The Southington | Plainville Citizen

Sports bar crafts game plan around the food

By Christian Metzger Record-Journal staff

SOUTHINGTON The longtime owner of the Hop Häus locations unveiled a new type of eatery in town last month a sports bar called The Salty Dog Tavern at 1783 Meriden-Waterbury Turnpike.

The restaurant bills itself as an up beat, sports-focused establish ment serving high-quality food and local craft beer.

“After traveling around the area, there's really not a lot of familyfriendly, comfortable places to watch the games,” said Mike Miller,

owner of the Salty Dog. “I was look ing for a fun spot to watch the game with friends or family and enjoy good food at the same time.”

Miller has been a restaurant owner in the local area for 15 years, operat ing the Hop Häus locations in

See Sports bar, A19

Retracting doors likely to be cut from plan

By Christian Metzger Record-Journal staff

SOUTHINGTON Members of the library building committee met this past week to discuss further alter ations to the library plan, further downscaling features to save money while also making preliminary deci sions on interior technology and lighting fixtures.

One of the features being scaled back is the set of glass doors in the public meeting room that were go

See Library, A20

Unique terrarium store finds a home in Plainville

By Nicole Zappone The Citizen

PLAINVILLE This past July, New Eng land Herpetoculture moved to a store front on Woodford Avenue.

From 2010 to 2012, NEHERP had a walk-in shop in New Britain, but since 2012, the business was online-only.

Mike Siavrakas owns the shop with his wife, Jessica. Mike Smith is their most senior employee.

Siavrakas started the company about 13 years ago, and Smith has been with him for the last decade. New England Herpetoculture manufactures living ter rarium ecosystems.

See Terrarium, A2

Mike Smith, left, and Mike Siavrakas at New England Herpetoculture, located on Woodford Avenue in Plainville.

Manager Wendi Suski and Steve McGary, co-owner of The Salty Dog Tavern, pose for a photo inside the new business in the former Tipping Chair Tavern space at 1783 Meriden-Waterbury Turnpike in Plantsville. Dave Zajac, Record-Journal

Photos by Nicole Zappone

Terrarium

Discussing the move to Plainville, Siavrakas said they wanted their customers to be able to come out and see all the products they car ry, in person, and bring them home that day.

Herpetoculture is the keep ing of live reptiles and am phibians in captivity, whether as a hobby or com mercial breeding operation.

From A1 Pruning, Cabling, Tree Removal

“We don’t want to be known as a pet store,” Siavrakas said. “We do sell animals, but we sell plants primarily.”

Siavrakas said the goal is to help people bring a piece of the wilderness indoors, re sponsibly. “These animals are our babies,” he said. “We raise them from when they hatch until they are fully grown. Some we have had for several years.”

Walking into the shop, cus tomers encounter several rows of live terrarium hous es of various color, size and shape. The terrariums can house animals such as geckos, frogs and fish.

“Every one one of our ani mals is well socialized,” Smith said. “Green geckos are harder to handle be cause they are lightning fast.”

CT holcombtree@yahoo.com Office:

860-416-0668

‘Munsters’ actor makes timely appearance at Plainville museum

By Nicole Zappone The Citizen

PLAINVILLE Just in time for Halloween, one of the stars of Rob Zombie’s “The Munsters” paid a visit to The Witch's Dungeon Classic Movie Museum, located at 103 E Main St.

The special guest, Daniel Roebuck, plays the role of The Count Grandpa Mun ster in Zombie’s 2022 film, which is based on the classic TV show of the same name.

See Munsters,

Actor Daniel Roebuck, right, visited The Witch’s Dungeon Classic Movie Museum in Plainville on Oct. 27 to promote the release of “The Munsters.” Roebuck plays the role of The Count Grandpa Munster in the Rob Zombie film. The actor is pictured with Witch’s Dungeon owner Cortlandt Hull, left, and Emmywinning puppeteer Bill Diamond at the East Main Street museum.

Nicole Zappone, The Citizen

Santa Claus returning to Norton Park

Plainville residents will once again have the chance to wave to Santa Claus on Wednesday, Dec. 7, at 6 p.m.

Santa Claus, Mrs. Claus and

friends will circle Norton Park in fun and festive vehi cles. Residents are invited to dress and decorate for the holidays and come to watch Santa’s parade from the comfort of their cars. Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus will al so be joined by local police and fire trucks. Santa’s

friends will be handing out special treats along the pa rade route.

Those who plan to attend the event will be directed to parking places between 5:15 and 5:45 p.m. Spectators are asked to remain in their ve hicles for the duration of the event.

The Snowflake Fair

The Congregational Church of Plainville, 130 West Main St., Plainville will host its Annual Snowflake Fair on Nov. 12, from 9 a.m. 3 p.m. Join us for a traditional Church Fair featuring

Crafters/Vendors from near and far, baked goods & food truuck, a silent auction and more for the holidays and beyond! Free Admission! Call 860-747-1901 or email churchoffice@ucc plainville.org for more info. www.uccplainville.org

Munsters

From A3

Roebuck toured The Witch's Dungeon and mingled with the public during his publi cized visit to the museum. He and Cortlandt Hull, who owns The Witch's Dungeon, have known eachother since the 90s.

“I just love this place, and coming here,” said Roebuck, who has had a lifelong fasci nation with the horror genre.

Hull said the actor has al ways been very supportive of the museum, even including the spooky Plainville busi ness in his documentary “Halloween, The Happy Haunting of America.”

As for getting the chance to play the iconic character Granda Munster, Roebuck said, “It’s a dream come true for any monster kid. And it’s happened.”

Community Invit ed to Sing

Grace Methodist Church in vites anyone in the South ington community who loves to sing and loves Christmas music to join their Christmas Cantata. Rehearsals are on Thursday evenings and the Canta ta will be performed on Dec 18. No experience is neces sary. The ability to read mu sic is not required.

This experience promises to be a fun way to enjoy singing, Christmas music and meeting new friends.

All are welcome. For more information or to attend the

next Thursday rehearsal contact clounsbury@cox.net or call 860-919-4237

Orchestra opens for the 34th Season

The Cheshire Symphony Or chestra opens its 34th Sea son with a Fall Concert on Friday, Nov. 11, at 7:30 p.m. at St. Peter’s Church. Under the direction of Dr. Hilarie Clark Moore, the orchestra will be performing Beethoven's Coriolan Over ture, Op 62, Handel's "En trance of the Queen of She

ba" from Solomon, Skoryk's Melody for String Orchestra, Smetana's "The Moldau" from Má Vlast and Dvoraks's Symphony No. 8 in G major, Op. 88.

Admission prices are $15 for adults, $10 for students and seniors, children 5 and un der are free. Tickets may be purchased at the door. St Pe ter's Church is located at 59 Main St. Cheshire. Masks are suggested. For more infor mation you can find them on Facebook or check out their website https:// www.cheshiresymphony

orchestra.org.

Covid Clinic Open To Public

Griffin Health will conduct a FREE COVID vaccine/boost er shot clinic at the Plainville Senior Center, 200 East St., Plainville on Monday, Nov. 14, from 10 a.m. to 3:30

p.m. This clinic is open to the public 12 years of age and up. Moderna and Pfizer available. All shots in cluding 1st and 2nd vaccines and all boosters. Call the Se nior Center, 860-747-5728, to make an appointment. Bring your photo ID, insurance card and COVID vaccine card. Walk-ins welcome!

Southington Police Blotter

SOUTHINGTON reported by the Southington Police:

Oct. 21

Jason d. Feldblum, 49, 208 Mulberry St., operating under

the influence of drugs or alco hol, 11:58 a.m.

Oct. 22

Matthew J. Carlson, 23, 989 Old Turnpike Road, violation of a protective order, 7 a.m.

Oct. 23

Jelany M. Fontanez, 31, no address given, sixth-degree larceny, 9:54 p.m.

See Police, A7

In Brief

Grandparents Raising Grandchildren

If you are a grandparent or relative who is raising a grand child, niece or nephew, you are not alone. Come to the sup port group on Tuesday, Nov. 15, at 10:30 a.m., at the Plainville Senior Center, 200 East St., Plainville and share re sources, ideas, struggles, joys and more with others who are raising their grandchildren. Funding for this program is made possible in part by the Older Americans Act through the North Central Area Agency on Aging. Call the Senior

Leaf collection in the Town of Plainville began Monday and will continue through Dec. 3, weather permitting. Areas to be covered during the first collection (schedule subject to change): Central area, West Main Street area, Farmington Avenue area, South End/Red Stone Hill area, Shuttle Mead ow area, Arcadia Avenue area, Metacomet area, Northwest area, Unionville Avenue area. Rake leaves to the curbline. Bagged leaves and grass clippings will not is collected. No sticks or stones. Bagged leaves can be brought to the dropoff center Monday through Friday from 2 to 4 p.m., and Sat urdays from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Questions? Call Public Works, 860-793-0221 ext. 7176.

From

Islander O. Rosa, 30, 66 Tal madge St., Bristol, operating un der the influence of drugs or al cohol, 4 p.m.

Oct. 24

Roberto Ettorre, 50, 32 Rose leah, Plainville, sixth-degree larceny, 7:24 p.m.

Mark S. Kevorkian, 67, 147 Ly on St., New Britain, conspiracy to commit fourth-degree larceny, fourth-degree larceny, third-de gree larceny, 11:10 p.m.

Eric Rios, 28, 31 Giddings St., Hartford, possession of con trolled substance first offense, 5:05 p.m.

Oct. 25

Laura Crisp, 35, 27 Crows Nest Lane, Danbury, sixth-de gree larceny, conspiracy, 2:30 p.m.

Laura Crisp, 35, 27 Crows Nest Lane, Danbury, possession of control substance first of fense, 4:47 p.m.

Tyrone C. Freutas, 59, 27 Crows Nest Lane, Apt. 16E, Dan bury, possession of controlled substance, sixth-degree larceny, conspiracy to commit sixth-de gree larceny, second-degree breach of peace, 2:30 p.m.

Rakeem L. Wright, 31, 970 S. Main St. Apt. 201, second-de gree failure to appear, 12:22 p.m.

Oct. 26

Travis DiBenedetto, 40, 8 Dar ling St. Apt. G, disorderly con duct, third-degree assault, 4 p.m.

Travis DiBenedetto, 40, 8 Dar ling St. Apt. G, second-degree violation of conditions of release, 6:07 p.m.

Tajay Hunter, 22, 67 Allen Place, Hartford, third-degree burglary, conspiracy to commit third-degree burglary, first-de gree criminal mischief, fourth-de gree larceny, conspiracy to com mit fourth-degree larceny, sixthdegree larceny, conspiracy to commit sixth-degree larceny, 9:20 a.m.

Tomor Likollari, 64, 366 Schraffts Drive, Apt. 211, Water bury, violation of a protective or der, 9 p.m. Oct. 27

Nasser Abdelaziz, 30, 817 S. Main St., disorderly conduct, second-degree assault, seconddegree threatening, 11:21 p.m.

Alonzo Hutson, 63, 8 Roo sevelt Place, Apt. 2, Brooklyn, N.Y., third-degree larceny, con spiracy to commit third-degree larceny, illegal possession of shoplifting device, 3:51 p.m.

Macario G. Mendoza, 18, 90 Sunset Ridge Drive, second-de gree criminal mischief, seconddegree breach of peace, 6:15 p.m.

Victor R. Perez, 43, 311 Hill crest Terrace, Meriden, interfer

See Police, A8

Words of Wellness

HEADACHE RELIEF

People get headaches for many reasons, but no matter the cause, an intense headache has the power to derail a person’s day and affect their ability to carry on with daily life. Common headaches are migraine, tension, and cervicogenic, and it’s essential to take them seriously, especially if they occur frequently. While over-thecounter medications provide temporary relief, they won’t get to the root of the issue. Tension headaches are the most common type of headache, and people will often turn to their chiropractors for a safe and effective solution. Chiropractors are skilled at assessing, diagnosing, and managing their patient’s headaches, utilizing various techniques. Manual therapy, soft tissue therapy, lifestyle changes, education, and electrical stimulation are all viable treatment options.

Headaches have many causes triggers These may include foods, environmental stimuli (noises, lights, stress, etc.) and behaviors (insomnia, excessive exercise, blood sugar changes). Chiropractors can assess, diagnose, and manage headaches. Current evidence suggests that chiropractic care, including manual therapy, can be effective in treating cervicogenic and tension headaches. Studies have also shown that chiropractic care can help decrease the intensity and frequency of migraines. Please call 860-621-2225 to schedule an appointment. We are located at 200 Queen St., Southington.

P.S. We combine chiropractic with acupuncture and food testing to successfully treat migraines.

The Plainville Wind Ensemble

The Plainville Wind Ensem ble, a 2022 National Ameri can Prize Award winning symphonic concert band, and the Central Connecticut State University Veterans Af fairs Department present “Let Freedom Ring” on Nov. 13, 2 p.m. at Central

See Wind, A9

In Brief

Police

From A7

ing with an officer, criminal possession of a pistol/re volver, 12:38 p.m.

Oct. 30

Dennis Y. Aponte, 25, 58 Wildwood Ave., Waterbury, carrying a dangerous weapon, interfering with an officer, second-degree breach of peace, first-degree assault, 11:05 p.m.

Kylie T. Blazek, 24, 91 Squires Drive, illegal posses sion of a weapon in a motor vehicle, second-degree breach of peace, 10:14 p.m.

50th reunion

The Southington High School Class of 1973 50th re union planning committee is looking for classmates. If you are a 1973 SHS gradu ate, or know of one, email SHS73_50threunion@ aol.com.

Snowflake Fair

The Congregational Church of Plainville, 130 West Main St., will host its Snowflake Fair Saturday, Nov. 12 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Crafters are sought. Call 860-747-1901 or email churchoffice@ucc plainville.org.

Connecticut State University. Joining the Ensemble in Welte Hall are members of the Hardware City Marine

Detachment, local Marines from the Plainville Naval and Marine Reserve Center, U.S. Naval Sea Cadet Corps Bar

que Eagle Division and Hart ford Healthcare at Home. The official march of the U.S. Space Force "Semper

Supra,” composed in 2022 by James Teachenor and Sean

From A8

Nelson will be performed during the Armed Forces Salute.

In their 35th year, direct ed by Ken Bagley, the 70 member symphonic band has premiered sev eral works and per formed at the Association of Concert Bands Nation al Convention in 2018 and 2019, as well as the Boston Festival of Bands and the Lake George Fes tival of Bands.

The 2022 holiday season marks the 75th anniver sary of the Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Pro gram. The Marines will be accepting new, un wrapped toys at the door. The Parking Garage and concert is free and acces sible. For more informa tion on the Plainville Wind Ensemble and this concert, visit www plainvillewindensem ble.com.

POLICE VISIT SCHOOL

Hanging with the big dogs

Rams,

By Sean Krofssik Record-Journal staff

MANCHESTER Cheshire’s Alexa Ciccone continued her torrid junior season of cross country with a sixth-place finish at Friday’s State Open at Wickham Park. Ciccone was in the lead pack all race and crossed the finish

stride

line in 19:20 on an unseason ably warm early Novem ber afternoon that was felt by the runners.

Frank T. Wheeler Elementary School preschoolers recently enjoyed a visit from members of the Plainville Police Department and Fire Department. The students enjoyed visiting with the special community helpers!

Southington’s

Lombardo competes in the State Open at Wickham Park in Manchester on Friday. Lombardo finished 24th overall with a time of 20:18.

Cross country

From A10

and it was so hot today. But it still was a good race. It was very exciting to finish in the Top 6 and make New Eng land’s.”

The girls race was won by Glastonbury’s Brooke Strauss. The sophomore led the field with a 19:05 and guided Glastonbury to the team championship with 65 points.

Cheshire finished eighth as a team with 239 points. Behind Ciccone for the Rams were Emily D'Souza (35th, 20:46), Mia Vientos (71st, 21:39), Ava Ciccone (108th, 22:09) and Eva Curran (118th, 22:37).

“We were here running in the state championship against the best teams,” Cheshire coach Rob Schaefer said. “I am so proud of these girls. They’ve had some good days and some OK today, but they never had a bad day … The girls were pumped up and were ready today.”

Like Cheshire, the Southing ton girls qualified as a team for the State Open and placed 12th with 258 points. They were led by junior Jessi ca Lombardo, who was 24th overall with a time of 20:18.

“I worked very hard and I’m so happy to get this opportu

Jessica

Southington senior Jake Nafis competes in the State Open at Wickham Park in Manchester on Friday. Nafis finished 101st in 17:56.

Photos by Aaron Flaum, Record-Journal

It’s Heating Assistance Awareness Month

Press Release

With winter approaching and heating systems being turned on in homes and businesses across the state, Eversource is reminding cus tomers about the many re sources available to them. In recognition of Heating Assis tance Awareness Month in Connecticut, the energy company is partnering with state leaders and the com

munities it serves to raise awareness about payment plans and energy assistance programs available to help keep homes and businesses warm this winter.

“This is a challenging time for our customers as tem peratures drop. We have many ways to help, and cus tomers should absolutely take advantage of them. Most important is that if you meet state income require

ments, we will protect your household from service shut off during the coldest months each year,” said Ev ersource Vice President of Customer Operations Jess Cain. “We’re holding free virtual information sessions, and we’ll go over crucial programs that customers should know about includ ing Connecticut’s Energy As sistance Program and Ever source’s Matching Payment

Program and New Start, which can provide lower monthly payments.”

Customers who’ve never needed assistance previously may not realize they qualify for protection from service disconnection and may also be eligible for other pro grams to reduce past due balances.

Eversource is encouraging customers who are having

difficulty paying their energy bills to participate in one of three upcoming noon-time webinars Nov. 17, Dec. 1 or Dec. 8 to learn more about programs available to help. Registration is required. Sign up at Eversource.com/Bill help. Customers can also call the energy company at 800-286-2828 to learn more about the assistance and payment programs avail able.

PAINT NIGHT

Middle School of Plainville students, families and faculty came together in October for a night of fun and creativity at MSP’s “Paint Night,” a fundraiser for the school’s Parent Teacher Club. Art teacher Laura Meehan created step-by-step demonstrations for attendees to follow along. The result was some beautiful canvas paintings of fall pumpkins. Pictured: Seri Johnson and Mrs. Johnson.

Nolan Meehan and Emmie Burgess

Ella Simard, Sophie Meehan, Reese Landrette, Thomas Roberts

Mrs. Bright, Mrs. Grabowski, Ella Grabowski, Jordan Bright

Front Row: Zaria White, Amari Robinson; Back Row: Mrs. White, Mr. Robinson, Mrs. Robinson.

Josh Morissette

Resident gets national recognition for teaching excellence

By Christian Metzger Record-Journal staff

SOUTHINGTON Town resident Lori Durocher re ceived the Presidential Award for Ex cellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching in recognition of her work in West Hart ford schools.

She was one of 117 teach ers recog nized nationally in Washing ton D.C by White House offi cials and the National Sci ence Foundation for their distinction in the classroom and novel ways of improving STEM education for kids.

“It was very exciting to re ceive the honor when I found out I was the Connecticut winner,” Durocher said, “It is very rare that early childhood teachers are recognized.”

Durocher has a B.A in ele mentary education from Southern Connecticut State University and has been a kindergarten teacher for 33 years. She currently works at Norfeldt Elementary School, where she’s been for 26 years.

In the classroom, Durocher is dedicated to giving kinder garten students an advanced education, teaching them hands-on learning skills and foundational scientific prin

ciples in easily understand able ways. She allows kids to conduct experiments, to see the concepts they learn about in action rather than simply read them out of a book.

“We research the scientific innovation versus ‘let's read a book about plants, or ‘let's read a book about cars mov ing.’ No, we're in the hallway and we've got car tracks, ob stacles and stopwatches,” Durocher said.

Norfeldt also provides spe cialized education for stu dents with physical and mental disabilities, giving them access to resources other schools in the district are unable to provide. Durocher works with these children every year and works to accommodate their needs, integrating them into the classroom space so that they can learn alongside their peers an experience she says is important for de velopment in understanding

differences as they grow up.

Durocher has been a South ington resident since she was two years old, and credits the community and the experi ences she had for inspiring her decision to become an educator.

“I felt like that award really isn't so much about me as much as it is about my school community, my students, and the hometown that I was educated in,” she said. “I felt like it was a little bit of homage to Southington.”

Spotlight on CT

Durocher was nominated for the award by Norfeldt Princi pal Jen Derick, who thought it would be a good way to recognize Durocher’s com mitment to education and longstanding work with the school.

“When I heard about the award, her name popped in to my head pretty immedi ately,” Derick said. “I've worked with Lori for over eight years now and she's just a consistent exemplary teacher and I thought it would be something to hon or her.”

Both of them acknowledged

the importance of the award as a moment to recognize educators from around the country for their work, and to hopefully bring a spotlight to Connecticut’s education sys tem as a whole. Durocher is currently mentoring other teachers so they can imple ment her methods into their own classrooms.

“It's important for teachers to be recognized. All teachers give their heart and soul to the profession,” Derick said. “So I was very grateful that Lori was being recognized.”

Durocher noted how the trip to Washington for the award was an illuminating experi ence, getting to meet other teachers from across the country alongside officials from the National Science Foundation and the Office on Education and Policy for Sci ence who were interested in hearing their perspectives.

“They're sitting with us talk ing about education policy and asking us, ‘Tell us what we can do better. And I'm thinking to myself, You're asking me, little old Lori Durocher?

thought, Wow, they really want to make a difference.’”

Lori Durocher with Dr. Quincy Brown, Senior Policy Advisor at the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP) and Dr. Sylvia Butterfield, Acting Assistant Director at the Directorate for Education and Human Resources (EHR) within the National Science Foundation (NSF) Photo courtesy of PAEMST

Award

Path ahead

The experience inspired her to use her experience to in form early education policy and make changes in school systems on a broader level.

Currently, she is pursuing a master’s degree in curricu lum and instruction while still teaching kindergarten

classes full-time.

“I feel like I made a differ ence just at the end of each day with those students and with those families,” Durocher said. “I'm going to finish my curriculum in struction while still teaching full time and then see where my path goes next. I don't think I ever want to leave the classroom, but I'm really very passionate about training new educators.”

cmetzger@record-journal.com

Department hosted an in-person college fair on Oct. 17! Over 95 colleges, universities, military reps and trade schools were present in the school’s gymnasium. Sophomores, juniors and seniors (and their parents) were able to visit and speak with representatives in all categories. The college fair event was highly successful with positive feedback received from students, families, and representatives. See more photos on Page A16.

After a two year hiatus, the

Plainville High School Counseling

Christmas in the Village returns to Plantsville

By Jesse Buchanan Record-Journal staff

SOUTHINGTON Christ mas in the Village will return to Plantsville this year as part of changes to local holi day events.

For the past several years, business leaders in the Southington and Plantsville downtowns have organized a combined event, White Christmas, that included events in both places. While tree lightings run by the town’s Recreation Depart ment will take place in both downtowns, only Plantsville merchants are organizing a Christmas event.

The recreation department’s Santa event will also move from the Southington Drivein’s pavilion to the Calendar House Senior Center on Pleasant Street this year.

Christmas in the Village

The Village of Plantsville As sociation is organizing

Christmas in the Village which is planned for Dec. 8.

Dawn Miceli, an organizer of White Christmas in the Community, gave a presen tation to the Parks and Recreation Board this week on the upcoming event.

Village association co-chair Dolores Fanelli, also a White Christmas organizer, is working on Christmas in the Village this year. She and others put on a renewed Halloween in the Village last month, the first such event in two years and which drew 4,000 people.

David Lapreay, the town’s recreation, youth and senior services director, said the vil lage association was orga nizing the event, other than the town’s tree lighting cere mony.

Tree lighting in Southington, Plantsville

Lapreay said there are two tree lighting events planned for the town. There’ll be a drawing for kids to enter for a chance to light the trees.

In Plantsville, it will coincide

with Christmas in the Village on Dec. 8.

In Southington downtown, Lapreay is planning a tree lighting for Dec. 2.

“I’m hoping to possibly get the chorus group from the high school to do some car oling there,” he said.

Susan Urillo Larson, a busi

ness owner who’s helped or ganize the White Christmas event, said she hadn’t heard of anything other than the recreation department’s tree lighting ceremony in down town Southington this year.

Rob Flood, a former vice president at Liberty Bank downtown, was a driving

See Christmas, A17

Christmas

From A15

force in organizing down town merchant events. Lar son said after he moved out of town there hasn’t been a combined Christmas cele bration.

Santa’s Jolly Holiday

The town has traditionally had an event with Santa on the Sunday after Thanksgiv ing. Lapreay said this year will continue that tradition although at a new location and with a new name.

Rather than Santa in the Park at the Drive-In, he’s or ganizing Santa’s Jolly Holi day at the Calendar House. It will be held indoors to avoid uncertainty with the weather and is now at the building where the recre ation department is located. Lapreay said there will be Clydesdale-drawn hay rides at the DePaolo School park ing lot, face painting, Valen tine the Clown and balloon creations in addition to San ta from 2 to 4 p.m. It’s set for

Nov. 27 at the Calendar House, 388 Pleasant St. jbuchanan@record-journal.com 203-317-2230 Twitter: @JBuchananRJ

help some of Berlin, New Britain, Meriden, Wallingford, Southington & Plainville’s elderly residents get to medical appointments in the area.

Southington resident Kristina Ferreri, 7, smiles for the cameras as she sits on Santa's lap in the Southington Volunteer Fire Department during Christmas in the Village in downtown Plantsville, December 1, 2011. Sarah Nathan, Record-Journal file photo

Sports bar

From A1

Southington and Plainville. His new venture seeks to branch out from the tradi tional restaurant environ ment and provide residents with a family-friendly envi ronment with high-quality food, Miller said. A highlight on the menu, according to Miller, is their selection of wings.

Miller has worked to incor porate vegetarian options in to the menu as well for guests with allergies and di etary restrictions, along with several kinds of non-al coholic and gluten-free beer.

The tavern hosts several events during the week out side of sports games with trivia nights on Wednesdays at 7 p.m and karaoke on Fri day at 9 p.m.

“As much as I love craft beer, sometimes I just want to un wind and watch the game with friends enjoying good wings and some fun food,”

Miller said.

Though, like the rest of the restaurant industry, Miller has experienced supply chain and staffing challenges with his new tavern. He said the support from other business owners and members of the community allowed him to see great success during their opening month of operation.

“It’s a great town, a very supportive town. When I opened this restaurant, ev erybody came up to support us and they still are,” Miller said. “They really supported me in a lot of different busi ness ventures and I’m very appreciative of the town.”

Barbara Coleman-Hekeler, president of the Southington Chamber of Commerce, ex pressed her support for the Salty Dog. She noted several other restaurants have closed in the same location, the Tipping Chair Tavern having occupied the space before the Salty Dog, Cole man-Hekeler believes

Miller’s success with his oth er restaurants will bring new life to the Meriden-Water bury Turnpike plaza.

“We are thrilled to see that he's expanding his restau rant group to include the Salty Dog Tavern. Other restaurants have tried to succeed in that location, and Mike Miller is truly an expert at what he does,” ColemanHekeler said. “He's a true restaurateur. He knows how to run efficiently, but he also knows what customers are looking for. He knows how to make it a fun dining expe rience. It's a nice place”

Miller already has ambitious plans for the restaurant and is looking to further branch out with new menu options, participate in community events, and start several food challenges to bring people out to see the tavern.

“We're working on a burger challenge and a couple real ly fun food-related things to keep the Salty Dog set apart from everybody else,” Miller said.

The Salty Dog plans to make

a showcase of its wings this year at the 16th Annual Southington Chamber of Commerce Wingfest, which will be held on Monday, Nov. 14, at the Cadillac Ranch, 45 Jude Lane.

Miller is optimistic about the future of the tavern, hoping to expand the Salty Dog

The Salty Dog Tavern, a new business in the former Tipping Chair Tavern space at 1783 MeridenWaterbury Turnpike in Plantsville. Dave Zajac, Record-Journal

name to several other loca tions in the coming years.

The Salty Dog Tavern is open Wednesday-Monday from 2:30 p.m to midnight on weekdays, and opens at 11:30 a.m on Saturday and Sunday.

ing to retract to open out onto the exterior hardscape area to allow for larger functions to be hosted and allow for free movement between the inside and outside of the building during the spring and summer months.

Committee members on Wednesday cited issues of practicality and weather con cerns for removing the feature, despite strong objections at the previous meeting from committee Chairman Jim Morelli, who argued that the retractable glass doors were

supposed to be the highlight of the building. While the imple mentation of the feature was left on the table pending an al ternate means of securing funding for it, thoughts from the committee members indi cated a low likelihood it would end up in the finished struc ture.

“I realize we really wanted an architectural feature, but I just don’t think that, on the north side of the building, that it’s right,” said Vice Chairman Paul Champagne.

Other members of the com mittee were in agreement with Champagne.

“Even if you [opened] it 10

times during the summer I mean, that’s fun but now let’s button it up and get ready for winter,” committee mem ber Ralph Warner said.

The removal of the feature is another casualty of the contin ued downscaling of the library project, which is 6,000 squarefeet smaller than originally proposed during preliminary discussions prior to last year’s successful referendum, in which voters authorized $17 million in spending on the new library.

Even with the smaller 24,000 square-foot library plan offi cially presented back in a spe cial meeting in late September, the project was a million dol

lars over budget from the $17 million granted last November necessitating further cuts over the past several meet ings.

The removal of the exterior door system would save $114,000, getting the building committee closer to the $17 million target, though the pro ject still remains over budget. Other discussions at the meet ing threw out the idea of po tentially incorporating a base ment level into the new library plan after boring came back positive and found no issues with the site’s water table. Adding a basement would al low for builders to include the utilities on-site, rather than

having to place them else where outside the property.

While designers did not dis count the possibility at this stage of the planning process, it would only increase the amount of money put into the final footprint likely out weighing the amount of mon ey spent to keep the utilities on the exterior of the building.

“I think we're beyond that right now,” Warner said. The committee reviewed other aspects of the building plans during the meeting, including the doors, lighting fixtures, and technology that would be used in the final building.

Currently planners are consid ering using unconventionally shaped fixtures, taking on curving and floral designs for spaces like the children’s read ing area, the central staircase, and upper meeting rooms.

Adelphia Café

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They’re also looking at imple menting clandestine ceiling lights to illuminate the walls for the planned art installa tions, drawing the eye of visi tors walking through those spaces.

TV screens are going to be placed around by the en trances and circulation desks in the library, allowing staff to easily display calendars and event information for patrons.

Projectors will be mounted in the community rooms and can be oriented to display footage to the entire hall.

Many other aspects of the building at this point in the planning process remain pending, such as the re-use of furniture from the current li brary, along with the technolo gy package that would provide the facility with a suite of new computers and chromebooks.

The committee is still deciding how to proceed with these items, and is still pursuing bid ding alternatives for many oth er features such as the exterior hardscape areas.

The next meeting of the build ing committee is scheduled for Nov. 16 at 6 p.m at the South ington library, where further details of the project will be more thoroughly outlined as architects tentatively hope to have a concrete plan before the end of the year.

nity to show what I have ac complished,” Lombardo said.

Southington coach Nick Mi gani said Lombardo is be coming professional in her approach to running.

“She goes in with goal of tak ing 10 seconds off of her PR each race,” Migani said. “She’s done that day in and day out. Even when she’s not feeling her best, she goes out and give her best. It’s been really impressive what she’s accomplished this year.”

Also scoring for Southington were Julia Donorfio (68th, 21:35), Katherine Cavanaugh (79th, 29:51), Emma Talon (95th, 21:57) and Ava Egan (111th, 22:32).

“The girls were a little disap pointed in their times after making huge jumps from CCC’s to LL’s,” Migani said.

Cross country Coming to your home or business

“Today we knew we weren’t as competitive to go to New England’s as a team. Looking at the course and seeing some of the top girls in the state struggling (with the heat) put it all into perspec tive.”

The only two area boys to reach the Open were South ington senior twin brothers Drew and Jake Nafis. Drew finished 72nd in 17:34 and Jake Nafis 101st in 17:56.

Migani said the heat was a factor in both races.

“I don’t think I’ve seen run ners come up the Green Monster as bad as they did today,” Migani said. “The heat and the change of tem perature affected everyone running.”

From R237821

Costume

com/southington-plainville-requester

Halloween HELP KEEP SUDOKU ANSWER CROSSWORD ANSWER R248033 v2

LEGAL NOTICE

ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS PLAINVILLE, CONNECTICUT

The Zoning Board of Appeals of Plainville, Connecticut will hold a Public Hearing(s) on Monday November 14, 2022 at 7:30 PM to hear and consider the following applica tion(s):

SHUTTLE MEADOW ROAD

Application #22-11-01, Sidney Dalke of 112 Shuttle Meadow Roade LLC seeks a vari ance to Article 1 Residential Zones, Section 1.03 Dimensional Standards, Sub-section B Minimum Yard Requirements Side Yard Requirements to permit the reduction of the required minimum southerly side yard from ten (10’) feet to five (5’) feet for the purpos es of constructing an addition at a property known as 112 Shuttle Meadow Road.

Plainville, Connecticut this 27th day of Oc tober 2022

Peter Autunno, Chairperson Plainville Zoning Board of Appeals R256243

LOST SET OF KEYSHas a KIA car key on it. If found please call me at 203-206-4484.

MILESTAR TIRES - Size 265/60RX18, sport all season tires, used only 3,000 miles, $250 for 4. (203) 927-8721.

TOP CASH PAID

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

TORO CLEAR 518

PREMIUM

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

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TIMELESS TREASURES

BOSCH NEXXT SERIES

WASHER

& DRYER

500 Series Washing Machine & Dryer. Dryer has under unit storage drawer. $275 o.b.o. (203) 715-6489.

Call Jim @ 860-982-4819 for delivery

1,2,3,4,5 Items or an Estate $$$ CASH $$$

Todd Shamock Estate Sale Service Costume Jewelry, Antiques, Dolls, Toys, Paintings,Meriden Items 203-494-1695

ALWAYS PAYING TOP DOLLAR - For your unwanted gold, silver, coins, watches, vintage costume jewelry and more!!! 35+ years of experience Call Sandy, 203-768-2443.

ESTATE AUCTIONS - Is looking to purchase es tate contents. We pay cash for single items or entire estates. We are especially interest ed in old toys, military items, costume jewel ry, old swords, sports cards, fine jewelry, old watches, sterling sil ver, dental gold, coin collections, advertising signs, pocket and hunt ing knives & so much more. Estate cleanout services available. 30 years experience. Call Bill (203) 494-2496.

TREE LENGTH FIREWOOD CALL FOR DETAILS 203-238-2149 MATERIALS DISTRIBUTION Screened Topsoil $25/ per yd; Sand-$18 per yd; Millings-$22 per yd; Screened Millings $30 per yd; $100 minimum delivery. No pickup truck service. Minimum 16 yd pickup at our yard.

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SEEKING ALL COL LECTIBLES - Comic books to motor bikes. All items considered. Call Gary at 203-2374124. Top dollar paidwill beat any price!

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

FREE TO A GOOD HOME - With no other dogs. Shepherd/Collie mix female. Potty trained and loves car rides! Call 475-414-3234.

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DISPATCHER

The Town of Wallingford is seeking responsible candidates to perform 911, police, fire and EMS emergency dispatching duties. Must be able to work under stressful conditions and be able to type information with a high rate of speed and accuracy. Must be able to work all three shifts including weekends and holidays and be able to work additional shifts beyond the regular shift schedule. Requires a H.S. or business school diploma with courses in typing and 2 years of responsible office work experience. Wages: $ 23.72 ~$28.28 hourly plus shift differential and excellent fringe benefits. Closing date is November 18, 2022, or the date of receipt of the 50th application, whichever occurs first. Apply: Department of Human Resources, Town of Wallingford, 45 South Main St., Wallingford, CT 06492. Forms will be mailed upon request from the Department of Human Resources or may be downloaded from the Department of Human Resources Web Page. Phone: 203-294-2080, Fax: 203-294-2084. EOE.

WE’RE HIRING!

RJ Media Group seeks an energetic and experienced Media Advertising Sales Consultant to join our talented team of marketing experts. This position offers a competitive salary plus commission plan, 4+ weeks of paid time off per year, health and welfare benefits, 401(k), free newspaper subscription, and cell phone & mileage reimbursement.

RJ Media Group is an EOE. For details visit rjmediagroup.com/careers or email Jim Mizener, VP of Advertising, at jmizener@record-journal.com

SCHOOL BUS DRIVERS

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

PUBLIC WORKS

MAINTAINER II- Performs a variety of semiskilled tasks in road and grounds maintenance. Must possess 2 years’ experience as laborer in construction work involving operation and care of trucks and other mechanical equipment used in construction OR two (2) years training in one of the skilled trades and one (1) year of experience in construction operations OR an equivalent combination of experience and training. Must possess and maintain a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL) Class B to operate equipment. (Provide a copy of your CDL license with your application) $23.73 - $27.82 Hourly. Applications may be obtained at the Department of Human Resources, 45 S. Main Street, Room 301, Wallingford CT 06492. Forms will be mailed upon request from the Department of Human Resources or may be downloaded from the Department of Human Resources Web Page. Fax (203)-294-2084 Phone: (203)-294-2080. The closing date will be the date the 50th application or resume is received or November 18, 2022, whichever occurs first. EOE

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

Routes available in the following towns: MERIDEN, WALLINGFORD, SOUTHINGTON/ PLANTSVILLE, CHESHIRE AND MIDDLETOWN

Must be 18 or older. Must have valid drivers license, reliable vehicle and be available early mornings. Make extra cash before you go to work making early morning newspaper deliveries using your own vehicle. NO experience necessary. Must able to deliver early mornings, 7 days a week. MUST be dependable, and be able to read a route list with specific delivery instructions. We will demonstrate the route to you. Routes average 1.5 to 3 hours daily. No collections required.

Not Temp Work. Retirees, Stay at Home Mom’s, and Veterans are also welcome to apply. Make extra cash to pay rent, mortgage, bills, save money, or a great vacation. Text or call Peter at 860-846-0216 from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and start as soon as tomorrow morning.

WODATCH

CARPENTRY

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IF YOU Mention

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