Town Times

Tax breaks, health dept. to be considered

Town meeting is scheduled for Sept. 12

By Michael Savino Special to the Town Times

Residents will be asked next week to extend a tax break to two new volunteer positions and join a regional health department.

The town meeting where these topics are expected to be discussed is scheduled for Sept. 12, starting at 8 p.m. in the third floor meeting room at Town Hall.

One item up for vote is the expansion of existing tax re-

RUNNING ON FULL

lief for emergency volunteers to cover two new positions a chief medical officer and a communications liaison.

A town ordinance gives a $2,000 property tax abatement to members of the fire company and retired members of the ambulance corps

who served for at least 25 years.

During a Board of Selectmen meeting on Aug. 22, Selectman Andrew Taylor asked if the two new positions are needed

“Is this stuff not being done?” he asked First Selectman George Eames. “Who’s

doing it?”

Eames said adding the volunteer positions would give the town a “deeper bench” of people helping to coordinate response during an emergency.

The chief medical officer’s

See Meeting, A5

Committee formed to tackle Complete Streets projects

By Michael Savino Special to the Town Times

A group of volunteers focused on so-called complete streets projects are now part of a formal town committee.

The Board of Selectmen approved the creation of a Complete Streets Committee during its Aug. 22 meeting and appointed several of the members of a working group of the same name.

“We have a pretty scrappy, gungho group of people who wanted to do more,” said Leslie Bulion, who was chairwoman of the working group and will serve in the same role for the committee.

for environmental and safety reasons.

“As we all know, Connecticut is built for individual automobiles,” Bulion said. “It’s just how we run this state.”

Getting to and from and Durham Fair can be a hassle, but that’s where Vicki and Mike Burse come in. The two will be running the First Student Bus Co. again this year. Their goal: to keep the lines short and the smiles long. Vicki and Mike will have three continuous bus lines operating during the fair scheduled for Sept. 21 through 24 with an estimated 125 drivers ready to keep everything and everyone moving. The Town Times will have more info on the Fair in the coming weeks.

She said the working group was initially connected to Sustainable Durham, a task force focused on looking for opportunities for clean energy and environmentally friendly policies and projects.

Complete Streets, created roughly five years ago, has been focused on projects that enhance and encourage bicycling and walking, both

The committee will advise the town on ways to make infrastructure projects more friendly to other modes of transportation, and thus potentially eligible for grants.

She said the hope is that turning the working group into a full committee could help move existing plans along.

See Complete Streets, A12

Photo courtesy of the Durham Fair, Facebook

enjoying the barefoot life

did, I can just imagine a close-up of my tootsies, with the caption “Have you seen these feet?” And there would be a number to call.

Well, I’m on the lam again. My feet are the offenders. They’ve been in trouble before. This isn’t a new story. I am not a fan of footwear. At all. I abandon my shoes, a.k.a. torture chambers, as soon as winter has skedaddled and there’s even a whisper of warmer days to come.

“Ah, free at last,” my tootsies sigh. And they will not be entombed again until winter is knocking on the door. It’s a magnificent time for both them and me.

My naked appendages have aroused a goodly amount of concern over the years. I go for my barefoot walks, and nearly every time I am stopped by some concerned person who has doubts about my physical/mental welfare, and I must assure them that I am fine and I simply hate shoes. Sometimes, though, the police are called. I have been “pulled over ” five times by the police.

The hunt is on. My neighbor told me that the other day, while he was at Krauszer’s (a convenience store just down the road), a police officer came in, asking if anyone had seen a lady walking barefoot. I had been reported, yet again.

Durham folks know me and accept me, eccentricities and all. I’m guessing these are out-of-towners. They haven’t gotten used to me yet.

In light of this recent development, I did what any conscientious citizen would do –I turned myself in. I marched right down to our state trooper’s office and told him that I am the person they have all been looking for and I was there to save him a lot of time and work.

People can expect to see me sans shoes from March until October or November.

Passers-by worry about me and call in, but I’m okay. He asked me why I go barefoot, to which I replied, “It feels good.” There really was no other answer.

He took down my name and phone number and address, and, hopefully, when the next call comes in – and it will – they can say to themselves, “We don’t need to scour the neighborhood in search of this person. We know who that is. Of course, she’s barefoot. It’s not winter yet.” That’s the hope.

People may not understand my shoeless life, but I don’t understand “shoe people,” either. I really don’t. I love feeling the Earth beneath my feet. And the science backs me up, too.

There is hard evidence that walking barefoot has a host of health benefits. I knew I was on to something!

They don’t have pictures of “wanted” people – and I mean wanted in the criminal sense – hanging in the post office anymore, but if they

Or maybe pictures of them will be nailed to trees, in an ardent search for these outlaws. If you take the time to look at the picture, though, I think you will be sympathetic to my case.

You will see bunions the size of door knobs, hammer toes, toes that inch up like caterpillars, and several toes that do not even face the same direction, as if they are not speaking to each other.

And you will say to yourself, “Of course she goes barefoot. What shoes are going to feel good on those feet?” None, I tell you.

So if you see me hoofing it down Madison Road (that’s where I always get caught), and you think a call to our state trooper is called for, be sure to give them my name. It will save them a trip. And let me leave you with this suggestion, if I may –throw caution to the wind and kick off those shoes. You will know of what I speak.

Free household hazardous waste collection

The Lower CT River Council of Governments will host a HHW collection event on Saturday, Sept. 16, from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. at Middlesex Community College, 100 Training Hill Road, Middletown. The collection is open to residents of the RiverCOG region which includes Middlefield & Durham. No commercial or business waste allowed. Please visit https:// rivercog.org/household-hazardous-waste/ to learn more.

Durham Fair

The Durham Fair is coming up from Sept. 21 to Sept. 24! Come visit our Apple Crisp Booth and get the best Apple Crisp and other favorite fall treats like apple cider donuts, hot apple cider, and apple cider slushies. Or better yet, volunteer at our booth, and receive one menu item free after your shift. Visit bit.ly/3Rb9oSB for the Apple Crisp Booth Volunteer Sign-up.

Free paper shredding

The Lower CT River Valley Council of Governments (RiverCOG) is hosting a residential paper shredding event on Saturday, Sept. 23, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Middlefield Community Center, 405 Main St., Middlefield. This event is free to residents of the RiverCOG region, which includes Mid-

dlefield and Durham. Please visit www.rivercog.org/ household-hazardous-waste for more information.

The Durham Farm Market

In Brief

Gift of sight

The Durham Lions Club’s recently-refurbished drop box is ready for your eye-

glass donations at the Durham Pharmacy.

Lions have recognized the urgent need for corrective

lenses and collect usable glasses in their communities to support the Lions Recycle For Sight Program.

The Durham Farm Market and more is every Thursday from 3 – 6:30 p.m. at 144 Pickett Lane in Durham.

The farm market will close for the season on Oct. 12. We will also be closed on Sept. 14 and 21 due to the Durham Fair.

Project Graduation

The Project Graduation Committee provides an allnight, fun, safe, substancefree, adult-supervised graduation party for Coginchaug’s graduating class. For over 20 years, dedicated parents, teachers and other community members have run the event. Support and volunteers are always appreciated. Donations can be mailed to: Project Graduation, P.O. Box 81, Durham, CT 06422. For more information, find the group on Facebook.

FD volunteers

The Middlefield Volunteer Fire Company seeks volunteers age 18-plus. No experience is required; the department provides the necessary training. To learn more, visit middlefieldfirect.org, email info@middlefieldfirect.org or stop by the firehouse Mondays before 7 p.m. The department has an Explorer program for youth, 14 to 18.

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Regarding plans to renovate Memorial and close Lyman and Brewster

Editor:

As some might be aware, the Region #13 Board of Education has proposed renovating the Memorial School so that it can hold Durham and Middlefield students from K6. I am opposed not only to this plan, which would close Lyman and Brewster, but I believe that our district is moving too fast and without

the necessary public input. Something this big something that would affect so many children and their education needs to be done right.

Not only is this plan expensive (with an initial price-tag of over eighty million dollars), it will massively disrupt the educational experiences of our current (and future) elementary school children.

Even if all goes well and construction moves as quickly as possible, it will be three or four years before

Memorial is complete. I do not understand why we are changing a system that has worked so well for so long. Almost every year I have witnessed an effort to close Lyman and each time these efforts have failed because the voters do not want this to happen.

Worse yet, some of the proposed plans to accommodate construction would include students being shipped to a different school every two years. This disruption would have far-reaching effects on school-culture,

childhood development, and sense of community. In addition, some of the facilities might not be able to hold that many students from both towns, which would require the construction of temporary classrooms.

Lyman and Brewster are incredible schools with talented teachers and vibrant school cultures. To close them and to upend students from their established routines at the end of this current school year would be misguided and detrimental to their growth.

Going forward, I would hope that the board would seek more community input and delay any immediate action. I would also like to see more public outreach by the school system and the board as to their plans and how this affects our students, teachers, and community. I have found that there are large pockets of our community who have no idea what is being proposed and how

quickly this is moving. I would encourage the public to attend the next Board of Education meeting on Sept. 13 to learn more about this massive undertaking. While I respect and understand the desire for a shiny new building, I feel that we are moving too quickly and without proper support from the community.

Mike Czarkowski, Durham

Poll workers are

unsung heroes

Editor:

When voters head to their local polling locations, they are often met by some familiar faces helping to administer our elections. Those individuals are our neighbors, our friends, and our family members. They are teachers, stay-at-home parents, students, grandparents, and more. They are our poll workers.

Poll workers are truly unsung heroes at elections. They are the first to arrive and the last to leave for every type of election, and between 6 a.m. and 8 p.m., they keep the polls organized, safe and secure for voters. The job can be tough and/or tedious at times, but it is almost always under-appreciated. When you head to the polls to vote, we ask that you take a moment to thank your poll workers. The gratitude will go a long way toward showing our workers that they are valued.

Paul’s Masonry specializes in repairs, restorations and new installations of stone, block, brick, concrete and pavers. No matter how odd, large or small the project may be, we can provide exactly what you need. We provide all types of masonry work including Fireplaces & Chimneys, Patios & Pools, Walkways & Steps and Stone Retaining Walls.

Please remember, this year there will be a Primary Election on Tuesday, Sept. 12 and the General Municipal Election will be held on Tuesday, Nov. 7. Both will be held at the Durham Community Center on Pickett Lane between the hours of 6 a.m. and 8 p.m.

Despite high voter turnout in Presidential election years, participation dips in Municipal election years. Durham often has higher turnout than the states aver-

See Letters, A5

primary role would be to make sure the town’s policies and procedures for public health emergencies comply with regional and state health department guidelines.

The officer would also be a liaison to the selectmen on public health emergency preparedness. The communications liaison, meanwhile, would be responsible for maintaining the town’s emergency radio and communication systems.

The liaison would advise the

town on communications for emergencies and mass gatherings, including handling social media content and running drills for employees.

Eames said members of the fire department currently fill those roles, but that becomes a problem when they have to respond to an emergency. Ideally, people in the new roles would stay at the emergency operation center.

“You need someone left behind to mind the store to make sure, in fact, emergency services is covered,” he said.

He also told the rest of the selectmen that town staff routinely checks to make

Letters Policy

Email Letters to the Editor to news@towntimes.com. Letters are limited to 300 words. We reserve the right to edit letters. Include a

sure volunteers are fulfilling their duties sufficiently enough to keep the tax break. The break is only available to residents.

Attendees at the meeting will also vote on whether the town should join the Connecticut River Area Health District.

If the town does join, the CRAHD would handle the town’s health and sanitation services. The town would need to pay $81,000, which Eames has previously said is $45,000 less than the town would pay for salary and benefits to hire someone for those roles.

The town is currently in a

120-day contract with the district, but voters need to approve a full contract.

Republican voters also have the chance to cast a ballot to determine their nominee for town clerk on Sept. 12. Nicole Charest and Alycia Stone are both seeking the nomination.

Polls for the primary are open from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the Durham Community Center, at 144 Pickett Lane.

From A4

age (under 35% for municipal elections) but we are looking to go even higher! Please, get out to the polls this year and vote.

Heather Petit, Durham Registrar of Voters (D)

phone number for verification. Letters must be submitted by 5 p.m. on Monday to be considered for publication that Friday.

Johnny male, domestic long hair, black and white, 1½ years old was a stray who survived an abusive situation. Despite this, he’s extremely playful, friendly, and LOVES attention like petting and “wrestling”. Since he is so active, having a home with plenty of space to play and someone that will pay attention to him is very important. Johnny has a habit of eating small, soft cat toys when bored, so more durable toys are better for him to play with. Johnny’sa great cat if you’re looking for a true buddy and companion. To meet Johnny, contact Cat Tales today! No dogs / no children. Web: http://www.CatTalesCT.org/cats/Johnny. Phone: 860-344-9043. Email: info@CatTalesCT.org. Watch our TV commercial: https://youtube/Y1MECIS4mIc.

In Brief Cat Tales

Join a wonderful group of people a few hours a week to help care for homeless cats at Cat Tales’ main shelter. The volunteer application can be found at cattalesct.org.

Food Bank

The Middlefield Food Bank is in need of the following: peanut butter, jelly, jam, sandwich/freezer bags, coffee, tea, crackers, snacks, laundry detergent, dish soap, cleaning supplies, toothpaste, tooth brushes, pasta, pasta sauce, tuna, and grocery store gift cards.

DURHAM - Former State Senator John

Joseph Zajac, Jr., 90, of Durham, passed away peacefully on August 28, 2023 surrounded by his loving family he led to build.

John was born November 15, 1932 on his Babci’s farm in Middlefield, CT, by a midwife to the late Stella Kokoszka and John Joseph Zajac, Sr. John was married to the love of his life the former Alice Marie Montana for 61 years and raised six children. They resided at 33 Dexter Avenue in Meriden until moving to Durham in 2006. John and Alice enjoyed a well deserved and enjoyable retirement in Durham.

John attended St. Stanislaus Grammar School where he served as an altar boy. He also attended Meriden High School graduating in 1950. While at Meriden High School John lettered in three sports, basketball, baseball and soccer. John played the accordion and had his own band while in high school. John also attended St. Bonaventure University with a Bachelor of Science degree in pre-medical and dental. Alice and John courted throughout their college years.

John was in the U.S. Army and was a Korean War veteran serving as a 1st Lieutenant in the 25th Tropical Lightening Infantry Division in the Pacific serving in Charlie Battery of the Artillery Battalion. He was stationed in Oklahoma and Hawaii.

John served his community and the state most of his life. His record of public service in the Meriden area extends three decades. He was

Obituaries

John was a 4th Degree Knight of Columbus, a member of the Polish League of American War Vets, Polish American Congress, Polish National Alliance, and was made a lifetime member of the Franco-American Club and Fraternal order of Elks.

chairman of the Meriden Board of Tax review, State Senator and Majority Leader from 1970-1974. He was appointed Deputy Minority Leader then later Majority Leader and House Whip in the State House of Representatives. John served with Governors Tom Meskill, Ella Grasso, William O’Neil and Lowell Weicker.

John was nominated at the Republican State convention to run as the State Treasurer on the Robert Steel ticket. While in office he was responsible for many bills that became law including the first state Hospital Cost Commission where he constantly supported legislation to benefit firemen, police and teachers. His efforts included funds for Vocational Tech opportunities and cost of living adjustments for teacher’s pensions.

John was instrumental as a bill sponsor in establishing funds for the first Copernicus Planetarium at the Southern Connecticut State College. He was the recipient of the excellence award from Polish American Congress for his work to establish a visiting professorship in Polish studies at the Connecticut State College.

John was the recipient of the Eisenhower Award from the Young Republican Club, served as Post Chancellor of Knights of Columbus, recipient of Outstanding Polish American from the Eagles, Polish Americans Award from the Elks, past Vice-President of Meriden Jaycees, past member of Board of Directors of American Pony League and Coach of Ed Walsh Little League. The late Henry Healy awarded him honorary Deputy Sheriff for his support of the Police and Sheriff Association. He was a dedicated public servant who viewed his elected obligations as an opportunity to participate in government for the good of the people.

John successfully ran for public office for 23 years. He was dually endorsed by both Democrats and Republicans his last term in office. He was honored by state colleagues from both parties with a testimonial dinner to honor his retirement from state politics in 1993.

John was employed for 38 years as a pharmaceutical sales representative for Lederle Labs. While there he received the Golden Cup Award for outstanding sales in the Northeast region twice. He was also the recipient of the coveted “Golden Oval Award” for excellence for being in the top two in the US of all divisions of American Cyanamid including pharmaceutical, chemical, agricultural and veterinary. He retired from Lederle Labs in 1997.

John was Vice President and member of the Smugglers Cove Condominium Board of Directors in Fort Myers Beach, Florida where he and his wife resided in the winter months. They were able to spend many years on Fort Myers Beach enjoying many dear friends which included poolside and evening get togethers as they viewed the enchanting sunsets. They loved taking walks on the beach while looking for shells.

John lost his beloved wife Alice after a courageous battle with lung cancer in 2015. He was predeceased by 3 of his sons, John “Jay” in 2007, Richard in 2018 and Michael in 2019. John is survived by his 3 remaining children, Thomas and his wife Gisele of North Carolina, Karen Olson and her husband Paul of Meriden and Jeffrey and his wife Kimberly of Durham and his daughter-in-law Joanne of Westbrook. John is survived by 13 grandchildren Jeremy and Sarah Zajac of Florida, Scott Zajac, Shauna Panella and her husband Mike, Jaren and Colin Zajac of Westbrook, Megan Olson and her husband Mike of Meriden, Kyle Olson and his wife Liz of Oregon, Jenifer Coffield of Durham, De’Valis Coffield of Middletown, Heather Zajac of Durham, Kaitlyn Christoforo and her husband Dan of Wallingford, Rachel Zajac and her fiancé Billy Gannon of Durham and Callie Zajac. John is also survived by 11 great- grandchildren, Chris, Jianna, Nicholas, Jaxon, Aleesia, Layla, Jordyn, Raleigh, De’Valis Jr., Trevon, and Naomi. John loved telling his grandchildren and greatgrandchildren that he could “make magic” and often told them wild

stories.

John enjoyed fishing, golf and gardening. He taught his sons and daughter to fly fish always taking them out on opening day of the fishing season. John was a dedicated and loyal supporter of the Saint Louis Cardinals Baseball team in the National League and the Boston Red Sox in the American League. He never missed a game of his beloved UCONN men’s and women’s basketball games. John loved God, family, his country, life, polka music and dancing. He and his wife Alice went out dancing weekends at every opportunity they could. John J. Zajac, Jr., was a man with character as solid as his handshake and a heart that was always in the right place. John and Alice’s favorite song was “Always” and their motto for the family was “Now and Forever”. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in John’s name to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN. 38105-9959.

John’s family received relatives and friends at the Meriden Memorial Funeral Home, 450 Broad Street, Meriden, CT, Friday, September 1, 2023 from 4 p.m. until 8 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial celebrated the life of John J. Zajac, Jr., on Saturday, September 2, 2023 at 10:30 a.m. in St. Stanislaus Church, 82 Akron St., Meriden. John was laid to rest with military honors in St. Stanislaus Cemetery, 384 Ann St. Ext., Meriden. For online condolences or directions visit: www. meridenmemorialfh.com

John Joseph Zajac, Jr.

We are on Facebook! Please like us on Facebook @ Middlefield Senior & Social Services

Sign up to receive our newsletter at sdorvilliers@ middlefieldct.org or call 860349-7121

Medicare Boot Camp: Tuesday, Sept. 26, 6 p.m. new to Medicare turning 65? To register, call 860-349-7121.

Gilbert & Sullivan: Free Performance of the Gilbert & Sullivan Society of CT. Sun-

day, Sept. 10, at 3:30 p.m. Middlefield Community Center auditorium.

Food Bank: Food Bank: Open Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. by appointment only. Currently in need of: cleaning products, toilet paper, paper towels, pastas, sauce, peanut butter and jelly and gift cards to local grocery stores.

Volunteers Needed: Volunteers needed to Serve lunch-

es at our Senior Lunch Program.

For more information contact Susan D’Orvilliers at 860-349-7121

Set Back Tuesday: Tuesday’s at 1 p.m. Looking for more members to join our lively Set back group. Don’t know how to play? Come on and join us and we will teach you!

Senior Bus Trips: Wednesday, Sept 6, Shopping Stop & Shop Middletown; Wednes-

day, Sept. 13, Mohegan Sun Casino; Wednesday Sept. 27, Blue Back Square and lunch at Cheesecake Factory. To reserve your trip, call Middletown Area Transit at 860346-0212 Press 2.

Knit2gether: Knit or crochet meets every Thursday at the Middlefield Community Center at 9:30 a.m. Also seeking donations of yarn.

Renter’s Rebate: Renter’s Rebate now available to area residents. To apply contact,

Senior Center Library

Pamela Deizel, Middlefield Assessor at 860-349-7111. Appointment’s only.

Energy Assistance: Beginning Tuesday, Sept. 5. Energy Assistance is available to residents to help offset heating costs. Contact Susan D’Orvilliers at 860-349-7121 to schedule an appointment.

Book Club: L Tuesday, Sept. 12, at 2 p.m. Open to all.

September book: Manderly

Forever: A biography of Daphne Du Maurier

Senior Lunch Bunch: Join us Monday, Wednesday and Friday for lunch at the Middlefield Café. Lunch is provided by CRT and for a suggested donation of $3.00. For more information call: Susan D’Orvilliers at 860349-7121.

Dial-a-Ride: Dial a ride is curb to curb service for people in our community. The cost is $7.00 for round trip transportation. To find out more information call Middletown Area Transit at 860346-0212

TOPS: Interested in long term weight loss? Join TOPS: Taking off Pounds Sensible. Wednesday at 6 p.m. Middlefield Community Center.

Zoom Exercise Classes for Middlefield/Rockfall Seniors: Monday, Wednesday, Friday 7:30 a.m. – 8:30 a.m. To register, contact Susan D’Orvilliers at 860-349-7121 to that you can join the fun.

Durham Public Library 860349-9544

www.durhamlibrary.org

Tech Help with Teens Saturday, Sept. 9 at 11 a.m.

Book Club Monday, Sept. 11 at 6:30 p.m. Copies of The Light Pirate by Lily BrooksDalton are available at the Circulation Desk.

Introduction to Painting with Kathleen Smits begins Monday, Sept. 18 and runs for 8 weeks. Registration required.

Annual fundraiser

Cats in the Castle is the premier, annual fundraising event for Cat Tales. Taking place on Saturday, Sept. 16, from 6 to 10 p.m. at the Aqua Turf in Plantsville. The proceeds from this event directly benefit the abused, homeless, and abandoned cats/kittens under Cat Tales’ care and help pay for food, shelter, and veterinary care which over a year’s time is over $150,000.

Appetizers ~ Dinner ~ Beer & Wine ~ Desserts ~ Silent auctions ~ Raffles.

Tickets are available at https://cattalesct.org/citc/. To order tickets by phone, call 860-344-9043. Leave your full name, phone number, and how many tickets you’d like to purchase on our voicemail. A volunteer will call you to confirm your address and with payment instructions.

For email orders, send your full name, address, and how many tickets you’d like to purchase to Info@CatTalesCT.org and a volunteer will reply with payment instructions.

Autism walk

The Benhaven Walk for Autism will take place Sunday, Sept. 24 at North Haven High School. The event features a 2-mile walk, live music, games, food and refreshments, Touch-a-Truck, a raffle, and more. Nearly 500 walkers are expected to raise well over $60,000 for Benhaven, a private, not-forprofit agency serving people of all ages and with diverse needs. To learn more about the walk, visit jbsports.com. To learn about donating or fundraising, email jody@jbsports.com or call 203-4815933.

Giving Garden

The Durham-Middlefield Giving Garden is located behind the Middlefield Com-

munity Center and the Middlefield Firehouse. Everyone is welcome to come to the twice-weekly workdays at the garden Wednesdays and Saturdays from 9 to 11 a.m. All ages welcome, for any amount of time.

Tip line

In response to growing statewide complaints of a spike in so-called street takeover events, the FBI rolled out a tip line for resi-

dents to report instances of mass gatherings in parking lots and roadways. Residents looking to report a street takeover are encouraged to call 1-800-CALL-FBI and select the “Connecticut Street Takeovers” option from an operator. Or, visit the website fbi.gov/cttakeovertips.

Renters rebate

State law provides a reimbursement program for Connecticut renters who are el-

derly 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. Applications are accepted through Oct. 1. Visit portal.ct.gov/OPM.

Wreath laying

Wreaths Across America is a nonprofit organization founded to continue and ex-

pand the annual wreath-laying ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery. The group’s mission Remember, Honor, Teach is carried out in part each year by coordinating wreath-laying ceremonies in December at Arlington, as well as at thousands of veterans’ cemeteries and other locations in all 50 states and beyond.

For more information on how to volunteer locally or sponsor a wreath, visit wreathsacrossamerica.org.

EXECUTIVE SECRETARY

The Town of Wallingford is seeking highly qualified and experienced applicants for the position of Executive Secretary. This position provides high-level administrative support and assistance to a Town department head and performs difficult clerical and administrative work requiring considerable independent judgment and confidentiality.

The position requires excellent public relations and office management skills. Must have 6 years’ experience in responsible office work, some of which must have been in a supervisory capacity, or an equivalent combination of experience and college-level training. Pay rate $28.75 to $34.86 per hour plus an excellent benefit package.

Application forms may be obtained at the Department of Human Resources, Town of Wallingford, 45 South Main Street, Wallingford, CT 06492. Forms will be mailed upon request from the Department of Human Resources or may be downloaded from Town of Wallingford

Department of Human Resources Web Page and emailed to wlfdhr@wallingfordct. gov. Phone: (203)-2942080. Fax (203)-2942084. The closing date will be September 11, 2023. EOE

HELP WANTED - Full time Machine Operator, grinding carbide. Will train. Apply in person to Century Tool, 260 Canal St., Milldale, CT 06467, M-F, 7-3:30 P.M. 860-621-6748.

MAINTAINER II COLLECTIONS SYSTEM

The Town of Wallingford Sewer Division is seeking qualified applicants to perform a variety of skilled tasks in the operation, maintenance, repair and construction of sanitary sewers, including CCTV inspection and high velocity flushing. Requires a H.S., trade school or vocational school diploma or H.S. equivalency diploma, plus 3 years employment in a field related to sanitary sewer construction, operation or maintenance, or 1 year of training in a skilled trade substituted for 1 year of experience up to 2 years plus a minimum of 1 year of employment for a sewer utility or in the construction field with work experience in the installation and maintenance of pipelines, or an equivalent combination of experience and training. Must possess or have the ability to obtain within 6 months of appointment a valid State of Connecticut Class B CDL. Wages: $26.16 to $31.18 hourly, plus an excellent fringe benefits package that includes pension plan, medical insurance, life insurance, paid sick and vacation time. 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 3, 2023. Phone: (203) 294-2080; Fax: (203) 294-2084. EOE

LIBRARY CLERK

TREE LENGTH

FIREWOOD

CALL FOR DETAILS

Regional School District 13

Durham, Middlefield, CT

Has immediate openings for the following positions:

● Food Service Workers (Part-time)

● Substitutes

● Substitute School Nurses

● School Bus Drivers (Dattco)

To apply for any of these positions or for more information, please visit our website at www.rsd13ct.org

Click on Central Services, Human Resources, Human Resources, Current Opportunities. For additional information, please contact Ashley Hillier at ahillier@rsd13.org

Town of Cheshire seeks qualified candidates for PT, 15 hr/wk position in the Materials Management Department of the Cheshire Library $15.50/hr to start. Refer to Town’s website at www.cheshirect.org for additional information on how to apply by 9/15/2023 and job description. The Town of Cheshire is an EEOE, M/F/D/V.

203-238-2149

CANNON PRINTERCopier, fax, used 1 X, $70. Call 860-4613078, will text pic.

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

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

ANTIQUES WANTEDComic 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.

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

TRUCK DRIVERS

Geremia Greenhouse is looking for customer friendly individuals to drive a 26’ box truck to make deliveries of live plants, full- or part-time. A valid driver’s license and clean driving record is required. CDL is desired but not required. Apply in person Mon.-Fri., at 415 Barnes Road, Wallingford, CT.

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

TOP CASH PAID

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

AFFORDABLE HOME FOR SALE

In Wallingford. Detached two story condominium, 1250 sq. ft, 3BR, 1.5BA, and 1 car garage, available to those persons whose combined household income does not exceed $69,826.00. The maximum price of unit number Nine (9) Sycamore Way, Wallingford, CT is $213,955.00. For additional info contact:

John Smolenski at JohnSmolenski @bhhsne.com

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

PREMIUM SCREENED

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

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

A-1 SERVICE - Is what you will receive from me when purchasing your Old Costume & Fine Estate Jewelry. Napier, QVC, ETC, Jewelry Wanted! “I Pay Top Cash For Your Grandma’s Costume & Fine Jewelry Stash!” I’ll come to you. Julie, 203.443.9602.

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

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

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

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

MOVING SALE Solid Rose Wood Handmade Living Room Sets and Piano. Call for Pricing 203-621-4008.

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

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

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

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

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

JM Lawn Care Lawn Mowing, Fall Cleanup, tree service, junk removal. 860.796.8168

JT’S LANDSCAPING

LLC - Spring CleanUps, 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.

OVER 35 YRS EXP Stonewalls, patios, sidewalks, chimneys, pool areas, fireplaces, fire pit steps. Free est. 860.274.4893.

RT RELOCATION

Your moving and storage specialists. Call for a free estimate. 833-668-3978.

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

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

GOOD RATES BEST SERVICE Fully ins. Free Estimate. Call Ed, We’ll take it to the dump for you!

Let Us BEAR Your Junk! Junk Removal in CT

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

#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

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

HIC0622783. (203) 530-4447.

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

#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

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

TREE REMOVAL Storm Damage, Stump Grinding, Chipping, Lots Cleared, Trees/ Shrubs Inst’d, Free Ests. Fully Ins’d. Lic #558031. 203.619.2301.

W. BOOBER MASONRYOver 35 Years Experience All Types of Masonry CT License #626708 (203) 235-4139

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

Gutter cleaning, brush removal, comm. snow plowing,

Complete Streets

That includes plans for a bike lane along Main Street, a sidewalk that creates a walking loop in the area of Coginchaug High School and connecting to an existing bike route into Middletown.

“We’re hoping this all comes together,” she said.

A few residents voiced their support for the committee, and the nominees, ahead of the selectmen’s vote.

“We’re very much in favor of what can be done to enhance the safety of pedestrians, of cyclists, of anyone using the streets,” Simone Howe said.

The Selectmen discussed the idea of formalizing the committee at its Aug. 8 meeting, but wanted to ensure the committee’s charge included valuing input from residents and not just guidance from state agencies.

“I think I would like to see something more in line with what the residents of Durham envision,” Selectman Chad Spooner said.

Selectman Andrew Taylor, who brought the idea to the board, made some revisions ahead of the Aug. 22 meeting.

Bulion said part of the committee’s job will be to research concerns raised about projects, such as whether the town is liable for bicyclists’ safety.

She also wants to find out

how much it costs to maintain bike lanes, since the town must commit to repainting the 1.3 mile lane. The town has some funding and other items, including bike racks, for the project, and the committee hopes to get the bike lanes finished. The committee will also work to get funding for a walking loop that would consist of sidewalks allowing people to walk from Main Street to Picket Lane to Maiden Lane. The sidewalks could also extend to let pedestrians take Brick Lane back to Main Street.

Bulion said the projects would also include changes aimed at slowing down drivers, especially along Main Street. Those would include narrowing lanes and installing signs and lights to alert them to possible pedestrians and bicyclists.

“It’s kind of a push-and-pull between traffic and people enjoying our downtown,” she said, adding the projects could lead to more people coming to Durham businesses.