The Southington/Plainville Citizen

Apple Harvest planners hoping for another successful year

By

Music, food vendors, entertainment, a

and more are all set

All about support

to open on Friday, Sept. 29.

Crews began setting up the tents for

Women’s

Leadership Network

By Peter Prohaska Record-Journal staff

SOUTHINGTON The state Department of Economic and Community Development estimates that women-owned businesses now contribute approximately $16 billion to the state’s economy.

That positive growth represents a vast change over the landscape from even two decades ago. Long-gone are the days when vocations for women were largely limited to homemaking or the typing pool. Hearing from women who have made it through obstacles can be a source of inspiration.

That is the message of the Southington Chamber of Commerce’s Women’s Leadership Network.

Whether a woman owns a business, works in one, or has just started out in her career, the WLN is creating

supports improving local business climate See Network, A11 See Festival, A8

The 53rd annual Southington Apple Harvest Festival included a parade on Sunday, Oct. 2, 2022, with the theme “Fall Fun for 53 Years.” Nicole Zappone, Record-Journal

Jesse Buchanan Record-Journal staff

Organizers of the Apple Harvest Festival are optimistic for a good event as

Southington’s largest annual celebration kicks off this weekend.

parade, a carnival

Southington Democrats won’t attend chamber debate

By Jesse Buchanan Record-Journal staff

Saying it’s slanted against their party, Democrats won’t be attending the Southington Chamber of Commerce Town Council Candidate Forum slated for this month.

Republicans said they’ll be at the event and are eager to take questions from the public and explain their platform.

Democratic party leaders and candidates criticized the organization of previous forums as well as Southington Chamber of Commerce CEO Barbara Hekeler.

Trap for Democrats?

Edward Pocock III, a Democrat running for Town Council and a former Republican, described the event held at Hawk’s Landing Country Club as an “alcohol-infused GOP booster club event” with poor organization.

He said Hekeler is “clearly partisan” and that the event’s format is designed to “sabotage” Democratic candidates.

“If you set up an event in which you are skewing it to the point where it’s designed to be a highlight of the Republicans, I’m not going to subject myself or anyone else to that,” Pocock said. “(Hekeler) is clearly partisan, has been for years.”

“I’ll be damned if I’m going to let (fellow Democratic candidates) walk into another trap,” he said, of the forum.

Previous forums have allowed candidates time to in-

troduce themselves and their platforms. Candidates also answer questions submitted to the chamber prior to the event.

Sour grapes?

Republicans defended the forum, saying it was a neutral venue for voters to meet candidates and hear their viewpoints.

Victoria Triano, a Republican and council chairwoman not running for reelection, said the criticisms of Hekeler and the chamber were “terrible.” She’s found the chamber to be a bipartisan organization and saw the forum as valuable for voters.

Triano said Democrats may be unhappy with their performance in the forum held two years ago. Republicans took six of the nine council seats in that local election, the maximum allowed by the town charter.

Democrats “showed at the last one that we had that they were disappointing, at best, in their responses. Which only indicates, and continues to indicate, they have very little to offer in way of history and by way of promoting their platform,” Triano said. “They have no plan for the future, they have no record for the past.”

Getting a message to voters

It’s unclear if the forum scheduled for Oct. 19 at Hawk’s Landing Country Club will still take place. Hekeler did not return calls for comment this week.

Maryann Stanley, the chamber board chairwoman, also didn’t return calls for com-

ment.

Mark Lajoie, Southington Republican Town Committee chairman, said Republican council candidates plan to attend the chamber’s event if it’s held.

“We’re showing up, we’re there,” he said. “If that events happens, Southington Republicans are there, and we’ll take any questions from whoever.”

The forum “really gives the voters an inside look at who and what policies they’re supporting in November,” Lajoie said. “Our experience with the chamber is that it’s bipartisan all the way. They ask tough questions of everybody.”

The Democrats’ decision was “disappointing” to Lajoie.

“We’ll answer the hard questions, we won’t run and hide, we’re not ashamed to show up,” he said. “Democrats preach transparency, but when it’s time to be transparent to the people they work for, they run and hide.”

Pocock said the Democrats’ decision wasn’t about hiding from voters.

“This isn’t about not wanting to answer their questions. We have no problem doing that,” he said.

Southington Democratic Town Committee chairwoman Erin Cowles said the 2021 event was “poorly run” and that outbursts from candidates and audience members weren’t controlled.

See Debate, A14

44th Annual

APPLE HARVEST ROAD RACES on Sunday,

October 1st

We have lots of opportunities for all ages. Check out your options:

· The traditional 5 Mile Race (ages 7 and up)

· The popular 5K Race (ages 7 and up)

· The 2 Mile Health Walk (ages 2 and up)

· The Y Cup 1-mile Run (4th and 5th graders)

· Chamber Corporate 5K

· The Middle School 5K (6th, 7th, and 8th graders)

· The fan favorite Little Fritter Fun Runs (ages 2 and up)

T-SHIRTS

for the first 800 to sign up and first 250 to sign up for Little Fritter Fun Runs

Southington’s Hometown Race - Spectacular community spirit!

To register, go to: appleharvestfestival.itsyourrace.com/register

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Election Letters

Election Day is set for Tuesday, Nov. 7. Between now and then, anyone seeking to submit a letter to the editor regarding an election-related issue or a political endorsement is asked to limit their letters to 200 words. Any letters that exceed this word limit risk not being published prior to the election.

Also, all letters are subject to review for content and appropriatness and can be rejected if determined to not meet the standards set forth for both. While we will endeavor to print all letters submitted, publication is not guaranteed as it will be dependent on space limitations.

Letter to the Editor

St. Lawrence knows what is important to students, community

Editor:

I am writing this letter to support Crystal St. Lawrence, who is running for re-election to the Plainville Board of Education.

I have known Crystal for the past 10 years, as a fellow parent in town and also as a

Southington Youth Basketball (SYBA)

Registration Open for 2023–2024 Season

1 st & 2 nd Grade CLinics (6 WEEKS)

Recreation League Play (Grades 3 -12)

Travel Program (Grades 4-8)

Registration - September 1 st Thru October 31 st

For More Information & to Register, Visit: SYBAHoops.org or email: mikedefeosybahoops@gmail.com

Introducing Southington Foot & Ankle

Practicing at the former office of Dr. Leo Veleas

To our valued existing and soon-to-be patients: Your health is very important to us. Your loyalty to us is reflected in our loyalty to you. We know your names and your needs because we are the community pharmacy.

221 North Main Street, Southington 860-621-6828

We wouldn't be doing our job to the best of our ability if we were only available part of the time. We have two full time pharmacists on duty. When you need a prescription filled or have a question, we're here for you. Always.

Southington Foot and Ankle welcomes former patients of Dr. Veleas, DPM as well as new patients. The practice accepts most insurance plans. Please call our office to make an appointment. We specialize in comprehensive medical and surgical care of the foot and ankle. Steven

former teacher in the district. Crystal and I worked closely when she was a substitute teacher on my team. In that role, she had direct experience seeing what the needs were for students, teachers, and staff. Crystal and I also worked closely on the Parent Teacher Organization (PTO). Once again this allowed her to work closely with other parents, teachers, and administrators. Her past involvement in each of these duties has given her on-site experience in the day-to-day activities in our schools.

These experiences along with her last two terms as a board member make Crystal St. Lawrence the best candidate to be re-elected to the Plainville Board of Education.

I am thankful that she has decided to run again. She is a quiet force who is dedicated, committed, and informed. She will continue to fight for what’s best for all Plainville students. Please vote for Crystal St. Lawrence, Plainville Board of Education.

Diane Rottier, Plainville

Managing money as a ‘solo’ household

short- and long-term financial goals:

By Jeff Jolly

More than a quarter of U.S. households meet the definition of “ one-person ” households, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. 1 Living alone and having sole responsibility over your household bills can be an advantage: there’s no need to compromise on priorities. Yet against the backdrop of rising inflation and interest rates, managing life’s expenses on one income can come with challenges.

If you live alone, here are key considerations to help you balance funding your

#1 – Be prepared for “single tax” burden

Your basic living costs –food, shelter, utilities, transportation, and taxes – are your sole responsibility instead of being split with a partner or friend.

Economists call this extra economic burden the “single tax.” In addition for paying more for the basics, single people have to account for losing their total income if they are laid off from a job or facing a prolonged illness. The loss of a job may also mean the loss of health and disability insurance benefits. If this is the case, take action right away to ensure you don’t experience a lapse in coverage.

#2 – Be cautious about sharing expenses

If you plan to save by splitting some costs with others make sure the rules of how usage and payments are clear and agreed to by all. Such arrangements carry risks for a relationship.

Cost-sharing is a great budgeting tool, but good communication is vital for a positive outcome.

#3 – Recognize the importance of a fallback fund

It’s always smart to have money set aside for a rainy day – an emergency expense that suddenly arises, or an opportunity that requires extra money outside of your available monthly budget.

A good rule of thumb is to park three-to-six months; worth of living expenses in an account with easy access to cash to cover such expenses.

If you work independently or your job is subject to layoffs, it may be wise to set aside six-to-nine months’ worth of living expenses to be prepared for any extended downtime from work.

#4 – Don’t overlook your long-term goals

With the challenges of meeting day-to-day expenses, it’s easy to put future plans on the back burner. But you should try to set aside a portion of your income in a retirement plan. Start with a small percentage, then try to work it up to 10% or more. Take full advantage of your workplace retirement plan, particularly if your employer matches your contributions. Also consider contributions to a Roth IRA, which offers the potential for tax-free withdrawals in retirement.

Work with your advisor

Depending on your circumstances, your financial stability can be more tenuous and challenging if you live alone. A financial advisor can be a helpful partner, offering guidance and lending an ear as you discuss your key concerns and goals

Jeffrey T. Jolly, CFP ® is a Private Wealth Advisor and Sr. Vice President with Root, Borajkiewicz, Lucarelli Wealth Advisors, a private wealth advisory practice of Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC. in North Haven, CT. He specializes in feebased financial planning and asset management strategies and has been in practice for 18 years. To contact him, (203) 407-8188 ext. 330 or visit his office located at 250 State St, E-1 North Haven, CT 06473.

Plainville High School named to US News & World Report’s ‘Best High Schools’ list

Plainville High School has earned high national and metro area rankings via the 2023-2024 U. S. News & World Report’s “Best High Schools” report, according to Interim Superintendent of Schools, Kevin Case. The

rankings evaluate close to 18,000 public high schools at the national, state and local levels. By earning a national ranking in the top 40%, Plainville High School achieved status as a U.S. News Best High School.

According to a new release published by U.S. News & World Report, “the rankings showcase the schools whose students demonstrate outstanding outcomes, surpassing the anticipated benchmarks, including achieving high graduation rates.” Of the nearly 18,000 nationally ranked schools, Plainville High School ranked in the top 30% overall. Factors considered in compiling the rankings in-

clude: College Readiness, College Curriculum Breadth, State Assessment Proficiency, State Assessment Performance and Graduation Rate.

“All of us at PHS are proud of this recognition. The faculty, staff, students and community work so hard to make PHS a positive and supportive learning environment for all. We would also like to recognize that every-

Year Round Tree Service

one in Plainville Community Schools has an integral part in preparing our students for their high school experience, therefore we celebrate this recognition with them as well,” said Plainville High School Principal, Jen DeLorenzo.

“We are so proud of the hard work of the Plainville High School staff as they continue to provide increased opportunities for our students, preparing them to become career and college ready. We are also proud of our students who are engaged participants in learning in and out of the classroom, and continue to be grateful for the support and partnership of the Plainville community,” noted Interim Superintendent of Schools, Kevin D. Case.

In Connecticut, there are distinct legal documents that serve different purposes when it comes to estate planning and healthcare decisions. These documents include a will, and a living will. While both play significant roles in outlining an individual's wishes, they serve different functions and address different aspects of a person's life.

A will, also known as a Last Will and Testament, is a legal document that outlines how a person's assets and property will be distributed after their death. It allows an individual to designate beneficiaries who will receive specific items, such as money, real estate, or personal belongings.

A living will, also known in Connecticut as an Advance Directive, focuses on medical decisions. A living will allows an individual to express their healthcare preferences in case they become unable to communicate or make decisions due to incapacitation. It typically addresses end-of-life situations and provides instructions regarding lifesustaining treatments.

Living wills ensure an individual's wishes regarding medical treatment are respected when they cannot express them directly.

Meet

With 30 years of experience and 20 years as a member of our bank family, Maura became President and CEO on September 2. She succeeds retired President Steve Reilly.

We are grateful for all that Maura has contributed to the bank in her previous positions, and look forward to her leadership in her new role.

Congratulations, Maura!

Maura has served as Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, Chief Risk Officer and Internal Auditor. She was an FDIC Bank Examiner from 1993-2003 before she joined Litchfield Bancorp – A Division of Northwest Community Bank. She holds an MBA from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and a BS from Western New England University. She is a graduate of the National School of Banking, and has received the New Leaders in Banking Award from the Connecticut Bankers Association. She also is an active community volunteer in several organizations.

Clothing Drive

Plainville High School Project Graduation 2024 is having our monthly clothing drive at Plainville YMCA parking lot Saturday, Sept. 30, from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. Donations of gently used clothing, shoes, linens and bedding are greatly appreciated! Help support the PHS Class of 2024 all night graduation party.

40th reunion

The Southington High School Class of 1983 will celebrate its 40th reunion on Oct. 7, 6 p.m., at Hawk’s Landing Country Club. Tickets are $65. RSVP to shs1983classreunion@ gmail.com.

Trivia Night

Grace Lutheran Church, 222 Farmington Ave., Plainville is

See Brief, A9

vendor booths earlier this week.

“We’re ready to go, tents start going up Monday,” said Jim Champagne, a festival committee member.

He’s hoping for good weather for the festival but hasn’t been checking.

“It’s just not worth checking. It’s just not,” he said. “The

day before, we have to be prepared to call it if in fact there’s rain, but that’s the only time I look.”

Rush for space

Food sellers, area non-profits, political parties and others rent booths for the festival. Tom Lombardi, a festival committee member and Town Councilor, said the booths sold out quickly this year.

“We sold out of booths and space early on. That’s a good

thing for the festival, it’sa bad thing for folks trying to get in late,” Lombardi said.

Chris Palmieri, a festival committee member and Town Councilor, said it’sa good sign for the festival’s popularity.

“There’s a wait list. There’s already people who are interested in our festival next year, ” Palmieri said. “It’s fantastic to have so many people interested in being a part of our festival.”

He described the festival and the effort that surrounds it as showcasing the best of Southington.

“It’s really symbolic of our whole community,” Palmieri said. “So many of our nonprofits are there, local businesses, sponsors volunteers It’s really the synergy of everyone coming together to make the festival as successful as it is.”

Dave Lapreay, the town’s recreation, youth and senior services director, coordi-

nates the festival. Lombardi said he’s “done a great job as usual” in pulling the event together.

Local bands to lead entertainment

For three years, the festival featured national acts such as Bowling for Soup and Spin Doctors. Lombardi said they were big hits but that those acts came with risks in the case of bad weather as well as a hefty price tag. Those contracts included payment guarantees regardless of how well the festival did.

“They want guarantees and we can’t guarantee the weather,” Champagne said. Lombardi said the bands lined up for this year will still be a hit and draw a huge crowd.

“We had to measure our risk,” he said. “If we had bad weather, we’d be losing $25,000 (with a national act).”

The local bands for this year include Night Shift, Audacity, Leppard (The Def Leppard Experience), Kyle Niles Band, Soul Sound Revue, Relic, Lexi Max and High Noon, a Lynyrd Skynyrd and Southern Rock tribute band.

Jerry Triano, a festival committee member, said concert-goers wouldn’t be disappointed.

“They’re all top shelf,” he said. “People are going to be happy.”

Two weekends of events

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INSURANCE RATES HAVE CERTAINLY INCREASED RECENTLY. DID YOU KNOW HAVING LOW LIMITS COULD AFFECT YOUR CHANCES OF BETTER INSURANCE PREMIUMS? CALL OR EMAIL ME FOR A FREE INSURANCE REVIEW AND TO KNOW WHAT ELSE IS AFFECTING YOUR INSURANCE RATES!

INSURANCE RATES HAVE CERTAINLY INCREASED RECENTLY. DID YOU KNOW HAVING LOW LIMITS COULD AFFECT YOUR CHANCES OF BETTER INSURANCE PREMIUMS? CALL OR EMAIL ME FOR A FREE INSURANCE REVIEW AND TO KNOW WHAT ELSE IS AFFECTING YOUR INSURANCE RATES!

LOS SEGUROS HAN INCREMENTADO ULTIMAMENTE.

The festival kicks off at 5 p.m. on Friday, and runs for the remainder of that weekend as well as the following weekend, Oct. 6 – 8.

LOS SEGUROS HAN INCREMENTADO ULTIMAMENTE. ¿SABIAS QUE TENER LIMITES MUY BAJOS PUEDE AFECTAR SU PROBABILIDAD DE OBTENER MEJOR PRECIO EN SU SEGURO? LLAMEME O ENVIEME UN CORREO PARA UNA REVISION GRATUITA DE SU POLIZA Y SABER QUE MAS ESTA AFECTANDO EL PRECIO DE SU SEGURO!

¿SABIAS QUE TENER LIMITES MUY BAJOS PUEDE AFECTAR SU PROBABILIDAD DE OBTENER MEJOR PRECIO EN SU SEGURO? LLAMEME O ENVIEME UN CORREO PARA UNA REVISION GRATUITA DE SU POLIZA Y SABER QUE MAS ESTA AFECTANDO EL PRECIO DE SU SEGURO!

Some events only take place during one of the weekends. The first Saturday, Oct. 1, will feature a fireworks show at 9 p.m. On the second weekend, the festival’s arts and craft show will take place from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 7 and from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Oct. 8.

The arts and craft show will take place rain or shine.

See Festival, A9

R264575

In Brief

From

hosting a Trivia Night on Friday, Oct. 20. The doors open at 6:30 p.m. and Trivia begins at 7 p.m.

Trivia questions are general knowledge from various categories (music, sports, movies, etc). The cost is $10 per person. Play as an individual or gather a group for your team. Win great prizes from local businesses.

Snacks will be available for purchase. For more information or to register, email Joyce at GraceTrivia@ gmail.com

Education foundation

The Southington Education Foundation is a nonprofit organization founded in 2009 to support enriching and creative initiatives in education. Learn more by visiting southingtoneducationfoundation.org.

The Apple Harvest Festival parade will take place on Sunday, Oct. 1 at 2 p.m. Paul Champagne, Jim Champagne’s brother and a festival volunteer, will be the parade grand marshal.

“He’s been a core part of the festival in the past and still to this day,” Lombardi said. “That’ll be good to honor him.”

jbuchanan@record-journal.com

203-317-2230

Twitter: @JBuchananRJ

A

15 YEAR ANNIVERSARY

Saturday, September 7th • 10-5

Saturday, September 30th • 10–5

The Store is transformed for Fall New Products Arrive Daily

Join us for our Celebration! Specials throughout the store!

331 Main St. Durham (860) 349-1550

(Next to Carolyn Adams Country Barn)

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Words of Wellness

by Dr. Stacey Raya

TAILBONE TROUBLES

Chiropractic care can be a safe and effective treatment option for individuals with a coccyx injury. The coccyx, also known as the tailbone, is a small triangular bone at the bottom of the spine. Coccyx injuries can be caused by falls, childbirth, or prolonged sitting on hard surfaces, among other reasons. Symptoms may include pain, tenderness, and difficulty sitting or standing for long periods. A knowledgeable chiropractor can diagnose and treat coccyx injuries using various techniques, including spinal adjustments, soft tissue mobilization, and exercise prescription. These techniques can help relieve pain, improve mobility, and reduce inflammation. By addressing the root cause of the injury, chiropractic care can help patients recover from a coccyx injury and restore their quality of life.

Not many people realize just how big of an impact such a small area of bone can have on your everyday life. If you’ve ever experienced tailbone pain for yourself then you know just how awful it can be. At Raya Clinic, we help people who are suffering from all kinds of spine related pain. We focus on a natural approach to helping your body correct and heal itself. Please call 860-621-2225 to schedule an appointment. We are located at 200 Queen St., Southington.

P.S. Chiropractors can provide guidance on modifications to daily activities and ergonomics to prevent re-injury.

C.C.P. Presents….concert series returns in October

The Congregational Church of Plainville, UCC is pleased to announce their C.C.P. Presents...concert series returns on Oct. 7 th at 7 p.m., with a performance by Ronald Ebrecht, Artist in Residence and University Organist, Emeritus of Wesleyan University. The organ maestro will perform a rededication concert on the church’s century old Austin Organ which has been newly refurbished.

Season after season Ronald Ebrecht appears to critical acclaim in major music cen-

ters across the US, Europe, and Asia. His inventive and virtuosic performances have garnered rave reviews in the international press. His performances have been recorded and broadcast by Belarus National Television and Radio, Radio Suisse, Radio France, National Public Television, Connecticut Public Radio, and many others, and issued by Mode and AFKA. His orchestral engagements include appearances in the US, China and Belarus; especially Minsk where he is a favored and regular guest of

the Philharmonic.

For his appearance at The Congregational Church of Plainville, UCC he is preparing a program of lively and unusual pieces chosen to highlight the landmark Austin organ. The Congregational Church of Plainville, UCC started their C.C.P. Presents… concert series a year ago striving to offer the community of Plainville and the surrounding areas concerts at least once a month. The performers for each concert vary to keep the series fresh and innovative.

After several successful performances over the last year the church is looking to kick off their second season of concerts in October. Performances by Connect State Troubadour Kala Farnham, local band “Featherless” and the Plainville Flute Choir are

slated to follow through the end of the year. For more information regarding the concert series, please contact the Church Office at (860) 747-1901, via email at churchoffice@uccplainville.org or view the church website at uccplainville.org.

Submitted photo

new ways for women to support other women. One way is through “Woman to Woman, ” an ongoing event series open to all female Southington Chamber members.

The Chamber of Commerce is a non-political, non-partisan, “voice for our businesses,” explained the Southington Chamber’s Executive Director Barbara Hekeler.

“In order to be a member of the Women’s Leadership Network, you must work for a company that’s a chamber member, but all female employees are invited to participate in the Women’s Leadership Network,” she added.

Hekeler describes the WLN’s “Woman to Woman” initiative as an opportunity to enhance the Chamber’s mission of providing a better business climate for everyone.

“We think success is best achieved by helping one another,” she explains. “But the goal of the series is, we want to bring women together personally and professionally.”

For MaryAnn Stanley, chair of the Women’s Leadership Network, “the whole purpose of what we do is create a network between women and business.”

Stanley is a co-owner of Southington’s Asphalt #1 Paving Company, a real estate agent with Century 21, as well as a wife and a mother.

“We all face similar obstacles in what we have to do, whether it’s child care, or getting good employees, so we bounce ideas off each other, too. We have a great

group, and the committee is very passionate about the work,” Stanley said.

The “Woman to Woman” series covers various “topics of interest,” even as it continues to evolve.

One session took place in what Hekeler called “a small intimate setting” where participants discussed serious subjects like abuse and assault with the author of a book on the topic. A recent September session explored “atomic habits”— the ideas in psychologist James Clear’s best-selling book about personal development. The next event, scheduled for Oct. 12, will touch on the topic of “the power of emotional awareness.”

Hekeler says the current plan is for the series to continue on a monthly basis, with a brief pause during the busy holiday season.

“There’s really no rules as to topics, as long as they do have something to do with creating a positive impact on women as a whole,” Hekeler said.

The need for such a network is clear to Hekeler and Stanley both.

“Specifically, you see a lot of new businesses are being started by women, and there has been an increase in openings,” Hekeler stated. She emphasizes, however, that while the “Woman to Woman” series has a specific focus, the Chamber of Commerce is open to everyone.

“While it’s great seeing the emergence of a support group among female professionals, nothing we do is to be at the expense of male counterparts,” Hekeler clarifies. “In fact, there are going to be workshops where our facilitators will be male professional colleagues. But sometimes you do need a group where people can come together and have more intimate discussions, and where you have participants who can understand other peoples’ situations.”

Funds from events like “Giving Tuesday” are used toward providing these workshops at no cost for members. For Hekeler, opportunities like these are only one small part of the benefits of Chamber membership.

“People are sometimes shocked by what the return on investment for being part of the Chamber of Commerce is,” she says, “and how much we provide.”

This applies to community events like the annual Apple Harvest Festival, but also basic “business intelligence” that Hekeler suggests is crucial for new business owners developing markets and marketing skills.

Hekeler insists that there’s no such thing as bad networking.

“Every single thing we do in this office is about relationship building,” she says, “and we encourage people to be part of as many networks as they can.”

Plainville accepting bids for snowplowing

The Town of Plainville Roadway’s department is seeking quotes for the snowplowing of town streets for the 2023/2024 winter season.

Truck size minimum requirement is 25,000 to 54,000 GVW with a minimum 9 foot 4 way snowplow. Loaders with snowplows are accepted.

Specifications and quote submittal sheets may be obtained at the Public

PARC walk

Works department, Room 102 at the Municipal Center, One Central Square, Plainville, CT.

Please submit quotes back to the Public Works department by Nov. 17.

Questions can be referred to Public Works Administration at (860) 793-0221 x7176, or you can refer to the Public Works Department page on the Town of Plainville website, www.plainvillect.com.

In Brief

PARC’s 22nd Annual Helen and Danny Coughlin Walk is scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 7 at Norton Park, beginning with registration at 9 a.m. followed by opening ceremonies and the walk. Grand marshals this year are Andrea Wasley, owner of Plainville Funeral Home, and Matt Gingras, longtime PARC member and community volunteer. The walk is named in honor of a PARC founder and her son. Coughlin members will be pre-

See Brief, A12

Hekeler

sent. Rain date is Oct. 14. For more than 66 years, PARC, Inc., has advocated and protected the human rights of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities by actively supporting full inclusion in the community.

People can register online for the walk before Oct. 4 on the PARC website www.parcdisabilitiesct.org. Participants can also register on the day of the walk at Norton Park. Cost is $30 per adults. For more information, call PARC at 860-747-0316 or email Executive Director Erica Donovan at edonovan@ parcdisabilitiesct.org.

Fall River Cleanup.

The Conservation Commission is sponsoring a volunteer river clean up on Sept. 30, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.. The event will take

place along the Pequabuck River behind West Cemetery on North Washington Street. Participants are asked to arrive at the site by using the access road just to the south of the cemetery (between the cemetery gate and the railroad bridge). Drive to the end of the access road to register at the tent. Refreshments will be provided as will gloves.

The event is typically held rain or shine, so come dressed for the prevailing weather.

Should you have any questions, call Mark DeVoe, Town Planner, at 860-7930221 Ext. 7177

Fairy Goatmother playdates

Dreaming of pumpkin lattes, caramel apples, turkey, and mashed potatoes? So are we! It’s finally Autumn, a favorite season to many who enjoy the fun foods, festivities, and

cooler weather. At the farm, you will find many reasons why autumn is one of the best seasons, and why there’s so much to do this time of year.

We would like to celebrate by getting out our best costumes for a Fairy Goatmother Playdate at the Southington Apple Harvest Festival! Dress up your little goat for a session full of tutus, kerchiefs, and silliness! Brush their hair and give them their own treats! Come and join the fun! No Reservations are required.

The Southington Apple Harvest Festival is a six-day event that takes place over the course of two weekends each Fall.

The 2023 Festival is scheduled for the weekends (Friday-Sunday) of Sept. 29 –Oct. 1 and Oct. 6-8.

Sessions will fill up so book now to reserve your spot!

An Evening with Ronald Ebrecht

The Congregational Church of Plainville, 130 West Main St., will host ‘An Evening with Ronald Ebrecht,’ on Oct. 7, at 7 p.m. Organ maestro, Ronald Ebrecht, will perform a rededication concert on the church’s century old Austin Organ which has been newly refurbished. A free will offering will be received. Call 860-747-1901, email churchoffice@uccplainville.org, or visit our website at uccplainville.org for more information.

Hall of Fame

Entering the Plainville Sports Hall of Fame this year are Christie Matteo (Class of 1992), Brian Sparks (Class of 2000), Todd Pagano (Class of 2001), Vito Barbagallo (Class of 2003) and Desiree Pina (Class of 2008). The 2008

Plainville High School baseball team will also be inducted and longtime director of athletics John Zadnik will be presented with the Distinguished Service Award.

The induction dinner will be held Sept. 30 at The DoubleTree by Hilton in Bristol. For additional information, visit plainvillesports.com, find the Hall of Fame on Facebook, or contact Phil Cox (860-250-6484) or Mike Bakaysa (860-573-8015).

Renters rebate

State law provides a reimbursement program for Connecticut renters who are elderly or totally disabled, and whose incomes do not exceed certain limits. Persons renting an apartment or room or living in cooperative housing, or a mobile home may be eligible for this program. Renters rebate applications are accepted be-

See Brief, A14

SOUTHINGTON - Donna (Brown) Thibodeau, age 58, of Southington, CT, passed away on September 20th, at UCONN Hospital, after losing her battle to cancer. Born in Southington, CT, on November 19, 1964, Donna was one of four children to parents Charles and Marilyn (McKay) Brown. Donna graduated from Southington High School in 1982. She was married to Garry Thibodeau from 1983 - 2015. A few of her favorite pastimes were decorating cakes, painting ceramics and gardening.

Donna is survived by two brothers and their wives, Joseph and Kathy Brown of Plainville and Steven and Elizabeth (Fazzino) Brown of North Granby; son, Matthew Thibodeau of Berlin; son, Jonathan and his wife, Bethany Thibodeau of Farmington; daughter, Michele Thibodeau of Plainville; nephew Steven Jr. Brown; nephew Jason Brown; and niece Sarah Brown. She was predeceased by father Charles Brown; Mother Marilyn (McKay) Brown; and brother John Brown.

Services for Donna will be celebrated privately. There are no calling hours. Donations in Donna’s memory may be made to Susan G. Komen Foundation of New England. For online condolences, please visit www.Legacy.com.

Veronica Nagy

SOUTHINGTONVeronica (Riesz) Nagy of Southington, passed away peacefully at the age of 97 with her son by her side on Friday, September 22, 2023. Veronica was born on July 23, 1926, in Budapest, Hungary, to the late Dr. Louis Riesz & Olga (Sebestyen) Riesz. Veronica arrived to Southington in 1957. She was a strong and perseverant woman, escaping communism with her late husband, Louis Nagy, and two children, Andrew Nagy and Dorothy (Nagy) Garstang.

After arriving to the United States, Veronica enjoyed annual summer camping adventures from Maine to Florida and winter ski trips with her family. Her passions later in life included traveling and playing cards with lifelong friends Agi, Donna, Barbara & Norma. Veronica was an accomplished seamstress and enjoyed gardening in her spare time. She also served as a Comptroller for many years with Cigna Insurance until her retirement and was a member of the Red Hat Society, Mary Our Queen Church and the Calendar House. Veronica will be a greatly missed matriarch who created a strong legacy.

Veronica is survived by her brother, Ivan Csatádi of Budapest, Hungary; her son, Andrew and wife Ann Marie of Plantsville; sonin-law James Garstang of Southington; four

Obituaries

Joseph D. Richard

grandchildren Alexis Yanosy and husband David of Southington; Ryan Nagy and fiancée Sarah McRoberts of Boston, MA; Andrew James Garstang and wife Rose of Cheshire; and Grace Richardson and husband Blair of Oxford. She also had seven great grandchildren, whom she loved so much- Emma and Madelyn Yanosy; Griffin, Charlotte and Jack Garstang; and Riesz and Quinn Richardson. She was predeceased by her husband Louis and daughter Dorothy.

A Mass of Christian burial will be held on Saturday, September 30, 2023 at 11 a.m. at St. Aloysius Church, 254 Burritt St., Plantsville. Burial will follow at St. Thomas Cemetery, Southington. The DellaVecchia Funeral Home, 211 N. Main St., Southington, has been entrusted with the arrangements. For online condolences please visit, www. dellavecchiasouthington. com

SOUTHINGTONJoseph “Allen” D. Richard, 93, of the Plantsville section of Southington, passed away peacefully on Saturday, September 23, 2023 at HOCC at Britain. He was the loving husband of the late Pearl (Doucette) Richard for 38 years. Joseph was born in Rumford, Maine, on September 11, 1930 to the late Charles and Edith (Legere) Richard. He proudly served his country in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War. He worked as a tool and die maker at Quality Engineering in Wallingford for over 30 years, retiring in 1975. Joseph was a longtime parishioner at St. Aloysius Church in Plantsville. He loved gardening and being a loving and attentive “Pepe” to all his grandchildren and foster grandchildren over the years. He is survived by his daughter, Susan Crawford and husband Robert of Plantsville, with whom he shared their home, and his son, Paul Richard of Waterbury. He is also survived by 11 grandchildren: Samantha,

Sarah, Felicia, Amanda, Shania, Alex, Kimberly, Jake, Adam, Nicholas and Cali, 3 great-grandchildren; Ava, Joseph and Noah and several nieces and nephews. In addition to his wife Pearl, he was predeceased by 4 sisters and 2 brothers: Lita, Yvonne, Viola, Dorilla, Rene and Mike. Funeral services were celebrated earlier this week. Plantsville Funeral Home has been entrusted with handling the arrangements. For online condolences, please visit www. plantsvillefuneralhome. com.

Mom,

It’s been three years since your passing and we wish you were here to share what has happened in the past year... the holidays, the milestones and the everyday experiences. Nevertheless, we have woven your memory in the fabric of our lives and we remember the little things that you did that helped make us the people that we are today. With everlasting love, Your family

Donna Thibodeau

“Our candidates would rather go directly to the doors to speak with residents of Southington and we look forward to those conversations,” she said.

Val DePaolo, a Democratic Town Council member running for re-election, said she wanted an organization like

the League of Women Voters or the Record-Journal to host a forum for candidates.

Disagreement over moderator, structure

Paul Chaplinsky, a Republican councilor and candidate, said the forum’s structure favors neither party. Questions are written down, mixed in a bowl and drawn at random by the moderator. In 2021, that was TV reporter Tony Terzi.

“I struggle to understand how a chamber event is partisan,” Chaplinsky said.

Pocock criticized the organization of the event, describing it as a “free-for-all.” He said Terzi in his role as moderator leaned towards Republicans.

“It wasn’t looking towards us, ” Pocock said, in describing how Democrats were disadvantaged by the forum’s moderation.

Terzi, now the city of Meriden’s communications director, said his role as moderator was simply to pick questions randomly from a bowl and read them.

“I remember pausing forums on a couple of occasions over the years to remind the audience that disruptions would not be tolerated. And, I can say unequivocally there was not a conscious effort to quiet one side of the aisle over the other,” Terzi said. “As a longtime former television news reporter, I took great pride in presenting the news, not my views. And I adhere to the same approach whenever asked to speak in public.”

Chaplinsky said the forum two years ago moved along faster than expected and that organizers chose to increase the number of questions answered but didn’t

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believe that favored either party.

“We’re just as surprised as anybody when a question is asked,” Chaplinsky said. His recollection of the event was that a major outburst came from the family of a Democratic candidate.

Chaplinsky said he didn’t understand how Terzi had favored Republicans in his random picking and reading of submitted questions.

Pocock said the candidates forum in its current form is a “complete waste of time” that drew mostly Republicans.

“I’d rather knock on doors, talk to people,” he said.

jbuchanan@record-journal.com

203-317-2230

Twitter: @JBuchananRJ

In Brief

From A12

tween April 1 and Oct. 1. Visit portal.ct.gov/OPM.

Lantern tour at West Cemetery

Friday, September 29 and Saturday, September 30!

The West Cemetery Lantern Tour is returning . This event is sponsored by the Bristol Cemetery Commission and the Bristol Historical Society. For those who have not attended in previous years, during this evening guided walk through West Cemetery, you will be introduced to some notable cemetery “residents” who will share some of their history with attendees.

Please note that while this tour is not intended to be a frightening one, two characters have met untimely ends, and this tour will contain themes related to death by suicide.

Tours will step off at 6 p.m., 6:20 p.m., 6:40 p.m., 7 p.m., 7:20 p.m., 7:40 p.m., and 8 p.m.

Reservations are required and can be made online via Sign Up Genius: bit.ly/ 3ERUOYQ or by emailing president@bristolhistoricalsociety.org

JUSTIN BASANTE PLATT SOCCER

Justin Basante has had his scoring touch on display for the Platt soccer team since the season opener. He delivered one of the goals in a 4-0 win over Bloomfield that afternoon. Last week, Basante was fairly unstoppable. The junior knocked home two goals in Monday’s 4-0 victory over Hartford Public and had both Panther goals in Friday night’s 3-2 loss at New Britain.

JEFFERY GONZELEZ

CHESHIRE FOOTBALL

Yes, indeed, Jeffery Gonzalez and Cheshire football are off to a gonzo start at 3-0. With Friday night’s 27-0 shutout of Glastonbury, the Rams moved up to No. 3 in the state polls. Gonzalez is doing his part on both sides of the ball. At running back, the senior gashed the Guardians for 157 yards and two touchdowns. At outside linebacker, he was in on eight tackles and picked off a pass.

JESUS MARTELL

MALONEY FOOTBALL

With the eyes of Connecticut football watching, Maloney’s Jesus Martell showed his quality in Friday’s showdown with No. 1 Greenwich. The senior wide receiver caught 7 passes for 135 yards, including touchdowns of 12 and 26 yards. He had two key third-andlong catches in a fourth-quarter scoring drive that put Maloney ahead before Greenwich won on a last-second field goal.

GO ONLINE AND

CHECK BACK NEXT WEEK TO SEE WHO YOU

THE ATHLETES OF THE WEEK! Winners will be posted here as well as your next group of nominees.

EVA DUDLEY PLATT VOLLEYBALL

Eva Dudley has been putting up big numbers for Platt volleyball since her sophomore year in 2021. Here in 2023, she now holds her own page in the program record book. Dudley became Platt’s all-time leader in kills with 15 on Friday night vs. South Windsor. She surpassed 2015 Connecticut Gatorade Player of the Year Gabriela Vazquez’s mark of 738 and is at 750 — and counting.

GLADYS RODRIGUEZ WILCOX TECH VOLLEYBALL

Aren’t the Wilcox Tech Wildcats glad they’ve got Gladys Rodriguez? The junior libero has simply been a stonewall on wheels on the back line for coach Karina Torres and the WT volleyball squad. Check out these stats from last week: 42 digs against Windham Tech, 33 digs against Kaynor Tech, 31 digs and 10 aces against O’Brien Tech. Now to win: Wilcox closed the week at 2-5.

CAMI WESSELS SOUTHINGTON VOLLEYBALL

If you follow volleyball, you know the hallmark of Southington is balance. Which is terrific, but makes picking an Athlete of the Week awfully tough. Then along comes the American Volleyball Coaches Association to make it easy. The AVCA named SHS senior Cami Wessels Connecticut Player of the Week for her 47 kills, 30 digs and 39 receives as the Knights improved to 5-1.

WEEK’S AOTW WINNERS AS VOTED BY YOU!

VOTE.

VOTED

Mofongo, a Puerto Rican staple years in the making

By David Matos Record-Journal staff

National Mofongo Day was held on Sept. 24, right in the middle of Hispanic Heritage Month.

Mofongo, a cultural dish with plantains as its main ingredient, is not only a favorite dish among Puerto Rican households, it’s an integral part of the island’s history.

A brief history of mofongo

Mofongo is a concoction of global flavors with roots in African, Spanish, North American and Taíno, Puerto Rico’s Indigenous people. When Spanish conquistadors conquered the Taínos and were forced to work on plantations and gold mines in the 1500s, the group underwent starvation.

The Spanish also brought enslaved people from West African. The West Africans brought the traditional dish fufu to the island. Fufu is made of plantains, cassava or yams mashed into a dough-like consistency. Later, the flavoring from Taíno and the Spanish turned fufu into what is known today as mofongo.

“Mofongo is one of those dishes that best describes what Puerto Rican culture is,” said Raul Rivera, a Puerto Rican chef based in Meriden. “It’s something that has been evolving with us through time … it also represents a little bit of African and Spanish culture and represents so much because the Africans brought it and were using what was available to them on the island it’s one of the dishes that best represents what that melting pot is.”

What is mofongo?

The plantains used in mofongo are picked green, cut, and fried, boiled or roasted. Then, using a wooden pilón, the plantains are mashed with spices, salt, broth, garlic and olive oil. The mashed plantains are then made into a ball of pork, vegetables, chicken, shrimp, octopus or beef. The dish can be served with various foods, from chicken broth soup, vegetables, fish to fried meat. The ingredients and side dishes vary between households.

“It’s like a blast of different types of spices,” Daisy Olivo of Meriden said. “It just explodes in your mouth if someone makes it the right way. You could taste the garlic and cilantro. You could taste the sofrito, the onions, the peppers, and then, depending on what kind of mofongo

you have, you will taste all those ingredients exploding in your mouth at once. It’s like the ultimate best thing in the world, in my opinion.”

Rivera said the centuries-old dish is unlike any traditional food in the United States.

“It’s not like you could say it’s like mashed potatoes, but it’s definitely a mash,” he said. “I would say it’sa mash. But it’s gonna have a soft consistency, right? And obviously, the garlic and butter flavor has to be very predominant in it, I would say. I wouldn’t be able to compare it to an American dish.”

Rivera was born in the Bronx, New York, but was raised on the west side of Puerto Rico after his parents moved back to the island. He said the way that mofongo is served on the island is very different than in the United States. In Puerto Rico, mofongo is traditionally served with a side of chicken or vegetable stock, or sometimes fish stock, if it’sa seafood restaurant.

“They always serve it with a little side,” Rivera said. “Which is definitely a staple of the west side of the island versus most restaurants here,

from my experience and as a chef. They kind of try to give you the American version of it. It kind of turns into, like I would say an Italian version of a dish because they put so much sauce in it, and they try to cover it with that sauce because ultimately it’s a little bit dry, even if they put a lot of butter and stuff in it.”

He said eating mofongo with broth makes the experience “fantastic” because it turns the dish into a “soft puree consistency.” He said there’s not many places locally that serve mofongo, from his experience, and he believes mofongo is best made in your own kitchen.

Mofongo brings families together

Olivo, who was also raised in the Bronx, New York, said her family made her mofongo around once or twice a week growing up. She described her household as an “oldfashioned Puerto Rican household.” She learned to make mofongo and pasteles at around nine years old.

“I was already in the assembly line making pasteles, making mofongo, making all these other dishes with the elders in the kitchen because

that’s just the culture,” Olivo said. “The ladies are in the kitchen and the guys are watching TV, and that’s how I experienced mofongo, as young as eight or nine years old.”

Olivo makes mofongo, among other traditional Puerto Rican dishes, for her husband, who is also Puerto Rican, and children, bringing what she learned at a young age into motherhood.

“(My husband’s) mom taught me how to do a lot of the old-fashioned dishes and things like that, although I did it as a child,” Olivo said. “As I got older, I wasn’t much in the kitchen because I was busy working. But I have three kids, one of my first marriage or two with the second, so I was more at home and I was able to reconnect again with the kitchen.” Rivera rarely had mofongo from home growing up because it was costly on the island and time-consuming, so he was limited to a traditional menu at home consisting of rice, beans, and chicken. When he did have mofongo, it was usually at a restaurant, during a celebration or when his father had some extra funds.

See Mofongo, A17

Mofongo and garlic shrimp with a side salad at El Rincon Latino Restaurant. Cook Jose Luis Lopez showed us theprocessofmakingthisdish,iconictoCaribeancountries. Karla Santos, Record Journal

However, Madeline Garcia of Meriden said mofongo was always a staple in her household, making the traditional dish monthly. She also occasionally enjoys the mofongo at the Old San Juan Restaurant, 200 Lewis Ave.

“Mofongo is always, not just special occasions, mofongo is always in the Puerto Rican culture, always mofongo,” Garcia said. “I think it is very special. Because our grandparents made the recipe, you know, many people travel to Puerto Rico to try the mofongo because it’s so good. When you make it with fried pork, it’s so delicious and tastes good.”

Chef Rivera’s mofongo

According to Rivera, the following is his favorite way to prepare mofongo:

Ingredients

Pilón to mash your plantains

Two very green plantains, not to be mistaken for green bananas

Oil for frying your plantains

A mixture of butter and seasonings

Process

First step to peel the plantain: cut a little piece on both ends so you can expose the actual plátano, then slide your knife gently through the plantain skin in at least three different areas so you can slide your finger between the skin and plantain to remove the skin. Next, cut your plantain into little 1/2inch rounds. It’s easier to fry, and it will cook uniformly.

After a couple of minutes in the oil, it will start turning a little golden yellowish color, don’t cook them brown.

Next, remove them from the oil; you can put them on top of a dry paper towel to rinse a little or put them inside the pilón. Next, while it is hot, you will start putting

dollops into your butter mixture, consisting of softened butter, chopped garlic ( if it is in a better paste), oregano, and a couple of dashes of adobo. Start putting the mixture and smashing the plantains until you get a soft con-

sistency.

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Now, things that make a different experience in a mofongo are adding little pieces of chicharrón or pork skins, the really crunchy one inside as you mix it. Some people

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use crispy bacon to give a little texture and extra flavor. Once all this mixture is done inside the pilón, you can run

a spatula around the mofongo and flip it on a bowl; you can serve it in the pilón for a more authentic feel, too.

LEGAL NOTICE PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION PLAINVILLE, CONNECTICUT

The Town of Plainville Planning and Zoning Commission will conduct a Public Hearing Tuesday, October 10th 2023 at 7:30 p.m. at the Plainville Municipal Center, Room 304, 1 Central Square, Plainville, CT to consider the following items:

PZ 08/23#35- Zoning Regulation ChangeTranscend Beer Crafters, LLC to add a subsection to 2.04 D.-Restaurant/Retail uses, to allow breweries within GI, RI and TP zones for the property located at 45 Northwest Drive (03-D-01.1).

The files are available for public inspection at the Planning and Economic Development Department. At this hearing, interested persons may appear and be heard, and written communications may be heard. Please submit any written communications to the Town Planner or via email to devoe@plainville-ct. gov If you have questions regarding these applications, please contact the Town Planner at (860) 793-0221 ext. 7177.

Respectfully submitted, Matthew Weimer, Secretary, Plainville Planning and Zoning Commission. Dated at Plainville, CT this 13th day of September 2023

R264272

LEGAL NOTICE PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION PLAINVILLE, CONNECTICUT

The Town of Plainville Planning and Zoning Commission will conduct a Public Hearing Tuesday, October 10th 2023 at 7:30 p.m. at the Plainville Municipal Center, Room 304, 1 Central Square, Plainville, CT to consider the following items:

PZ 08/23#35- Zoning Regulation ChangeTranscend Beer Crafters, LLC to add a subsection to 2.04 D.-Restaurant/Retail uses, to allow breweries within GI, RI and TP zones for the property located at 45 Northwest Drive (03-D-01.1).

The files are available for public inspection at the Planning and Economic Development Department. At this hearing, interested persons may appear and be heard, and written communications may be heard. Please submit any written communications to the Town Planner or via email to devoe@plainville-ct. gov. If you have questions regarding these applications, please contact the Town Planner at (860) 793-0221 ext. 7177.

Respectfully submitted, Matthew Weimer, Secretary, Plainville Planning and Zoning Commission. Dated at Plainville, CT this 13th day of September 2023

R264278

LEGAL NOTICE

The Assessor of the Town of Plainville, Connecticut, does hereby give notice to every person and/or firm, resident, or non-resident liable for taxation in the Town of Plainville, to file with the Assessor a statement of personal property on premises as of October 1, 2023, in accordance with section 1242 and 12-43 as amended of the Statutes of the State of Connecticut.

Taxpayers are required to list all personal property (except registered motor vehicles) i.e. machinery, horses, furniture and fixtures of commercial, industrial, manufacturing, mercantile trading, cables, wires, poles, underground mains conduits, pipes and other fixtures of water, gas, electric and heating companies, leasehold interest other than real property and all other business occupations and professions on special forms provided on the Town of Plainville web site, on or before the first day of November 2023. Unregistered vehicles (i.e. snowmobiles, trailers, campers, unregistered autos and autos garaged in Plainville that are registered in another state) must also be declared. Failure to file will result in the Assessor preparing said declaration from the best information available and a penalty of twenty-five percent (25%) will be added.

Personal property declarations can be obtained online on the Assessment & Revenue Collections Office page at www.plainvillect.com/assessments or in the office. If you have any questions, please contact the Assessor’s Office at 860-793-0221 ext. 8733. Failure to receive a form from the Assessor’s Office does not excuse a property owner from the obligation to declare personal property by November 1, 2023.

Sarah Carey, CCMAII Town Assessor

R264347

LEGAL NOTICE

ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS

PLAINVILLE, CONNECTICUT

The Zoning Board of Appeals of Plainville, Connecticut will hold a Public Hearing(s) on Tuesday October 10, 2023 at 7:30 PM to hear and consider the following application(s):

FAIRBANKS STREET

Reconsideration of Application #23-06-01

Michael Pelton, 57 Fairbanks Street, Plainville seeking a variance to Article #1 Residential Zones, Section 1.03 Dimensional Standards, Sub-Section C Maximum Building Limitations – Maximum Lot Coverage 30% to install a 12-foot pool which would cause the lot coverage to exceed 30% at a property known as 57 Fairbanks Street.

ROBERT JACKSON WAY

BUYING ALL - Costume Jewelry, Old Watches, Gold Jewelry, Silver Jewelry, Gold & Silver Coins, Sterling Flatware, In Any Condition. Please Call Jude M. Dichele @ (203) 8681816.

BUYING MACHINIST

TOOLBOXES - Tools & tooling, contents of machine shops, home workshops and small lathes. Call anytime 860-985-5760

TOP CASH PAID

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

PREMIUM SCREENED TOPSOIL $30/yard delivered, 3 yd, $100 min. delivery Call Jim 860-982-4819

MATERIALS DISTRIBUTION

Screened Topsoil $30/ per yd; 2.5” screened gravel, $18 per yd; Sand$18 per yd; Millings-$22 per yd; Screened Millings $30 per yd; $100 minimum delivery. No pickup truck service. Minimum 16 yd pickup at our yard. Call Jim @ 860-9824819 for delivery

. Top Soil . Compost . . Wood Chips . FOR SALE. Catering to small deliveries. Call Bob (203) 415-0723

Application #23-10-01

Serafino Calafiore, 150 Robert Jackson Way, Plainville seeks a variance to Article 4 Basic Standards, Section 4.01 Off Street Parking, Sub-Section 8b to construct a parking area in the require front yard setback at a property known as 150 Robert Jackson Way.

Plainville, Connecticut

This 26 th day of September 2023

Peter Autunno, Chairperson Plainville Zoning Board of Appeals R264765

203-238-2149

POOL CLOSING/OPENINGS - Avoid the hassle of closing or opening your pool, call Steve! (Service all types of pools). 203-506-6329.

ALWAYS BUYING OLD TOOLS - Old, used, and antique hand tools wanted. MACHINIST, woodworking, engraving, and workbench hand tools. Hunting equipment and firearms also of interest. Fair and honest offers made in your home. Please call with confidence Cory (860) 322-4367.

1, 2, 3 CASH FOR YOUR ANTIQUES & JEWELRY - Call Todd Shamock at 203-494-1695.

CASH PAIDVintage Electronics, Musical Instruments, Amps, Ham Equipment, HiFi, Radios, CB, Guitars, Audio Equipment, Antiques. 860-707-9350

ANTIQUES WANTED -

Comic books, toys, adv. signs, military items, motorcyles, mini bikes, etc. All items considered, appraisal & estate sale services, incl. clean-outs. 40 years exp. Call or text, Gary at 203-237-4124.

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

TOP CASH PAID For any Toyota any condition, running or not, crashed okay. Will take other makes and models. (203) 600-4431.

PREMIER ESTATE JEWELRY - Is interested in buying your fine jewelry, watches, coin collections, silver flatware, and costume jewelry. Call Bill, (203) 4942496.

TIMELESS TREASURES

ESTATE AUCTIONS -

Is looking to purchase estate contents. From single items to entire estates. Clean-out services available. Call Bill (203) 494-2496.

TAG SALE - Cheshire, 38 Pleasant Dr., Sat., 9/30, 9-4, Sun., 10/1, 10-3, a variety of items, incls. Xmas. Rain or shine.

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

ACCOUNTANT

HOUSECLEANING

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

FOR SALE - 7ft Slimline, Lighted Christmas Tree. Excellent Condition, $50, Call 860-3840190.

WASTEWATER TREATMENT ASSISTANT SUPERINTENDENT

The Town of Wallingford is offering an excellent career opportunity for a technical leader in the wastewater treatment industry to assist the Superintendent in providing managerial direction in the operation and maintenance of the Town’s wastewater treatment plant, pumping stations, and sanitary sewer collection systems. Applicants should possess 4 years of progressively responsible experience in water pollution control and a bachelor’s degree in environmental science, chemical engineering or other engineering with courses in chemical qualitative analysis, biochemistry or microbiology, or an equivalent combination of education and qualifying experience substituting on a year-for-year basis. Must possess and maintain a State of Connecticut Class IV Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator’s license or the ability to obtain the same within the probationary period. Must possess and maintain a valid State of Connecticut Motor Vehicle Operator’s License. Salary: $80,555 to $103,068 annually plus an on-call stipend when assigned. The Town offers an excellent fringe benefits package that includes pension plan, paid sick and vacation time, medical insurance, life insurance, 13 paid holidays, and a deferred compensation plan. Applications may be downloaded from the Department of Human Resources Web Page and can be mailed to the Department of Human Resources, Town of Wallingford, 45 South Main Street, Wallingford, CT 06492, or emailed to: wlfdhr@wallingfordct.gov by the closing date of October 24, 2023. Phone: (203) 294-2080; Fax: (203) 294-2084. EOE

The Town of Wallingford seeks qualified applicants for Apprentice Accountant. Performs accounting tasks and other related duties of a financial nature in the Town’s Finance Department. Applicants should have 2 years clerical and general office experience plus a H.S diploma or GED. $27.22 to $32.68 hourly (wages under negotiations), plus an excellent fringe benefits package that includes pension plan, medical insurance, life insurance, 13 paid holidays, paid sick and vacation time, and deferred compensation plan. Applications may be downloaded from the Department of Human Resources Web Page and can be mailed to the Department of Human Resources, Town of Wallingford, 45 South Main Street, Wallingford, CT 06492, or emailed to: wlfdhr@ wallingfordct.gov by the closing date of October 4, 2023. Phone: (203) 294-2080; Fax: (203) 294-2084. EOE

Demolition Svs Sheds, pools, decks, garages, debris removal. Quick, courteous svc. All calls returned. Ins. #566326. Cell, 860-558-5430

CARPENTRY

Repairs, Decks & Porches, Sheetrock & Taping Water Damage Repairs. Free Est. Ins. MC & Visa. Call Bill (203) 901-2136. CT. Reg. # 0647093

Sm House $75; Med. House $95; Lrg House, $120. Oven/Fridge free. 16 years exp. Refs. Fabiana, 203.565.7745.

DECKS & PORCHES

Give some new life to your old decks and porches. We can repair or replace stairs, deck boards, railings. We also construct new decks. HIC#647093 Insured. Call Bill for a free estimate, (203) 901-2136.

TEC ELECTRICAL Service LLC All Phases of Electrical Work. 24 hr. Emergency Service. Small Jobs Welcome. 203.237.2122

GUTTERS DON’T WORK

If they’re dirty! For gutter cleaning, Call Kevin (203) 440-3279 Fully ins. CT# 569127

GARY WODATCH

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

OVER 35 YRS EXP

Stonewalls, patios, sidewalks, chimneys, pool areas, fireplaces, fire pit steps. Free est. 860.274.4893.

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

A-1 QUALITY POWERWASHING Low Rates Call Dennis 203.630.0008

POWER WASHING

Is Spring Cleaning on THE OUTSIDE

FREE Estimates

#569127 Call Kevin 203-440-3279

POWERWASHING

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

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

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

Gutter cleaning, brush removal, comm. snow plowing, HIC0622783. (203) 530-4447.

JT’S LANDSCAPING

LLC - Spring Clean-

Ups, we specialize in weeding all types of beds, mulching, top soil work, pruning hedges & shrubs, & all your landscape needs. Residential & commercial. Lic. #616311. Call today for free estimate, 203-213-6528.

PATIOS, WALKWAYS, Stonewalls, Steps, Concrete, Repairs, Etc. Free Ests. #0648556 203.808.6886 arnoldsmasonry.com

W. BOOBER MASONRY -

Over 35 Years Experience All Types of Masonry CT License #626708 (203) 235-4139

Insurance claim.storm damage.roofing.siding. gutter.chimney flashing. Office:203.754.3071 Cell:203.510.3830 Stormshieldct@gmail. com HIC.0664452

SPRING CLEANUPS

JUNK REMOVAL

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

RT RELOCATION

Your

#1 PAINTER’S EDGE Ext. & Int. Painting. Sheetrock.Popcorn Repair. Wallpaper Remv’l. Decks. 25 yrs exp. Free est. Sr. disc. #0656136. Ins. 860.538.5520

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

ALEX EUROPEAN MASONRY - 30 yrs. exp. Patios, ret. walls, steps, brick, stone, chimneys. Lic#580443. 203-2320257 or 203-596-0652

CEILINGS & WALL REPAIRS - Free estimates, Call Erik, 203-5924242. HIC0565857.

GARY WODATCH