Friday, April 2, 2021
www.towntimes.com
Volume 27, Number 14
Korn school to be demolished as Durham nixes ownership plan By Nadya Korytnikova Town Times
Durham Dari Serve employee Gia Visconti hands an ice cream to Joe Birkenberger on Monday, March 29. The ice cream shop, located at 13 Main St., opened for the season recently. Photos by Nadya Korytnikova
This is a sure sign of spring By Nadya Korytnikova Town Times
Here’s a scoop: Durham Dari Serve has opened for their 20th season.
Daytime fire destroys garage in Middlefield
The town’s beloved ice cream shop at 13 Main St. features more than 25 flavors and will soon add summer specials to its menu. Last year, Dari Serve delayed its opening until May due to COVID-19 but this season has been off to a sweet start, said ice cream shop employee Gia Visconti. “We have seen a lot of customers already,” Visconti said. “Opening part of the season is always super busy because everyone is excited that we are back.” The shop opened on March 19. Moose tracks, cookies-andcream, and cake batter remain all-time favorites, Vis-
of funds to bring the building up to code. However, during the recent The former Korn Elemen- council meeting, she actary School is set to be de- knowledged that the town molished as can't take over ownership Durham’s Board of Select- and maintenance of the men turned down the of- Korn School building at a fer from Regional School reasonable cost. District 13 to take owner“I think it would be irreship of the building. sponsible for us to take it The RSD13 Board of Edu- because, with the privication offered the school lege of owning a building building to Durham at no of that size, we cannot igcost and set March 31 as nore that the costs are gothe official deadline for ing to be significant,” selectmen to make a final Francis said. “It is an older decision. building, it needs to be updated.” First Selectman Laura Francis had planned to re- Based on estimates from quest, from the Board of Finance, an appropriation See Korn, A8
conti said. But it’s not just the delicious treats customers crave.
And fun memories they are.
Durham resident Jackie Davis said she always brings her daughter, 10-year-old “I think people are not only coming for the ice cream but Amanda Davis to the iconic also for the fun experience,” ice cream shop whenever said Visconti. “We are super the youngster aces school exams. friendly and nice to everyone. Buying ice cream should remain as a fun, exciting memory.” See Ice cream, A6
By Nick Sambides Jr. Record-Journal staff
Volunteer Fire Chief Peter Tyc said.
An explosive fire destroyed a garage on Thursday, March 25 despite the efforts of firefighters from three towns who used more than a quarter-mile of hose to get water to the blaze.
When the first town firefighters arrived, the fire had already done heavy damage to the 40-foot by 40-foot building , Tyc said.
The fire occurred at a home at 115 Ross Road shortly before 1:30 p.m. A homeowner was home at the time. He had been working on a vehicle in the garage, Middlefield
“We immediately had a couple of explosions from something inside,” Tyc said. “We don’t know what it was. The roof caved in on the building before the first firefighter even got there.” See Fire, A8
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Friday, April 2, 2021
Letters to the Editor Take notice Editor : Durham's Board of Finance will hold its Annual Budget Hearing via Zoom, Monday, April 12, at 7 p.m., at which time residents can interact safely, unlike at the Town Meeting held in January at the high school. It is a relief to know townspeople can participate in this manner, especially when a large number of residents usually take part in government proceedings.
day, maybe that demonstrates that two full-time positions are not required. I refute the practice of annual wage increases for elected officials and non-union personnel without added responsibilities/hours.
power generation in the name of renewable energy, there isn’t an end in sight to these developments. This is the same government which, ironically, dedicates money to the preservation of farmland.
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Call it what it is. Potential removal of trees and replacement of farmland with solar Donia Viola panels is not about clean air, it’s about money. If Call it what it is landowners were not offered large sums of money by Editor : businesses given a favorable regulatory climate, then soAs was reported in the lar would not be such a March 12 edition, developOn another topic, Town Hall threat to open land. ment of a solar panel array is has not yet opened to the being planned on what is public, except by appointJosh Miller ment. I feel that this can be a currently agricultural land in Durham; the second such hardship for contractors, development in just the last Pure political since a lot of work perfew years. This was touted formed by them requires nonsense by the operators as somea permit. Town Hall being thing that will clean CO2 closed may delay their Editor : and other pollutants from scheduling/starting jobs. In the mornings, I catch a our air. Likewise, others might find it little of the CBS morning The cleanest air that I see difficult to register a fixed news with Gail King. I pabeing produced from this time with Town Hall when tiently wait for the racism development is hot air from story; a story about they depend on another to big business, which is effec- some poor oppressed person assist them in getting there. tively sponsored and of color -- usually a woman. Town Hall should reopen propped up by our own state And sure enough, with regular or modified government. here comes the racism story. hours. I realize, as mostly evYou can bet on it. If you did, Open land is a precious reeryone does, that a mask is you would win. source that has been dwinnecessary when out in pubdling in our town and area lic. Besides, the number of All it is is politics, politics, for decades. Housing devel- politics. It’s people seeking people accessing our Town opment has been outpaced Hall simultaneously is power over others, telling nowhere near the number of by solar as the biggest threat them their sins and wanting to the remainder of that residents attending a Town to run their lives. land. It’s hard to fault Meeting. If we can divide people by landowners who choose to Finally, the Town Clerk's of- participate in this scheme. race, we can control them. fice, which has two employ- After all, working the land to Of course, the elitist snobs ees, has adjusted its schedproduce agricultural prodlike to point their finger at ule to have one of them ucts for sale is challenging others, but there is a purwork in the morning and the and requires work. pose for that. It fits their poother in the afternoon. If As long as the state contintheir work is completed satues to prop up this type of See Letters, A3 isfactorily in half-aPlease take notice.
Uncle Bob’s
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Friday, April 2, 2021
Excited for my date with a sweetie Dear Easter Bunny, It’s Easter, as I’m sure you know, and it’s time for my annual letter. I love that we have stayed in touch all these years. I really do consider you a lifelong friend. My love affair with you began in early childhood. How could I not love someone who brought me so much chocolate? And you asked for nothing in return. I did not need to leave you milk and cookies, like I did for Santa. Maybe you socked away some granola bars for your nighttime journey. Or, while hiding eggs, helped yourself to a couple of them. And kudos for not requiring me to be a good little girl, like I was expected to be for you-know-who. You gave me more free rein. Besides, I was never sure what the criteria was for being “good.” Did I clean my room
well enough? (I’m pretty sure I didn’t.) Did I not talk back? (I’m pretty sure I did.) Was I nice to other children? (I’m pretty sure I was.) It always seemed like a grey area to me. Anyhoooooo, I just wanted to say that I appreciate those lovely baskets, regardless of my behavior. My boys adored you, too. You may remember them? Ryan and Jordan. Two towhaired boys, so adorable, with smiles that could dim the sun. They thought you did a remarkable job with the goodies, and that it was so nice of you to add toys. And you did such a good job hiding the eggs that they had colored the night before. In fact, one year when it rained and you hid the eggs in the house, you did such a good job that they could not find one renegade egg that re-
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litical agenda. And it's always easier to look at the sins of others, than to look at your own.
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Friday, April 2, 2021
Schools Locals in college Hofstra University, Hempstead, N.Y., awarded Briana Vertucci a bachelor’s degree in International Business (summa cum laude). Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Boston, Mass., named Skyler Morrie to its dean’s list for the fall semester.
Scholarships
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Middlesex County Farm Bureauagricultural scholarship applications are available at county high school guidance offices and from the farm bureau office. The $250 award is to assist a student in the study of any field of agriculture. Applicants must be residents of Middlesex County, attend school in Middlesex County or be a Middlesex County Farm Bureau family member. Current
college students and high school seniors are eligible to apply. Applications must be postmarked by Saturday, May 1. For further information, call 860-349-1250 or email semintz43@ gmail.com. Durham Agricultural Fair Association scholarship applications are available through the guidance offices at Coginchaug Regional High School, Vinal Regional Technical High School, Xavier High School, Mercy High School and the Middletown High School Vo-Ag Center. Ten $2,500 scholarships will go to graduating high school seniors from Durham, Middlefield or Rockfall who will be attending an accredited institution of higher learning in the fall. Applications are due by Friday, April 16. French-Canadian Genealogical Society of Connecticut will award a $500 Education Scholarship. The scholarship is open to current members, their children and grandchildren who will be attending a regionally accredited college or state-licensed career school during the 2021-2022 academic year. For more information, visit fcgsc.org or call 860-872-2597.
Parenting in a pandemic
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The Coginchaug Valley Education Foundation created a helpful online parenting playbook to help Durham and Middlefield parents and children cope with the pandemic. The Pandemic Parenting Playbook features a list of helpful articles on five subjects — mental health, self-care, parent support, technology, family fun, and community resources. Each article is chosen by the education foundation’s board of directors. To view the Parent Pandemic Playbook go to coginchaugvef.org.
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Friday, April 2, 2021
It’s CVEF grant season
In Brief Join us Saturday, April 10, 8 to 10 a.m., at Allyn Brook Park for an Adopt-A-Road project. Pick up some bags and ties and help make our community look so much better. It's time for us to get outside and do our part to help clean up our roads.
Soles 4 Souls
Racial justice The Middlefield Durham Racial Justice Team is excited to announce upcoming community conversations about racial justice. Thursday, April 8, 7 p.m., “Nice White Parents” podcast discussion hosted via Zoom by the Levi E. Coe Library. The five episodes of this New York Times podcast series tell the story of a neighborhood middle school in Brooklyn founded in 1968.
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On Saturday, April 3, members of the Model United Nations Club at Coginchaug Regional High School will collect new and gently used shoes for Soles 4 Souls, an organization that distributes footwear to people in need in the U.S. and around the world. Model UN club members will be stationed outside Strong School, 191 Main St.
Visit rivercog.org/household-hazardous-waste/ to read up on new safety procedures and to learn about acceptable materials. Call 860-581-8554 for more information.
Easter flowers
The podcast highlights the inequalities of the public education system and asks the question: “What should our public education institutions be providing to our students?” To register for this discussion, email levicoelibraryjess@gmail.com. Thursday, May 20, 7 p.m., “The 13th” film discussion hosted via Zoom by the Durham Public Library. “The 13th” is a 2016 American documentary that explores the intersection of race, justice and mass incarceration in the United States. To register for this discussion, visit durhamlibrary.org.
IT’S ALL HERE!
For a comprehensive list of past grantees, check out the grants page on the CVEF website. It might give you an idea for your grant project. Questions can be emailed to cvefgrants@gmail.com,
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The Public Works Department will conduct the spring brush pickup starting April 12, 2021. Please have all brush at curbside before the start date to insure pickup; only one pass will be made on each street. Since this service is provided to residents throughout town, we must limit each household to one truckload of brush. Brush piles needs to placed at curb with: • the cut end toward the street • branches not exceeding 8’ in length, or 4” in diameter
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projects and efforts. We are pleased that some CVEF grants have become embedded in our community. These include the community choir, Kalmia Gardens concert series, recycling program at the Durham Fair and Go-Far-Go-Fast running events.
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The Durham Middlefield Exchange Club will host its Annual Easter Flower Sale this weekend, April 2 and 3, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., at Strong School, 191 Main St. Social distancing is required, with masks. Curbside service is offered.
The Lower CT River Council of Governments will hold a free household hazardous waste collection Saturday, April 17, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Clinton Public Works, 117 Nod Road, Clinton. The collection is open to residents of the RiverCOG region, which includes Middlefield and Durham.
Each spring, the Coginchaug Valley Education Foundation funds new and creative ideas benefiting people of all ages. If you have a great idea, apply for a 2021 grant now. Applications are due May 1. Download the application at coginchaugvef.org or email cvefgrants@gmail.com to have one mailed. The application lists grant eligibility and criteria, and the process is simple.
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Town Times | towntimes.com
Friday, April 2, 2021
Spring drug take-back
Ice cream
Connecticut State Police, Troop F and the Drug Enforcement Administration will give the public an opportunity to prevent prescription drug abuse and theft by ridding their homes of expired, unused and unwanted medications.
From A1
“We love Dari Serve. We can’t wait for the weather to get a bit warmer so we can enjoy ice cream outside,” said Jackie. “It’s an awesome little place.”
A local drug take-back will be held Saturday, April 24, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. That day, prescription drugs can be disposed of at the Middlefield Resident Troopers Office, 405 Main St., or at the Durham Resident Troopers Office, 24 Townhouse Road. A no-contact drop-off procedure will be followed. Masks are required.
Middlefield resident Noah Harris said Dari Serve is his regular stop on the way to work.
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The take-back event is supported by the Durham Middlefield Local Wellness Coalition, Durham Middlefield Youth & Family Services and the towns of Durham and Middlefield. This effort to allow for safe, legal and enviBasement Waterproofing secivisreSagnifoorpretaW tnemesaB ronmentally-friendly disposalServices of prescription drugs Over 36 Years combined experience. . e cneirepxe denibmocUnlike sraeY 63last revO year, Durham Dari Serve did not delay its free and anonymous service, open to all residents.
And Durham resident Bob Mueller said, “Where else can you get ice cream like that? That’s the only place in town.”
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Durham Dari Serve is open daily from noon to 9:30 p.m. The ice cream shop can be reached at 860-349-3367.
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Town Times | towntimes.com
Friday, April 2, 2021
Beware of utility scams
Korn
could get a quote on something.”
Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, scammers have increased their calls, texts, emails, and in-person visits to convince Eversource customers to make payments to avoid service disconnection.
From A1
After Korn School closed in 2018, Durham residents overwhelmingly rejected bonding $7 million to acquire the building and convert it into a community center. At that time, the Board of Selectmen discussed revisiting the idea with voters, with a scenario of completing renovations over a number of years. In this plan, the town would have brought the building up to code for use as a community center as well as storage space.
2014 and 2018, the operating costs would be in the range of $2.5-to-$3.5 million. But due to inflation and the increase in construction costs, Francis and Selectman George Eames noted that number could easily reach $3-to-$4 million.
Eversource urges anyone who believes they are a target of improper solicitation to immediately contact local law enforcement. Customers are also encouraged to contact the energy company at l-800-286-2000 if they receive a call, text, email or if someone shows up at your door to verify it’s Eversource.
Fire From A1
The garage was wooden and likely flammable due to age. It is about 60 years old, Tyc said. The fire was the first that required the use of an underground water tank installed for fires at Ross Farms Estates, a complex of a dozen houses. Ross Farms was built about five years ago, Tyc said. Firefighters ran 1,800 feet of 5-inch hose from the tank to the fire, Tyc said. Firefighters from Meriden, Durham and the Westfield and South fire districts of Middletown helped Middlefield’s volunteers. Middletown firefighters cov-
“The cost issue is not getting any better in the private sector,” Eames said. “As an example, the cost of sheet metal from December to today has gone up 109 percent. Your field cost, your transportation, everything is going through the roof. If you are looking at the building costs right now, this is probably the worst time you
ered Middlefield during the fire, handling a medical call, a person who had suffered a traumatic head injury, Tyc said. “A daytime fire here with an all-volunteer organization, we struggle for help,” Tyc said. “We struggle for help. This one was labor intensive and we had to do a lot of work for it.”
Carr
Firefighters used poles to sift through the building remains to keep the fire from reigniting, Tyc said.
From A3
So how have you been, Monsieur Bunny? Santa complained that he was feeling a bit isolated because he couldn’t find any parties, given the circumstances. I imagine you are in the same boat. Are you a little antsy from being holed up (get it?) with the Missus and the young’uns. Like Santa, you may be looking forward to a night out.
Twenty-two Middlefield volunteers answered the call. The department’s roster carries about 40 volunteers, Tyc said. nsambides@ record-journal.com 203-317-2279 Twitter: @JrSambides
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I’m going to piggyback on the invitation I gave to Santa. I am feeling a bit isolated, too, and if you have the time – I do know how busy you will be – I would love it if you could pop in for a short visit. Or a long one. We can chat for a bit. You will be
Although Francis previously had said, during a meeting, that voters should decide on this issue, she later realized that the initial costs would be much higher than select-
easier to feed than Santa. I think you’ll be happy with a salad. And you are not expected to shimmy down the chimney, which would most likely get soot all over your lovely white fur. (I know rabbits aren’t always white, but I picture you as white, and tall.) I’ll leave the key under the mat. It seems like that Jolly Old Elf has it easier than you, being carted around in a sleigh. Which begs the question, just how do you get around? Do you have to hop from house to house? I would think that would be exhausting. Why don’t you get yourself a scooter? (I picture your ears flapping in the wind.) Or at the very least a skateboard. At our age we need to conserve our strength. Just how
men had anticipated. Also, Francis said she was concerned with the idea that the town would use its building reserve fund. “No fiscal advisor will tell you to buy a house and drain your savings to do it,” Francis said. “We have other buildings and other responsibilities. I am not sure this community is ready or willing to take the fiscal responsibility of owning that building.” The board voted unanimously to reject the offer. As of now, it is unclear when the Korn School building will be taken down. nkorytnikova@ record-journal.com 203-317-2444 Twitter: @n_korytnikova
old are you anyway? Nobody seems to know. Speaking of age, supposedly I am long past the window for receiving your cornucopia of goodies, but inside I really am only 6 years old and I just love presents. So if you were to bring me a basket, I wouldn’t say no. Not to be too particular, but Divine dark chocolate and Coconut Bliss vegan ice cream, please. I know you have a surplus of carrots, but I won’t need any, and besides, they really don’t excite me all that much. So, my furry friend, maybe I’ll see you soon. Fingers/ paws crossed! And maybe you wouldn’t mind hiding eggs for me? I never outgrew that, either.
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Reporting initiative to serve local Latino communities By Michael Gagne Record-Journal staff
Evelyn Robles-Rivas came to central Connecticut from Puerto Rico in 1991 to stay with family living in the area. “I was planning to probably be here for a couple of years. I stayed. And I love my job,” said Robles-Rivas, while admitting it was challenging at times juggling the responsibilities of work, raising a family and continuing her education.
adding she would like to see more Latino residents, like her, have greater access to information. The mission of the Latino Communities Reporting Lab is to amplify the voices of our local Latino communities — historically underserved and underrepresented in local news coverage.
Latino presence While the population of Meriden has remained relatively constant over the last three decades, Latino residents now represent close to one-third of the city’s population, compared to about 8% in 1980.
Latino families account for much of that growth, as eviPlans include building a new denced by enrollment in loteam of five bilingual jourcal schools. According to the nalists — three reporters, district’s latest official count one photographer/videogra- on Oct. 1, more than 58% of pher and one editor — the overall student body in through philanthropic fund- Meriden public schools When Robles-Rivas arrived ing. The first dedicated posiin Meriden she had just tion for the lab was added in graduated from college with February with the hiring of a bachelor’s degree. She be- reporter Jareliz Diaz, folgan teaching, and eventually lowed by plans to add a secrose through the ranks to be- ond dedicated reporter with come a school principal. funding raised over the next She now holds a doctorate in two months. education and supervisSince February, Diaz has es Language and Communi- worked with other Recordty Partnerships for the Meri- Journal reporters and editors den Public Schools. covering topics important to the local Latino community. Robles-Rivas was among One of her first Record-Jourmore than 80 community nal bylines was about Merimembers who participated in conversations the Record- den officials’ plans to increase vaccination outreach Journal hosted over several targeting local Black and months of planning for its new Latino Communities Latino residents. Health officials acknowledged the rates Reporting Lab. of vaccination for people of Robles-Rivas attributes her color have lagged behind own success to the support those of the white, non-Hisof her family and communi- panic population and ty. “That was key to be a suc- promised to strengthen outcessful Latina educator here reach efforts. in Connecticut,” she said,
identified as Latino, or 4,727 students out of a total of 8,118, more than twice the state average. The population of Latino students has grown in other communities as well. In neighboring Wallingford, more than 19% of the 5,451 public school students identify as Latino. Neighboring towns, including Southington and Cheshire, have also seen growth in their Latino populations, although to a lesser degree.
Evelyn Robles-Rivas
See Reporting, A12 Jareliz Diaz
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partment of Education, in the current school year, 142,552, or close to 28%, of From A9 the 513,079 pre-kindergarten to grade 12 students Similar trends have occurred enrolled in Connecticut statewide. While the overall public schools identify as student population in ConHispanic or Latino. By comnecticut has declined for parison, in the 2007-2008 more than a decade, the school year, 96,127 of the numbers of Latino students state’s then-student populaenrolled in the state’s public tion of 574,848 students schools continue to rise. Acidentified as Hispanic or cording to enrollment data Latino, a 16.7% share. reported by the State De-
In its development of the Latino Communities Reporting Lab, the Record-Journal has gathered information, insights and perspectives through 82 conversations with community members, four focus groups and dozens of survey responses over several months. They included conversations with Latino leaders like recently confirmed U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona, a former Meriden schools administrator, who spoke with the project team while serving as state commissioner of education. Cardona stressed opportunities to amplify the voices of Lati-
Diversity, identity When Adriana Rodriguez’s family moved to Wallingford from Michoacán, a Mexican state just southwest of Mexico City, more than three decades ago, one of the first agencies they received support from was the Spanish Community of Wallingford, better known as SCOW.
Adriana Rodriguez
no youth and to engage with families.
Fast forward to 2021: Rodriguez is now that agency’s executive director. And SCOW continues to serve the diverse local Latino community.
Maria Campos-Harlow, executive director of the United Way of Meriden and Wallingford and another conversation participant, encouraged the initiative to highlight the success of local Latinos who call the Meriden area their home.
SCOW is typically the first stop in Wallingford for Latino newcomers, who’ve emigrated not just from Mexico, but other countries like Ecuador, Guatemala, Honduras and Spain, as well as migrating from Puerto Rico. They bring with them a variety of stories, including past professional lives, experiences and cultural traditions, Rodriguez said.
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advertising for funding. Those funding sources have declined, as have the newsFrom A12 papers they previously sustained, in terms of the numcome with a whole story of bers of newspapers and their professions, or reasons why they moved. And it’s very in- sizes. teresting to learn and so in- USNewsDeserts.com is a spiring,” she said. database maintained by the University of North CaroliRodriguez noted there is great cultural diversity even na’s Hussman School of Journalism & Media. The within Latinos whose famiwebsite tracks the decline of lies have similar national newspapers throughout the origins. For example, in country, noting there are Meriden, there’s a signifinow entire counties where cant population whose falocal newspapers are no milial roots are in Puebla, Mexico, a city located south- longer a presence.
Lane said the use of philan- The center, according to thropy as a news media LMA, is supported by the Google News Initiative. It The Record-Journal itself has funding source is not new. “aims to strengthen the unnot been immune to declin- Public broadcasting and non-profit media outlets derstanding and capabilities ing circulation and revenue have long relied on such loss from reduced advertisfunding. ing, nor has it been spared See Reporting, A14 from having to reduce newsroom positions. While advertising and print circulation has declined, new opportunities to bolster audiThe media landscape in ence engagement through Connecticut has also dwindigital means have emerged. dled. While the number of The Record-Journal has the daily print newspapers covlargest audience in its histoAWARDS 318 SOUTH BROAD STREET | 203-639-2926 ering communities across ry with its print and digital 2020 the Nutmeg State has not dewww.meridenhyundai.com audiences combined. clined over the past decade BEST NEW AUTO DEALER Service Hours: M-F 7:30-5 • SAT 8-4 and a half, the number of Nancy Lane is the long-time weekly newspapers has dechief executive officer of the Visit Our Service Facility clined by more than half. Local Media Association, a Easy In... Easy Out... R213041
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Valentin suggested including even more diverse voices than just the Latino community. “I would love it to be diverse voices: Black, Hispanic, any individuals who are underrepresented voices in the community. Identity is very complex,” he said.
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Valentin said the Latino Community Reporting Lab’s concept, which includes highlighting Latino voices, makes him feel like he has a voice too. “That is a good feeling. It makes me want to buy in more,” Valentin said, adding he would be particularly interested in coverage that more deeply explores education, as well as highlights local Latino-led businesses and non-profit organizations serving the community.
Last September, the Local Media Association announced the Record-Journal was one of 16 local news organizations to participate in its Center for Journalism Funding lab.
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Like Rodriguez, Orlando Valentin was raised in central Connecticut. Valentin grew up in Meriden. He now teaches fourth grade at Casimir Pulaski Elementary School.
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east of Mexico City. She hopes to see stories highlighting that diversity more widely shared.
Overall circulation declined as well. In 2004, total circulation among daily and weekly newspapers was 2.5 million. By 2019, that number had dwindled to 1.2 million. As a result the sizes of newsrooms in papers across the state have also shrunk.
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Reporting
Editorial independence
funders are topic-focused, using the example of K-12 “It’s important to find out education, which she noted what part of journalism difFrom A13 is a topic that has seen sigferent funders would be willnificantly reduced coverage of local news organizations ing to invest in,” Lane said. over the past decade. regarding fundraising proShe added, the terms begrams and working with phi“Knowing there are a lot of tween donors and news orlanthropic organizations to problems in K-12 education, support journalism projects.” ganizations have to be clear. (funders) are looking for “There are no strings atcoverage and solutions… That lab has two goals: rais- tached,” she said. “... The They want to bring awareing at least $2.25 million to contract or (memorandum ness to the problem. And support all 16 initiatives and of understanding) you sign they want solutions propublishing an extensive inwith the funder makes it posed and they trust jourdustry playbook on philanclear they have no control nalists can do this,” Lane thropy-funded journalism over the editorial part of it, said. for other newsrooms to folno influence, no right to dilow. rect how this coverage is Dan Kennedy, a journalism made. You just have to be professor at Northeastern Joaquín Alvarado, the execucrystal clear in the contract.” University in Boston, is fative director of The Seattle miliar with traditional newsTimes’ Project Accelerate, Lane said for the most part serves on the faculty for the Center for Journalism Funding lab. Project Accelerate was an effort launched eight years ago, with an Education Lab focused on expanding coverage of that GET A FREE ESTIMATE topic.
funders, letting them know you have to understand, you’re not going to dictate coverage…. And on the transparency end, you tell your audience who your funders are. And how you are going about covering this topic.”
rooms’ efforts to bolster shrinking news coverage and newsrooms with philanthropic funding. Kennedy echoed Lane’s point about news organizations needing to be clear with donors that funding does not dictate coverage and news organizations maintain editorial independence. Kennedy also urged transparency for the sake of readers.
Project Accelerate has since expanded to include investigative reporting, in-depth coverage of issues impacting Seattle’s homeless population, police accountability and other projects.
“Just be straightforward and transparent,” Kennedy said. “Be straightforward with the
See Reporting, A16
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“I think we all learned a lot from them,” Lane said. It’s not a strategy that works for all companies, she added. The model has also been successful in Fresno, Dallas, Miami and Boston. Lane’s advice as news organizations like the RecordJournal explore philanthropic funding models is to start by listening to local community members. “I think listening to the community is first and foremost: understanding the needs that aren’t being covered, problems that exist that need the solutions, and then talking to the funding community,” Lane said.
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A15
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Our Mission To amplify the voices of our local Latino communities.
Our goal is to raise $ 50,000 in 50 days to fund our second bilingual reporter for our Latino Communities Reporting Lab to expand our coverages and provide more local journalism as a public service to our community.
Learn More & Donate at
myrecordjournal.com/ LatinoReportingLab
Additional ways to donate: Text: RJ to 202-858-1233 Link via QR Code All donations are tax-deductible to the Record-Journal’s Latino Communities Reporting Fund, sponsored by the nonprofit Meriden-Wallingford Community Foundation.
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One of the strategies for philanthropic supported journalism is taking a multi-year
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“We’ve got good evidence these things are sustainable.”
“None of this is easy. It takes a lot of dedication. You want to be able to think it through — centering it on the community’s needs,” he said.
Connect and engage Record-Journal publisher Liz White Notarangelo explained the seeds for the
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“All of that work led us to thinking about how we can do more outreach to the local community,” White said. “What we want to do is more outreach to the Latino community. That’s how we developed our mission to amplify voices within the Latino community.” The Rev. James Manship, pastor of St. Rose of Lima Church in Meriden, described the newspaper’s initiative as “something that’s long overdue for the region.” “This is something that’s so important for civic life, to make sure the Hispanic community is included,” Manship said. He stressed the importance of having access to information: “There are so many decisions that are made that impact people’s lives.” The Record-Journal previously published a Spanish language weekly newspaper Tiempo, which Manship said parishioners still reference and remember fondly. It’s too soon to say whether the Record-Journal’s current initiative will yield a Spanish language offshoot. The paper’s leadership has indicated it could be a possibility.
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“I think we need to recognize the diversity of the community,” Manship said. “So everyone knows and they have an understanding of the struggles they face and the joys they have.”
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Thomas Chiari | 203-915-8037 | thomasbchiari@gmail.com
Haddam
Haddam SEALCOATING Parking Lots • Driveways • Roads & Private Roads 860-345-4686
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Pressure Treated • Composite Decking Hidden Fasteners • Vinyl Railing Systems
860-345-4686
Haddam Bulletin • April 2019
Demo • Repair • Rebuild
WINTER’S DAMAGE
Cleaning and Sweeping of Parking Lots, Sidewalks, Driveways, and Private Roads
A Division of TBC Enterprises
RECYCLE YOUR OLD NEWSPAPERS Please & Thank you.
EST. 1965
COMMERCIAL
Hot Rubberized Crack Repair Roads/Driveways/Parking Lots
Seal Call for aCoating • Hot Rubberize Crack Repairs Line Striping and Stenciling FREE EstimateAsphalt Repairs • Line Striping Oil and Gas Stains Treated
COMMERCIAL • RESIDENTIAL | LICENSED & INSURED
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Update. In addition to Park 'n Pick Up (which is located in the library's upper lobby), 15-minute appointments are available to browse and check out items or to use the
Insured Arborist Service Lic. #S-5428
Bucket Truck/Crane/Climbing Stump Grinding • Chipping • Lot Clearing • Tree & Shrub Installation • Storm Damage Clean-ups
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Levi E. Coe Library
cell 860-539-5879 office 860-349-8029 email petethetreeguy@yahoo.com
Commercial • Residential • Industrial • Licensed • Insured
Spanish Conversation (Zoom). Fridays at 4 p.m. All levels welcome. Email kmcnally@durhamlibrary.org for the weekly meeting link. French Conversation (Zoom). The first Thursday of the month at 4:30 p.m. All levels welcome. Email kmcnally@durhamlibrary.org for the weekly meeting link.
(860) 349-0157
• Expert large tree and limb removal • Crane, bucket and climbing service • 24 hour emergency service • Logs also available for delivery • Locally owned and operated with 20 years experience
AURORA TREE REMOVAL
PAVING
Durham/ Middlefield
Specializing in Removing Large Trees in Small Spaces
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Dungeons & Dragons (Zoom). Wednesdays at 7 p.m. Grades 7 & up. Visit durhamlibrary.org to register.
860-349-1918
211654
Teen Self Care. D.I.Y. kits. Pick up April 12 to 16. Visit durhamlibrary.org to register.
Advertise with us. 203-317-2312
Book sale. The book sale is ongoing. New items are still being added. Stop in any time during library hours.
SERVICE DIRECTORY
Tenement program (Zoom). Wednesday, April 7 at 6 p.m. Take a tour of one of the Tenement Museum's landmarks; visit the 1930s home of Adolpho and Rosaria Baldizzi, immigrants from Sicily who lived in New York City. Visit durhamlibrary.org to register. Cocoa & Crafts. A fun craft and some cocoa to enjoy at home. For age 8 to 12. Pick up April 5 to 10. Visit durhamlibrary.org to register.
Library hours are Monday through Thursday 12 to 5 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
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Hours. Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Wednesday, 2 to 8 p.m. Curbside pickup is available by request.
computers. Call 860-3493857 or email levicoelibrary@gmail.com to schedule an appointment.
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Durham Public Library
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Town Times | towntimes.com
Friday, April 2, 2021
Legal Notices & Classifieds
Reach over 310,000 readers. Call us today 203-238-1953
RJ MEDIA GROUP | Record-Journal | myrecordjournal.com | HOMEBASE Digital | Berlin Citizen | Cheshire Citizen | North Haven Citizen | Plainville Citizen | Southington Citizen | Town Times | The Post Help Wanted
Help Wanted
Automobiles
Wanted To Buy
Wanted To Buy
MINI CLUBMAN 2012 GRASSY HILL AUC- 60K miles, 1 owner, A-1 LOOKING - For Old TIONS, - an Estate Costume & Sterling good condition, askSale, Liquidation, Attic Jewelry Box Lots & ing $8,000. (860) 349& Basement Cleanout Other Doodads.”I Pay 8820. ELEMENTARY Company is Always Top Cash For Your Buying and providing Grandma’s Costume CAFÉ services all over ConAutos Wanted Jewelry Stash” Julie necticut. These are just MANAGER 203-443-9602. a FEW of the things TOP PRICES PAID we are looking for: AnWallingford Board of For Junk or unwanted AARON’S BUYING tiques, Collectibles, Education-Food Service vehicles, Toyota’s etc. Old Machinist Tools, Old/ Vintage Toys, MuDivision is seeking a Please call Mike @ 203Lathes, BenchTools, sical Instruments (Saxophones, Trumpets, Viqualified individual to 284-8562 8am-5pm. Hand Tools & more. olins, Flutes, Clarinets, coordinate activities of (203) 525-0608. Apartments For Trombone & SO MUCH the other foodservice MORE) Advertising Rent employees within the Items, Wristwatches ALWAYS BUYING facility. Position requires PLANTSVILLE - 1.5 rm (Broken or Not), Pocket CASH PAID effic’y near I-84, $175 a High School Diploma Watches, Tools (MaVintage Electronics, wk incls. heat, hw, a/c chinist, Woodworking, or G.E.D. In addition, Musical Instru& appls. Sec.+ref req. & MORE) Doorstops, must have experience in ments, Amps, Ham No pets.860-620-0025. Clocks, Oil Paintings, Equipment, HiFi, food service and a sanOld Signs, Old PhoRadios, CB, Guiitation certification from tographs, Old PostLawn and Garden tars, Audio Equipan approved Department cards, Brewery Items, ment, Antiques. Hunting & Fishing, PEZ of Education source. 860-707-9350 Dispensers, Costume School food service Jewelry, Broken Jewelexperience preferred. ry, Gold & Silver JewelSupervisory experience ry, Gold & Silver Coins, ANTIQUES - Always also preferred. Wages Military Items, Swords buying old; Toys, $16.78 (hourly) plus an & Bayonets, Helmets & military, jewelry, art, Patches, Medals & Uniexcellent fringe benefit watches, musical forms, Pocket Knives, package. Applications instruments, signs, Lighters & Pipes, Founarcade games, may be obtained at the tain Pens, Mechanical cameras, pre 1970 Department of Human MATERIALS Pencils, Fraternal Order sports memorabilResources, Town of Items, Religious Items, DISTRIBUTION ia, plus more. One Industrial Items, WinWallingford, 45 South Screened Topsoil $25/ item or entire estate chester Items, Sikorsky Main Street, Wallingford, per yd; Sand-$15 per contents. Call 860Items, Pratt & Whitney 718-5132. CT 06492. Forms will yd; Millings-$10 per yd; Items, Colt Items, Nabe mailed upon request Screened Millings $30 tive American Items, per yd; Clean Fill $8 from the Department Vintage Electronics, per yd: $100 minimum $$$BEAT ANY PRICE$$$ of Human Resources Slot Cars, Toy Trucks, Antiques, military Matchbox & Hotdelivery. No pickup truck or may be downloaded items, oddities, anywheels, Barbie’s, Folk service. Minimum 16 yd from the Department of thing of value, motorArt, Statues, Bronzes, pickup at our yard. Call cyles, minibikes, go Human Resources Web Trains, Cameras, Mid carts. Estate & free apJim @ 860-982-4819 for Page. The closing date Century Modern Furpraisal services. Gary, delivery will be the date the 50th niture, Straight Razors, 24/7, 203-237-4124. Shaving Items, Political application or resume is PREMIUM Items, Comic Books, received or April 7, 2021 SCREENED Sports Cards & Autowhichever occurs first. graphs…& THE LIST TOPSOIL EOE GOES ON! So please $25/yard delivered, give us a call at your 3 yd, $100 min. delivery earliest convenience. HANDYMAN - LookCall Jim 860-982-4819 Grassy Hill Auctions ing for someone to 203-868-1816 - Grassy do handyman jobs & Miscellaneous For HillAuctions.com yardwork. Apply to: Sale PO Box 373, Middlefield, CT 06455-0373 12’ FISHING BOAT - With trailer, swivel seats & orrs; motor 45 lb thrust; SHIPPER/RECEIVER Evinrude engine 4 hp, Mon. thru Fri., 8-5 p.m., 4 cycle; aboveground fax resume for review pool safety ladder, with (203) 269-5485, EMS locking entrance door New England, 65 South and railings. $1,500 Turnpike Rd., Wallingo.b.o. 860-621-6498. ford, (203) 269-1354.
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FOOD SERVICE
Looking for a friend?
OFFICE PROFESSIONAL
Business Owner / Service Provider?
LIST YOUR SERVICE
In Our Business / Service Directory
203-238-1953
RECYCLE YOUR OLD NEWSPAPERS Please & Thank you.
Find litters of critters in Classifieds.
STUFF TO SELL?
Need to Earn Income ASAP? Earn up to $1,200 mo. + Tips! The perfect and easiest part time job - Newspaper Delivery Routes Available - Earn up to $600.00 every Two weeks +Tips (Depending on area)
Routes available in the following towns:
Autos Wanted
MIDDLETOWN, CROMWELL, OLD SAYBROOK, MERIDEN, PLAINVILLE, NEW BRITAIN, WATERBURY Must be 18 or older. Must have valid drivers license, reliable vehicle and be available early mornings. Make extra cash before you go to work making early morning newspaper deliveries using your own vehicle. NO experience necessary. Must able to deliver early mornings, 7 days a week. MUST be dependable, and be able to read a route list with specific delivery instructions. We will demonstrate the route to you. Routes average 1.5 to 3 hours daily. No collections required. Not Temp Work. Retirees, Stay at Home Mom’s, and Veterans are also welcome to apply. Make extra cash to pay rent, mortgage, bills, save money, or a great vacation.
Text or call Peter at 860-846-0216 from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and start as soon as tomorrow morning.
Wood Fuel Heating Equipment TREE LENGTH FIREWOOD CALL FOR DETAILS 203-238-2149
Call Us.
203-238-1953
Wanted To Buy
237783
Local, dynamic, fastpaced financial services office seeks Part-time office professional, to work in Berlin, CT. Qualifications for the job include great people skills, a strong customer-service orientation, and organizational abilities. Good telephone skills, computer knowledge and verbal and writing skills are also necessary. Attention to detail a must. We offer not only competitive compensation, but also career enrichment and an opportunity to work with a company that serves the local community. To find out more about this position, email resume to applyggroup@gmail.com
CASH PAID For any Toyota any condition, running or not, crashed okay. Will take other makes and models. (203) 600-4431.
1,2,3 Items or an Estate $$$ CASH $$$ BUYING MACHINIST Todd Shamock TOOLBOXES - Tools Estate Sale Service & tooling, contents of Costume Jewelry, machine shops, home Antiques, Dolls, Toys, workshops and small Paintings,Meriden Items lathes. Call anytime 860-985-5760 203-494-1695
WANTED Individual firearms, collections & estates including military & related items.Federally licensed firearms dealer. Gunsmith, appraisals, Richard Pleines, (860) 663-2214.
A Classified ad is an easy way to sell your merchandise, and it’s easy on your wallet, too.
Town Times | towntimes.com
Friday, April 2, 2021
Businesses & Services Attics and Basements Cleaned GARY WODATCH
Home Improvements
Junk Removal
Landscaping
Carpentry CARPENTRY
Repairs, Decks & Porches, Sheetrock & Taping Water Damage Repairs. Free Est. Ins. MC & Visa. Call Bill (203) 901-2136. CT. Reg. # 0647093
Electrical Services TEC ELECTRICAL
Service LLC All Phases of Electrical Work. 24 hr. Emergency Service. Small Jobs Welcome. 203.237.2122
Specializing in roofing, siding, kitchens, bathrooms, flooring, basement remodeling. Senior citizen discount Insured. Free est. 203-265-5200 HIC#0631937
IT’S ALL HERE!
Local Classified Listings. Junk Removal
Handyperson HOME DOCTOR - 48 yrs exp. Odd jobs & remodeling, former US Navy, 15 yrs, #640689, 203.427.7828.
Landscaping #1 CHEAP Sm. Yard Mowing. Spring Clean-Up. Light Hauling. Sr. & Veteran disc. 203.600.3836. Mike’s Helping Hands.
COMM. & RES. - Lawn mowing, hedge trimming, mulching, retaining walls, patios, walkways, much more. Free Est. 203.687.0936
Gutters
GUTTERS PLUS 25+yrs. Exp. Call today for Free estimate. 203-440-3535 Ct. Reg. #578887
Let Us BEAR Your Junk! Junk Removal in CT
CLEAN & REMOVE Furniture, appliances, entire contents of: homes, sheds, estates, attics, basements, garages & more. *SPRING YARD Clean-ups* FREE ESTIMATES. LIC & INS. 203-535-9817 or 860-575-8218.
203-238-1953
Get Listed. Get Calls. Get Results. Landscaping JT’S LANDSCAPING LLC - Spring CleanUps, we specialize in weeding all types of beds, mulching, top soil work, pruning, hedges & trees, & all your landscape needs. Residential & commercial. Lic. #616311. Call today, 203 213-6528.
Demolition Svs Sheds, pools, decks, garages, debris removal. Quick, courteous svc. All calls returned. Ins. #566326. Cell, 860-558-5430
IF YOU Mention This Ad ROBERT’S LAWN MAINSPRING Yard TENANCE - Weekly Clean-Ups and by-weekly lawn Brush, branches, leaves, mowing, free estistorm damage mates. 860-808-8368. **JUNK REMOVAL** Appl’s, Furniture, Junk, Debris, etc WE CAN REMOVE ANYTHING Entire house to 1 item removed! Open 8:30–5 Monday FREE ESTIMATES Sr. Citizen Discount thru Friday. Call Us. LIC & INS. 203-238-1953 203-535-9817 or 860-575-8218
Moving and Storage
POWER WASH
Roofing RT RELOCATION Your moving and storage specialists. Call for a free estimate. 833-668-3978.
Painting Wallpapering Skylights. Flashing. Financing Available. #0649808 203.510.3830. lmconstructionct.com
Classifieds
GROW YOUR BUSINESS
#1 PAINTER’S EDGE 15% off Houses.Decks. Sheetrock.Popcorn Repair. Wallpaper removal. 25 yrs exp. Free est. Sr. disc. #0656136. Ins. 860.538.5520
Thank You for Shopping Local
Advertise with us. 203-317-2312
Plumbing GET 20% OFF! If you sign for the year w/ Affordable Lawncare. Mulching, landscaping. Reas. Reliable.
JM Lawn Care Lawn Mowing, Spring Cleanup, Hedge Trimming, Mulch, any color. 860.796.8168
SPRING CLEANUPS Tree Removal, Stump Grinding & more! Seasons Prop. Maint. DUMPSTER Rentals avail. 860.719.3953
Masonry
GEORGE J MACK & SONS - Servicing the Meriden area since Yalesville Construction 1922. Toilet, faucet, Specializing in all phases sink & drain repairs. of residential & Water heater replacecommercial roofing. ments. 15% Sr citizen Senior citizen discount disc. 203-238-2820. Insured Free est. 203-265-5200 HIC#0631937 Power Washing
Tree Services
FACEBOOK.COM/ RECORDJOURNAL NEWSPAPER
INSTAGRAM.COM/ RECORDJOURNAL
Power Washing Painting Int. & Ext. Gutters Cleaned. Free Ests. Ins. Refs. Rodrigo, (203) 565-7745.
CONNECT WITH US SOCIALLY TWITTER.COM/ RECORD_JOURNAL
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Call Monday thru Friday 8:30AM - 5PM
JIMMY’S MASONRY Over 28 years of exp. Stonewalls, patios, sidewalks, chimneys, pool areas, fireplaces, fire pit steps, all types of masonry work. Free est. (860) 274-4893.
#1 PAINTER’S EDGE MOBILE WASH Chemicals safe for house & plants. House wash + roof cleaning. 25 yrs. exp. Sr Disc. #0656136 Ins. 860.538.5520
Specializing in tree removal, trimming, chipping & grinding. Call for free estimate. 203-945-1808.
Town Times | towntimes.com
Friday, April 2, 2021
IBLE FLEX CING N FINA ABLE IL AVA
MAKE YOUR KITCHEN
Your our happy place in less time, with less stress, at an amazing value. CUSTOM CABINETRY
•
CABINET REFACING
•
LUXURY COUNTERTOPS
SAVE $1,500
NEW CABINETS OR CABINET REFACING WITH A COUNTERTOP* *Must present this offer at time of estimate. May not combine with other offers or apply this offer to prior purchases. NP-263. License Number: HIC.0638822
We’ve beautifully designed, manufactured and transformed nearly 60,000 kitchens.
Family-Owned I Award-Winning I American-Made
855.405.8804
I
Free Quotes
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