Town Times Nov. 13, 2020 by Record Journal

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Volume 26, Number 33

CT COVID CASES

Friday, November 13, 2020

PLANETA WOODWORKING

Middlefield remains in red zone

Left: A sampling of Coginchaug senior Nick Planeta’s woodworking creations. Durham-based Planeta Woodworking offers custom millwork, cabinetry, signs, cutting boards, and more. Below: A Connecticutshaped cutting board by Planeta Woodworking.

Middlefield is one of 68 communities across the state in the coronavirus red zone. The color coded status for cities and towns is updated each Thursday and represents two weeks of cases. The trigger for red status starts at a rate of 15 cases per 100,000 people per day. Middlefield reported 16 cases Oct. 18 to 31. Nearby, Meriden, Wallingford, Southington, North Haven, Hamden, North Branford and Middletown are among the other municipalities to be similarly classified. Durham remains in the yellow zone, a step down from red. The town reported 12 cases Oct. 18 to 31. The changes that come with the red status include issuing a public health alert, advising high risk people to stay home, limiting trips outside of the home and gatherings with non-family members, canceling public events and limiting community gathering points. With COVID-19 cases on the rise, Phase 2.1 went into effect in Connecticut last Friday. The changes include reducing the capacity of indoor restaurants to 50 percent, with a maximum of eight people per table. Outdoor venues are reduced to 25 percent capacity with social distancing and masks required. — Town Times report

‘You name it, I'll build it!’ By Bronwyn Commins Special to Town Times

About four years ago, I developed a terrible ant problem in my front hall closet. No food in there of course, just some winter coats, the vacuum cleaner and, outside the door, a box containing an unassembled wood planter that I bought online at a really low price. Terrifyingly, the ant problem grew to Amityville Horror proportions, and I expected to see Rod Steiger in a priest's collar at one point. But I couldn’t locate the source of those pesky insects. In talking with a neighbor who is gifted with plants, I mentioned the table top planter I had just purchased, and he took the box off my hands and offered to as-

semble the piece. He returned a few days later, table complete, and described the horrible number of ants that emerged from a nest in the box. (Did I mention what a bargain it was?) Okay, so no dark forces were at work in my coat closet, but I learned that perhaps it was better to keep online purchases in the garage until I could open them up. There was no blame here. That table was packaged by someone who was under a deadline to box up hundreds of tabletop planters that were identical to the one I had just purchased, quickly and cheaply. This was not exactly a made-to-order purchase. Had I purchased a cutting board from Durham-based Planeta

Woodworking, no one would have the same exact one that I do. That is because those cutting boards are created through the expertise and patience of Nick Planeta: Eagle Scout, high school student and successful entrepreneur. See Planeta, A10

Division over presidential race reflected in local vote By Mary Ellen Godin Record-Journal staff

Democratic presidential candidate Joseph Biden topped Hillary Clinton’s 2016 performance in Connecticut while President

Trump lost support in Wallingford, which went for him in 2016, 48.33 percent to The Nov. 3 results Clinton’s 47 percent. This showed Connecticut, alyear, Trump garthough reliably blue, is near- nered 45.89 percent of the ly as divided as much of the vote to Biden’s 52.6 percent. rest of the country. Donald Trump’s support dipped in some area towns.

In legislative races, Trump’s decline is believed to have helped some Democratic candidates. Trump picked up some support in Meriden where the

president netted 39.43 percent of the city’s votes as compared to 38.59 percent in 2016. Trump also won Southington with 50.43 percent of the vote, but it See Division, A12

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Friday, November 13, 2020

Estate Treasures

Leadership post for Candelora

Democrats in the House of Representatives backed state

Rep. Matt Ritter of Hartford as the House Speaker and Rep. Jason Rojas of East Hartford as the House Majority Leader. Republicans, meanwhile, selected Rep. Vincent Candelora of North Branford as the new House Minority Leader.

Cicarella cheers news of local STEAP grants Senator-elect Paul Cicarella (R-North Haven) applauded the Lamont administration's approval of three infrastructure improvement grants for the 34th Senate District through the state's Small Town Economic Assistance Program (STEAP). "I want to thank the state for recognizing the value of these local modernization projects and all those who worked together to advocate in support of our communities," Cicarella said Monday. "As I prepare to serve in Hartford, I want to make sure the needs of our communities in the 34th district like these are heard loud and clear and our towns always have a seat at the table."

The grants include the following: Durham: $128,205 in funding has been approved for the reconstruction of Shady Lane. This will be matched by $415,900 from the town. North Haven: $117,150 in funding has been approved for the replacement of the heating system at the town library. This will be matched by $2,500 from the town. Wallingford: $128,205 in funding has been approved for improvements and the expansion of the North Cherry Street parking lot. This will be matched by $165,000 from the town.

Also victorious were incumbent U.S. representatives John Larson, Jim Himes, Joe Courtney and Jahana Hayes.

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“It is incredibly humbling to have the unanimous support of my colleagues to serve as their next Speaker of the House,” said Ritter, whose father, Hartford Democrat Tom Ritter, was the Connecticut House Speaker from 1993-98.

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In the Senate, Republicans chose Sen. Kevin Kelly of Stratford as the next leader of the Republican caucus. He succeeds retiring Sen. Len Fasano, R-North Haven.

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Democratic senators endorsed their current top leaders, Senate President Martin Looney of New Haven and Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff of Norwalk, for another two years. The next regular legislative session convenes on Jan. 6. — Associated Press report

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This year’s election in Connecticut was marked by historic numbers of absentee ballots. Lawmakers temporarily changed the state’s strict rules for voting by absentee ballot to allow concerns about COVID-19 an acceptable reason. At least 28% of the state’s 2.3 million voters had already cast their ballots before the doors opened at polling places on Tuesday, Nov. 5. — Associated Press report ADVERTISING: Joy Boone — Media Consultant (203) 317-2313 | advertising@towntimes.com NEWS / SPORTS: (203) 317-2245 | news@towntimes.com

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Republicans also backed Sen. Paul Formica of East Lyme to serve as his deputy leader.

CT Dems sweep U.S. House races

In the 3rd District, which includes Durham and Middlefield, U.S. Rep. Rosa Delauro, the longest-serving member of Connecticut’s delegation to Washington, fended off an aggressive challenge by political newcomer Margaret Streicker, a Republican real estate executive from Milford.

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Candelora succeeds retiring House Minority Leader Themis Klarides, R-Derby.

— Press Release

All five incumbent U.S. representatives won reelection in Connecticut, completing a sweep for Democrats in a state that has not sent a Republican to Congress in over a decade.

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Ritter, who has served as the House Majority Leader, succeeds retiring House Speaker Joe Aresimowitz, DBerlin.

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State legislators in Connecticut have chosen three colleagues to fill leadership positions vacated by longstanding members of the General Assembly who decided not to seek reelection.

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Friday, November 13, 2020

Durham registrars say thanks for a smooth Election Day The Durham registrars thank the voters of Durham for their patience and support during the presidential election on Nov. 3. Lines were long, especially in the early hours, but kept moving. In all, 3,182 people voted at Korn School and 1,585 voted via absentee ballot. The Durham election turnout was close to 88 percent.

election to keep poll workers and voters safe.

Recognition, admiration, and thanks go to registrars Lou Battipaglia and Karen Cheyney, who are retiring. Their dedication to Durham and its residents has been unwavering, and both will be missed.

We would like to thank the poll workers who gave of their time and talents. In all, there were over 60 workers, many of whom were high school age. We couldn’t have Finally, we would like to done it without you! welcome new registrars Many thanks also go to Claudia Rovelli and Heather Town Clerk Kim Garvis and Petit. Both were voted in on Thanks also go to District 13 Assistant Town Clerk Alicia Election Day and are being and Operations Manager Sue Fonash-Willett for their intrained by Lou and Karen, credible help and dedicaGaudreau for making Korn respectively. They will be tion. They stayed late many School so accessible. great additions to the office! nights and came in on weekDurham Public Works also — Submitted by the ends to ensure that this elecget our thanks for building Durham Registrars Office the virus shields used at the tion ran smoothly.

EDITORIAL

Every single vote must be counted As Election Night wore on toward midnight, it appeared that Republican Len Suzio was in the lead and possibly poised for an upset win in the 13th state Senate district. But Suzio knew better than to declare victory based on inperson vote tallies. “Even though we’re in a comfortable position we have over 15,000 in absentee ballots that are heavily weighted by Democrats,” he said. “I think we could be competitive. I don’t know if we’re going to know if we are going to win tonight.”

As it turned out, Suzio came up short in his challenge to Democratic incumbent Mary Daughterty Abrams, but he did help score a win for democracy. Absentee ballots, an unusual and important focal point in an election held in the midst of a pandemic, played a large role in the outcome. Candidates who were ahead before they were counted fell behind once they were. What was essential was that they were counted. See Vote, A12

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Friday, November 13, 2020

Middlefield polling location move ‘seamless’ The Public Works crew and the Community Center custodian set up our voting location on Nov. 2, and at the end of the night on Nov. 3, had the cafeteria at Memorial cleared out in less than an hour. They did all of the heavy lifting, and this voting location would never have worked without their muscles and cooperation. We had several new poll workers this year, from high schoolers to retirees, and all performed their jobs in flawless fashion, making sure each voter had what they needed to vote. They were friendly and a pleasure to work with that day. Additional kudos to our resident troopers, who checked on voters and workers

throughout the day, ensuring safety for all. While many of us were at Memorial School, we had more election team members at the Community Center, where counting took place for absentee ballots and officials assisted in same-day registration. Finally, a huge thank you to the voters of Middlefield and Rockfall. With a turnout of approximately 83 percent, you wanted your voices heard. Nothing would make me happier than to see this type of turnout for municipal elections and school referenda so that you have a say on the local level as well. Democracy in action! — Submitted by Cathleen Hinsch

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There are many, many people to thank for the extremely smooth operation of this day.

First, our registrars, Kathleen Kokoszka and Barbara Jean DiMauro, who worked with First Selectman Ed Bailey to make this transition to Memorial seamless. Preparation began months ago and the Registrars Office and Town Hall collaborated to ensure that the election would run without incident.

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Yes, sir! Editor : Gov. Ned Lamont says that at Thanksgiving dinner there's to be no more than 10 people at the table. I have nine children, plus my wife and I, which makes 11. Since I do not wish to break a law not voted on by the legislature, and fear a fine that I cannot afford, or a jail sentence that will prevent me from working and paying taxes, or a conflict with the police, who will most certainly confiscate the shotgun I keep in the closet to protect my children from home invasion, I have decided to place one of my children outside at a small table. He can eat his dinner all by himself. He's the Republican in the family anyway, and the woman on the coronavirus hotline said that I should put the Republican in the family outside. Also, Grandma called asking what she should bring for dinner, and I had to tell her that she's not welcome. She can stay in her lonely subsidized apartment and eat a can of tuna fish, for I do not want to break any laws made by King Lamont. He knows what is best for my family and is in office to protect me from any and all harm. Happy Thanksgiving. Mark J. Czaja

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Letters to the Editor

Cathy Zack MD (Nov. 9 Town Times) accused Kathryn Joyce of “stating that Vitamin D deficiency is the cause of the disproportionate number of deaths of African-Americans from COVID-19.” Kathryn said no such thing and to say so smacks of a smear. Actually read her Letter to the Editor in the Oct. 23 paper.

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Zack then states there is no data indicating the optimum See Letters, A5

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Friday, November 13, 2020

THE CHAMPS Congratulations to the CDM team for winning the Connecticut Babe Ruth Baseball District 2 Fall Championship. The team, comprised of players from Durham and Middlefield, capped its season with playoff wins over Milford and Naugatuck on the way to defeating South Meriden in the title game. The champs are pictured, front row: Logan Bender, Chace Caporossi, Jayson Penney, Adam Schaffer, DJ Kozik, Ethan Bufford-Cournoyer. Back row: Christian Mennone, Coach Pete Palmer, Preston Mennone, Coach Greg Schaffer, Brady Koba, Logan Palmer, Coach Scott Penney, Connor Willett, Gage Rovelli, Manager Kris Koba.

Letters From A4

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Also, the greatest cause of Vitamin D deficiency is lack of sunlight. Now the sun is institutionally racist?

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Vitamin D level for people of color (I’m a color. Am I included?) while also stating Vitamin D deficiency is a symptom of institutional racism. So, we don’t know what deficient even is but it’s proof of racism?

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Friday, November 13, 2020

Letters Policy Letters to the Editor are limited to 300 words. Email letters to news@towntimes.com; mail to 500 South Broad St., Meriden, CT 06450 or fax to 203-639-0210. Town Times will print only one letter per person each month. Letters must be submitted by 5 p.m. on Monday to be considered for publication the following Friday.

CIAC delays start of winter season By Bryant Carpenter and Greg Lederer Record-Journal staff

CHESHIRE — A winter sports season is still a possibility for high school athletes in Connecticut. It just won’t be starting on time. And, if played, it certainly won’t look the same. In an email sent Thursday, Nov. 5 to its member superintendents, principals and athletic directors, the CIAC announced it is delaying the start of winter sports, which had been scheduled for Saturday, Nov. 21, in order to have time to review upcoming recommendations from the Connecticut Department of Public Health.

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have to wear masks while competing. Also, teams in those sports won’t be able to travel or host teams from out of state. Lamont also pulled the plug on high-risk sports for the rest of 2020. Those sports include wrestling and 11-on11 tackle football. The CIAC announcement came as COVID-19 cases are on the rise. “We’re doing everything we can to allow our sports and schools to go as best as we can, doing everything we can to keep you safe because we’re not out of the woods yet,” Lamont said Nov. 5, several days after rolling back some elements of his Phase 3 re-opening plan.

“We’ve got some work to do, and that’s true of our state, which is still eighth-lowest in infection rate in the counRegarding the winter season, try, but I take no solace in Lamont decreed that athletes that at all,” the Governor added. who play moderate-risk sports, such as basketball, hockey and gymnastics, will See CIAC, A9

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Friday, November 13, 2020

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Friday, November 13, 2020

Middlefield Veterans Build home Middlesex Habitat for Humanity is renovating a house in Middlefield that has been designated a Veterans Build. The Veterans Build program works to provide homeownership opportunities to current military and veterans of all service branches in Middlesex County. Our partner homeowners are service members who are working to build a better life for their families.

spring of 2020, from the Town of Middlefield. The purchase of the home was possible through a generous donation by The Peach Pit Foundation. This project is the second Veterans Build home and 17th MHFH house project.

qualified lighting and appliances. Renovations will begin in 2020. Middlesex Habitat for Humanity encourages military individuals/families to apply for this home ownership opportunity. Applications are due Friday, Nov. 20 by 4 p.m.

The 3-bedroom Middlefield Call Sarah Bird at 860-398home, located at 171 Hubbard St., will be renovated to 6485 or Maria Lopez at 860398-6483 to schedule a time meet Energy Star standards by using energy-efficient fea- to pick up an application or tures, such as effective insu- to have one sent to you. Staff Basementhouse Waterproofing secivreS gnifoorpretisaWavailable tnemesaB to discuss the The Middlefield was Services lation, efficient heating application purchasedOver by36 Middlesex Years combined experience. . e c n e i r e p x e d e n i b m o c s r a e Y 63 revO process. equipment, and Energy StarHabitat for Humanity the Fully Transferable WritteninGuarantee*, Sump Pumps,,spmuP pmuS ,*eetnarauG nettirW elbarefsnarT y—lluFPress Release

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It’s been a while since I have added my two cents to the issue of masks, which I think some people have had to wear for so long that they are now a permanent fixture on their face. They may feel naked without one. I have not reached that stage. But – and I’m sure this is not surprising to any of you – I still have my complaints. The biggest one – well, other than I can’t breathe and my ears hurt – is that I cannot see people smile and they can’t see me smile. I like smiles, both the giving and the receiving of them. I’ll be cruising down the aisles of Stop & Shop, and, as I am prone to do, I will smile at someone with whom I have engaged in a conversation, and then I will realize that they have no idea that I have smiled. So I tell them, “I’m smiling at you.” And they tell me, “And I’m smiling back.” It loses something, I think, this hearing about smiles instead of seeing them. People say they can tell See Carr, A9

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Friday, November 13, 2020

Carr

Obituaries Lee E. Sawyer MIDDLE TOWNLee Equinox Sawyer, of Middletown, Connecticut, departed this world peacefully, but unexpectedly, on the morning of October 31, 2020. He was 38. The first child of Diana Lynn Newman and the late Phillip Neal Sawyer, Lee arrived on November 11, 1981, in Marlow, New Hampshire. He was a beloved father, husband, brother, son, grandson, uncle, nephew, cousin, mentor, friend, and pillar of the community. He is survived by his wife, soulmate, and best friend, Samantha Claire Sawyer, and their three beautiful daughters, Sadie Claire (13), Natalie Winter (10), and Raina Stone Sawyer (5). He also leaves his mother Diana and her husband Tom Newman of Maine, his aunt Cathy Lee Ramsdell of Maine, his sister Juniper Stromer of Arizona, three brothers Noah, Josh (Em), and Nick Sawyer of Maine, several cousins including Julie Sawyer of Connecticut and Wendy (PJ) Sawyer of Massachusetts who were like sisters to him, and multitudes of other loved ones. Lee graduated from Coginchaug Regional High School in 1999, and went on to earn his Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science and Public Administration from Central Connecticut State University, then his Graduate Certificate in Public Relations from the same. He earned his JD from the University of Connecticut School of Law in 2013. His education was as much practical as it was traditional; while pursuing his degrees and

CIAC From A6

“There is risk and I’ve seen what’s going on in some of those other states,

raising his family, he was also working tirelessly with organizations including the Manchester Journal Inquirer and Goodwin College, and volunteering with the Jennifer Jaff Center, the Middletown Conservation Commission, and the Connecticut Invention Convention, Inc. After finishing law school, he completed a public policy fellowship with the ZOOM Foundation before going on to envision and launch RecycleCT, a foundation devoted to increasing recycling in Connecticut. Finally, he found his perfect role with the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP), holding the title of Chief of Staff. Lee was a pure, bold, brilliant force of intellect and kindness. We will always remember him for his warmth, humor, integrity, dignity, strength, grace, and authenticity. He imparted joy, hope, guidance, and comfort to every life he touched, and he sought to make positive changes in every place he went. Samantha was the love of Lee’s life. The profound trials they endured before they met each other only served where there’s an infection rate of 30 and 40 percent. So let’s err on the side of caution a little bit longer.” The CIAC is waiting to receive a full set of recom-

to strengthen their bond, which remains unbroken even now. It was as if when Lee, Samantha, and Sadie were united, the pieces of an intricate puzzle finally settled right where they belonged. Samantha’s brother David, sister Lauren, mother Trish and her husband Bob, recognized instantly, as did Lee’s family, that Lee and Samantha were links in a chain that holds two families together. Not only did Sadie transform Lee into a father, making him the happiest man in the world, Lee also became a brother all over again to David and Lauren, an uncle to Lauren’s sons Teddy and Ben, and a son to Tricia and Bob. Because of the person Lee was, we are connected now in ways that continue to surprise and enrich us all. For everyone in this whole, huge, wonderful, complicated family, Lee was our rock. Lee gently instilled in his daughters his immense respect and appreciation of nature and all of its creations. He nurtured their minds by sharing his passions with them - camping, hiking, astronomy, science, philosophy, social and environmental consciousness, and so much more. He was happiest when he was outside exploring the wonders of this earth with his daughters and wife. He nurtured their hearts with a love beyond measure. Even after losing their home 2 months ago to a devastating fire, Lee and Samantha and their incredibly resilient children courageously moved forward together, with nothing but humility and gratitude, to face mendations from the Department of Public Health on the upcoming winter season. The CIAC had planned to begin practices on Nov. 21 and games on Monday, Dec. 7. Instead,

what they thought would be their most difficult challenge. Lee was both inherently faithful in the goodness of mankind, and incredibly perceptive of the balance of the world. The tragedy of his passing seems impossible to comprehend; yet we must remember - as he would want us to - that his path is simply following the natural order of things. Lee believed in science and logic above all else, and he would want to remind us now that science has proven reliably that energy in the universe is never created, nor is energy ever destroyed. The only certain conclusion then, he would reason, is that his own energy will never be gone from the universe; it has simply transformed. His life was short but full because he never wasted one second of it. We must find a way to accept peace with his departure by rejoicing in having been part of his amazing life. He is free of earthly troubles now as he heads out for the next part of his journey. Being part of Lee’s existence is a gift for which we will all remain forever grateful. Funeral services were held on Sunday, November 8, 2020 at Biega Funeral Home, 3 Silver Street, Middletown, CT, 06457. A trust has been established to help Lee and Samantha’s family as they brace to recover now from these tremendous losses. Contributions to the Sawyer Family Fund at Liberty Bank would be gratefully accepted in lieu of flowers. To share memories or express condolences online please visit www. biegafuneralhome.com.

with that DPH report not yet in hand, a new timeframe will be formulated at a CIAC Board of Control meeting scheduled for Tuesday, Nov. 17.

From A8

by my eyes that I’m smiling. Actually, those are crow’s feet. Well, maybe I should give those crow’s feet another label – smiling with my eyes. I like it! I wonder what we will all look like when we can finally take off our masks. I already know what my friends look like, of course, but I wonder what new acquaintances, the ones I’ve met at the grocery store and at my health food store, will look like sans mask. I wonder if their façade will match up with the image I have of them. And if mine will match up with theirs (if they have one). For all they know I could have teeth like a beaver’s and a nose like Pinocchio’s. I hope I don’t disappoint. I find it so hard to recognize people, with all their facial gear. I have walked by a number of people, unaware that I know them. I figure who we all are is anybody’s guess at this point. I will shout across Stop & Shop, “Michael, is that you?” And he will shout back, “It is. Diana, is that you?” It certainly is a way to move through life incognito. I think I’ve come up with a solution. Somewhat. In one of my “light bulb” moments I thought it a good idea to purchase a boatload of smiley faces and stick them, in the shape of a smile, on my mask. Then people could say, “Yes, I can see that you are smiling.” And we can leave the crow’s feet out of it. And it will look like I’m smiling all the time, too. Maybe I could get some emojis that reflect my mood of the day, and slap them on there. Sad, surprised, bored, excited. It would take the guesswork out.

I hope when all this is over I remember to smile on my own, since I will have been out of practice these many months. I might need to hold onto those smiley faces, just to be on the safe side.

A10

Town Times | towntimes.com

Friday, November 13, 2020

Planeta From A1

Planeta doesn’t just design his products, he devotes hours to making sure they are crafted with quality, skill and care. Again, he does all this while completing his final year at Coginchaug.

The teenager’s interest in woodworking began with his entrance into scouting, an aspect of his life that continues. Along the way, he began making cutting boards, giving them to friends, and upon getting a job at the Durham Pharmacy, selling them. Planeta looks forward to

studying engineering in college, but his passion for woodworking will not be left behind. Another important note about this talented young person. He does not limit himself in his creations. Don’t want a cutting board or block for your new set of knives? Think of anything

you want made of wood, and Planeta can make it: toy chest, paneling, personalized box for jewelry or other keepsakes; the list goes on. Take a look at his work, and you will see that if it can be fashioned from wood, Planeta is the one to do it. As his website states, “You name it, I'll build it!”

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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.

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CRHS technology innovation teacher Tina Hurlbert describes Planeta as, “knowledgeable, humble, helpful,” and someone who “pays great attention to detail” and is “willing to try new things.” Did you know there is a Purple Heart wood? Neither did I until I visited Planeta’s website. Purple Heart wood is found in South America, Australia and Africa. It comes from huge trees in the rainforest, and yes, it is indeed, purple. Planeta not only spends hours creating original pieces, but also researching the best materials for his products. I mentioned he is doing all this while finishing high school, right? Social isolation gives us more time to think about how we can spend money on things that matter, while we opine on where the world is headed within our group texts. The inclination is to buy a better phone or laptop, so we can “stay connected,” but I think money is better spent on a beautiful custom-made cribbage board, don’t you? Setting up a remote game of cribbage would certainly relieve the stress induced by CNN, the Internet, and whatever is on our phones. See Planeta, A15

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A12

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Friday, November 13, 2020

Division

dropped to 42.19 percent this time. “It’s been a very interesting year for politics especially locally,” said Corey Nash, a former Republican town chairman and co-host of the political podcast “Cheshire Cast.” “People started to see through some of the fear mongering on some of the

From A1

was less than the 53.10 percent he took in 2016. Trump also won in Berlin. In Cheshire, Trump claimed 46 percent of the vote in 2016 but that support

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issues. Unfortunately, some of the members of the GOP highlighted supporting police” with little explanation. “What does that mean?”

April Capone Tuesday in the race for the open seat. Unofficial results showed Cicarella leading Capone 28,444 to 22,571.

Nash believes GOP candidates needed to recognize the importance of the death of George Floyd, which led to Black Lives Matter protests in Connecticut as well as the U.S.

“It’s hard to predict,” said Wallingford Democratic Town Chairwoman Alida Cella. “The Capone race, it was hard to tell which way the winds were blowing.”

Not recognizing the underlying race issues “turned a lot of people off,” he added.

Biden may have won Wallingford but Trump won Durham, North Haven and East Haven, according to the Secretary of the State’s unofficial totals. Despite Trump’s unpopularity statewide, the three towns are a GOP stronghold.

The 34th state Senate seat is also an indicator of a divided electorate. The district was held by Republican Len Fasano and was handed Cella doesn’t think the political division will end until the off to Republican Paul Cisystem gives voters “real carella on Election Day. choices.” The 34th District includes “...there is no ability for third the towns of Wallingford, East Haven, part of Durham parties to represent the midand part of North Haven. Ci- dle,” Cella said. “You have to go to the polls to keep out the carella defeated Democrat

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Vote From A3

“It’s not done until all the ballots are counted,” said Catherine Abercrombie, a Democrat who won re-election in the 83rd House District. No one need be congratulated for recognizing this; it’s obvious, and it is not a partisan issue. But were that only true at the national level.

“Don’t, Mr. President, undermine the integrity of our democracy,” Lamont told the Hartford Courant. “This is too important a time.” “Democracy is worth the wait,” added Connecticut Attorney General William Tong. It certainly is. In order for democracy to remain the winner, every vote has to count. 235786

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Cella points to research that shows the trend toward ranked choice voting is predicted to get stronger as “the parties become more extreme and represent the middle less and less.”

In so unusual a year patience is demanded while the nation strives to make sure every vote counts. That was a message delivered Nov. 4 by Connecticut leaders, including Gov. Ned Lamont, who criticized the president for casting “shade.”

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Cella said this year’s election results show the need for ranked choice voting. Ranked choice voting, which is done in some U.S. states and in other countries, allows voters to support their top choice but provide a second choice if the top one doesn’t win.

President Donald Trump did a disservice to the presidency, the nation, and democracy in the wee hours of Wednesday, Nov. 4 when, declaring victory, he called the counting of legally cast ballots “fraud.” It was no such thing.

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Friday, November 13, 2020

A13

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A14

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Friday, November 13, 2020

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Friday, November 13, 2020

A15

In Brief

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As part of their Bronze Award project, local Girl Scout Juniors in Troop 62092 have planned a new program for young girls who want to have fun, love being outside, and wish to help their community. Girls can pick up an activity packet each week from the Levi Coe Library front entrance hall and complete themed activities and crafts at home. Participate in one or all of the activities to become a “Girl Scout Bud.”

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In lieu of regular Thanksgiving baskets, Durham Neighbors in Need will provide gift cards to families and individuals in need. If you would like to donate a gift card, mail them to: Human Services, Town of Durham, P.O. Box 428, Durham, CT 06422. Donations of nonperishables and cleaning and hygiene supplies for the food pantry also are sought. For more information: 860-3493153; mperry@townofdurhamct.org.

Also, join Troop 62092 for a Teddy Bear Sleepover over Zoom Friday, Nov. 20, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., for games,

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A16

Town Times | towntimes.com

Friday, November 13, 2020

It’s time to prepare your home for winter weather If you’re a homeowner, there’s important work to be done before autumn’s chill gives way to winter’s deepfreeze. Don’t let the change of seasons catch you unprepared. Give your house a once-over, inside and out. Visually inspect your home. When outside, look while on the ground. Check for the following:

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Cheshire recommends heating systems be cleaned every fall. Whether your unit is gas or oil, they will inspect blowers, heat pumps, filters, safety devices and heat exchangers to make sure your heating system is operating safely and efficiently. If you use a fireplace, the non-profit Chimney Safety Institute of America recommends having “chimneys inspected yearly and cleaned as needed.” CSIA also recommends seasoned wood as the best burning option to avoid creosote buildup and potential fire hazards. Do not burn discarded cardboard boxes or gift wrapping or packaging materials. Make sure your family has plenty of fresh batteries. Locate your flashlights, refill with fresh batteries, and turn them on to make sure they operate. If you did not change the batteries in smoke detectors or carbon monoxide units in March, change them out now. Be sure to test them to make sure they actually work. And don’t overlook essential tools you may need for the upcoming winter season. If you use a snowblower, check it for any loose nuts and bolts, and give it a tune-up. If you do not maintain the equipment yourself, there are snowblower repair shops, and some make house calls. Finally, keep snow shovels, roof rakes and sand in an easy-to-reach area.

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Town Times | towntimes.com

Friday, November 13, 2020

Big Brothers Big Sisters’ virtual gala

Briefs

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Friends of Berlin Animal Control’s Annual Christmas Bake Sale & Bazaar will be held Saturday, Nov. 21, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at 945 Farmington Ave., Berlin. Great gifts for your pets.

Best Cleaners’ 12th annual Coats For Connecticut campaign is underway. The public is urged to go through their closets; gather up coats that are in good condition but no longer worn; and drop them off at any one of Best’s 13 locations by Wednesday, Nov. 25. Outerwear for all ages and in all sizes is needed, especially children’s coats. The locally-owned dry cleaning and tailoring company hopes to collect, clean and deliver

During the pandemic most Connecticut Al-Anon meetings are accessible via Zoom meetings. For more information, visit ctalanon.org/meetings.

Boxes to Boots The non-profit Boxes to Boots will be sending 700 care packages to troops for the holidays. Help is needed to wrap the packages on Saturday, Nov.

A native of Stratford and the winner of the first season of NBC’s “The Voice,” Colon will entertain the virtual audience with his rendition of a song that has topped the charts in multiple decades.

GMChorale The Greater Middletown Chorale meets on Zoom Tuesday evenings, 7 to 8:30 p.m. Visit gmchorale.org for more information.

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Ryan Matthews, Director of Programs at Nutmeg Big Brothers Big Sisters, said, “With a lineup like Javier Colon, Governor Lamont and Tim Lammers, our 2020 Challenge certainly has an abundance of star power. Yet, I like to think the real stars of the evening are the ‘Bigs’ (adult mentors) and ‘Littles’ (children being mentored), who event attendees will meet and get to know during the course of the evening.”

14 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Beehive Stadium in New Britain. Sign up at boxestoboots.org to lend a hand.

From A15

Nutmeg Big Brothers Big Sisters announced that, for the first time in its 54-year history, it will host its annual gala virtually on Thursday, Dec. 10 at 7 p.m. Called the 2020 Challenge, the night will feature appearances by “The Voice” winner Javier Colon, Fox 61 anchor Tim Lammers and Gov. Ned Lamont.

A17

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Friday, November 13, 2020

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Right employer.

FREELANCE WRITERS NEEDED The Record-Journal in Meriden, Connecticut is looking for freelance journalists with strong writing skills and an interest in community news. Story assignments for print and digital publication will include a focus on features, along with occasional news coverage, primarily in Plainville and North Haven.

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Custom Sheet Metal Fabrication, light structural, min 5-10 yrs experience, steady work, good benefits. Call for interview. 860-828-3762

Looking for a friend?

Find litters of critters in Classifieds.

Routes available in the following towns: MERIDEN • WALLINGFORD • SOUTHINGTON CHESHIRE • MIDDLETOWN • DURHAM Make extra cash before you go to work making early morning newspaper deliveries using your own vehicle. NO experience necessary.· Must be able to deliver early mornings, 7 days a week starting at 2:00a.m. MUST be dependable, able to read a map and 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, Long Term Contracts.

Call Vinny @ 860-846-6399

before 11 a.m. and start tomorrow

R225397

WELDER/ FABRICATOR

Newspaper Delivery

Autos Wanted

Apartments For Rent

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

MERIDEN 2 BR apt., fully remodeled, W/D incl., w/ GAR, $1,200 mo. + sec. deposit. Call Ken, (702) 445-5646.

MERIDEN - West Side, 3 rms, heat, hot water Trucks and Vans & appls., off st. prkg., $775 mo. Refs. req’d. ‘05 GMC BOX VAN Submit to PO Box 931, Good condition, runs Meriden, CT 06450. well, 106K miles. $6,500. Call (860) 3244517.

Houses For Sale

Whether it is a lost ring, wallet or a Parrot named Oliver, a Classified ad can help track it down.

FURNITURE - 1 Twin Bed Frame & never used mattress. 1 Twin Dresser & mirror. $75.00. 203-235-1259.

MATERIALS DISTRIBUTION Screened Topsoil $25/ per yd; Sand-$15 per yd; Millings-$10 per yd; Screened Millings $30 per yd; Clean Fill $8 per yd: $100 minimum delivery. No pickup truck service. Minimum 16 yd pickup at our yard. Call Jim @ 860-982-4819 for delivery

Delivery Routes Available $400-$600 every 2 weeks+ Tips (Depending on area)

3 PIECE GLASS TABLE - 1 Coffee 48”x 24”. 2 End 24”x 24” $100.00. (203)376-0577.

Lawn and Garden

235197

R235806v2

Steady work, good benefits. Call for interview. 860-828-3762.

WALLINGFORD - Private BR w/bath, all utils., dbl bed, internet, TV, $175/ wk plus 2 wks sec. + 1 wk rent. 203-980-1441.

CTjobs.com.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to a diverse workforce. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability.

SHEET METAL MECHANICS, APPRENTICES & HELPERS

MERIDEN - Clean, Safe Room. 203-605-6522. Utils & fridge incl. Share KIT/BA. Parking. $135/ wk + security dep.

NORTH HAVEN - Ranch 2 BR, 1 BA, HW FLS, LR Din. combo, CAir, Cvac. OF Hot Air, New Windows, Fbase., New Oil Tnk., 1 car, 13’ AG Pool, Trex Dk, Shed W/ Pwr. $180,500. Call Albert 203-804-3719.

[Publisher Name] is a partner of CTjobs.com.

PREMIUM SCREENED TOPSOIL

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

 

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

Sporting Goods and Health PISTOL PERMIT - Certification, for groups of 4 or less, masks req’d, 1 session only, $140. (203) 415-1144.

Wood Fuel Heating Equipment TREE LENGTH FIREWOOD CALL FOR DETAILS 203-238-2149

Town Times | towntimes.com Wanted To Buy

Friday, November 13, 2020 Wanted To Buy

Businesses & Services

HILL AUC1,2,3 Items or an Estate GRASSY TIONS, - an Estate $$$ CASH $$$ Sale, Liquidation, Attic Todd Shamock & Basement Cleanout Estate Sale Service Company is Always Costume Jewelry, Buying and providing Attics and Basements services all over ConAntiques, Dolls, Toys, Cleaned necticut. These are just Paintings,Meriden Items a FEW of the things 203-494-1695 GARY WODATCH we are looking for: Antiques, Collectibles, Demolition Svs Sheds, AARON’S BUYING Old/ Vintage Toys, Mu- pools, decks, garages, Old Machinist Tools, sical Instruments (Sax- debris removal. Quick, Lathes, BenchTools, ophones, Trumpets, Vi- courteous svc. All calls olins, Flutes, Clarinets, returned. Ins. #566326. Hand Tools & more. Trombone & SO MUCH (203) 525-0608. Cell, 860-558-5430 MORE) Advertising Items, Wristwatches (Broken or Not), Pocket ALWAYS BUYING Carpentry Watches, Tools (MaCASH PAID chinist, Woodworking, Vintage Electronics, & MORE) Doorstops, Musical InstruCARPENTRY Clocks, Oil Paintings, ments, Amps, Ham Old Signs, Old Pho- Repairs, Decks & PorchEquipment, HiFi, tographs, Old Post- es, Sheetrock & Taping Radios, CB, Guicards, Brewery Items, Water Damage Repairs. tars, Audio EquipHunting & Fishing, PEZ Free Est. Ins. MC & Visa. ment, Antiques. Dispensers, Costume Call Bill (203) 901-2136. 860-707-9350 Jewelry, Broken JewelCT. Reg. # 0647093 ry, Gold & Silver Jewelry, Gold & Silver Coins, Military Items, Swords ANTIQUES - Always Electrical Services & Bayonets, Helmets & buying old; Toys, Patches, Medals & Unimilitary, jewelry, art, forms, Pocket Knives, watches, musical TEC ELECTRICAL Lighters & Pipes, Founinstruments, signs, tain Pens, Mechanical Service LLC All Phases arcade games, of Electrical Work. 24 Pencils, Fraternal Order cameras, pre 1970 Items, Religious Items, hr. Emergency Service. sports memorabilIndustrial Items, Winia, plus more. One Small Jobs Welcome. chester Items, Sikorsky item or entire estate 203.237.2122 Items, Pratt & Whitney contents. Call 860Items, Colt Items, Na718-5132. tive American Items, Gutters Vintage Electronics, $$$BEAT ANY PRICE$$$ Slot Cars, Toy Trucks, Antiques, military Matchbox & Hot#1 GUTTER items, oddities, anywheels, Barbie’s, Folk CLEANING thing of value, motorArt, Statues, Bronzes, cyles, minibikes, go Trains, Cameras, Mid 25 yrs exp. Best prices, carts. Estate & free apCentury Modern FurSenior Disc. CALL praisal services. Gary, niture, Straight Razors, TODAY! #0656136 Ins. 24/7, 203-237-4124. Shaving Items, Political 860.538.5520 Items, Comic Books, BUYING MACHINIST Sports Cards & AutoTOOLBOXES - Tools graphs…& THE LIST & tooling, contents of GOES ON! So please machine shops, home give us a call at your workshops and small earliest convenience. lathes. Call anytime Grassy Hill Auctions 860-985-5760 203-868-1816 - Grassy HillAuctions.com

Looking for a friend? Find litters of critters in our Classifieds.

Junk Removal

CLEAN & REMOVE Furniture, appliances, entire contents of: homes, sheds, estates, attics, basements, garages & more. *FALL YARD Clean-ups* FREE ESTIMATES. LIC & INS. 203-535-9817 or 860-575-8218.

HAVE DUMP TRUCK. Reg. Ins. Free on-site est. Attics, basements, garages, appliances & more. Any questions?

Landscaping A & A LAWN CARE

Free estimates, fall clean-ups, tree, brush & debris removal. 203.237.6638 or 203.427.3039.

Accepting Comm. & Handyperson Resid. lawn & grounds WANTED Individual maintenance, hydroseedfirearms, collections & HOME DOCTOR - 48 yrs exp. Odd jobs & ing, new lawn install., 25 estates including military yrs. exp., Mbr BBB remodeling, former US & related items.Federally Navy, 15 yrs, #640689, 203.634.0211;605.0616 licensed firearms dealer. 203.427.7828. Gunsmith, appraisals, COMM. & RES. - Lawn Richard Pleines, (860) mowing, hedge trimming, mulching, retain663-2214. Home Improvements ing walls, patios, walkways, much more. Free Pet Services Est. 203.687.0936

Landscaping

Masonry

Roofing

FALL IS HERE! Perfect time to overseed, and plantings. Complete lawn maint. & tree work.

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.

ROOFING, SIDING, WINDOWS, DECKS & REMODELING.

Moving and Storage

IF YOU Mention This Ad FALL Yard Clean-Ups Brush, branches, leaves, storm damage **JUNK REMOVAL** Appl’s, Furniture, Junk, Debris, etc WE CAN REMOVE ANYTHING Entire house to 1 item removed! FREE ESTIMATES Sr. Citizen Discount LIC & INS. 203-535-9817 or 860-575-8218

203-639-0032 email: info@ gonzalezconstruction llc.com Fully Licensed & Insured

JT’S LANDSCAPING LLC - FALL CLEANUPS, we specialize in weeding all types of beds, mulching, top soil work, pruning, hedges & trees, gutter cleaning & all your landscape needs. Residential & commercial. Lic. #616311. Call today, 203 213-6528.

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

Painting Wallpapering #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

Plumbing GEORGE J MACK & SONS - Servicing the Meriden area since 1922. Toilet, faucet, sink & drain repairs. Water heater replacements. 15% Sr citizen disc. Member of BBB. 203-238-2820.

Power Washing

Yalesville Construction Specializing in all phases of residential & POWER WASH commercial roofing. Painting Int. & Ext. Senior citizen discount Gutters Cleaned. Free Insured Free est. Ests. Ins. Refs. 203-265-5200 Rodrigo, (203) 565-7745. HIC#0631937

Roofing Lawn mowing, Full fall clean-up, AND curbside pickup available. HIC0622783. (203) 530-4447.

Specializing in roofing, siding, kitchens, bathrooms, flooring, basement remodeling. Senior citizen discount Insured. Free est. 203-265-5200 HIC#0631937

203-238-1953

Get Listed. Get Results.

Reg #577319

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

ATTENTION DOG OWNERS! Obedience Classes Starting Nov. 9 MONDAY Evenings at Cheshire Park & Rec. 6 wk class-$90 $100 Non-Residents Beginners - 6:15pm Novices - 7:15pm Pre-Reg online or call Chesh. Park & Rec at 203.272.2743 9-4 AFTER 5pm Call INSTRUCTOR Bruce 203-715-1489

A19

Tree Services

Masonry FALL CLEANUPS Tree Removal & more! Seasons Prop. Maint. DUMPSTER Rentals avail. 860.719.3953

ALEX MASONRY - 30 yrs. Roofing.Siding.Gutters. exp. Patios, Ret. Walls, Steps, Brick, Stone, Skylights. Chimney ReChimneys. #580443. pair. Flashing. #0649808 203-232-0257 or 203- 203.510.3830. lmmasonryconstruction.com 596-0652

Specializing in tree removal, trimming, chipping & grinding. Call for free estimate. 203-945-1808.

Friday, November 13, 2020

Town Times | towntimes.com

Prepare for power outages with a Generac home standby generator SCHEDULE YOUR FREE IN-HOME ASSESSMENT TODAY!

844-998-3817

FREE

7-Year Extended Warranty* A $695 Value!

Offer valid August 24, 2020 - December 31, 2020

Special Financing Available Subject to Credit Approval *Terms & Conditions Apply

R233206v2

A20