Town Times

Scout beats the clock, completes service project

Submitted

BSA Troop 33 would like to congratulate Ben Pitruzzello of Middlefield for earning his Eagle Scout rank.

Pitruzzello’s Eagle Scout Service Project was completed in support of the Go-Far GoFast program, which utilizes the Memorial School field for students and other residents. The scout proposed adding

wooden markers labeled with incremental distances to allow Go-Far Go-Fast participants to more easily identify how far they had run.

Pitruzzello’s biggest challenge was to wrap up the Eagle Scout Service Project before he headed off to the University of Connecticut this past August. And he rose to the challenge.

Stolen truck pulled from Black Pond

By Nicole Zappone Town Times

At approximately 11:05 p.m. on Tuesday, the Middlefield Volunteer Fire Company responded to 677 Meriden Road the Black Pond boat launch where a pickup truck was found partially submerged in the water.

Firefighters entered the water and searched the area for occupants. Officials said, per protocol, the Middletown area dive team was activated but canceled onscene.

It was determined that there were no occupants in the truck, which was identified as being stolen. The vehicle was removed from

the pond, and no fluids were released into the water. The Environmental Conservation Police and

Connecticut State Police are investigating the incident.

nzappone@record-journal.com

Ski slopes grapple with warmer winter season

By Christian Metzger Record-Journal staff

Rain and higher-than-average temperatures have made for a challenging start to the local skiing and snowboarding season.

Mount Southington and Powder Ridge have recently had to close for several days to let the snow settle before layering fresh snow on the hills.

Powder Ridge in Middlefield had to close its tubing lanes due to conditions being too wet to keep them properly maintained.

Confidence remains high, however, as both hills have been seeing high attendance.

“These past couple of weeks have been very difficult for us. But even last night, the conditions weren’t great, but it is about the community coming out,” said Sean Hayes, owner of Powder Ridge. “And I gotta tell you, I was absolutely amazed last night looking at this mountain. The first school groups came out, the community parents came out and spent the time indoors, dining and being a community. It was a fantastic outing, even though the conditions weren’t great. It’s about coming together as a community.”

Local snowfall totals have been reported just over seven inches so far this season, which 50% lower than average, according to Gary Lessor, a meteorologist at Western

Ben Pitruzzello has earned the rank of Eagle Scout.

A stolen pickup truck was found partially submerged in Black Pond in Middlefield on Tuesday.

Photo courtesy of the Middlefield Volunteer Fire Company

Up and at ’em? Not quite

that simulated sun, because then I know that the party is just about over. I’m almost afraid to steal a glance at the darn thing. Oh, please do not be lit up. Please let me linger a bit quite a bit, actually longer.

Oh, how I hate to get out of bed in the morning. Hate it! More so in the winter, when the night is still clinging to my windows and a chill lives in my bones until I can get the blood moving again.

I have a wonderful relationship with my bed. I don’t know how it feels about me but I love it. There are few things better, in my opinion, than crawling under the covers on a cold winter’s night and leaving all the trials and tribulations of the day behind, if only for a few hours. Ah, peace at last!

Well, maybe I don’t really allow myself that much peace. Because I keep waking up and praying, fervently, that I still have a lot of time before it’s “up and at ‘ em. ” I am never ready for a day of work. I believe I was meant for a life of luxury but somebody did not get the memo.

Anyhoooooo, I wake up a

gazillion times and peek at the watch on the end table next to me, hoping that the time allotted to me in my queen-sized bed can be measured in hours, not minutes. I am nearly ecstatic when my watch very kindly tells me that I still have plenty of time with The Sandman. A sigh of relief as I snuggle deeper down into my comforter.

I have a sunrise alarm clock that simulates the sunrise, supposedly making it a tad easier to greet the day (It doesn’t). I have programmed my sunrise to begin 10 minutes before it is time to bounce (well, not so much bounce as crawl/ creak) out of bed, at which time wind chimes will alert me that my beloved bed and I must take leave of each other.

So as the night progresses I am always on the lookout for

Schools

I am so relieved when that clock has not yet slipped into “sunrise” mode. There have been times when I thought it had lit up my room, but it turned out to be the glow from my Himalayan salt lamp. That made me very happy.

But, as they say, all good things must come to an end. Finally, my fake sunrise has come, and then I cannot relax because I know in 10 minutes those darn wind chimes will be going off. Now, I love wind chimes, usually. But not when they are telling me to get up. I don’t like anything that pries me out of bed. I sometimes let loose with an expletive, but the kitties are used to it.

So every morning the ungodly hour of 5 will find me casting a loving glance back to my bed, calling out: ‘Til we meet again, my friend. How does tonight sound?

Parting is such sweet sorrow.

Honor roll

Sophomore Cristiana DeVito earned first honors at Cheshire Academy.

Locals in college

American International College, Springfield, Mass., named Riley Carey to its dean’s list for the fall semester.

Southern New Hampshire University, Manchester, N.H., named Hannah Anderson to its dean’s list for the fall semester.

University of Saint Joseph, West Hartford, named Olivia Herrington, Jenna Griffith and Isabel Milardo to its dean’s list for the fall semester.

Law school open house

Prospective students are invited to attend an open house at Quinnipiac University School of Law, 370 Bassett Road, North Haven, on Saturday, Jan. 28 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Attendees will tour the law school and learn about its rigorous academic program and how the faculty works closely with students to develop a course of study that matches their goals.

For more information, email law@qu.edu or call 203-582-3400.

Basement Waterproofing Services

Over 36 Years combined experience.

Fully Transferable Written Guarantee*, Sump Pumps, Pumps Eliminated in most homes.

Deal Direct with owner - no middle man.

French Drains, Gravity Drains, Landscaping Drainage, Gutter Downspout Drains New Bulkheads, Egress and Basement Windows, Basement Finishing

Basement Waterproofing Services

Over 36 Years combined experience.

Transferable Written Guarantee*, Sump Pumps, Pumps Eliminated in most homes. Deal Direct with owner - no middle man.

Brilliant Basement Waterproofing, LLC

www.towntimes.com 500 S. Broad St., Meriden, CT 06450

Basement Waterproofing Services • Over 36 Years Combined Experience.

www.brilliantbasementwaterproofing.com

Fully Transferable Written Guarantee*, Sump Pumps, Pumps Eliminated in Most Homes. Deal Direct With Owner - No Middle Man, Crawl Spaces HIC. 0653192 • CALL US 860-598-8091 D801038_V3

FREE Estimates *written details available upon request HIC. 0653192 • CALL US 860-598-8091 D801038_V3www.brilliantbasementwaterproofing.com

In order to continue delivery to your home or business, we need to have each resident or business let us know that, by filling out our on-line requester form at myrecordjournal. com/town-times-requester

Or, you can call us at 203-634-3933 and we can mail you a postage paid postcard to fill out and return. Without the necessary requester information, delivery of your Town Times to your home or business, will end.

HELP US HELP YOU, CONTINUE RECEIVING “YOUR” LOCAL WEEKLY.

Town Times (USPS 021-924) is published weekly by Record-Journal, 500 S. Broad Street, Meriden, CT 06450. Periodicals postage paid at Meriden, CT and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: send address changes to: Record-Journal 500 S. Broad Street, Meriden, CT 06450 Circulation Department — 203-634-3933

FREE Estimates written* details available upon request HIC. 0653192 • CALL US 860-598-8091 * written details available upon request R257754 www.brilliantbasementwaterproofing.com Creative Director — Erik Allison ADVERTISING: Rebekah Larsen— Marketing Consultant 203-317-2302 | rlarsen@record-journal.com NEWS / SPORTS: (203) 317-2245 | news@towntimes.com

State residents share frustration with increased electric bills

By Crystal Elescano Record-Journal staff

MERIDEN Local residents and solar energy consultants are speaking out about steep increases in supply rates that are spiking energy costs for Eversource and United Illuminating customers since the start of the year.

The rate will increase from 12.05 cents kilowatt per hour (KWh) to 24.2 cents per kWh for Eversource customers, which will result in an $84 per month increase for the average user. United Illuminating supply rates will increase from 10.6 cents per kWh to 22.5 cents per kWh, which will result in an $83.09 increase for the average user.

For Anaira Heredia, owner of La Patrona Cafe in Meriden, managing the newly increased electricity bill from Eversource is stressful.

“It’s hard starting a business and having to deal with the increase as well,” Heredia said. “My equipment runs on electricity all the time because I have coolers, and I have to leave it on while I’m not there.”

“Paying double is ridiculous,” she added.

Rob García, solar energy consultant and former Meriden resident, said the supply side is doubling up.

“Basically whatever you paid for in December doubled in one month,” he said. “They always have an excuse whether it’s inflation or because we’re buying from fossil fuel companies.”

On Nov. 17, 2022, Attorney General William Tong released a statement on the supply rate increase.

“Our supply rates always fluctuate between winter

and summer, but this is not normal. We are seeing a huge global spike in gas costs due to the war in Ukraine and Russian manipulation of gas supplies,” he said in the statement.

The oil and natural gas markets are global and the price can be affected by many fac tors. According to Eversource, Russia’s war on Ukraine has created volatile energy markets, putting pressure on oil and natural gas prices. In the United States, New England heavily relies on natural gas.

See Electric, A

For Anaira Heredia, owner of La Patrona Cafe in Meriden, managing a newly-increased electricity bill from Eversourceisstressful. Dave Zajac, Record-Journal

Steve Sullivan, president of Eversource Connecticut, said in a release: “We know how challenging increased energy costs are for our customers, especially during these times, and want to do everything we can to help. As an energy delivery company, we can’t control the

cost of electricity on the supply side of our customer bills, but it is critically important to us to uncover any and all options to provide relief for our customers.”

Gov. Ned Lamont said he is working to advance a shortterm customer relief plan to reduce the cost of energy supply prices.

“I appreciate Eversource and UI working with us to identify creative near-term actions that will help provide Connecticut residents with some relief from high energy costs and the significant impending rate increase on January 1,” Lamont said in a statement.

The state’s Energy Action Plan takes short-term and long-term strategies in to consideration to address the cost increase and improve energy affordability, respectively, the state said.

For the short-term plan, Lamont announced that the Connecticut Energy Assistance Program (CEAP) is allowing all participating households that heat with deliverable fuels, such as heating oil, to receive additional crisis assistance. This has a benefit worth $439 this winter season.

The additional benefit means those families can now access up to $2,320 per

household to help pay their heating bills, the press release said.

The long-term strategy to improve energy affordability is building a cleaner, affordable, and reliable energy supply, the plan said. This includes offshore wind, hydropower, and nuclear.

Kile Higgins, a Cheshire resident and solar energy consultant at Elite Energy Consulting, advises going solar to reduce the cost of electricity.

“What happens though is not everyone can go solar because their home doesn’t get enough sunlight so they don’t qualify,” she said.

If someone is looking to save money, Higgins encourages them to look into solar energy.

“The customers that I’ve had are very happy with their decision to go solar,” pointed out the solar consultant. Higgins can be reached at kile.higgins@elitesolarpros.com.

The Eversource Energy building on Cooper Street in MeridenispicturedonFeb.5,2019. Dave Zajac, Record-Journal

Introducing Middlesex Orthopedic & Spine Associates, a merger of the two largest practice groups in Middlesex County. Our team of fellowship trained orthopedic and spine specialists provide superior patient care at seven convenient locations across central Connecticut. Take the first step. Middlesex Orthopedic & Spine Associates. One step closer to relief.

MIDDLETOWN

Wellness expo

Contact Shirley Bloethe at 860-989-0033 or yourholisticevents@gmail.com, or visit yourholisticevents.com.

Scout

From A1

Pitruzzello coordinated with Memorial and RSD13 leaders to approve the service project

site, as well as preparing the posts and installing them with concrete.

Pitruzzello joined scouting at the Webelos/AOL level with Cub Scout Pack 33 and continued his scouting journey with BSA Troop 33.

Pitruzzello feels the leadership skills he has learned in scouting will benefit him in his college career and beyond.

Congratulations, Ben, on this amazing achievement. And best of luck.

One of the distance markers installed at the Memorial Middle School.

One dead following crash on Route 17

By Nicole Zappone Town Times

A man from Hamden is dead following a crash on Route 17 in Durham on Thursday, Jan. 12. Steven Jefferson, 34, was heading north near Indian Lane at 4:47 p.m. when he crossed into the southbound lane. His Toyota

Camry hit a Nissan Altima head on, state police said. The Nissan then spun out and hit a GMC Sierra.

Jefferson was found unresponsive in his car and

FACEBOOK.COM/ RECORDJOURNAL NEWSPAPER TWITTER.COM/ RECORD_JOURNAL INSTAGRAM.COM/ RECORDJOURNAL

transported to Middlesex Hospital. According to police, he died at the hospital at 5:31 p.m. The drivers of the other two vehicles involved in the

FACEBOOK.COM/ RECORDJOURNAL NEWSPAPER TWITTER.COM/ RECORD_JOURNAL INSTAGRAM.COM/ RECORDJOURNAL

crash were taken to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

Anyone who witnessed the crash is asked to call Troop F at 860-399-2100.

WHERE EARLY LEARNING

Call To Inquire About Our Competitive Before & After School Rates!

Obituaries

Patricia A. Richard

DURHAM- Patricia A. (Sullivan) Richard, 77, of Durham, passed away January 10, 2023. She is survived by her loving husband of 46 years Gene Richard.

Pat was born in New Haven on February 1, 1945. She is predeceased by her mother Katherine (Redden) Sullivan, her father John Sullivan, and her daughter Erin. She is survived by her husband Gene, daughter Megan, son Sean, son-in-Law Brendan Licata, and her seven grandchildren, Kieran, Brigid, Maura, Sinead, Finbar, Seamus, and Aoife.

Pat was raised in West Haven, and received her RN from Grace New Haven School of Nursing. She would further her education by receiving a bachelor’s degree from St. Joseph’s College. She worked her entire career at Yale New Haven Hospital in several departments, but her passion was for her work with Pediatric Cardiology.

The only thing that would overshadow her love of her patients at the hospital was her love for her family. Pat was deeply involved in all the activities that her children pursued. Whether it be through helping to fundraise for Girl Scouts, being an active member

of “POPS” (Parents of Performers), or just being present at all activities, Pat always put her whole heart into it.

Pat was the epitome of a great hostess as well. She could cook anything, and was always ready to be part of the party. Her love of theater, music, gardening, and socializing, has been passed down to her children and grandchildren who continue to spread the love of the arts with the world around them. Her favorite vacation spot has also become a generational tradition as her grandchildren have come to love Alden Camps as much as she did.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Yale New Haven Children’s Hospital or to the Smilow Cancer Center at Yale (givetoynhh.org)

DURHAM- Saturday, December 31, 2022, Richard Behrend, Sr., 86, longtime resident of Durham, passed away at Hartford Hospital. Husband of Catherine (O’Brien) Behrend for 59 years. Richard was born in New Haven, on September 22, 1936, son of the late Albert Behrend and Ruby (Shakelford) Behrend.

Loving Father of James (Jamie) Behrend of Durham, Richard (Kim) Behrend, Jr., of Eagan, MN, Veronica (Kevin) Imbt of Burlington and the late Kelley Behrend. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Jessica, Justin, Chris, Crystal, Cheyenne, Bella, Taylor and many step and greatgrandchildren.

Richard proudly served his country in the US Air Force during the Korean War. He is a 1954 graduate of James Hillhouse High School. Before retirement he had worked for AT&T company for 35 years. He enjoyed traveling, the Yankees, hunting, fishing and collecting many things.

A celebration of life is

being planned for 11 a.m., April 1st, 2023, at the VFW Hall, 104 Mill Rd., Guilford, CT. Burial services will be held privately. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The American Legion Post 45, 835 Hanover Rd., Meriden, CT 06450; https://alpost45meriden. com/ or VFW Post 7666, 104 Mill Rd., Guilford, CT 06437. Arrangements in care of the Guilford Funeral Home, 115 Church St., Guilford. To share a memory or leave condolences, visit www. guilfordfuneralhome.com

Small fire at Powder Ridge

By Ben Baker Record-Journal staff

Middlefield firefighters said the ceiling and attic of a maintenance building at Powder Ridge Ski Area caught fire at around 5 a.m. on Sunday, causing minor damage to the structure. They added that no injuries were sustained and no substantial property destruction occurred.

According to the Middlefield Fire Department, a fire engine and an additional vehicle from Meriden arrived on the scene within the first 10-to-15 minutes of the incident.

The cause of the fire is under investigation by the Middlefield Fire Marshal.

FACEBOOK.COM/ RECORDJOURNAL NEWSPAPER TWITTER.COM/ RECORD_JOURNAL INSTAGRAM.COM/ RECORDJOURNAL

Middlesex United Way to hold info sessions for Community Impact Grants

In Brief

Get your diploma

Are you ready for a second chance to earn your high school diploma? Middletown Adult Education will help you accomplish your goals. Enrollment is free. Students may register at any time. Call for more information, 860-343-6044.

Singers sought

The Middlesex Hospital Vocal Chords are looking to expand their tenor and bass sections. No auditions necessary; just a love of singing and a willingness to make a commitment. New members will be accepted through the end of January. Visit vocalchords20.org, check out the group on Facebook, or call 860-342-3120.

Middlesex United Way seeks grant applications from new organizations to fund work in Middlesex County that work within established impact areas of racial equity & inclusion, education, financial stability, housing, wellness and youth development.

Community Impact focuses MUW resources on the needs that matter most to the people of Middlesex County.

Letters Policy

Email Letters to the Editor to news@towntimes.com. Letters are limited to 300 words. We reserve the right to edit letters. Letters must be signed and names will appear in print. Include a phone number so the paper can contact you for verification. Letters must be submitted by 5 p.m. on Monday to be considered for publication that Friday.

Applicants must be a 501(c)(3) or have a fiscal sponsor that is a 501(c)(3). Funds are restricted for work serving the communities and constituents of Middlesex County.

Middlesex United Way Community Impact Grant funds cannot fund capital expenditures, scholarship programs, or any third party or contract. All grant funds must be spent on the intended purpose.

Eligible organizations can apply for $5,000 to $30,000. Applications are reviewed and scored by volunteers and staff.

Attendance at one of two virtual info sessions is required: Monday, Jan. 23, 5:30 –6:30 p.m.; or Wednesday, Jan 25, 1 – 2 p.m.

To register or learn more email Will.Kenny@middlesexunitedway.org.

Richard Behrend, Sr.

Slopes

From

Connecticut State University. Despite the low number, it’s still three inches above the 2021 winter season. Yet despite more snow, conditions this year have been less than ideal to keep it on the mountains.

Temperatures have been higher than average this season, reaching into the 50s on New Year’s Day, with rain falling several days this month. Both hills have been able to keep the snow on their slopes due to the low evening temperatures, though the persistent rain remains a complication.

“It just hasn’t been conducive this time of year. Typically every single night those guns are going from sunset to sunrise. And that hasn’t been the case,” said Lessor, who lives near Mount Southington. “Going forward, we do expect over the next couple of weeks, temperatures still continue to be above normal, which

will somewhat hamper the ability to make snow. But it does appear as though temperatures at night will be cold enough for them to make snow.”

One of the biggest problems hampering conditions is the fog keeping the moisture locked close to the ground and causing the temperature to rise, melting the snow at twice the normal rate.

At Powder Ridge, it’s left only a two-inch base left on select slopes.

“Normally, our snowmaking capability with the new technology, the new guns, etc., we can blanket this mountain in three to four days pretty heavily. We just didn’t get ahead of it enough in that one-week cold snap, to get a base down where we would survive the winter.”

The sentiments were echoed at Mount Southington.

“We don’t get as much natural snowfall as I remember when I was a kid,” Marketing Manager Brian McCloskey said.

GO MOBILE /Classifieds 1-855-795-3280 Dental50Plus.com/Record Product not available in all states. Contact us to see the coverage and offer available in your state. Contact us for complete details about this insurance solicitation including costs and limitations. This specific offer is not available in CO. Call 1-800-969-4781 or respond for a similar offer. In WV: To find a provider in the network visit us at https://www.physiciansmutual.com/web/dental/find-dentist. Certificate C250A (ID: C250E); Insurance Policy P150; Rider Kinds B438/B439. In CA, CO, ID, KY, ME, MD, MA, MI, MO, NV, NJ, NC, ND, VA: Includes Participating Providers and Preventive Benefits Rider. Certificate C254/B465 (PA: C254PA); Insurance Policy P154/B469 (GA: P154GA; OK: P154OK; TN: P154TN). It doesn’t matter what dentist you see, we can help pay the bill. Get dental insurance from Physicians Mutual Insurance Company. 6323 DENTAL Insurance Get help paying big dental bills Get your FREE Information Kit • No deductible, no annual maximum • Preventive care starts right away • See any dentist — save more if you stay in network R258229v2

“Mother Nature’s not making it easy for us this year,” Sean Hayes said.

IN THE SPIRIT

In Brief

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.

Ski club

The North Haven Ski Club encourages people interested in winter sports (skiing, snowboarding, cross country skiing, tubing, snowshoeing) to join and take advantage of the great discounts offered to members.

Contact Annette Murphy: 203-927-3071 or dapdmurph@aol.com.

A tuneful group from the United Churches of Durham participated in Carpool Caroling on Dec. 18. In addition to visiting several church folk, the carolers enjoyed a sing-a-long with residents of Twin Maples Health Care.

In Brief Blood drive

A Red Cross blood drive will be held Friday, Jan. 20, 1 to 6 p.m., at St. Colman Church, 170 Hubbard St., Middlefield. To book a time to give, visit RedCrossBlood.org, download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, or call 1800-RED-CROSS.

Gift of sight

The Durham Lions Club’s recently-refurbished drop box is ready for your eyeglass donations at the Durham Pharmacy. Donating used eye glasses can make a big difference for people all over the world. Refractive errors can be easily corrected with eyeglasses, yet millions living in low- and middle-income countries lack access to basic eye care services. Lions have recognized the urgent need for corrective lenses and collect usable glasses in their communities to support the Lions Recycle For Sight Program.

Adelphia Café

476 Washington Avenue North Haven, CT 06473 203-535-0149

Family owned/operated. Former proprietors of the Neptune Diner in Wallingford. Extensive menu for all tastes. Breakfasts, luncheons and special dinners. All baking on premises.

Colony Diner

611 N Colony Road Wallingford, CT 06492 (203) 269-9507 colonydiner.com

Wallingford’s place to go for oldfashioned breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Proudly serving up delicious and hearty meals daily. Voted Best Diner 4 years running by Record Journal. Open seven days. Breakfast served all day.

Welcome to On The Menu.

Let us help you find the perfect place to eat.

Whether it’s a celebration, date night, or just grabbing a bite to eat, this list of local restaurants is sure to satisfy your taste buds.

Find great local eats - MenusCT.com

Athena II Diner

320 Washington Ave, North Haven, CT 06473 203.239.0663 www.athena2diner.com

Open 24 hours a day 7 days a week. Serving breakfast, lunch, & dinner. Accept Q Cards. Serving North Haven for 30 years. Daily specials and full liquor available.

MEMORIAL SCOREBOARD

Thanks to the Coginchaug Benchwarmers booster club, the CRHS gymnasium has a new scoreboard. The electronic panel was dedicated Tuesday, Jan. 10, in memory of Bob Grenier, a longtime supporter of Coginchaug athletics. “We are honored to have known and been a friend to Bob Grenier. A beautiful dedication, a beautiful man, a beautiful family,” the Benchwarmers stated on social media.

Durham Library

Move & Groove Storytime. Thursdays in January and February at 9:30 a.m. Ages 2 to 5. Registration is required.

Crazy 8’s Math Club. Thursdays at 5 p.m. for grades K to 2 and 6:30 p.m. for grades 3 to 5. Registration is required.

Graphic Novel Book Club: Wings of Fire. Monday, Jan. 23 at 6:30 p.m. Join Miss Alex to discuss “The Dragonet Prophecy.” For grades 3 to 5. Registration is required.

Teen Art Workshop. Tuesday, Jan. 24 at 6 p.m. For grades 6 to 12. Registration is required.

Storytime & Playgroup. Tuesdays at 9:30 a.m. All ages. Registration is required.

Mystery Author Talk with Erika Maren Steiger. Thursday, Jan. 26 at 6 p.m. via Zoom. Steiger’s latest novel, “The Leading Ladies,” will be discussed. Registration is required.

Book Club. Monday, Feb. 6 at 6:30 p.m. “Matrix” by Lauren Groff will be discussed. Registration is required.

Drop-in Mahjong. Tuesdays, 2 to 4 p.m. For novices or pros. If you have a Mahjong set, please bring it. No registration required.

Vocal Chords

The Executive Board of the Middlesex Hospital Vocal Chords is requesting applications for its annual scholarships to be awarded to students from Middlesex County pursuing a career in nursing or music. The $1,000 scholarships will be paid directly to the recipients at the Vocal Chords’ Spring Concert.

Applications are available at school guidance offices

In Brief

Compost program

Currently, more than 120 local families/households participate in the Coginchaug Area Transition compost program. CAT aims to see that number rise to 300 by spring. Compost kits ($25) and extra bags ($3) are available at the Middlefield Building Office in the Community Center and at the Durham First Selectman’s office in Town Hall. Payment can be made with cash, or check (written out to Coginchaug Area Transition; “compost kit” in the memo line).

For further information, email carolbufithis@ gmail.com.

Help wanted

Join a wonderful and dedicated group of people a few hours a week to help care for homeless cats at Cat Tales’ main shelter. Must be age 15-plus or be accompanied by a parent/guardian. The volunteer application can be found at cattalesct.org/shelter-application/. For more information, email: info@ cattalesct.org (reference Shelter Volunteer).

Scholarships

and by calling Dianne at 860-344-0743. Application deadline is Friday, March 24. Visit vocalchords20.org for more information.

Rockfall Foundation

The Virginia R. Rollefson Environmental Leadership Scholarship, offered by The Rockfall Foundation since 2018, recognizes outstanding contributions by a high

school senior residing in the Lower Connecticut River Valley for carrying out a program, project, or activity that benefits preservation, conservation, restoration or environmental education. One $1,000 scholarship is awarded yearly to a student who demonstrates leadership and initiative. The scholarship must be used for qualified tuition, books, room and board, or supplies. For full details, visit rockfallfoundation.org.

Please & Thank you.

LICENSED CDL

DRIVER

FT or PT. Driving and shop work at Meriden, CT location. PTO, 401k, Health Ins. Call 203-235-4830.

SHEET METAL MECHANICS & HELPERS

Full time, apprenticeship program offered, health insurance, 401(k) plan. Pay range $20 - $30/hour. Call 860-828-3762.

WELDER/ FABRICATOR

Custom sheet metal fabrication, light structural, 45-50 hour per week with good benefits, health insurance, and 401(k) plan. Pay range $25 - $35/hour. Call 860-828-3762.

TOP CASH PAID

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

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

OFFICE

ASSISTANT

FT or PT (M-F 9 -3:30). Some bookkeeping exp. req. Attention to detail and reliability a must. PTO, 401k & Health Ins. Call 203.235.4830.

1977 GRAND PRIX LJ - Needs a little body work, $1,200 o.b.o. (203) 626-9041.

2013 FORD TAURUS97,000 miles, excellent condition, $9,000. Call (860) 840-5199.

MATERIALS DISTRIBUTION

Screened Topsoil $25/ per yd; Sand-$18 per yd; Millings-$22 per yd; Screened Millings $30 per yd; $100 minimum delivery. No pickup truck service. Minimum 16 yd pickup at our yard. Call Jim @ 860-982-4819 for delivery

PREMIUM SCREENED TOPSOIL

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

ALWAYS PAYING TOP DOLLAR - For gold and silver jewelry, Sterling flatware, Gold and silver coins and bars, costume jewelry and more!!! Over 30yrs experience. Call Sandy at Pawn Queen (203) 7682443.

CLERK III

In the Wallingford Public Schools, performs a wide variety of clerical duties requiring excellent computer and interpersonal skills. This position requires 1 year of office work experience and a H.S. diploma. Wages: $19.42 to $25.85 hourly plus an excellent fringe benefit package. Apply: Department of Human Resources, Town of Wallingford 45 South Main Street, Room 301, Wallingford, CT 06492. Applications will be mailed upon request from the Department of Human Resources or may be downloaded from the Department of Human Resources Web Page. Phone: (203) 294-2080 Fax: (203) 294-2084. The closing date will be that date the 50th application form/resume is received or January 25, 2023 whichever occurs first. EOE

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

TREE

ALWAYS TOP CASHFor Grandma’s Costume Jewelry Stash! Not a Pawn shop. 203.443.9602, Julie.

1,2,3 CASH FOR ANTIQUES - Call Todd Shamock, 203-4941695.

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.

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.

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

LOOKING TO BUY - Holiday print fabric. Please call Carla at (203) 5148012.

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.

Classes at Connecticut’s Community College Start in January

The spring semester starts January 20 for Connecticut’s community colleges. The 12 college locations, spread across the state, offer a full menu of credit-bearing courses, both online and on campus. Students can earn up to four credits per class and can attend either full-time or part-time. And unlike at many four-year colleges and universities, students can begin their college career during the spring semester, and do not have to wait until fall.

Registration is now open for spring classes and students can apply online at ct.edu/admission. There is no application fee, and all students are encouraged to submit an application for financial aid (fafsa.gov), even if they do not believe they will qualify.

Once accepted, students can make an appointment with a Guided Pathways Advisor for one-on-one assistance in planning a course of study, creating a schedule and laying out a timeline that will meet their educational goals. Advisors are also available to work with students who plan to transfer after graduation to earn a bachelor’s degree.

New Student Orientation also offers important tips for success and navigating each campus. The Connecti-

cut State College and Universities (CSCU) Transfer Tickets and a price match scholarship with Charter Oak State College both ensure that Connecticut residents can earn the most affordable bachelor’s degree available to them.

Non-credit career programs will also start up in the spring at the community colleges. Certificates in IT and computer technology, allied health and manufacturing are just a few of the areas of study that can prepare students for a career while contributing to the workforce needs of the state.

Connecticut’s 12 community colleges are merging on July 1, 2023 to become CT State Community College. Students will benefit from one college transcript and catalog, standardized financial aid and the ability to take courses at any campus without transferring.. As part of the consolidation, students continuing their studies beyond Summer 2023 can expect to be matched with the CT State program that most closely aligns with their Spring 2023 major. In all cases, the colleges are committed to students completing their education with minimal disruption. Click here for more information: ct.edu/admission

El semestre de primavera para las universidades comunitarias de Connecticut comienza el 20 de enero. Las 12 localidades, alrededor del estado, ofrecen un menú completo de cursos con créditos en línea y en persona. Los estudiantes pueden obtener hasta cuatro créditos por clase y pueden asistir a tiempo completo o parcial. Y a diferencia de muchos colegios y universidades de cuatro años, los estudiantes pueden comenzar su carrera universitaria durante el semestre de primavera, y no tienen que esperar hasta el otoño. La registración está abierta para las clases de primavera y los estudiantes pueden aplicar en línea en ct.edu/admission. No hay costo de aplicación, y se aconseja que todo estudiante entregue una aplicación para ayuda financiera (fafsa.gov), aunque no piense que es elegible. Una vez que sean aceptados, los estudiantes pueden programar una cita con un consejero (Guided Pathways Advisor) para asistencia directa para planificar su curso de estudio, la creación de su lista de clases, y el plazo de tiempo apropiado para cumplir sus metas educativas. Los consejeros también están disponibles para trabajar con los estudiantes que planifican trasladarse después de la graduación, para completar su licenciatura.

La Orientación para Nuevos Estudiantes también ofrece información importante para ser exitoso y para navegar cada campus. Los Boletos de Traslado para los Colegios y las

en enero

Universidades Estatales de Connecticut (CSCU) y una beca de pagos correspondientes con Charter Oak State College, aseguran que los residentes de Connecticut tengan la licenciatura más económica disponible para ellos.

Los programas de carreras que no otorgan créditos también comenzarán en la primavera en las universidades comunitarias. Certificados en TI y tecnología en computadora, auxiliar sanitario y manufactura son algunas de las áreas de estudio que pueden preparar a los estudiantes para una carrera mientras contribuyen a las necesidades de la fuerza laboral estatal.

Las 12 universidades se unirán el 1 de julio de 2023, cuando se volverán en CT State Community College. Los estudiantes disfrutarán de los beneficios de registros y catálogos unificados, paquetes de ayuda financiera, y la habilidad de tomar cursos en cualquier campus sin trasladarse. Como parte de la consolidación, los estudiantes que continúen sus estudios después del verano de 2023 serán emparejados con el programa de CT State que se adapte más cercanamente a su especialidad de la primavera de 2023. En todos los casos, las universidades se comprometen a ayudar a los estudiantes a completar su educación con mínima interrupción.

Haga clic aquí para mas información: ct.edu/admission.

Las clases en en las Universidades Comunitarias en Connecticut comienzan