer rates can drop along with plant operating costs.
The $40 million plant upgrade replaced aging equipment with newer, more efficient machinery. It also complies with new state regulations. Town leaders say the project is under budget and ahead of schedule. The work was substantially com-
plete in April — ahead of the target date of June 30. Total completion should also be ahead of schedule, according to town engineers. The last bills are undergoing review and the town is waiting for a final state inspection.
Bill Dziedzic, a Republican town councilor and chairman of the council’s sewer subcommittee, wants to consider if savings from the new plant could be passed on to customers. See Sewer, A2
Leaders consider changes for intersection By Jesse Buchanan Record-Journal staff
Town officials are considering what safety improvements could be made to a West Street intersection. An accident six weeks ago prompted town leaders to look at signs and the possibility of a traffic light at the West Street and Prospect Street intersection. The intersection already has a flashing yellow light for West Street drivers and a flashing red light for Prospect Street drivers. Town Councilor Chris Poulos, an area resident, said he and neighbors have seen crashes at the intersection over the past few years. “There’s been a bunch of accidents,” Poulos said. “I’m concerned.”
Poulos, a Democrat, is a public works subcommittee member. Michael DelSanto, a Republican councilor and subcommittee chairman, agreed that the committee could consider whether the town was doing enough to ensure motorists’ safety. “We’re trying to be a little more proactive,” DelSanto said.
Reflectors, bigger signs Police put up an over sized stop sign for eastbound drivers on Prospect Street as well as more reflectors. They’ll put one going the other way on Prospect Street as well. DelSanto said it’s an interim measure that’ll hopefully make drivers pay attention to the stop sign and See Intersection, A4
A Southington police cruiser pulls onto Prospect Street off West Street. Numerous crashes at the intersection prompted the installation of an oversized stop sign and discussion of whether additional safety measures are needed. Devin Leith-Yessian, Record-Journal
THE BEES ARE BACK!
New leader for United Way board By Jesse Buchanan Record-Journal staff
Former town councilor Cheryl Lounsbury recently became president of the United Way of Southington board. She succeeds Rob Flood, Liberty Bank manager and an organizer in many local non-profit efforts. Flood is moving out of state. Leaders of several local groups said he will be missed and that he was an important figure in the
town’s business and non-profit scene. “He was in a lot of things and he did a lot for raising money for good things in town,” Lounsbury said.
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New president, new goals Lounsbury has been on the United Way board for several years and has done marketing for the organization. She was elected by the board during its June meeting. See United Way, A2
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Friday, July 16, 2021
United Way
beneficiary organizations. “We were proud of that,” Eisenmann said. “A lot of (non-profits) had to cut back and we didn’t.”
With the reopening of the state, Lounsbury wants to continue the group’s fundraising and attract younger board members, who will eventually take leadership roles, and volunteers. “We’re looking for some younger members to take our place down the road,” Lounsbury said.
Then-town councilor Cheryl Lounsbury during a Town Council meeting on Nov. 14, 2011.
The United Way’s annual dinner in September will feature coach Geno Auriemma and a super hero theme.
Crandall Center shelter and Senior Transportation Services.
“Our goal is to become a little different, a little less stodgy, a little more youthful, a little more fun,” she said.
The United Way raises money to support nine organizations that help local residents, including Bread for Life, Southington Community Services, the Prudence
Sewer
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Praise for outgoing president
Susan Urillo Larson, the merchants association cochair, said Flood was an imJack Eisnemann, United Way portant part of several executive director, said he events for the downtown. was sad to see Flood move “He had a significant impact out of state. on pretty much everything “He did a great job for us he was involved in in Southbut family called and he did ington,” she said. “It’s unforhis duty,” Eisenmann said. tunate he had to go and we’re going to miss him.” During the pandemic and under Flood’s leadership, the United Way was able to maintain its promised level of support to all nine of its
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“He had a presence in the community,” Eisenmann said, calling him an excellent board president. “He extended that influence that he had to our United Way.”
Prior to the referendum, town officials argued for the sewer plant overhaul. They From A1 said it was a necessary refit “It’s just getting online now,” for a plant built in the late “It’s pretty much operaGrappone said. “We haven’t 1950s and last renovated in tional,” he said. “Let’s see if gone through a full cycle of a the early 1980s. we can now reduce our rate.” heating season.” The state’s new, stricter limHe does expect a savings, Sewer bills its on how much phosphothough. Sewer customers are rus can be discharged into Assistant Town Engineer Jim billed quarterly. the water take effect later Grappone said there hasn’t this year. Clean Water Fund been a sewer increase in Town voters approved $57 resources were only availyears. Several years ago, million for the sewer plant able if the town complied. sewer bills decreased slight- upgrade in a 2016 referenSouthington also faces fines ly. dum by about three to one. if the new limits aren’t met. The town paid nearly $40 Sewer bills have a flat rate million with millions more The town added a denitrifiportion and a charge based coming from state grants. cation component to the on water consumption. Grappone said the town was sewer plant more than a “Right now, the sewer rate is able to get the work done for decade ago. This also was less than the water rate,” prompted by new state reguabout $50 million. He also Grappone said. lations. said the town had expected He’d like to gather more da- completion in September jbuchanan@record-journal.com 203-317-2230 but are now “99 percent ta on operating costs for Twitter: @JBuchananRJ the plant, particularly during complete.”
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Lounsbury also wants to streamline the United Way’s procedures and bring them “up to today’s standards.”
In addition to the United Way, Flood was co-chair of the Downtown Merchants Association. He helped organize a sidewalk sale on Center Street in 2019 and was on the committee that organized White Christmas for four years.
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Friday, July 16, 2021
In Brief Blood Drives
Friday, July 23, 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 12:30 to 5 p.m. at First Congregational Church of Southington, 37 Main St.; Tuesday, July 27, 1 to 6 p.m. at Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints Southington, 750 Meriden/ Waterbury Turnpike.
The American Red Cross continues to experience a severe blood shortage and donors of all blood types – especially type O and those giving platelets. You can make an appointment to give now, by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visWellness expo iting RedCrossBlood.org, calling 1-800-733-2767 or en- The Passport to Health and abling the Blood Donor Skill Wellness Expo will take on any Alexa Echo device. place Sunday, July 18, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., at The Bristol Upcoming: Thursday, July 22, 1:30 to 6:30 p.m. at Mary DoubleTree by Hilton. This benefit, presented by the Our Queen, 248 Savage St.;
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Intersection
tion, they need to stop at the stop sign,” DelSanto said. “The stop sign is there.”
flipped the Prospect Street vehicle, Daly said, although injuries weren’t very serious.
Daly said the recent crash involved a driver who failed to stop at the Prospect Street stop sign and was given a ticket. Crossing West Street, the driver was struck by a vehicle on West Street that was towing a load of stone. The collision
“Even if he had stopped, you still can’t leave from a stop sign until it’s clear to do so,” Daly said of Prospect Street drivers crossing West Street. Drivers on West Street do not need to stop at the intersection.
He said Police Chief Jack Daly is gathering data on the intersection but that drivers also need to follow the traffic rules. “Folks need to pay atten-
The Southington Apple Harvest Festival will welcome American alternative rock band Vertical Horizon to the main stage on Saturday, Oct. 9.
Vertical Horizon continues releasing new music and touring extensively.
See Briefs, A6
“The majority of these accidents are driver error. If people stop at the stop sign and don’t go until its clear, there’d be no accidents,” Daly said “People have to obey the law.”
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The police department deployed a speed trailer which shows motorists’ speed but also counts cars. Only if both roads in an intersection reach a certain number of cars per day will the state consider a traffic light.
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Founded in the early 1990's, Vertical Horizon released three albums independently and toured extensively.
The Berlin Veterans Commission announced the 102nd Army Band, CTANG, will play a “Tribute to Veterans and Gold Star Families Concert” Wednesday, July 21, 6:30 p.m., at Veterans Memorial Park on Veterans Way in Berlin (near Stop & Shop). The Brass Band, Jazz
flashing red light as they cross West Street.
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“I don’t think it’ll meet the things that an intersection has to have to request the state look into it,” he said.
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The intersection has good sight lines, according to Daly, and isn’t on a curve. The volume of traffic on West Street means a stop light could cause backups and delays. jbuchanan@record-journal.com
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Friday, July 16, 2021
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Calcagni WHAT HOME IMPROVEMENTS SHOULD I DO THIS SUMMER? REAL ESTATE
months, drafty windows can not only hinder your comfort, The season of rest, relaxation, but they can result in signifispontaneous fun, and…home cantly higher heating costs. If improvements? While they you’ve worked to seal them up may not hold the promise of over the past few winters but the picture-worthy memories the difference has been minithat some of our other summer mal, it’s probably time to give activities do, making improve- thought to window replacements to your Connecticut ment. The investment you make home this summer can save now can help you save money in you a lot of time, money and the colder months ahead. headaches in the future. So, which home improvements are the easiest to do when the weather is warm? Read on for the top projects we at Calcagni Real Estate recommend to keep your home looking—and functioning—its best, long after summer’s sun has faded into the horizon.
REPLACE YOUR ROOF
CLEAN OR REPLACE YOUR WINDOWS
After the harsh conditions of Connecticut’s winter and spring, your windows are probably looking a bit dingy. Cleaning them on both sides will help your house shine from the outside in, and you may be surprised at just how much of an improvement this makes, including enjoying summer’s sunshine in all its glory! If your windows are old and drafty, consider replacing them this summer. Over the colder
If your roof is rounding the 15–20-year mark, it’s probably time to start thinking of replacing it. Leaky roofs can wreak havoc in your home, and that can mean unexpected expenses (not to mention stress). Summer provides the optimal time to replace a roof because in order to form a weathertight seal, new shingles require heat. Just be sure your roofer tears off the existing shingles, so they can determine the condition of the roof deck underneath. Layering on shingles over an existing roof may be a cheaper option but can lead to headaches down the road.
CLEAN YOUR GUTTERS
From keeping your car out of the elements to affording you extra storage space, garages We love Connecticut for its serve many purposes—and beautiful seasons, and for that’s exactly what often makes many of us, fall is at the top of them the “catch all” for clutter the list. But all that “autumnal or the things we’ll deal with splendor” means falling leaves “later.” which can clog gutters and, Now that it’s summer, “later” when coupled with summer is here! Cleaning out clutter showers, can create water dam- and setting your garage up as a age and broken gutters. clean work or storage space can Avoid potenalleviate tial disaster by stress cleaning out when life your gutters and gets a litdownspouts this tle more summer. Grab a hectic in sturdy ladder, a the fall. bucket and some If your thick gloves and garage is remove the debris also your from the gutter. workOnce you’ve removed leaves, shop, consider investing in wall twigs and whatever else has mount storage for tools, lawn landed in them, spray the equipment and snow shovels. gutters down to wash away any And if you utilize your garage further debris. Voila! You’re as a catch-all for your faminow ready for peak foliage ly’s sporting stuff, now is the season. perfect time to get organized
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POWER WASH YOUR EXTERIOR
Harsh cold weather and hot, humid conditions can result in an exterior that looks a little worse for wear. Shake off your home’s past year by power washing your house, garage, driveway and deck to rid it of dirt, mold, stains, and debris. You may be shocked at just how “new” everything looks! You can rent a power washer or hire a professional to do it for you but doing so in summer will keep your home looking its best for the coming year. 239228
Ah, summer:
With a few dedicated hours this summer, you can give your home the TLC it needs to shine once more—and to save you time, money and headaches in the months ahead. Which home improvement project will you tackle this weekend? Feel free to reach out to a Calcagni Real Estate agent for valuable insights and recommendations for making the most out of your home. To view more articles
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Friday, July 16, 2021
Briefs
sumes Sunday at noon and runs until 6 p.m. For more information, find the festival on Facebook.
From A4
Italian-American Festival The annual Southington Italian-American Festival sponsored by the Sons of Italy, Southington UNICO and Sorelle d’Italia will take place July 24 and 25 on the lower portion of Center Street. This is the festival’s 16th year of promoting and supporting Italian heritage and culture in the community. The event, which begins Saturday, July 24 at 5 p.m., will consist of food tents and live entertainment. On Sunday, July 25 at 10 a.m., the festival features an outdoor Italian Mass followed by a procession with the statue of the Madonna della Strada. The festival re-
Swim lessons – Session 2
Calendar House meeting A meeting of the Southington Calendar House Membership Association will be held Thursday, July 22, 1 p.m., at the Calendar House, 388 Pleasant St. Following the brief business meeting, solo vocalist/accordionist David Goclowski will provide entertainment with music from Billy Joel, Nat King Cole, Frank Sinatra, Elvis, Glenn Miller and Duke Ellington. A raffle will take place and light refreshments served. To inquire about membership or to RSVP for the meeting, call 860-6213014.
The Southington Recreation Department is accepting online registration for the second and final session of swim lessons. Lessons are open to Southington resident children only, ages 5 and up. Lessons at Recreation Park pool begin the week of July 19; lessons at Memorial Park pool begin the week of July 26. The cost is $65 per child. There is a family rate of $135 for 3 children or $150 for 4 children Entertainment within the same household. Visit the Recreation Depart- series ment’s webpage at southing- The Southington Recreation ton.org for complete proDepartment presents the gram details or to register. Kid’s Entertainment Series
Dr. Flora Parvin Welcomes New Patients In Southington
If your flag has seen better days, Comcast technicians are looking for tattered flags as part of the company’s free Flag Replacement Program. Road construction The effort is led by employees who participate in the Road construction, asphalt Veterans Network Employee milling, reclaiming, grading Resource Group known as operations and paving began “VetNet.” on or about Tuesday, July 6. If a Comcast technician noThe Town of Southington Department of Public Works tices a worn-out flag at a home or business, the techrequests that no vehicles be parked on the roadway dur- nician shares the location ing the work hours of 7 a.m. with the flag replacement through 5 p.m. Residents are team, which contacts the individual or business and ofurged to find alternate fers to replace it, whether routes when possible to that resident or business is a avoid delays due to construction traffic. The follow- customer or not. What’s more, the old flags are reing streets will be affected: tired in accordance with milSheldon Road, Moorehill Drive, North Star Drive, Bea- itary protocols. con Street, Windward Place,
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Tuesdays through Aug. 10 at the Community Pavilion at the Southington Drive-In, 995 Meriden-Waterbury Turnpike, Plantsville. All shows will take place from 6 to 7 p.m. Bring a blanket or lawn chair and enjoy an evening of free entertainment – all ages welcome. The schedule of performances is available to view on the department’s webpage at southington.org.
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Briefs From A6
Comcast technicians are looking to replace worn American flags throughout the Western New England region, which includes more than 300 communities. In just a few weeks since the program launched, the team has replaced over 20 American flags.
Barnes Museum Gov. Ned Lamont announced the launch of Connecticut Summer at the Museum – a new state program created in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic that allows Connecticut children to receive free admission at more than 90 museums across Connecticut during the 2021 summer months. From July 1 through Sept. 6, Connecticut children age 18 and under – plus one accompanying adult – will receive free admission to any of the participating museums, including the Barnes Museum.
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fied nursing assistant. The grant funds tuition, books, scrubs, testing and the Connecticut Certified Nurses Aide Exam. The session will begin Monday, Aug. 30. The deadline to apply is July 26. This free program is the perfect opportunity for those seeking to start a career in healthcare or change careers. Applicants must have their high school diploma, be 18 or older and have their own transportation. Classroom education and labs take place in Southington and clinical training takes place in Newington and Southington. Acceptance into the program will be contingent upon a background check, fingerprinting, interview, physical, reference check and the application. For more information and to receive an application packet, call 860-406-9050 or email CNAtraining@ hhchealth.org.
Walk with Me Walk with Me is a new specialized outpatient treatment track for LGBTQ+- identifying young people age 10 to 25 who are seeking therapeutic, medical, and/or peer support to address their specific needs, available exclusively at Wheeler’s Hartford and Plainville Family Health & Wellness Centers.
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This summer the Barnes Museum is open Wednesdays and Fridays from 1 to 5 p.m. Pre-scheduling a tour during these times is optional and can be done at thebarnesmuseum.org or by calling 860-628-5426. Tours outside of these times can be requested by calling 860628-5426 or emailing thebar- Call Wheeler’s Navigation Center for more information nesmuseum@southingor to schedule an appointton.org. ment, 888-793-3500. The Barnes Museum is a historic homestead built in Salvation Army 1836 and lived in by the same family through 1974 The Salvation Army annually when it was bequeathed to helps nearly 23 million the Town of Southington to Americans overcome poverbecome a museum under ty, addiction and economic the direction of the Southhardships through a range of ington Library Board of Disocial services. rectors. For more information contact Kristi Sadowski Volunteer opportunities are at 860-628-5426 or sadavailable. Contact Katie Perowskik@southington.org. rett, Volunteer Coordinator for The Salvation Army Southern New England DiviNursing program sion: Kathryn.Perrett@ use.salvationarmy.org, 860Hartford HealthCare Senior 702-0042. Services is accepting applications for a grant-funded six-week program for those See Briefs, A9 seeking a career as a certi-
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Friday, July 16, 2021
The Southington Citizen | southingtoncitizen.com
Program gives kids free ‘field trips’ this summer Children who missed out on field trips and classroom speakers can now make up for the loss through a state program that subsidizes free admission to museums and other attractions. “This program provides a unique opportunity for children to take advantage of the world-class museums and attractions offered in Connecticut, while having both a fun and educational experience,” Gov. Ned Lamont said in an announcement of the Connecticut Summer at the Museum program. “Museums are centers of exploration, recreation, and learning, and will play an important role in helping provide social-emotional, mental health, and educational growth
The museum is currently open on Wednesdays and Fridays from 1 to 5 p.m. or by appointment during library hours. “Any way that we can raise awareness of the museum and get people in is exciting for us,” she said. Constructed in 1836, the museum showcases artifacts from the 137 years the Bradley and Barnes family lived in the homestead. Visitors can read The Barnes Museum is participating in a state program diaries and letters from family providing grants to allow free admission. File photo members, view artwork created by Leila Barnes and hear how opportunities that were limited ums for free, accompanied by the family fit into the town’s one adult. A full list of museums history during the guided tour. during the pandemic.” participating can be found at Around 100 museums and orSadowski hopes being able to CTSummerMuseums.com. ganizations are participating, waive the $4 ticket price for stuincluding Mystic Aquarium, the Kristi Sadowski, director of the dents will encourage more peoConnecticut Science Center Barnes Museum in Southingple to visit. and the Beardsley Zoo. Until ton, said Friday — their first day Sept. 6, all children under 18 participating — was the busiest “It's nice to be able to be part of history, to witness it and interday since reopening in June. can visit participating museact with it and make discoveries,” Sadowski said. Attendance at Mystic Seaport has nearly doubled over summer 2019 levels since the program launched on July 1, said Director of Communications Dan McFadden. The seaport offers interactive educational exhibits like its blacksmith exhibit, planetarium and Discovery Barn — where kids can explore STEM lessons through boating. “We offer balance between enrichment and something to do and a beautiful location,” he said. The program has also been a boon for surrounding restau-
rants and communities. “There are so many things to do here, which you may not be aware of...,” McFadden said. Though the Cheshire Historical Society already doesn’t charge admission to its HitchcockPhillips House — and therefore wasn’t eligible to receive the grants subsidizing free entry — President Diane Calabro said being included on the state’s list of participating museums has helped. The society normally hosts field trips for third graders every school year. Calabro hopes the children who missed out on the outings will be able to visit this summer to learn about the town’s history. Many of the exhibits are designed with children in mind, such as the “Make Some Noise” showcase, where children can be as loud as they please with some of the noisier elements of the town’s past, such as a shopkeeper’s counter bell, a telegrapher typer and a trolley bell. “Kids have a strong sense of what an electronic and digital age is all about and to say to a young person and even most adults at this time, ‘pretend you don't have your phone’ — that really makes kids and adults pause because we probably couldn’t function without our phone,” Calabro said. “ … But this is a whole world spanning many generations of people who did just that.”
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By Devin Leith-Yessian Record-Journal staff
The Southington Citizen | southingtoncitizen.com
Friday, July 16, 2021
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The Southington Citizen | southingtoncitizen.com
Friday, July 16, 2021
Foundation awards over $300,000 in scholarships By Devin Leith-Yessian Record-Journal staff
Eight of the students receiving scholarships from the foundation are from Southington, four are from Plainville and 13 are from Berlin.
Funds from individual donors allowed the Community Foundation of Greater New Britain to give more money than ever before to area students seeking scholarships for higher education. “I think it is amazing, especially with some of the newer funds we set up that give out substantial awards,” said Kimberly Duncan, the foundation’s communications and donor relations manager.
Gabriel LeBlanc, 18, is the valedictorian for Southington High School's Class of 2021. LeBlanc will attend Harvard where he plans to study electrical engineering and computer science.
The foundation, established in 1941, awarded $302,710 in pot of money to distribute scholarships this year, the first time it’s distributed over among 73 students, Duncan said. $300,000 in one year. Many of the recipients have New scholarship funds essent letters thanking the tablished by individual foundation and its patrons. donors in Southington,
Berlin, New Britain and Plainville — as well as favorable market conditions — produced a larger than ever
“They send in thank you notes that are so heartwarming and they actually realize
Dave Zajac, Record-Journal
how much this is going to help them in their careers and their futures,” Duncan said. As class valedictorian at Southington High School, Gabe LeBlanc received the Arthur T. Blumer MD merit scholarship. He plans to attend Harvard University.
“There’s been so much stress and uncertainty and college really only adds to that,” LeBlanc said. “There’s been courses and things to buy and the moving process, so the scholarship helps alleviate that stress … and focus on what really matters like exploring career fields.” The scholarship funds are a reflection of those who made it through the college process and want to “help the next generation go forward and achieve what they achieved,” LeBlanc said.
youth and want to make a difference,” he said. Funds come from a range of donors, Duncan said. “Sometimes it’s people who received substantial scholarships in their lifetime and they want to return the favor and give back to another student … and create a chain of giving,” he said. The number of scholarships the foundation was able to give out was in line with past years, but the amounts were bigger, Duncan said.
They were also able to allocate 10 scholarships — twice the usual number — through the foundation’s Degree Completion Fund pilot program, which supports students in their final years “For me personally, I guess there's been so much to con- of college at Central Connecticut State University sider about the future, so to dleithyessian@ me it means a lot that there record-journal.com are adults in our community 203-317-2317 … who are dedicated to our Twitter: @leith_yessian
State begins monitoring mosquitoes for West Nile Virus The State of Connecticut Mosquito Management Program has begun its monitoring of mosquitoes for the presence of viruses that can cause illness in people, including West Nile Virus (WNV) and the eastern equine encephalitis (EEE) virus. The mosquito trapping and testing program,
coordinated by the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station (CAES) operates through the end of October.
(pooled) for testing according to species, collection site, and date. Visit the CAES website for weekly testing results (portal.ct.gov/CAES).
CAES reports there are 108 mosquito-trapping stations in 87 municipalities throughout the state. The mosquitoes are grouped
Over the past few years, the U.S. has had an increase in cases of mosquito-borne illnesses. Last year in Connecticut, CAES reported eight human cases of WNV and zero human cases of EEE.
Apply insect repellent when outdoors. Use a repellent with an EPA-registered ingredient. DEET products should not be used on infants under two months of age and should be used in concentrations of 30 percent or less on older children. Oil of lemon eucalyptus should not be used on children under 3 years of age.
door activities that occur during evening or early morning in areas of high risk. Clothing can help reduce mosquito bites. Wear long sleeves, long pants, and socks outdoors to help keep mosquitoes away from your skin.
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The Southington Citizen | southingtoncitizen.com
Friday, July 16, 2021
Moroccan goods store opens By Faith Williams Record-Journal staff
Bringing Morocco to Southington was a family’s goal when they opened a home goods store just over a month ago. Moroccan Home Goods is filled with authentic items like kitchenware, clothes and home decor. “I want it to look and feel like Morocco,” co-owner Soumia Shumpert said. “The thing I hear from my customers that is music to my ears is when they say ‘I feel like I’m in Morocco.’” With help and support from husband James Shumpert and sister Halons Lafrini, she opened the store after having a tough time finding work due to the pandemic.
Co-owner Soumia Shumpert assists a customer at Moroccan Home Goods. The customer was trying on Moroccan clothing in preparation for Eid al- Adha. Faith Williams, Record Journal
“I’m very grateful my husband and sister support the idea,” Soumia Shumpert said. “I don’t think I would’ve done it. Especially with COVID, there’s no way I would have done this by myself.” Soumia Shumpert travels back to Morocco often to get many of the items sold in the store, like clothes. They are handmade in Morocco and designed specially for the store. “What we do in Morocco, you buy the fabric then you discuss the design,” she said. “One customer loved the fabric and then decided if she liked the design. The fabric is the most important part.” The store, located at 2211 Meriden-Waterbury Turnpike, is also filled with Moroccan dishes and paintings. Some of the most popular items are the hijabs and an argan oil exfoliator.
Aaron Flaum, Record-Journal
ping for things to wear. “That store is really good, I’ve been there three times already,” said Basma Skareb, a customer. “The prices are affordable. It’s nice to have a Moroccan store in this area.” Although the store has many Moroccan and Muslim customers, Shumpert said she really wants others to come to the store to learn about Moroccan culture. “I really want to bring the best of my country to my store,” she said. “I think it’s great,” said Louis Perillo, Southington’s Economic Develop-
ment Director. “Having a business like this just adds to our community as a whole.” Next, the family wants to add a Moroccan bakery to the store. Shumpert said within the next six months, she hopes to have the bakery open. “This is a family business,” she said. “All of us have one goal – to make this the best Moroccan store in Connecticut.”
Supreme Court Ruling: Big Victory for Elderly, Less So for Near-Elderly In upholding the President Obama's health reform law, the Affordable Care Act, the Supreme Court ensured the preservation and continued roll-out of improvements and protections for older adults. These improvements include the extension of Medicaid’s spousal impoverishment protections to those seeking long-term care in the community, financial incentives for states to keep long-term care recipients out of institutions, the gradual closing of Medicare Part D’s infamous “doughnut hole,” expanded access to preventive services for Medicare beneficiaries, and the Elder Justice Act. The Court did, however, scale back the Medicaid portion of the law, which could mean that fewer near-elderly will have access to health insurance than was originally envisioned. The law expanded Medicaid eligibility starting in 2014 to people with income up to 133 percent of the poverty line. But in its ruling, the Supreme Court gave states the freedom to opt out of this expansion without putting their current Medicaid funding at risk. Some governors have already declared that they will not accept the federal money in order to expand coverage. In states that decide not to participate, the poorest individuals below age 65 may be without access to affordable health insurance entirely because their incomes are too low to be eligible for federal subsidies provided under the law, which envisioned they would be covered by the Medicaid expansion. Connecticut was the first state in the nation to expand Medicaid enrollment to low-income adults in 2010 so one would expect the extended coverage to remain. Robert Scalise is a partner of Ericson Scalise & Mangan PC Practicing Probate, Estate Planning, Elder Law, and Asset Protection Planning. Call 860-515-3399 for a consultation. www.esmlaw.com
Moroccan Home Goods is open Tuesday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. fwilliams@record-journal.com 203-317-2373 Twitter: @faith_williams2
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With the Islamic holiday Eid al-Adha approaching, women have been shop-
Moroccan Home Goods.
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The Southington Citizen | southingtoncitizen.com
Friday, July 16, 2021
Southington Police Blotter
Obituaries Donna Gene Storms
June 23 Aven Adorno, 34, 125 Park St., Bristol, reckless driving, engaging in pursuit, fifth-degree larceny, 1:43 p.m. June 26 Jessica Almeida, 35, 136 White Ave., Middlebury, sixth-degree larceny, 3 p.m. June 27 Dylan Cessarion, 20, 341 Main St., Meriden, second-degree breach of peace, third-degree assault, 4:45 p.m. Michael Fairbanks, 31, 31 Goodwin Court, Thomaston, third-degree larceny, 11:03 p.m. June 29 Ethan Judd, 18, 135 Howard St., second-degree breach of peace, third-degree assault, 5:33 a.m. June 30 Alyssa Caruso, 33, 1999 Cook Hill Road, Cheshire, sixth-degree larceny, 9:47 p.m. Matthew Northrop, 45, 199 Cook Hill Road, conspiracy to commit sixth-degree larceny, 9:47 p.m. July 2 Dawn Dominici, 58, 398 Milford Point, Milford, disorderly conduct, 11:17 a.m. Vincent Lopez, 55, 398 Milford Point, Milford, disorderly conduct, 11:17 p.m. Arthur Petosa, 55, 254 Main St., Terryville, probation violation, 3 p.m.
Dianna Pratt, 35, 30 Woodglen Drive, Waterbury, fifth-degree larceny, conspiracy to commit fifth-degree larceny, 3:45 p.m. July 3 Shannon Dennis, 27, 33 Hill St., Naugatuck, second-degree breach of peace, 3 p.m. Marguise Holley, 31, 350 Bristol St. Ext., Waterbury, second-degree failure to appear, 11:22 p.m. July 4 Julian Rodriguez, 21, 53 Imlay St., Hartford, violation of a protective order, two counts first-degree failure to appear, 12:15 p.m. Heather Harrington, 44, 20 Greeley Lane, risk of injury, first-degree unlawful restraint, second-degree breach of peace, 11:36 p.m. July 5 Artan Topalli, 53, 92 Wheeler Village Road, operating under the influence of drugs or alcohol, 7:20 a.m. Jake Miceli, 20, 100 Thunderbird Drive, seconddegree criminal mischief, fifth-degree larceny, 4:53 p.m. July 7 Franco Pabst, 28, 1344 Mount Vernon Road, operating under the influence of drugs or alcohol, 11:25 p.m.
SOUTHINGTON- Donna Gene Storms was born in Buffalo, NY, on January 13th, 1948, to William P. Storms and Dorothy (Kellner) Storms. Donna grew up in the Town of Tonawanda and graduated from Kenmore East Senior High School in 1965. She attended college at SUNY Geneseo and graduated in 1970 with a degree in Speech and Hearing Therapy. Donna then moved to Connecticut and worked as a Speech and Hearing Pathologist for the Bristol Public School System. Donna retired in 2005 after 35 years of continuous service. After retirement, she embarked on a 15-year career as a volunteer. She spent years working at the Southington nursing home Thursday, July 22, from 5 to 8 p.m. Residents Care through the Americorps will be able to drive up, show identification, and sign. Only residents who are registered “Life Stories” program, to vote in town will count towards the 3,146 collecting and publishing the life memories of elderly signatures required to force a referendum. participants. Donna was passionately involved in various community theaters where she directed and performed in countless area productions. From acting and directing to selling tickets and handing out playbills, Donna loved every aspect of the theater. For many years, she volunteered every Friday in the box office of the Thomaston Opera House and later for Landmark Community Theater. shower conversions Includes demo, haul She then brought her away, sub-floor, talents and energy to the plumbing, Kohler fixtures, Phoenix Stage Company installations of Kohler in Naugatuck and tub or shower enclosure, fiberglass units+ Oakville, where she was a
Signatures sought for referendum vote Residents organizing a petition seeking a referendum on whether or not Southington should allow the sale of cannabis products have planned drive-up signing events at the Southington Drive-in Friday, July 16 and
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founding Board member, Production director and performer. Donna passed away on July 9, 2021, from the devastating effects of Covid-19. She is survived by her brother James, her niece Amanda, and scores of friends who she loved as dearly as family. Donna’s final wishes were that there be no visitation or wake. She requested a simple cremation and to have her ashes returned to the soil. A celebration of Donna’s life will be held at the Phoenix Stage Company, 133 Main Street in Oakville, Connecticut, on Sunday, August 1st 2021, at 6:00 PM. Donations to The Phoenix Stage Company (phoenixstagecompany. org) would help to continue Donna’s devotion to community theater. Arrangements are being handled by The Ahern Funeral Homes, Inc. To send online condolences to the family, please visit www.ahernfuneralhome. com
Until August 1, 2021
The Southington Citizen | southingtoncitizen.com
Friday, July 16, 2021
Storm Elsa leaves her mark
Obituaries Elizabeth A. Pytel
EDGEWATER, FLAlbert W. Devin, age 67, of Southington, CT, died Thursday, July 1, 2021 at his Edgewater, FL, residence. Born in Southington, to Elizabeth Turner and John L. Devin, Sr., a United States Marine veteran, Albert was an infantryman/cook. He was a member of Paralyzed Veterans of America, (PVA); American Legion, Post #72; Disabled American Veterans (DAV); and he was very proud to be a Marine. Albert enjoyed the outdoors, and going on adventures with his wife, Doreen and spending time with his family and friends. He was a wonderful man and the boss who was in charge of all projects. Albert was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather that will be missed by all that knew and loved him. Survivors include his wife of 48 years, Doreen; 2 sons, Mark Devin, of Southington, and Jordan Devin, of Woodland Hills, CA; 2 daughters, Amy Devin (Karl Lutz), of Edgewater, FL; Regina Devin, of Bristol; grandson, Shawn Devin; 3 granddaughters, Doreen (Andrew) Annatone; Casey Devin; and Jordan Lutz;
SOUTHINGTONElizabeth “Betty” A. (Matusiewicz) Pytel, 91, of Southington, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, July 6, 2021 at HOCC New Britain. She had been the loving wife of the late John J. Pytel, Sr., for almost 50 years. Born on June 24, 1930 in Southington to the late Karol and Rose (Kazalski) Matusiewicz, she had been a longtime Southington resident. Betty enjoyed her work as a hairdresser before staying home to raise her family. She was a longtime parishioner of the Immaculate Conception Church. Betty loved to entertain and was an excellent cook. She is survived by two sons, John J. Pytel, Jr. and his wife Carol of Thomaston, and Robert Pytel of Plantsville, one granddaughter, Heather Pytel, of Southington and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by 4 brothers, John, Frank, Andrew and Joseph Matusiewicz. In lieu of
2 great grandsons, Kamden Devin; and Khole Annatone; brother, John Devin, of Edgewater, FL; 5 sisters, Marilyn Willett; Kathleen Salerno; Lydia (Ed) DeGumbia; Bonnie (Tim) Gurbel, and Darlene Scott. Albert was preceded in death by his parents, sister, Judy and brother, Ronald. Graveside service will be 2:00 p.m., on July 23, 2021 at Southend Cemetery, Southington, CT. Following gravesite service will be a celebration of life event at the Mountain Room at Mt. Southington from 4:00 - 9:00 p.m. Friends and family are welcome. Condolences may be made online at www. settlewilderfuneralhome. com.
AN EDUCATION ON ETIQUETTE
MERIDEN — Some of the heaviest flooding in 30 years hit downtown as Tropical Storm Elsa moved through the state on Friday, July 9 closing streets, flooding basements and damaging cars.
flowers, donations in Betty’s memory may be made to American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 22718, Oklahoma City, OK 73123 (http://www.cancer.org/ ) or to the Alzheimer’s Association, 225 N. Michigan Ave, Fl. 17, Chicago, IL 60601 (https:// www.alz.org/). Plantsville Funeral Home has been entrusted with handling the arrangements. For online condolences and directions, please visit www. plantsvillefuneralhome. com.
Almost all of the damage came before noon and in many cases the flooding receded quickly after the torrential rain ended. At its worst the storm almost flooded the Police Department on West Main Street and left up to 2½ feet of water submerging blocks-long sections of Hanover, Pratt and State streets as Hanover Brook overflowed. “We have seen worse, but this was pretty bad,” said police Sgt. Jeff Herget, who piloted a police drone that recorded video of the damage at its zenith. “We were probably 8 to 10 feet from the water coming into our building, so it would have to be two or three feet deep at the See Storm, A15
St. Jude Novena
Joe Della Porta raises the flag while students salute during a recent educational presentation on flag etiquette by the Knights of Columbus Assembly 122 at Southington Catholic School.
May the Sacred Heart of Jesus be adored, glorified, loved and preserved throughout the world now and forever. Sacred Heart of Jesus, pray for us. St. Jude, worker of miracles, pray for us. Say this prayer 9 times a day. By the 8th day your prayer will be answered. Say it for 9 days, it has never been known to fail. Publication must be promised. Thank you St. Jude CMN
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The Southington Citizen | southingtoncitizen.com
Friday, July 16, 2021
Local businesses face hiring challenges By Devin Leith-Yessian Record-Journal staff
liance — a company which provides job training and pairs workers with firms looking to hire. She said many people put out of work by the pandemic used that time to explore more stable and higher paying jobs.
Businesses are having to increase wages and even temporarily close as hiring remains difficult across some industries. After being so short-staffed that he had to close Zingarella Pizzeria for three days in late June, owner Mark Zommer said filling shifts remains difficult and he’s had to raise wages to attract and retain workers.
“It's not the whole story to say people are just sitting home because they want to keep collecting unemployment. People make decisions based on what's best for them and their families — that includes child care, that includes livable wages. We applaud people who take the time to reassess,” she said.
“I know friends that own restaurants that are paying guys five, six dollars more for the job than they were paying them before Covid,” Zommer said. Though he hasn’t had to raise prices yet, Zommer believes it’s inevitable in order to keep up with rising wages. Though business is thriving as customers return to their favorite restaurants after staying home during the pandemic, he’s unsure how price increases could play out in Southington’s competitive restaurant market. “We’re not raising any prices as of yet, but it's going to happen,” he said. “It has to unfortunately. We're not
Zingarella Pizzeria & Ice Cream Cafe, 83 W. Main St., Plantsville.
even thinking about that yet, we’re going to get our feet back on the ground and going smoothly and then we'll worry about that.”
they were while working and have opted not to return. The additional $300 a week from the federal government is due to end Sept. 4.
Since workers who lost jobs or had hours reduced by the pandemic can continue to receive supplemented unemployment benefits, Zommer said some of his former workers can earn as much as
Connecticut’s unemployment rate has been falling since its height at the start of the pandemic, according to state Department of Labor statistics, with the most recent data putting it at 7.7 percent in May. However, that is more than double the average of 3.6 percent in 2019. Greater Southington Chamber of Commerce President Barbara Coleman-Hekeler said staffing shortages are extending beyond the restaurant industry and low wage positions. Companies in the automotive, manufacturing and home healthcare sectors have been advertising through the chamber and offering perks to new hires.
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“Several businesses have increased the hourly wages, increased the benefit side of things as well as offered signing bonuses. And despite all of that still having difficulty,” she said. The impact of restaurants not being able to consistently remain open ripples
through the local economy, Coleman-Hekeler said. The town is known for its eateries and they attract many out-of-towners who patronize other businesses. Even during Restaurant Week — a chamber sponsored event where restaurants across town offered discounts to encourage diners to try new establishments — some participating restaurants were forced to remain closed for a few days because of staffing shortages. “I hope that people that are choosing to do that decide soon to get a little more motivated to go back to work and not just waiting for (supplemented unemployment benefits) to end in September, because that's how we keep our economy going,” Coleman-Hekeler said.
Unemployment benefits not the sole culprit Workers choosing to remain unemployed rather than return to work isn’t the full picture of what’s left many positions unfilled, said Ann Harrison, communications director for Workforce Al-
Even before the pandemic, many manufacturing and healthcare companies lacked skilled employees and were partnering with Workforce Alliance to retrain workers from other sectors. Those with experience in retail and restaurants, for example, are prime candidates for the healthcare industry since they already have experience working with the public. “So we view them as a prime audience that's going to be coming to us to explore what their options are,” Harrison said. Connecticut’s aerospace and medical manufacturing industries are the prime focus of job training programs offered by Workforce Alliance, particularly the many small companies which supply parts for Sikorsky or Electric Boat. Those firms are often overlooked by people searching for new career opportunities, Harrison said, so Workforce Alliance has created partnerships with Middlesex and Gateway Community Colleges to pair workers with the skills needed to enter manufacturing. “Even before the pandemic there was a well known need to create more pipelines for people going into manufacturing jobs in Connecticut,” she said. dleithyessian@ record-journal.com 203-317-2317
The Southington Citizen | southingtoncitizen.com
Friday, July 16, 2021
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Storm From A13
street...It came over the outside wall and then all of our sewers were backed up and then the rain stopped and it went away quick,” Herget said.
A not•for•profit Life Plan Community
Meriden got 2.75 inches of rain from the storm Friday, and had 6.52 inches during the first nine days of July, said Gary Lessor, a meteorologist at the Western Connecticut State University Weather Center.
150 Cook Hill Road Cheshire, CT 06410
On Friday, Cheshire got about 2 inches of rain, Wallingford got 2.62 inches and Southington got 2.96 inches. The highest amount of Elsa rain to hit one municipality was Milford, at 5.78 inches, Lessor said. The best measure of the value of the city’s flood prevention work might be the speed with which the rising waters receded. The great majority of the water had been absorbed into downtown Meriden’s street drainage systems, Clark, Harbor and Jordan brooks and the green itself as of about 1 p.m., Weissberg said. Two new 60-inch-wide relief pipes placed on Hanover cleared the flood waters quickly. The elimination of the old Cooper Street bridge likely prevented the flooding from hitting the bridge and backing up into the surrounding neighborhood, Weissberg said. “That’s the nature of Meriden. It [flooding] is a quick hit, but without the green, the Amtrak bridge project we just completed and without the Cooper Street work we are doing, this would have been significantly worse,” Weissberg said, “and it would have lasted a lot longer.” — Record-Journal report
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Friday, July 16, 2021
The Southington Citizen | southingtoncitizen.com
The Southington Citizen | southingtoncitizen.com
Friday, July 16, 2021
A17
Health Memory screenings
Focused Awareness Meditation is a simple, five-step technique that can help people feel more relaxed, focused and calm. A free virtual class about this topic will take place Tuesday, July 20, from 11 a.m. to noon. Participants are asked to have a large towel or a small blanket for proper positioning in their chair. Registration is required. Call 1-855-442-4373 or visit Hartford HealthCare.org/VirtualClasses.
Hartford HealthCare Center for Healthy Aging is offering free virtual memory screenings that can be scheduled at a person’s convenience. These confidential memory screenings average 20 minutes and consist of five questions to assess memory. These screenings are not a diagnosis but can indicate if someone should follow up with a full medical exam. Call Hartford HealthCare Center for Healthy Aging, 1-877-4244641.
Guidelines from the American College of Physicians recommend that the first line of therapy for chronic back pain should be nondrug treatments. A free virtual class, “Managing Chronic Back Pain,” will cover topics including defining pain, risk factors and causes, and ways to manage back pain with various approaches, including exercise and physical therapy. This event is scheduled for Thursday, July 29, from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. Registration is required. Call 1-855-442-4373 or visit Hartford HealthCare.org/ VirtualClasses.
Bereavement
The Chase Family Movement Disorders Center and Hartford HealthCare Center for Healthy Aging are offering a caregiver support group for individuals who care for people with movement disorders and other neurodegenerative conditions. This free support group is offered the first and third Tuesday of the month, 10 to 11 a.m. For more information, call Amanda Brill at 860-6964653, or Jennifer McCaughey at 860-696-4623.
Concerns might include behavior changes, transition of care to assisted living, home healthcare, community services or end-of-life planning. Facebook Live sessions on important topics are also presented regularly. Hartford HealthCare Center for Healthy Aging professionals provide helpful answers and resources to support users in their caregiving roles.
to 11:30 a.m., facilitated by Michelle Wyman, dementia specialist. One-time registration is required; call 1-855442-4373. A call-in Dementia Caregivers Support Group is scheduled Fridays from 2 to 3 p.m., facilitated by a dementia specialist. Registration is not required. Call 860-972-6338 and when prompted, enter the access code 19623#.
NOT STAGE SHY
For more information, call 877-424-4641 or search “Hartford HealthCare Center for Healthy Aging Support Group” on Facebook.
Caregiver support First Tuesday of the month, 10 to 11 a.m., facilitated by Michelle Wyman, certified dementia specialist; Second Wednesday of the month, 10 to 11 a.m., facilitated by Adrianne DeVivo, certified dementia specialist; Second Wednesday of the month, 6:30
From left: Malia Bontempi, 9; Mabel Bontempi, 5, Charlotte Bergenholtz, 11; Elin Bontempi, 7; and Jack Bergenholtz, 9, use one of the skate ramps at the Cheshire Skate Park for a stage to have a dance party on July 8. The Bergenholtz family is from Colorado visiting their cousins, the Bontempi family, from Southington. Aaron Flaum, Record-Journal
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Hartford HealthCare at Home Hospice transitioned its bereavement support groups to a virtual format: First and third Mondays of the month, 1 to 2:30 p.m. Facilitator is Nichol Burris; nichol.burris@ hhchealth.org. Second and fourth Wednesdays of the month, 1 to 2:30 p.m. Facilitator is Bill Pilkington; bill.pilkington@hhchealth.org. Second and fourth Fridays of the month, 11 a.m. to noon. “Metamorphosis: Honoring the Sacred Journey of Grief.” Facilitator is Jennifer Johnson; Jennifer.johnson@ hhchealth.org. Call-in bereavement group – Thursdays, 1 to 2:30 p.m. To join, call 860972-6338 and when prompted, enter access code 22528#.
Movement disorders
A Facebook group specifically for caregivers of older adults, including those with dementia, is available, facilitated by Hartford HealthCare Center for Healthy Aging.
to 8 p.m., facilitated by Patty O’Brian, CDP, certified dementia specialist; Third Monday of the month, 1 to 2:30 p.m., facilitated by Patty O’Brian, CDP, certified dementia specialist; Third Wednesday of the month, 8 to 9 p.m., facilitated by Adrianne DeVivo, certified dementia specialist; Last Monday of the month (not in May), 10:30
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The Southington Citizen | southingtoncitizen.com
Friday, July 16, 2021
Pelletier a star in track and on softball field By Sean Krofssik Record-Journal staff
Pelletier, 18, has continued to play softball for the Southington Lightning and now she will play collegiality at Division I Hartford next year. She made it official at a signing outside of Southington High School last month surrounded by family, coaches and teammates.
Kayla Pelletier called Southington softball coach Davina Hernandez a few days before tryouts with some news about her career. The Southington High senior told her coach she was not going to play softball in her senior season. Instead she wanted to try outdoor track. Hernandez was a high school standout softball player in her own right and told her star catcher that she understood her thinking. “As a coach I understood where she was coming from,” Hernandez said. “I’ve been in similar situation when I played. I told her as a selfish coach that I would like to have you here, but I wish the best for you ... Little did we know she would be a state champ in the javelin, which is just unbelievable. She picked up something she had never done before and became the
best at it.” Both Pelletier and Southington softball went on to do great things this spring. Southington won another Class LL state crown and Pelletier was a standout on a
strong girls outdoor track team. In fact, Pelletier was one of the best in the state. She was the Class LL champion in the javelin and finished third in the event at the State Open.
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Pelletier said she exceeded her own expectations in track, although her friends and family always believed she could
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On the softball field, she’s a catcher by trade. She as a starter as a sophomore on the Southington softball 2019 state crown. She can also play third or outfield. “I started playing softball when I was three years old,” Pelletier said. “It’s been a long journey and an important part of my life. I always dreamed of playing in college. It’s been a lot of hard work and a lot of support from my coaches and teammates and especially my family.” Pelletier was flanked by her 12-year old brother Robby and parent Rob and Julie at the college signing. “My dad has taught me everything I know from hitting to fielding to catching and being one of the loudest people on the team and supporting everyone,” Pelletier said. “He taught me that.” Pelletier’s grandfather Bob has a prosthetic leg and used to be a model for the prosthetic department at Hartford. Pelletier is going to the school to be a Prosthetics and Orthotics major at the school. “It’s something that fell into my lap and I’m happy to get the opportunity to go there and follow my dreams and doing something that I’ve grown up knowing about,” Pelletier said. Pelletier said she’s well aware of the current climate for Hartford Athletics and the possibility of dropping from Division I to Division III. The catcher said she’s just excited to put on the Hartford jersey and be a part of the team. Hernandez said Pelletier is one of the most gifted and talented athletes that’s she had coached in her tenure at Southington.
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Southington’s Kayla Pelletier throws the javelin during the 2021 CIAC State Open at Veterans Stadium in New Britain on June 10. Aaron Flaum, Record-Journal
“I signed my National Letter of Intent in January and after some long and hard thinking I figured I wanted to try something new this season,” Pelletier said. “It was a risky choice I think but it was good because I did indoor track and although I had never done javelin, I’ve always wanted to try that. I’m actually happy that I did that – although I did miss out on another state championship – I’m thankful for all of the opportunities I’ve had in track.”
do great things.
“I was just blown away by her speed and athleticism,” Hernandez said. “I knew she would have an impact right away. She gained a lot of attention after her sophomore season. She had a lot of options where she wanted to go and what she wanted to do.”
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Friday, July 16, 2021
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Friday, July 16, 2021
EDITORIAL
Local communities take on invasive, insidious adversary They’re invasive and insidi- kind of plants that pollinaous and the battle to eradi- tors don’t like. cate them is being waged How do we know they’re on multiple fronts. bad? Because a phalanx of We’re talking plants. The local conservation groups, bad kind, the kind that garden clubs, land trusts clog up the landscape and and others concerned thwart native species, the about the environment are
doing all they can to educate the public about how to rid their yards and local byways of harmful vegetation. This spring a number of impressive strategies were employed to get rid of bad plants and support native types that help birds, butterflies and other pollinators thrive. The Eco-Justice Council at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church in Cheshire is one of the groups to take up the fight. Co-leader Marjorie Chapman said nonnative species or “introduced species” include autumn olive, barberry, bittersweet, and garlic mustard. During one project, the council trained volunteers to identify native versus unwanted species. They worked at Roaring Brook Park to tackle invasive garlic mustard. One participant said she now sees garlic mustard everywhere and stops to pull it out. Chapman said the group gained a better under-
standing of invasives and the damage they do to native woodland wildflowers and protected areas. In North Haven, a youth/ conservation project was organized by the North Haven Land Trust and Daytime Gardeners of North Haven to increase awareness of invasive plants and to introduce residents to the new Land Trust Nature Trail. Local Girl Scouts and experts pitched in, including master gardener Walt Brockett. He’s organized invasive removal programs in conjunction with the Invasive Plants Working Group. Fifty participants walked the trail with Brockett as he pointed out invasive plants. Handouts were shared with the participants so they’d have a reference to take home.
Trail. “We try to educate people … we try to tell them to stick with native plants,” said Val Guarino, president of the land conservation trust. “If they stuck with native plants they’d be safe, so to speak, and not upsetting the environment too much.” At a Cheshire Library presentation, landscape designer Kathy Connolly urged homeowners to buy plants that are native to the region where you live. “More garden centers are getting onboard and stocking native plants. Make sure they are correct for where you live.”
During another library talk, Cheshire Pollinator Pathway volunteer Joanna Giddings said tick levels dropped dramatically as native plantings brought in birds and other wildlife During an annual clean up, that devour insect pests. the Southington Land ConIn Berlin, the Kensington servation Trust put its foGarden Club recently celecus on tackling invasive brated completion of the species cropping up near the pollinator pathway the Native Plants Project — a organization created along collaborative effort with the town to remove invathe Farmington Canal sive plants in Volunteer Park and replace them with native plants in a new landscape design. The project was partially funded by the town and a grant from the Community Foundation of Greater New Britain.
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Over four months, the team removed all invasive shrubs, such as burning bushes, and barberry bushes. The removal freed space for native species and reduced the amount of invasive spread, said Kensington Garden Club President Paula Archacki. These collaborative and educational projects are critical to getting communities involved and are absolutely necessary if we’re going to outsmart these plants. — Originally published in the Record-Journal.
The Southington Citizen | southingtoncitizen.com
Friday, July 16, 2021
Leak prompts HazMat warning An ammonia leak compelled firefighters to warn residents within 1.5 miles of an Industrial Drive ice manufacturer to stay indoors and keep their windows closed and air conditioners off for two hours late Sunday night.
“All the necessary repairs will have to be made to secure the system and when they refill the tank, we can determine how much leaked out of it.” Diamond Ice manufactures block, cubed and packaged ice. The factory has aroundthe-clock capacity to produce more than 100,000 pounds of ice daily, according to the company’s website.
No injuries were reported and no environmental damage was done. The manufacturer, Diamond Ice, remained Anhydrous ammonia “is a shut down as of Monday night as a contractor continued to repair the leak, Southington Deputy Fire Chief Scott DiBattista said.
The incident at the plant at 93 Industrial Drive was reported shortly before 8 p.m. on Sunday. Firefighters arriving noticed a strong odor of ammonia and, using a thermal imaging camera, saw a plume venting from the roof area, DiBattista said. “It was venting through a roof vent as it was designed to do but we are unable to determine the amount of product that vented out. We probably won’t know that for quite a while,” DiBattista said Monday.
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Household ammonia is much less concentrated, according to CDC. nsambides@record-journal.com
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An area of approximately 1.5 miles in diameter from Diamond Ice includes ESPN’s headquarters, Lake Compounce and portions of West Queen Street, Town Line Road, Red Stone Hill and Routes 10 and 177. The Fire Department’s warning went out at 9:50 p.m. Sunday and an all-clear was issued at 11:52 p.m.
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Anhydrous ammonia is commonly used in manufacturing and refrigeration.
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Residents in Southington, Bristol and Plainville were notified by the emergency notification system and through door to door communication, DiBattista said.
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A reverse 911 warning issued by text set the warning perimeter at 1.25 miles, and a posting on the Southington Fire Department Facebook page listed the perimeter as 1.5 miles.
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toxic gas or liquid that, when concentrated, is corrosive to tissues upon contact. Exposure to ammonia in sufficient quantities can be fatal,” according to the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
A Classified ad is an easy way to sell your merchandise, and it’s easy on your wallet, too.
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By Nick Sambides Jr. and Lauren Sellew Record-Journal staff
GROW YOUR BUSINESS
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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.
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.
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The Southington Citizen | southingtoncitizen.com
Friday, July 16, 2021
Legal Notices & Classifieds
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PLANT MAINTENANCE MECHANIC
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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
The Town of Wallingford is seeking highly qualified and experienced applicants for the position of Executive Secretary. This position provides high-level administrative support and assistance to a Town department head and performs difficult clerical and administrative work requiring considerable independent judgment and confidentiality. The position requires excellent public relations and office management skills. Must have 6 years’ experience in responsible office work, some of which must have been in a supervisory capacity, or an equivalent combination of experience and college-level training. Pay rate $28.75 to $34.86 per hour plus an excellent benefit package. Application forms may be obtained at the Department of Human Resources, Town of Wallingford, 45 South Main Street, Wallingford, CT 06492. Forms will be mailed upon request from the Department of Human Resources or may be downloaded from Town of Wallingford Department of Human Resources Web Page. Phone: (203)-294-2080. Fax (203)-294-2084. The closing date will be July 21, 2021. EOE
Lawn and Garden
Old Machinist Tools, Lathes, BenchTools, Hand Tools & more. (203) 525-0608.
Highly skilled mechanic ALWAYS BUYING needed in the repair CASH PAID and maintenance of Vintage Electronics, all plant equipment to Musical Instruinclude pumping station ments, Amps, Ham equipment and motor Equipment, HiFi, vehicles for the Town Radios, CB, Guitars, Audio Equipof Wallingford Sewer ment, Antiques. Division. Requires gradu860-707-9350 ation from a high school/ trade school and 4 years experience in the repair ANTIQUES - Always and maintenance of buying old; Toys, mechanical equipment. military, jewelry, art, Must obtain a CDL Class watches, musical instruments, signs, B motor vehicle operator arcade games, license within 6 months cameras, pre 1970 of employment. $30.85 sports memorabilto $36.18 per hour plus ia, plus more. One an excellent fringe beneitem or entire estate fit package. Application contents. Call 860718-5132. forms may be obtained at the Department of Human Resources, Town BUYING MACHINIST of Wallingford, 45 South TOOLBOXES - Tools & tooling, contents of Main Street, Wallingford, machine shops, home CT 06492. Forms will workshops and small be mailed upon request lathes. Call anytime from the Department 860-985-5760 of Human Resources or may be downloaded from Town of Wallingford Department of Human Resources Web Page. Phone: (203)-294-2080. Fax (203)-294-2084. The closing date will be August 3, 2021 or the date the 25th application is received, whichever occurs first. EOE
“Children are made readers on the laps of their parents.”
- Emilie Buchwald
Lawn and Garden
PREMIUM SCREENED TOPSOIL
$25/yard delivered, 3 yd, $100 min. delivery Call Jim 860-982-4819
. Top Soil . Compost . . Wood Chips . FOR SALE. Catering to small deliveries. Call Bob (203) 415-0723
Wood Fuel Heating
MATERIALS Equipment DISTRIBUTION Screened Topsoil $25/ TREE LENGTH per yd; Sand-$15 per FIREWOOD yd; Millings-$10 per yd; CALL FOR DETAILS Screened Millings $30 203-238-2149 per yd; Clean Fill $8 per yd: $100 minimum Wanted To Buy delivery. No pickup truck service. Minimum 16 yd pickup at our yard. Call 1,2,3 Items or an Estate $$$ CASH $$$ Jim @ 860-982-4819 for Todd Shamock delivery Estate Sale Service Costume Jewelry, Antiques, Dolls, Toys, /Classified Paintings,Meriden Items Local listings online! 203-494-1695
WANTED Individual firearms, collections & estates including military & related items.Federally licensed firearms dealer. Gunsmith, appraisals, Richard Pleines, (860) 663-2214.
/SubscriberServices
Musical Instruments Instruction GUITAR INSTRUCTION - By Hartt School graduate, all styles including modern fingerstyle & classical. Call Bob Ingeno, 203-895-7767.
The Southington Citizen | southingtoncitizen.com
Friday, July 16, 2021
Businesses & Services Attics and Basements Cleaned
Gutters
Junk Removal
Landscaping
203-238-1953
Get Listed. Get Calls. Get Results. Masonry
CARPENTRY
GUTTERS PLUS 25+yrs. Exp. Call today for Free estimate. 203-440-3535 Ct. Reg. #578887
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
Home Improvements
TEC ELECTRICAL
Service LLC All Phases of Electrical Work. 24 hr. Emergency Service. Small Jobs Welcome. 203.237.2122 Let Us BEAR Your Junk! Junk Removal in CT
Gutters
GUTTERS DON’T WORK
If they’re dirty! For gutter cleaning, Call Kevin (203) 440-3279 Fully ins. CT# 569127
Roofing
Paving
Repairs, Decks & PorchHandyperson es, Sheetrock & Taping Water Damage Repairs. Free Est. Ins. MC & Visa. HOME DOCTOR - 48 yrs exp. Odd jobs & Call Bill (203) 901-2136. remodeling, former US CT. Reg. # 0647093 Navy, 15 yrs, #640689, 203.427.7828.
Electrical Services
Painting Wallpapering MORALES CONSTRUCTION & PAINTING - We do Sheetrock, tape, interior & exterior paint, powerwash & much more. 203.440.8068.
GARY WODATCH
Demolition Svs Sheds, pools, decks, garages, debris removal. Quick, courteous svc. All calls returned. Ins. #566326. Cell, 860-558-5430
Carpentry
A23
Specializing in roofing, siding, kitchens, bathrooms, flooring, basement remodeling. Senior citizen discount Insured. Free est. 203-265-5200 HIC#0631937
Landscaping GARY WODATCH Hedge & tree trimming. Trim overgrown properties. Calls returned. #620397.860-558-5430
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
JT’S LANDSCAPING LLC - Spring CleanUps, we specialize in weeding all types of beds, mulching, top soil work, pruning, hedges & trees, & all your landscape needs. Residential & commercial. Lic. #616311. Call today, 203 213-6528.
Over 25 yrs exp. Paving, Seal Coating, Concrete, Reg#1312085, 203-237-6058
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
Tree Services
R236823v3
#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
A Classified ad is an easy way to sell your merchandise, and it’s easy on your wallet, too.
POWER WASHING Is Spring Cleaning on THE OUTSIDE FREE Estimates #569127 Call Kevin 203-440-3279
SPRING CLEANUPS Tree Removal, Stump Grinding & more! Seasons Prop. Maint. DUMPSTER Rentals avail. 860.719.3953
ALEX MASONRY - 30 yrs. exp. Patios, Ret. Walls, Steps, Brick, Stone, Chimneys. #580443. 203-232-0257 or 203596-0652
GEORGE J MACK & SONS - Servicing the Meriden area since 1922. Toilet, faucet, sink & drain repairs. Yalesville Construction Water heater replace- Specializing in all phases ments. 15% Sr citizen of residential & disc. 203-238-2820. commercial roofing. Senior citizen discount Insured Free est. Power Washing 203-265-5200 HIC#0631937
GARY WODATCH - Tree Removal. All calls returned. CT#620397 Quick courteous service. 860-558-5430.
Painting Wallpapering
Masonry
Skylights. Flashing. Financing Available. #0649808 203.510.3830. lmconstructionct.com
Plumbing
RT RELOCATION Your moving and storage specialists. Call for a free estimate. 833-668-3978.
CROSSWORD ANSWER
SUDOKU ANSWER
D & G PAVING
Roofing #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
ROOFING, SIDING, & STORM DAMAGE
100% Financing Avail. GAF MASTER ELITE LA-RICH ROOFING LLC 860-747-4427 860-622-9800
Specializing in tree removal, trimming, chipping & grinding. Call for free estimate. 203-945-1808.
The Southington Citizen | southingtoncitizen.com
Friday, July 16, 2021
Make Your Ordinary Bathroom Extraordinary
IN JUST ONE DAY! AS LITTLE AS
$500 Off
*
OR
NO PAYMENTS & NO INTEREST FOR 18 MONTHS** OFFER EXPIRES 9.30.2021
Military & Senior Discounts Available
• Tub-to-Shower Conversions • Replacement Tubs • Replacement Showers • Walk-in Tubs • Roll-in Showers • Bathtub Liners R238055V2
A24
• Soaker Tubs And more!
• 900+ Authorized Dealers in North America • Factory-Trained & Certified Installers
• Limited Lifetime Warranty • Made in the U.S.A.
877-318-2185
*Includes product and labor; bathtub, shower or walk-in tub and wall surround. This promotion cannot be combined with any other offer. Other restrictions may apply. This offer expires Sept 30, 2021. Each dealership is independently owned and operated. **Third party financing is available for those customers who qualify. See your dealer for details. ©2021 BCI Acrylic, Inc.