Open House at Powder Ridge: Saturday, Jan. 30 and Sunday, Jan 31, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. both days.
Serving Durham, Middlefield and Rockfall
Volume 16, Issue 42
State statute has potential to hurt Durham Fair By Stephanie Wilcox Town Times
A meeting was held at the Durham Library on Jan. 24 with members of the Durham Fair Association, State Fair Association and other fairs throughout Connecticut to discuss a little known state statute and determine ways to work around it before it negatively effects fairs and other community events. The state Department of Health (DPH) enacted the Mass Gathering Act in 1971 in response to music events at Woodstock in New York and Powder Ridge in Connecticut for health and public safety reasons. It was designed for one-time events held in a temporary facility with limited infrastructure. The statute outlines detailed requirements, such as potable water, a specific number of separate enclosed toilets, illumination, telephones and security guards (one for every 750 people) and applies to events with 2,000 or more in attendance. The statute surfaced this summer when the hours of operation for mass gatherings dropped from 18 in one day to 12, thus the Durham Fair, along with many other fairs,
musters and major events, became subject to the statute’s regulations. State Representative Matt Lesser, who was at the meeting, clarified that the statute is not directly targeting agricultural fairs, but rather is trying to avoid situations where towns learn about large, unregulated events only after an ambulance is called and people’s health and safety is in peril. “It’s clearly a bad statute,” said Lesser, who is on the Board of Public Health. “The good news is DPH is committed to revising it, and they don’t want (fairs) to have to change their status quo. They know some of the provisions make no sense.” For instance, many members of the audience wondered why fairs with established grounds, like the Durham Fair, are affected by the statute. After all, Durham Fair president Gene Chiappetta stated, governmentsponsored fairs that are held on regularly-established fairgrounds — in other words 4-H fairs —are already exempt from the statute. One person remarked, See Fair, page 21
Roses for Autism
Second annual Nutmeg at Night
The kids were enthusiastic. The teams were competitive. The spectators involved. What event could be so exciting? A football game? No, it was Nutmeg at Night. On Thursday, Jan. 21, Nutmeg at Night, the annual game show for students in grades 46, was held at Memorial School. Each year in Connecticut, 10 books geared to the reading levels and interests of children in grades 4-6 are nominated to win the Intermediate Nutmeg Award. Students read these books and then vote for their favorite. To participate in Nutmeg Night, a collaborative effort between Memorial School, Durham Public Library and Levi E. Coe Library, students read at least three of the Nutmeg nominees. Participants are divided into teams of three or four. They answer trivia questions written by the librarians. The team that answers the most questions correctly receives medals. Above, 2010 Nutmeggers! Photo and text by Vicki Berry
Powder Ridge proposal almost ready to present to Middlefield residents By Sue VanDerzee Town Times Though some residents and town officials have bemoaned a lack of continuing information, a proposal for the sale of the Powder Ridge Ski Area
In this issue ... It was all smiles at the Roses for Autism ribbon cutting. From left, Jim and Eli Lyman, Julie Hipp, of Connecticut Autism Spectrum Resource Center and Tom Pinchbeck and Lori Gregan from Pinchbeck’s Rose Farm in Guilford. See full story on page 10.
Friday, Januar y 29, 2010
Calendar............................4 Devil’s Advocate ........11-18 Libraries .........................25 Obituaries .......................27 Puzzles.....................20 & 22 Sports ..........................28-31 Town Briefs ............3, 20-22
should be presented to the voters of Middlefield in the next few weeks. The proposal will involve, according to former selectman Dave Lowry who has been involved with this project from the beginning of the bankruptcy proceedings against former owner Ken Leavitt, an offer of purchase from Dan Frank of CDF Associates LLC, partnered with Snow Time, Inc. Snow Time, Inc. owns three ski areas in Pennsylvania – Ski Liberty, Ski Roundtop and Whitetail. CEO Irv Naylor, who started Snow Time in the
1960s, received a National Ski Area Association lifetime achievement award in 2004. Dan Frank is a former associate of Snow Time who spun off to buy and manage Windham Mountain Ski Area in New York State. Some history In April 2007, the town voted overwhelmingly in a referendum to bond up to $2.85 million to acquire the 239-acre Powder Ridge Ski Area, which was then in the throes of bankruptcy proceedings. At the end of bankruptcy pro-
See Powder Ridge, page 5
Town Times Community Briefs
2
Freedom of Information meeting
Register now for Oddfellows’ circus school
Town clerks, Kim Garvis of Durham and Donna Golub of Middlefield, are co-hosting a Freedom of Information meeting with Tom Hennick of the Freedom of Information Commission, on Monday, Feb. 22, at 7 p.m. in the Middlefield Community Center for all members of boards and commissions. The public from both towns is also welcome to come. For more information, call Donna Golub, Middlefield town clerk, at 860-349-716 or Kim Garvis, Durham town clerk, at 860-349-3453.
Oddfellows Playhouse is registering now for the winter/spring session of the Connecticut School of Circus Arts. Well-known artists Dic Wheeler of Artfarm and Heidi Kirchoffer and Joel Melendez of Matica Arts teach this class of circus skills for ages 12 and up from Feb. 1 to May 22. No previous circus experience is necessary. The winter/spring session of the Connecticut School of Circus Arts is part of a yearround program of training in juggling, stilting, acrobatics,
Index of Advertisers To advertise in the Town Times, call Joy Boone at 860-349-8026. Huscher, Debbie, realtor .....21, 31 Ianniello Plumbing.....................29 Independent Day School...........19 J. Randolph Kitchens ................28 Joe Riff’s Music ...........................6 Ken Marino Sales & Service .......7 Kim’s Cottage Confections......5, 6 Kleeman, Carol, realtor .............21 Masonicare................................24 Meriden Pawn ...........................23 Middlesex Community College ...3 Middletown Plate Glass.............26 Mims Oil.....................................23 MLT Painting .............................30 Monroe Property Services ........27 Morasutti Plumbing & Heating ..25 Movado Farm ............................28 Neil Jones Home Imp................25 Okenquist, Darlene .....................5 Petruzelo Agency Insurance.....25 Phillips, Marilyn, realtor .............21 Planeta Electric .........................28 RLI Electric ................................26 Roblee Plumbing.......................10 Rockfall Co. ...............................29 RSDL Home Improvements......29 Sacred Heart Church ..........10, 23 Saldibar Construction................27 Santi, Shirley ...............................3 Sharon McCormick Design .........5 Singles Alternative.....................10 Snow Plowing by Joel ...............29 T-N-T Home & Lawncare..........28 Torrison Stone & Garden....27, 29 Total Tree Care .........................20 Town of Durham........................31 Used Hitchcock Furniture............3 VMB Custom Builders...............30 Walsh, Jim, realtor.....................21 Whitehouse Construction..........29 Whitney Ridge Stables..............27 Wild Wisteria .............................23 Windows Plus............................31
Oddfellows Playhouse is located at 128 Washington Street in Middletown. More than just a performing arts program, Oddfellows aims to make a positive difference in the lives of young people by
Corrections We strive to bring you the most accurate and upto-date information available each week, but if you see something in Town Times that isn’t quite right, give our news department a call at 860-3498000, and we’ll do our best to make things right. On page 23 of last issue, we used the wrong picture for a girls’ soccer team. The right picture appears on page 28 of this issue.
using the arts as tools to build self-confidence, communication skills, a sense of responsibility, and an appreciation for the richness and diversity of the world in which we live. For more information or to reserve a spot in the CT School of Circus Arts, call 860-3476143 or register online at www.oddfellows.org.
town, and then join sleepers in cars in the Middlefield Federated Church (MFC) parking lot for the night. Donations of toiletries, sheets, towels, blankets or warm clothing can be made after 5 p.m. at South Congregational Church or after 7 p.m. at MFC. For more information, call Joyce Dowling at 860-349-3070.
Valentines for Veterans
A better scholarship ball
At 10 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 6, at Church of the Epiphany, 79 Main St., in Durham, the Wadsworth Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution is participating in Valentines for Veterans. Guests and prospective members are welcome to join them while they make valentines to show appreciation for the residents of the state Veterans Home in Rocky Hill. Please bring supplies.
This year several exciting changes are taking place for the annual ball based on your suggestions. The annual ball will be held on Saturday, March 13, from 7 p.m. to midnight at the beautiful Marriot in Rocky Hill. Highlights include a two-hour open bar and buffet dinner, dancing to the sounds of the Savage Brothers Band, a silent auction and dessert and coffee bar. Many loyal attendees are surprised to learn the ticket price is only $65 per person for this worthy cause. Additionally, the hotel will offer reduced room rates for those who wish to spend the night. If you have attended before, your hostess will be contacting you soon. A limited number of new hostesses are needed. If you don’t have a hostess
Sleep out Jan. 30 to highlight homelessness Area churches are working together to raise awareness of homelessness in the area. Start with a soup kitchen meal and a program at 5 p.m. at South Church in Middle-
See Ball, next page
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unicycling and clowning. Students are introduced to all the skills and then can specialize for a more in-depth experience. Toward the end of the class, students will rehearse for public performances on May 21 and 22. Classes are held at Oddfellows Playhouse on Mondays from 6:30-9:30 p.m. Tuition for the winter/spring session is $250, and the class is limited to 30 students. Full and partial scholarships are available.
Friday, January 29, 2010
Town Times
Friday, January 29, 2010
3
Ad 3 column x7� (5.375�x7�) Durham selectmen seek volunteers,Middlesex report onCommunity grants College Durham Government Calendar By Stephanie Wilcox Town Times
The Jan. 25 Board of Selectmen meeting began with public comment from resident Donia Viola regarding three separate concerns: the Planning and Zoning Commission’s decision to allow a business to operate without a permit, the Board of Education holding surplus money with no designated purpose and how Middlefield will contribute toward the emergency notification system. Her concerns were duly noted, and First Select-
Ball
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Meriden munity Journal, Development Block Post, Wallingford Post, Town Times man Laura Francis assuredRecord (All meetings will be held at the Durham Library unless Viola that Middlefield would Grant which will provide qualotherwise noted. Check the town Web page at www.townofbe paying towards their use of ifying homeowners money for durhamct.org for agendas and last-minute changes.) the emergency notification necessary housing repairs. A Tuesday, February 2 public hearing will be held on system. Sales Rep.: Ted Mulawka ph. 203-317-2306 6:30 p.m. — Public Safety Committee After public comment the Monday, Feb. 8, at 6 p.m. at Town Hall for the purpose of board staggered the member-$G LQ 3') ¿OH ZDV VHQW RQ :HGQHVGD\ 'HF 7:30 p.m. — Midstate Regional Planning, 100 DeKoven Dr. ship of the Recreation Com- establishing need. Anyone in Middletown by email that to:advertising@record-journal.com they could mittee so terms don’t end all at who believes Wednesday, February 3 qualify based on income (less once: Kate McLaughlin (2010),)D[HG RQ :HGQHVGD\ 'HF WR 7:30 p.m. — Planning and Zoning Commission Chris Manemeit (2011), vacan- than $44,800 for an individual, Monday, February 8 and Public $51,200 forMxCC a couple, Marketing $64,000 for cy (2012), Cheryl Salva (2011),Contact: 7 p.m. —Relations Board of Selectmen at Town Hall a family of four) should plan to Specialist Toby Bates (2012), Ann FigorasYvonne 7:30 p.m. — Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Page, Graphics 860-343-5852 (2010), Elizabeth Cipollina attend or submit a letter detailWednesday, February 10 (2010), Michael Doyle (2011) ing what they would fix with a 3 p.m. — Board of Selectmen budget meeting at Town Hall and Mark Dionne (2012); two no-interest loan payable only 7:30 p.m. — Board of Education at Korn School alternates: Brendan O’Connell upon sale or transfer of the (2011) and Karen Kean (2012). home. The town can receive ety of models available for suc- would sit in a garage because These are two-year terms. up to $300,000 this year cessful partnerships among it’s not needed year round. through the program to help First Selectman Laura FranShe proudly reported that towns that can be looked into, cis noted she is still seeking residents fix up their homes. especially regarding shared In old business, Francis nominations for two vacanSee BOS, page 20 cies on the Historic District learned there are a wide vari- municipal equipment that Commission and one on the Senior Citizen Board, as well as the one on the Recreation Committee. The town will be applying for the fiscal year 2010 Com-
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Town Times & Places
Friday, January 29, 2010
munity room at Sugarloaf Terrace in Middlefield. The Stroke Club meets the first Monday of every month. For information, call Ida at 860344-9984, Ray at 860-349-9226 or Ann at 203-235-4275. Free Movie Every Monday the Middletown Senior Center, 150 William St., offers a free movie at 12:30 p.m. Today’s movie is Inglorious Basterds with Brad Pitt and Melanie Laurent. Call 860-344-3513 for more information. Strong PTO The Strong School parents organization will meet at 7:15 p.m.
A Taste of Durham The 14th annual Taste of Durham will be held from 6:30 to 9:00 p.m. at the Durham Library. More than 20 restaurants and caterers will prepare hors d’oeuvres, mini-entrees and desserts for sampling throughout the library. Call Laurie Stevens at 860-349-1916 for more information. Valentines for Veterans At 10 a.m. at Church of the Epiphany in Durham, 79 Main St., the Wadsworth Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution will participate in “Valentines for Veterans.” Everyone is welcome to make valentines for the residents of the state Veterans Home. Please bring supplies. Hot Jazz The Arts Center at Killingworth will present Jazz Night Out, at 7:30 p.m., featuring New York saxophonist Eli Degibri and local group CT4. The concert, set in a cafe-style environment, will be held at the Ivoryton Playhouse, 103 Main St. in Ivoryton. For tickets and information, call 860663-5593 or visit www.artscenterkillingworth.org. Trails Workshop The sixth annual Winter Trails Workshop at Connecticut Forest & Park Association, 16 Meriden Rd. in Middlefield, will focus on groups who wish to build and maintain trails. The workshop begins at 8:45 a.m. and runs until 2:30 p.m. Bring lunch and dress for a lunchtime walk. CFPA will provide coffee, chips and drinks. Register by calling 860-346-2372 or e-mail info@ctwoodlands.org. Parents Night Out Brewster/Korn PTA and John Lyman PA will hold a parents night out from 6 to 11 p.m. at the Raccoon Club in Durham. There will be dinner, dancing, dessert and a silent auction. BYOB. Tickets are $25 per person. For more information, send an e-mail to bkpta@rsd13.org. Slimly and Scaly Potapaug Audubon and the Westbrook Library will present “Slimy and Scaly” at 1 p.m. at the Westbrook Library. Discover the ecology of and get eyeball to eyeball with slimy frogs, salamanders, scaly snakes, turtles and lizards. There will be refreshments served at this free program. For more information call 860-399-0136.
FRIDAY
January
January 29
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Strong Social The Strong School social evening begins at 7 p.m. for students. Cogin-chuggers The Durham Cogin-Chuggers will hold a snowflake square dance at Brewster School in Durham from 8 to 10:30 p.m. Todd Fellegy will be the caller and Sue Lucibello the cuer. Donation is $6 per person. For information, call 203-235-1604 or 860-349-8084. Family Night Bring the family to the Maynard Stender gymnasium at Coginchaug High School and cheer on the Blue Devils as they take on the Bellringers of East Hampton. The JV game starts at 6 p.m., the varsity game at 7:30 p.m. Admission is $5 for the family. One student from each school in the district will win an official Blue Devil prize. Enjoy half-time fun with the Coginchaug pep band. Little League Tryouts Little League boys’ and girls’ majors tryouts will be held in the Lake Grove gym at 6 p.m. for boys ages 9 to 12, and at 7:30 for girls ages 9 to 12. Bring sneakers and a baseball glove. For information, call Nick Faiella at 860-3441670 for the boys and Rick Quirk at 860-349-3520 for the girls. Our Elders, Our Youth The Green Street Arts Center, 51 Green St. in Middletown, will present Our Elders, Our Youth, a documentary film that attempts to bridge the gap between oldest and youngest generations of Middletown residents while confronting the perceptions each side has of the other. The film begins at 6 p.m. Dance Program Minneapolis-based Morgan Thorson makes her Connecticut debut with her newest work, Heaven, exploring the nature of ecstatic perfection by synthesizing vocal and physical rapture with omnipresent lighting effects. The program is set to music by indie rockers Low, who perform live while seamlessly integrating with the movement on stage. The performance at the CFA Theater, 283 Washington Terrace in Middletown, will be held tonight and tomorrow 8 p.m. Call 860-
February 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 685-3355 for ticket info.
SATURDAY
January 30 Open House at Powder Ridge Come see what Middlefield owns from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Hosted by Jon Brayshaw. Benefit Concert The South Congregational Church, 9 Pleasant St. in Middletown, will hold an organ concert to help support the needy in Middletown at 7:30 p.m. Everyone is welcome and encouraged to attend. Sleep Out in Solidarity Area churches will work together to raise awareness of homelessness in Middlesex County. Start with a soup kitchen meal and a program at 5 p.m. and end up on the front lawn of South Church in Middletown or the parking lot of the Middlefield Federated Church for the night. Donations of toiletries, sheets, towels, blankets or warm clothing can be made after 5 p.m. at South Congregational Church or after 7 p.m. at MFC. There is also a concert open to the community that evening at 7 p.m. at the church. For more information, call Rev. Sue Latourette at 860-346-6657 or Joyce Dowling at 860-349-3070.
SUNDAY
January 31 Open House at Powder Ridge Come see what Middlefield owns from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Hosted by Dave Lowry.
MONDAY
February 1 Kindergarten Registration Registration begins today for kindergarten in District 13. Stroke Club Middletown Stroke Club will meet at 1 p.m. in the com-
TUESDAY
February 2 Resume Workshop Business professional Jeff Thierfeld is the featured speaker for a two-part workshop today and Tuesday, Feb. 9, at 6:15 p.m. at Russell Library, 123 Broad St. in Middletown. Registration is required by calling 860-347-2520.
WEDNESDAY
February 3 College Night Coginchaug High School will host a junior parent college night at 7 p.m. TOPS Durham TOPS Club meets every Wednesday at 6 p.m. on the third floor of the Durham Town Hall. For info, call Naomi Klotsko at 860-349-9558 or Bonnie Olesen at 860-349-9433.
THURSDAY
February 4 Birds, Flowers and Geology Potapaug Audubon will present a nature program, “Birds, Flowers and Geology,” at the Essex Town Hall at 7:30 p.m. with speakers Jim and Lois Koch. This program is free and refreshments served. For more information, call 860-767-9763. Math Night Brewster School will hold math night at 6 p.m. Dessert with a Doc The Wallingford Public Library and MidState Medical Center continue the Dessert with a Doc series at 6:30 p.m. in the library’s community room with a presentation on heart health by David Booth, APRN. Learn about the risk
factors for heart disease and lifestyle changes you can make to stay healthy. A light dessert will be served. Call 203-265-6754 or visit www.wallingford.lioninc.org to reserve a seat.
FRIDAY
February 5 TGIF Memorial School’s TGIF event for sixth grade students begins at 6:30 p.m. Business Networking The local chapter of Business Networking International will meet in the United Methodist Church, 24 Old Church St. in Middletown, at 7:30 a.m. Contact Kirk Hagert at 860-349-5626 for info. Dancers at St. Colman St. Colman Church in Middlefield will host dancers from Middlesex Dance Center participating in the American Academy of Ballet Performance Awards. Founder and director of the American Academy of Ballet, Mignon Furman, will judge the event. Call 860-345-7586 for info. Admission is one can of food for the food pantry or animal shelter.
SATURDAY
February 6 Basketball Tryout The Ct Bulldogs basketball team will hold tryouts for girls ages 11 to 13 and boys 10 to 15. Girls will meet from 2 to 2:30 and boys from 4 to 5 p.m. at Memorial School in Middlefield. For information, call Macy at 860-613-0051. The Emperor’s New Clothes The Emperor’s New Clothes will be presented at the Middlesex Academy for the Performing Arts at Independent Day School, 115 Laurel Brook Rd. in Middlefield, at 2 p.m. and tomorrow at 3:15 p.m. All tickets are $5, available at the door. For info, call Shelley Sprague at 860-638-3973. Winter Farmers Market The Dudley Farm winter farmers’ market will be held from 9 a.m. to noon in the yellow barn at 2351 Durham Rd. in Guilford. There will be local organic produce, artisan breads, baked goods, honey, jam, eggs, cheeses, handcrafted soaps, baskets, knitted items, jewelry, photographs and more. For information, call 860-349-3917.
Town Times
Friday, January 29, 2010
Powder Ridge (From p. 1)
Wedding and Shower Cakes and Favors New this year - Invitations!
10:30 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 28, at Powder Ridge for a press conference to “announce improvements.” With no specific information, Lowry hoped that maybe the Governor would announce that the town would be getting the $500,000 Economic Development grant it applied for months ago, and about which Brayshaw had recently complained, saying, “I can take a ‘no’ or a ‘yes,’ just give me an answer.” Check www.towntimes. com for the latest information.
step by the committee, and “the devil is in the details,” she asserts. Those details will be available within the next two weeks, said Brayshaw, who plans a special Board of Selectmen’s meeting this Thursday after press time to set a public hearing and town meeting on the proposal to sell approximately 113 acres CDF and Snow Time. Meanwhile, Gov. Jodi Rell announced late Wednesday that she would be appearing at
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nities over four seasons and the installation of a snow tubing course before any possible provisions for a ski area, though all parties apparently hope that at least some skiing is down the road apiece. Kevin Boyle, a member of the ad hoc committee, said, “I’ve met Dan Frank at three meetings, and I like what I see. No proposal is ever 100 percent perfect, but I’m impressed with Frank and very supportive of where this is headed.” John Lyman III, also a member, spoke positively of the proposal, noting that he was looking forward to “new neighbors at Powder Ridge.” The only member of the ad hoc committee to go public with her opposition is Marianne Corona, and her complaint is that the Memorandum of Understanding on which First Selectman Jon Brayshaw has been working over the last several months has not been vetted at each
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ceedings at a June 21, 2008 auction, Middlefield Holdings LLC became the owner of the property for $2.75 million. In December of 2008, Middlefield bought the property from Middlefield Holdings LLC for $2.55 million, and an eightmember ad hoc committee (Dave Lowry, Paul Pizzo, John Lyman III, Jen Brown, Joe Lombardo, Kevin Boyle, Marianne Corona and Carl Zanoni) was formed to develop a Request For Proposal/Qualifications (RFP/Q) to market the ski area in the hopes of re-establishing Middlefield’s signature recreation at “the Ridge.” Working through 2008 and half of 2009, the committee produced an RFP/Q and marketed the property. In the meantime, however, the national economy hit the skids, and one of the chief casualties was credit, especially busi-
ness credit. When their carefully prepared RFP/Q went out only two potential applicants made it to a meeting with the whole committee, one of those being Dan Frank. According to Dave Lowry, several “ski area heavy hitters with names that would be locally known just could not find the credit to make the necessary heavy investment and walked away.” Lowry said an additional impediment to obtaining credit on this property is the fact that the town holds the development rights. “Land values are largely based on what it could be used for, and housing has a lot of value, but the town holds that value,” he explained. The deal with CDF and Snow Time is structured on a low selling price with guarantee of investment of at least $2 million in the property, backed by a performance bond. Frank’s initial plan calls for recreational opportu-
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Town Times
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Friday, January 29, 2010
Approaching 40, DMIAAB faces ‘sunset’ and need to renegotiate By Judy Moeckel Special to the Town Times As a former Durham resident, I always tell people “my heart is still in Durham (and Middlefield),” and one of the
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underground fires. Jim Gibbons, secretary of DMIAAB, says, “You used to be able to bring anything — people would salvage and scavenge.” Corona notes that plans for the golf course spurred the search for a new home for the “dump.” “This was before DMIAAB came into existence. I found the [present] location, an old sand bank on Cherry Hill Road. It was an excellent spot at the junction of Durham and Middlefield,” she said. She served on Middlefield’s Planning and Zoning Commission in the 1960s and later was on the Inland Wetlands Commission, becoming very involved in issues related to waste disposal and its environmental impact. She remembers listening at meetings to people like Greg Curtis, who talked about the leaching of liquids from the dump into the Coginchaug River. The message stayed with her. Geoff Colegrove, of the
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reasons — among are part of the “inmany — I miss the stitutional memoplace is your wonry” of the towns, inderful dump, I mean, cluding Marianne transfer station! Corona, remember We lived in when refuse was Durham from 1982 brought to a spot on until 1997, and witthe Lyman propernessed a transformaty in Middlefield tion of the transfer where the golf station over those course now stands. years. But the story Back in those days, of “the dump,” and the approach most DMIAAB (five seceverywhere was to onds to tell me what bury material that those letters stand was expected to rot for), goes back much away, and burn the further than my rest. brief residence in Back then, Corotown. na says, “We had Time’s up! DMI- Disposing of their garbage in the time-honored little recognition of AAB stands for the what we put into way: Breanna Rzeczka of Rockfall and Michael the “Durham-Middleground. I Photo by Judy Moeckel learned that, ultifield Interlocal Monthei of Middlefield. Agreement Advisory mately, it ends up Board.” The towns entered maximum life of 40 years be- in the Connecticut River. And into this important agreement fore it “sunsets” in 2011, at it’ll leach for years.” on Oct. 18, 1971, and it has a which point it can be revised Bill Hamma, who operates the compactor at today’s modand/or renewed. There have probably been ern transfer station, rememseveral sites in Durham and bers how the late Charlie Middlefield where waste or re- Wimler would flatten the pile fuse came to rest (a great proj- and cover it up with dirt. Ocect for a prospective historian casionally, when debris was or Eagle Scout). People who burned up above, it caused
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Town Times
Friday, January 29, 2010
Memorial Geography Bee winner
Apply now for a $1,500 education foundation grant If you or your organization has a great idea for a project or program, but you lack the funding, consider applying for a grant from the Coginchaug Valley Education Foundation. Now’s the time! CVEF is entering into its second grant cycle and is looking for applications that will give something back to the community. Any organization, school or group with a realistic plan and an organized budget is encouraged to apply, stresses CVEF board member Jen Zettergren. Zettergren, who is also chair of the Grants Committee, says the application is easy to understand and easy to complete. She is “optimistic that although it is a tough economic climate, the people in Durham and Middlefield remain determined and committed to various
causes and therefore our grants should be a welcomed topic at their next meeting. Great things are happing in our community, and hopefully these grants will turn some plans into reality.” There is a Feb. 22 deadline for applications to be submitted, and grants of up to $1,500 will be awarded at the end of March, 2010. Applications are available at www.coginchaugvef.com or you may email Zettergren directly at jzettergren@dpapc.com. Last year’s recipients included (1) tropical marine aquarium and aquatics lab at Coginchaug Regional High School; (2) Along the Way: A History of Durham’s Dairy Farms, submitted by Durham Fair Foundation; (3) Thoughts and Memories: An Oral History of Durham and Middlefield during the Viet-
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Giant tortoises are protected on the Galapagos Islands. These islands are considered to be part of which continent? The deepest point in the Indian Ocean is the Java Trench, located south of which continent? Name the Canadian province that extends from the Great Lakes to Hudson Bay. What is the official language of Libya, Yemen and Mauritania? (Answers at right in blue box.) These are among the questions that were asked of Memorial School students at the schoollevel competition of the National Geographic Bee on Jan. 12, 2010. The school-level Bee, at which students answered oral questions on geography, was the first round in the 22nd annual National Geographic Bee. The event came down to a three person tie-beaker. The students were Michael O’Keefe, Alex Wyskiel and Nick Cumello. What turned out to be the final question was “What river forms New Mexico’s only natural border with the surrounding states?” The answer was “Rio Grande.” The victory went to Michael, the only one to come up with the right answer; but the others showed great sportsmanship with handshakes and congratulations. Other finalists include, Abbey Coogan, Emily Touch, Melissa Parsons, Shaun Whitaker and Kyle Adams. In the end, Michael, a sixth grader, won the school-level competition and a chance at a $25,000 college scholarship. When asked how it felt to win the Memorial Geography Bee, Michael replied, “I was kind of surprised because I thought the last question was easier than some of the others. I also thought, ‘One second I’m in the bee and the next second I WIN the bee’ and there’s cheering...It was pretty exciting! ”
7
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Town Times Opinion
8
Friday, January 29, 2010
Lessons from Haiti Town Times 488 Main St., P.O. Box 265, Middlefield, CT 06455 http://www.towntimes.com News Advertising Fax Marketplace
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Town Times is published every Friday by the Record-Journal Publishing Co. and is delivered to all homes and businesses in Durham, Middlefield and Rockfall. Sue VanDerzee, Editor Stephanie Wilcox, Reporter Brian Monroe, Advertising Director Joy Boone, Advertising Sales Wendy Parker, Office Manager Contributors: Betsy White Booz, Chuck Corley, Chris Coughlin, Trish Dynia, Kathy Meyering,Judy Moeckel.
To support Haitian relief efforts, try these options: St. Joseph - Visit www.hospicesaintjoseph.org or send donations to Hospice St. Joseph, 1595 Norwich-New London Turnpike, Uncasville, CT 06382. FONKOZEUSA offers financial services to the poor in Haiti. Visit www.fonkoze.org. HELO supports Haitian orphanages. Checks can be made payable to HELO, Inc. Visit www.HeloHaiti.com. Jazzed for life is dedicated to building opportunities for people around the world. Visit www.jazzed4life.org. Liberty Bank - Donate at one of the bank’s 37 locations across Connecticut by Feb. 15. Lions International Donate online at www.lcif.org/donate. Make a credit card donation with a Master Card, Visa or American Expres: fax the following information to 630-571-5735: name, address, phone number, credit card type, credit card number, expiration date, and amount of the donation. Make checks payable to Lions Clubs International Foundation, noting “LCIF Haiti Earthquake Relief” in the memo field. Please send the check to LCIF, 300 W. 22nd St., Oak Brook, IL 60523, USA, Attn: Donor Services. Diocese of Norwich Haitian Ministries - To donate, please call 860-638-1018. Mail your gift to Haitian Ministries, 1595 Norwich-New London Turnpike, Uncasville, CT 06382. Or give at any Citizens Bank to Earthquake Relief for Haitian Ministries account #2231-994385. Haiti’s Back Porch of Middletown supports the work of Haitian Ministries. Call 860-344-9547.
Letters policy The Town Times intends to present a forum for the lively exchange of ideas and issues. To facilitate the publication of your contributions, several guidelines should be followed. Letters to the editor must be signed, with a phone number included. The writer will be called to confirm authorship. No anonymous letters will be printed. Contributions by any individual or group will not be published more frequently than once a month. Every effort will be made to print all letters received. However, the selection and date of publication will be at the discretion of the editor. Finally, the opinions expressed by our letter writers are not necessarily those of this newspaper. Deadline: Tuesday noon for Friday publication.
words and touch didn’t Through the most tragKathy Meyering seem to ease her distress. ic of circumstances, Haiti When we arrived at her has gained the attention village, a large group of of the world. Before the people were waiting for earthquake hit, most her. The jeep door Americans didn’t think opened and she literally fell into their much about this little island nation, arms, weeping. They held her up in the poorest in our hemisphere. We her grief and surrounded her in care. weren’t aware that the Third World is So many people were there to hold her not so far as Africa or Asia, but in fact that she actually disappeared among lies on our doorstep. Most of us have their embraces. It was one of the most seen the face of poverty — in our moving expressions of sympathy I cities, in our suburbs, in the poor ruhave ever witnessed. ral areas of our country where people I learned a lot from the people of struggle to keep a roof over their heads Haiti in the two weeks I visited them. I and sometimes end up on the streets. learned that pride can be rooted in But Haiti’s poverty is beyond all this. who you are and not what you own. I As one U.S. aid worker put it, “Haiti is learned that community is the most actually a Fourth World country.” important resource a person can have. Who knew that it was in such bad I learned that no matter how often shape? death may touch a person, it never There are people in our community ceases to cause pain and grief. In parwho have spent time there. We knew. ticular, I learned about the people of We have seen firsthand the lack of a sustainable infrastructure, the shortage Port au Prince. I saw that they lived in houses with dirt floors, and yet their of basic resources and the absence of little girls wore crisp white dresses to health care. We’ve watched children school. I saw little children wandering splashing through sewage, young men fighting death from treatable infections, around the sewage-lined alleys, leading by hand even smaller siblings. I mothers trying to pass off their babies watched market women exchanging to us rather than watch them die from hunger. This was Haiti before the earth- stories with each other, laughing and haggling and full of life. Everywhere, quake. The conditions since the quake, in the midst of squalor and depravanow seen by all, are apocalyptic. tion, there was joy. As the images have poured in, my This is why I cry for the people of own memories of Haiti have returned Haiti. Because they have so little, their as well. With those memories come greatest treasure is their loved ones. I tears. My two most powerful memothink the stories we are hearing — ries involved examples of love, faith about people digging for hours with and community. their bare hands, about a wife yelling The group I was with attended Mass to her husband from under the rubble one Sunday in an outdoor, makeshift that she loves him, about people everychurch. The people sang praises to God in full voice, swaying with joy and where helping each other — is a testament to that fact. The buildings can be a sense of the holy that moved all the rebuilt, the shacks put up in a day. It is visitors in my group to tears. One the loss of family and community that could ask: What do they have to celeis most heartbreaking. The resulting brate? Their children die of disease, grief must be swallowing them up. their bellies hurt from hunger, their Right now people everywhere are lives are full of hardship. And then it reaching out to Haiti. Entertainers are becomes clear — they are celebrating giving benefit concerts, school chilthe fact they are together in one place, dren are holding bake sales, and it sharing a sacred moment. Simple and seems a person can make a donation at profound. every store or website they visit. My Later in my visit, we transported a hope is that this attention to our poor young woman to her village from the neighbor carries through long after mountain town of Les Palmes. Her the media turns its attention to other mother had died and she was returnevents and issues. ing home for the funeral. During the Haiti will not go away. Haiti will one-hour jeep ride she swayed and need us, for a very long time. moaned quietly, but our comforting
Guest Editorial
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Town Times Columns
Friday, January 29, 2010
9
Pros and cons of public financing How to recycle everything else funds to be able to It seems as if every mount a substantial day a new individual campaign by giving is announcing his or him or her the ability her candidacy for an to have their meselected office. (It also sage heard. Opposeems that every othnents of public fier day someone is nancing of camswitching which ofpaigns argue that the fice he or she is seek$15 million dollars diing for political expeverted every year to diency). Leaving the pay for the program second issue aside, I (from the state’s unhave been asked time John Szewczyk claimed property and time again why fund) would be better there are so many canused to lower taxes didates for office this or offset the state’s year as opposed to increasing budget years passed. In fact, it deficit. Moreover, a is true that 12 different Catch-22 exists, in individuals have opened up either exploratory or can- that event those who oppose public fididate committees with their eyes on nancing know they must often use the public money if they want to have a Connecticut’s Governorship. Although each potential candidate realistic chance of winning the elechas his or her own reasons on why tion to then be able to go to Hartford they want to enter the political arena, and change the law. Regardless of one’s position on pubthere is one common theme amongst most all the candidates that is affect- lic financing, the relatively new law ing their chances of victory: public fi- could be in jeopardy after the legislanancing of campaigns. In 2007, a new ture was given until April 15th by the state law was passed which gave can- courts to rectify the legislation after didates who reached a minimal the courts ruled that candidates from threshold (money and contributors) minor parties (Green, Libertarian, to qualify for a government grant etc.) must be treated in the same manwhich is to be used for the campaign. ner as major party candidates in reThis law not only affects campaigns gard to threshold limits. Whether the for Governor, but also for other of- necessary changes are made in time fices such as Attorney General and or some new variation of the law is implemented, it is clear that the pubthe General Assembly. There are varying viewpoints as to lic financing of campaigns, or lack if public financing is a good idea. One thereof, will play a major role in this side argues that by only accepting year’s state elections. small contributions from the general public, the influence of large money donors and Political Action CommitAnswers to quiz on page 24 tees (PACs) become limited (larger do1.Cans and bottles -305 tons nations and PAC contributions are al2.Paper-747 tons lowed in the earlier exploratory 3.Recyclable metal? 325 tons stages of a campaign). Supporters of 4.Demolition material 1,134 tons public financing also argue that it lev5.Municipal solid waste 4,000 tons els the playing field. It allows the individual who doesn’t have access to
From The Desk Of The Selectman
credit card number By now, I hope you and/or bank account know how to recycle Claudia O’Connell information so that the basics like cans, you can pay people inbottles and paper. Afstantly (no security ter you read this, problems on my end, you’ll be able to recycle everything else. Because I like to ever). Once you begin to make money get money for stuff I no longer want, I from sales on eBay, this money goes have been selling things auction-style right into your PayPal account, makon eBay for 11 years. In that time, I ing it a payment option should you have sold thousands of things. For choose to buy something. In fact, there those who have yet to explore the are many online stores that now acworld of online auctions, I want to cept payment from PayPal accounts. Once you are ready to sell on eBay, bring some attention to this fantastic way to recycle. You literally put things the basics include taking a decent closeyou no longer want directly into the up photograph (or multiple images), hands of someone who does (and keep uploading the image(s) to your computthem out of landfills). eBay is a mas- er and uploading once again to the eBay sive marketplace with billions of items listing as you create it. The first thing available at any given time. Millions of you will do is choose the category in stay-at-home moms have made an which it best fits. For example, a Barbie easy transition to entrepreneurial doll will find a home in Dolls & Bears. Next, you need to write a description sales by selling toys and clothes, while of your item listing features, dimensupplementing the family income. Recently, a friend of mine asked me sions, imperfections and anything a to sit down with her for about a half buyer might like to know. You should hour, and in that time I was able to get know or be able to guess an approxiher up and running (and selling) on mate shipping weight (including packeBay. In three weeks she has made aging) for your item, and have a sense $300 just by walking into her basement of the lowest price you might accept for and grabbing unwanted items and list- your item. Don’t forget the fees. While ing them for sale. Results are typical. eBay is a relative bargain compared to paying 50-60 percent to a consignment (Do I sound like an infomercial?) I can’t say enough good things about shop, eBay has created a variety of this hobby. It is so easy. The first thing ways to take your money. You will pay you need to do is register with eBay so a fee to list your item, whether it sells that you can sell and bid on items. You or not. If your item sells, you will pay a will be required to provide eBay with final value fee. And there are a host of contact information while establish- other things you could pay extra for ing a unique user name and password. such as posting additional photos, usIn terms of security, I have never expe- ing the Buy it Now feature, fixed price rienced a breach of security of my per- listings which avoid the auction forsonal information in 11 years. The mat, and a number of other extras. From time to time, you may be next step, although not required, makes selling and bidding immediate- asked to provide eBay members with ly and completely accessible — that is additional information, so keeping registering with PayPal, now an eBay tabs on your email inbox is a good company that allows users to pay and idea. Feedback is another thing to accept payment from folks all over the keep in mind. eBay members are evalworld instantly. Again, you will pro- uated in terms of their buying and sellvide personal contact information, a unique user name and password. AdSee Recycle, page 19 ditionally, you will need to provide a
Earthwise
Residents urged to test homes for radon gas
The Connecticut Department of Public Health (DPH) is urging Connecticut residents to test their homes for radon gas, the leading cause of lung cancer in non-smokers in the United States. Governor M. Jodi Rell has designated January as Radon Action Month in Connecticut. Radon, a naturally-occurring radioactive gas formed from the decay of uranium, is found in rock, soil and water. While radon in outdoor air poses a relatively low threat to human health, radon can enter homes from the surrounding soil and accumulate to harmful levels inside buildings. “Radon is present at elevated levels
in about one out of every five homes in Connecticut,” stated DPH Commissioner J. Robert Galvin, M.D., M.P.H., M.B.A. “However, because you can’t see or smell radon, people often are unaware that there might be a silent killer in their homes.” Radon gas can be found in any home or building, including schools and offices. Scientists have long been concerned about the health risk of radon, but never before has there been such overwhelming evidence that exposure to elevated levels of radon increases a person’s risk of developing lung cancer. DPH and the United States Environmental Protection Agency recommend that homes
with radon levels at 4.0 pCi/L or higher should be fixed. However, radon exposure at any level poses some health risk; therefore, homeowners may want to consider reducing radon levels that are greater than 2.0 pCi/L. Federal health officials estimate that radon is responsible for more than 20,000 lung cancer deaths per year. Only smoking causes more lung cancer deaths. Testing homes for radon is simple and inexpensive. Radon test kits can be purchased from the American Lung Association of New England for $12. Simply call 1-800-LUNG-USA or 860289-5401 and order yours today.
If you have elevated radon levels in your home, don’t panic. Radon problems can be fixed by qualified radon contractors for approximately $1,200. A homeowner should hire a qualified radon mitigation (reduction) contractor to decrease airborne radon levels to at least below 4.0 pCi/L, and preferably below 2.0 pCi/L. Visit the CT DPH website for a list of qualified radon mitigation contractors.
To learn more about radon, visit the DPH Radon Program web site at www.ct.gov/dph/radon or call 860-5097367. You can also visit the EPA web site at www.epa.gov/radon.
Town Times
10
Friday, January 29, 2010
This Valentine’s Day think ‘Roses for Autism’ By Stephanie Wilcox Town Times With each rose bought from Pinchbeck’s Rose Farm in Guilford, the future gets
brighter for individuals with autism. Pinchbeck’s Rose Farm, the last operating rose farm in the northeast, has the world’s largest greenhouse — 150,000
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square feet — resembling, some say, the London train station. The farm is also famous across the country and across generations for its quality of roses, says Jim Lyman, who recalls selling 700 Pinchbeck roses one Valentine’s Day when he ran a small store in Durham a few years back. But owner Tom Pinchbeck, a client of Lyman’s at Farm Family Insurance, called Lyman last year to tell him his family was getting out of the business. “I said you can’t go out of business,” recalls Lyman. “I have an idea for you.” The idea was Roses for Autism, a program that would give individuals on the autism spectrum a chance to learn the skills necessary for meaningful employment. Individuals like Lyman’s own son, Eli. The seed had been planted
when Lyman attended a meeting for parents on starting a farm for autistic adults. The farm concept was appealing as agriculture is a forgiving field because, as Lyman put it, not every second is Go! Go! Go! He grew up in agriculture himself with the Lyman Orchards family business. At this time Lyman was thinking about what vocational opportunities will be available for Eli, who will be 19 next month, when he gets out of his program at May Institute in Randolph, Mass. in two years. The unemployment rate for adults with autism is a “mind boggling” 88 percent, and for Eli’s sake, Lyman was determined to knock this number down. His determination brought him to World Autism Awareness Day in 2008 where he bumped into Julie Hipp, board president of the Connecticut
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Autism Spectrum Resource Center in Wallingford. Hipp knew Lyman from when she worked at Lyman’s golf course restaurant in college. She also has a son on the autism spectrum and was excited by Lyman’s idea. She said she could help if Lyman drew up a business plan, so he did. The next day Tom Pinchbeck called about closing the family rose business because he couldn’t keep up with operations overseas. “I shared my idea with Tom and he told me, ‘If you can pull it off, I’m in,’” recalls Lyman. “And what better product to start with than roses?” Hipp contacted Ability Beyond Disability, a non-profit support agency. Coincidentally, Thomas Fanning, president and CEO of the organization, had an almost identical idea in his strategic plan. They got to work creating a business plan, and in April 2009, the Ability board gave approval to put $360,000 of funding in place to create what is now known as Growing Possibilities, a vocational program involving people with autism that shows how valuable those with developmental disabilities can be in the workforce. It would also serve as a model that can be replicated nationwide to develop unique opportunities. “Everything that happened
See Roses, page 19
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11
Volume 16. Issue 4
Coginchaug Regional High School
January 29, 2010
Student plans for homeroom By Tony Gambardella There have been whispers of it for replace it with meetings between a months now, quotes from adminis- student and an assigned mentor trators about efforts to devise a re- teacher. Down the road, if the sysplacement system for a time that tem is approved, students would be many students and teachers feel is- able to select a teacher of their choice to have as a mentor. The n’t working: homeroom. This new program will completely meetings are twice per quarter, and replace homeroom, which many stu- designed to foster a personal bond dents are unhappy with. It is being between a teacher and their studeveloped by Mrs. Julie Selberg’s dents. There would be one individAP Government class, headed by ual meeting and one group meeting, Eric Kelly, Katie Francis, and Eddy for all the students assigned to that Ruddy, seniors all. But what, exact- teacher. The proposal came directly from ly, is this system, and why do we the students, and is a product of need it? “It’s an advisory program, for stu- their work and dedication. The dents to form a bond with mentor thought of creating a new program teachers,” said senior Katie Francis. came about simply enough. Katie “It’s part of the NEASC’s require- explained, “one day we were all just Jeff Tiedemann, #1, catches a pass. Photo by Mykola Danczuk ments [for accreditation] to have a annoyed with homeroom and were program like this.” The proposed system would take See Homeroom, page 18 a set, school-wide meeting time and By Garri Saganenko
The pass is complete
CRHS reaches out to Haiti By Jennie Ochterski After the horrific events of the January 12th earthquakes in Haiti, Coginchaug’s French Honor Society has decided to reach out to those in need. For the past two years, FHS has sponsored a five-year-old Haitian orphan named Oslunde. In December 2009, we sent over $900 and special gifts to Oslunde, who is flourishing under the care of an organization called Home, Education, Love and Opportunity (HELO) based in Middlefield. Although Oslunde’s orphanage is outside of the earthquake’s deadly scope, HELO is searching for another house to rent to help orphaned children of the earthquake. “Haiti is the poorest country in this hemisphere. This latest natural disaster is a devastating blow,” says Emily Spence, French Honor Society member. To donate, checks can be
made payable to HELO, Inc. and can be dropped off at the lower level of the Middlefield Community Center in the kitchen area. In additional news on the communities’ Haiti relief effort, Middlefield Federated Church’s annual Thirty Hour Famine is donating the (ten times government matched) proceeds to aid in the rebuilding of cities and lives. Many students in the CRHS community are participating in the Thirty Hour Famine and raising money. Erin Holden, a four year famine veteran, says, “Being involved in FHS and the Thirty Hour Famine has really helped me see the need in our own part of the world. We make a lot of difference through our work.” Please contact Marilyn Keurajian at MFC for more 30 Hour Famine news.
They have demanded our attention, been idolized and almost overly covered. Out of all the accolades and shorthand praise, the firstteams and the best this and that, the one thing that will be noted most is the Vinal-Coginchaug Hawks’ campaign as the first and last. They are the first and last VC team to make the playoffs, the first and last VC team to beat Hyde Leadership, the first and last VC team to win nine games. As Robert Frost so eloquently phrased, “nothing gold can stay.” A VC Hawks enthusiast would add blue to the equation. What remains are the last Hawks, the last senior class to play under the VC banner. There were 13 seniors who put in three years of work for half a year of glory. In an attempt to give summation to their legacy, I turned the pen over to the players themselves with a set of three questions to think about, and let them write their own article. What is your greatest memory from your four years of playing?
“I remember losing every game freshmen year, hoping to win at least three games when I was a senior. If you had told me freshmen year we would go 9-1, I wouldn’t believe you,” said running back Mark Flannery. With that said, a myriad of memories poured out. “My game-winning touchdown catch against Hyde Leadership will stay with me forever,” said wide receiver Jeff Tiedemann. Hyde would go on to win the Class S state championship, their only loss coming from Vinal-Coginchaug. “Getting my first interception,” said line backer Jordan Barton. “Stepping on the field on Friday nights with my best friends, and for 48 minutes, playing our hearts out.” said defensive back Eddy Ruddy. “My first touchdown on JV sophomore year,” said running back Nick D’Aquila. “Beating Hyde was huge, junior See VC Hawks, page 18
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Devil’s Advocate
Friday, January 29, 2010
Student Opinion
Editor-in-Chief: Mackenzie Hurlbert Contributors: Sarah Bugai, Laura Reimer, Dan Fonseca, Tony Gambardella, Cody Given, Mackenzie Hurlbert, Joseph Oblon, Jennie Ochterski, Cam Pollitt, Garri Saganenko, Emily Shoemaker, Emily Romanoff, Tim Rizzo, Michael Tubis, Zhining Fang and Lauren Stafford Production: Mackenzie Hurlbert, Jennie Ochterski and Michelle Palma Advisors: Mr. Nate Fisher and Ms. Stephanie Wilcox The Devil’s Advocate is the Coginchaug High School newspaper. These pages are the creation and expression of the students.
Does is cost too much to go to the game? By Laura Reimer Have you ever tried to get tickets to that big game, but found out that they would cost a small fortune? Have you found seats at the perfect price, only to find out that they are so far away you’d be better off watching the game on your TV? Well, that’s because the prices for professional sports games are starting to reach untouchable heights. While you may be able to buy cheap seats, these usually cost a minimum of $50. Even though these seats are offered, in many arenas they are way too far away. In most cases, these seats sell out so fast that you have to be the first one online to get the tickets. At some professional stadiums, like the New York Rangers hockey rink, prices reach a $1,000, and that’s just for one ticket. While other venues may be less costly, the better seats still cost between $200 and $300. Now these prices might be somewhat reasonable for adults who work full time jobs and have this kind of money to spend, but for students who can only work part time at best, it is almost out of the question to buy tickets that are so expensive. “I was trying to get Red Sox tickets during the summer, and they’re just outrageously expensive,” said senior Lauren Stafford. “Even if you work part time, as a student they’re so hard to get. With this economy you would think they would be lower.”
Another senior, Dan Fonseca, had a similar opinion, “I would love to follow Portugal to the 2010 World Cup, but not only are the ticket prices astronomical, but it doesn’t even compare to what is costs for air fare, a hotel in a good neighborhood, food, and other necessities. In the end it would be too expensive for one person, never mind a family. So I’ll be watching the World Cup on my couch at home.” Most students would have to put away their pay checks for several months before they could afford such high-priced games. For some however, the price is worth the experience. As Tim Rizzo said, “They are expensive, but it’s worthwhile to try and find tickets. Sometimes you can find good scalper prices as it gets closer to game time; if they are getting desperate sometimes they give them to you for a good price.” Even though it might take a while to earn the money to go, having to chance to experience a professional level game can be worth it. Sometimes the game might even make history if a record is broken, or something unusual happens. So while the insanely high prices might scare some away, others take the chance and spend the money, even though they might be broke after.
The next deadline for Devil’s Advocate is Thursday, February 25!
Why salary caps in professional sports are overrated By Dan Fonseca In early November, with the New York Yankees one game away from clinching their 27th World Series championship, cries for installment of a salary cap in baseball echoed from every corner of America. As far as this whole theory goes, it’s been nothing but talk since 2000. Fans of the NFL have seen a salary cap instituted since 1994, in which the salary cap is calculated as a percentage of total league revenue. Considered one of the stricter versions of salary caps in American sports, the NFL’s policy states a minimum and maximum value that teams are eligible to pay their players. In the event that a team violates these terms, repercussions include fines of $5 million, cancellation of contracts and even a loss of draft picks. The minimum payroll that an NFL team can have, also known as the
“floor,” is calculated as 87.6 percent of the cap, which in 2009 was leveled at $128 million. The National Basketball Association is similar to the NFL in how the salary cap is calculated. Configured as a percentage of league revenues, the NBA has a “soft cap,” where teams are allowed to exceed the cap number in order to retain the rights to a player who has already been on the team. What is also overlooked, however, is that the reason why the NBA’s cap is so low ($58.68 million in 2008) is due to the fact that roster sizes are no more than 15, compared to 23 in the National Hockey League, 25 in major league baseball and a whopping 55 in the NFL. But here is why a salary cap in See Salary, page 18
What senior slide? By Tim Rizzo Senior year has come for the Class of 2010 and for many it can’t end soon enough. Anticipation of the future, excitement for some freedom, and the crossing off of each day on our calendars until school is over makes senior year the longest 180-plus days of our young, adolescent lives. The seniors I spoke to mentioned nothing of this myth of their grades falling or taking a hit, but then again it is only the first semester. Senior Luke Drenzek feels that senior year is “definitely somewhat easier. There’s a lot more free time to get your mind off school.” Since students choose their own classes senior year, it makes them more likely to stay on task, knowing that they chose classes they like and find more practical use for them in their future. English teacher Ms. Melissa Roy agrees: “Since they’re in electives they chose, it’s easier for them to enjoy the material, and it makes it easier to teach the classes because students are more open to learning.” According to them, students tend to study harder and put more effort in senior year. Senior Justin Johnson knows the importance of doing well each year. “I have to keep my
grades up because colleges are still looking at our grades, so there really is no off season when it comes to school,” he said. Working hard every day to keep your grades up seems very difficult and unthinkable when college is so near, but kids shockingly realize this and see an increase in their GPA. Guidance counselor Mrs. Beth Melillo has records of kids in every grade, and she keeps a cool head when it comes to seniors, knowing they’re not going to burn out and start giving up on school. She said, “Once they realize that they still need to try because their colleges still needs those good grades, I really don’t worry about them.” When it comes down to it, “senioritis,” or the “senior slide,” is as real as Big Foot, or the Loch Ness Monster in a nearby swimming pool. It can become a difficult year only if the student makes it one. The drive to do well to keep that GPA up and continue to make their parents smile when they open that report card keeps many seniors focused on their schoolwork, while in the long run making senior year one they’ll never forget and a stepping stone to better things.
Devil’s Advocate Reviews
Eastwood sheds light on apartheid By Garri Saganenko
I had been sold on the rapture drawn from William Ernest Henley’s Invictus, and a fledgling country fresh from shattering its stigma of apartheid. I found myself devoid of buyer’s remorse. Invictus, directed by Clint Eastwood, tells the story of Nelson Mandela, or, as he is often called by some of his security guards, Modeva, and his first year of presidency in the new South Africa, the rainbow nation. Mandela, whose story isn’t as wellknown in America as it should be, is given the task of “balancing white fears with black aspirations.” To do so, he enlists the help of the South African rugby team and their captain, Francois Pieenar, played by Matt Damon (The Bourne Identity and Good Will Hunting). Ironically, the Springboks, as they are called, still don the green and gold of former South Africa. Mandela, played wonderfully by Morgan Freeman (The Shawshank Redemption and The Bucket List), doesn’t look for their demise, rather promotes them to the whole South Africa in what he calls, “A human calculation.” Finally, Mandela calls for tea with Pieenar, implicitly asking him to win the Rugby World Cup. Matt Damon, showing his vocal range since Good Will Hunting, and Morgan Freeman both adopt South
African accents. This was something I didn’t consider before the movie, but it would have been a glaring flaw if they hadn’t. One particular scene dares you not to get torn up inside when Pieenar visits Robben Island, where Mandela was held captive for 30 years, with the poem “Invictus” being recited. Another scene, in which Mandela’s newly acquired security guards (white) are forced into a small waiting room with his old guards (black), seems a bit contrived. However, it is one of the few scenes in the movie that does seem forced. Luckily, Eastwood keeps the spot light off rugby, not allowing it to become an episode of Sportscenter. While you do see a heavy dose of rugby matches at the end, it only seems fitting at this point. Throughout the movie, Mandela (Freeman) makes a good number of speeches that are beautifully written and spoken. With the World Cup of soccer ironically calling South Africa its home this June, maybe there is another Invictus-like scenario looming over the skies of Pretoria, Johannesburg and the rest of South Africa. Invictus is slowly creeping out of theaters across the nation. Released on Dec. 11, its DVD release should be before the world descends upon South Africa once again.
In a land where impossible beauty is monstrous, there lives Fire By Zhining Fang will save the Dells from chaos. King Nash struggles to keep order in his land while rebel lords Mydogg and Gentian build armies in the north and south to usurp him, and spies and lawless men roam the mountains and forests. Wary and distrustful of Fire and her ability, Prince Brigan reluctantly See Fire, page 16
Avatar, James Cameron’s latest movie, can be summed up in a single word: masterpiece. The special effects are beyond amazing, the story is intriguing and the acting is superb. This movie is a “must see.” Without a doubt this is one of the most revolutionary pieces of cinematography since Star Wars. Cameron shows how special effects can be more than giant explosions and alien space ships. He creates a beautiful, computer-generated world full of exotic forests, people and cultures. The movie begins with
By Cameron Pollitt Jake Sully, a paraplegic Marine who desperately wants his legs back, being recruited into the Avatar program. The year is 2154 and Earth has spread across the solar system in search of new resources and treasures. This brings us to Pandora, a moon that is covered in rich, exotic, foreign life. The planet resembles the Amazon rainforest on a massive scale, with leaves the size of men, trees the size of skyscrapers and flowers the size of houses. The natives are a group of ten-foot tall, blue, humanoid cat people called the Na’vi.
As absurd as it sounds, Cameron works his magic and gets the audience to not only care about these creatures but relate and cheer for them. The Avatar program is a machine that transfers the mind of the person into a cloned body of a Na’vi in hopes of convincing the tribe to vacate their homeland, which contains precious minerals the humans want. It is Jake Sully’s job to infiltrate the tribe and provide the army with intelligence required to destroy them. The only problem is Jake
See Avatar, page 18
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Fire is the last human monster in the land of the Dells. She is not a monster because she is unimaginably grotesque. She is a monster because of her irresistible beauty, her beautiful fiery hair and her ability to control every open mind of any human that sets eyes upon her. Fire refuses to use this power, except for selfdefense, but now, her power may be the only thing that
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Avatar
Start with a dream. Finish with a future!
Friday, January 29, 2010
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Devil’s Advocate
Governor’s initiative spotlights safe driving
By Michael Tubis The governor’s Teen Safe Driving ed the idea of phones that have Week took place the second week of GPS built into them that will have a December. All over the state schools new feature that will automatically have been involved with the gover- shut the phone off when it detects nor’s new plan to try and stop fatal that you are going over 5 mph over the speed limit. Not much has been accidents once and for all. The purpose for this Safe Driving planned officially, but we are pushweek was to launch CTParenTeen, ing for it.” a year long program which is deCTParenTeen is the latest push signed to “encourage parents and for safe driving since the new driving teens to make responsible choices laws that were put into place on around safe driving issues,” accord- Aug.1. At first the laws just had neging to the state’s DMV website. Oth- ative feedback from students beer then its release, the governor has cause of the doubled wait time to not revealed any plans for activities drive family and friends, but with the in the future. tragic deaths of Coginchaug stu“The main reason why young driv- dents Michelle DiVicino and Ally ers get in accidents is because you Palmisano over the past two years, don’t have much experience when along with other accidents all over you get your license. The laws help the state, students are beginning to you get the knowledge more safely,” accept the laws, and not only said Donna Tommelleo, spokes- change their driving habits, but women for Governor Jodi Rell. make sure others drive safely as “There wasn’t one event that instant- well. ly created the reform, but there was “I drive slower now and make sure one event that happened three everyone buckles up when they get years ago that made the governor in,” said senior Kathy Rubendunst. take a long hard look at the laws. “Nothing is worth dying because you There was nothing really special were speeding.” about it, but because of it, the gover“It sucks, but it’s safer,” said sennor created the task force, which is a ior Sarah Lyman. group that the governor designed to Although there was not much inthink over and fix the driving laws. Her newest plan was the Teen Safe volvement with the Teen Safe DriDriving Week that happened last ving Week here at CRHS, let’s hope week. In my opinion it was a suc- that there will be more plans in the cess for one reason: there was a future to change the driving habits of GPS software designer who heard teen drivers and put an end to tragic about the governor’s plan. He creat- accidents.
Friday, January 29, 2010
Students join community in food round-up By Laura Reimer Students and community mem- overall, the team won among the bers from Durham and Middlefield Coginchaug teams. “It feels fantaspitched in on Saturday, Dec. 5, to tic to win. We worked really hard, help collect food items for families in had an excellent game plan and exneed. This now annual event pro- ecuted well,” said Jack. vides food for families in our town Another competitor, sophomore who need a little extra help over the Megan Campbell, joined a team for holidays. This year there were similar reasons “My friends asked about 70 teams that participated. me to, and I needed something to Along with these teams, there were do on Saturday, and I wanted to plenty more people who helped help out,” said Megan. count and sort the food items. Others who didn’t go out to collect This year’s event yielded 12,437 on a team helped out at the school food items and $2,291.70. This year’s winners from Coginchaug boxing and counting cans. Senior were Dan Fonseca, Jack Bascom, Dylan Pedersen helped out in the Conor Finley, Ross Burton, Jeremy gym transporting the goods. When Newell and Jordon Barton. From asked what exactly he did to help Strong, Jacob Burt, Corey Hass- out, Pedersen said, “Well, my dad man, Brendan Murray and Evan brings a big truck every year to help Sliker took home top round-up hon- bring food to the shelter. When each ors. Memorial winners were Brianna station has a full box, I load it up and Sawick, Stephanie Magiameli, Tiff bring it to the truck. My dad also Magiameli and Nikki Woznyle. The brought his DJ stuff, and there was winners from John Lyman were Au- music in the gym.” drey Figoras, Megan Locascio and This year’s round-up, like past Sarah Locascio. years, brought in a large amount of When asked why he participated, food that families in need will greatwinner and Coginchaug senior Jack ly appreciate. It is wonderful to see Bascom said, “I needed community a community filled with so many stuservice hours and we wanted to win dents willing to put in the time to really bad.” While they did not win help others.
See the work! Hear the students! By Emily Romanoff It may come as a surprise that for Coginchaug, stated, “In visual art, all of the talented artists here at exhibiting is a very essential part of Coginchaug Regional High School, communicating with the world.” Bethere is a very minimal amount of cause of this, it is vitally important space for the exhibition of art. Aside that artists in high school are able to of the two outlets in Coginchaug, art share their work with the public. students have very little room to Artists who lack the ability to showshow off their art within the school. case their work are faced with the While students are grateful for this, same sense of frustration as a musias well as the exhibition space in the cal group lacking an audience. creative issue of the Town Times, Mrs. Wenzel added, “If no one an annual art show at the library and can see what you are communicatthe small gallery in the front office, ing to the world, it’s like you’re not there is simply not enough room to being heard. In order to fuel the inshowcase the work of all of these spiration of our local artists, it is vital outstanding art students. that we find a way to exhibit their art Many students choose to use art to the public.” as a creative way to express themWhen asked about the imporselves and communicate with oth- tance of showcasing art, not just on ers. During a brief interview, Mrs. the school website or in extracurricJanice Wenzel, the art teacher at ular art shows, but throughout the
Above and right, student artwork that you may soon see exhibited throughout the school. school building, Mrs. Wenzel said, “More space for showing off art would be an asset to our school because it would brighten the walls and bring more creativity to other areas of the school.” Although she and art students alike are advocates of the installation of additional exhibit areas throughout the school, they realize
that we are limited by our current economic situation. As an alternative, Mrs. Wenzel will soon be creating a website that will showcase all students’ artwork. Her goal is to expose a greater number of people to many different forms of art. Stay tuned for future information about this new website!
Friday, January 29, 2010
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Devil’s Advocate
Budget hits resource database By Mackenzie Hurlbert Any student who has ever had to write a thesis or research paper knows about the resource databases button in the left hand column. One click on this button and you will discover a gold mine of handy search engines including Encyclopedia Britannica and the New York Times historic databases. Unfortunately, when the budget for the school was cut, library media specialist Ms. Tracy Earnshaw’s budget to pay for books, movies, magazines and access to the resource databases was cut in half, and she had to choose where the money was going to go. After cutting some entertainment-focused magazine subscriptions and planning to buy fewer books, Ms. Earnshaw realized that the only way to stay within the budget but still provide students with valuable resources was to cut the number of online resource databases available to students. “As a librarian, I constantly have to provide … that’s the business I’m in,” said Ms. Earnshaw. “I have never had to make such severe cuts before. I’ve just bought fewer and fewer books.” If she was to keep all of
the online resources and magazine subscriptions she would have been forced not to buy any new books this year, and “It’s not possible to do that and support the curriculum.” She is responsible for buying books, movies, magazines, supplies, and online resources for students and teachers alike, and when it came down to the nitty-gritty job of choosing where to trim the spendings, she settled on cutting the Oxford English Dictionary, World’s Best Poetry, and the Literary Reference Center. Those three resources were the least used, but Ms. Earnshaw still said, “It’s especially hard to cut the literary reference center because it contains literary criticism, so there’s a valuable resource that’s lost.” “Next year doesn’t look any better because of the economy,” said Ms. Earnshaw, but the pressing need for current resources will stay the same. No matter how the economy is, students and teachers alike will need up-to-date resources, and the library media center, with help from Ms. Earnshaw, will be there to enlighten us.
Headphone policy changes By Emily Shoemaker Students piled into homeroom on Jan. 6 expecting yet another dreary 20 minutes of school. What they got, however, was a prayer answered. “Starting in January 2010, students at CRHS will be permitted to use personal listening devices with headphones at certain times and in certain locations throughout the school building,” read the flier that was handed out to the student body. According to the handout, students are permitted to use their personal listening devices before the 7:20 warning bell and after the 2:02 dismissal bell. Mp3 players will also be allowed during unassigned time in the library and cafeteria, during study halls at the teacher’s discretion, and in the cafeteria during lunch and X-block. “On a personal and professional level,” said principal Dr. Wysowski, “I think this will help our students: we have new technologies now that [I think] will help students to relax…this is a good thing.” Dr. Wysowski is not yet sure if, with the change in headphone policy, grades will improve, but he thinks it will be an “interesting statistic to pursue.” “It’s a good thing as long as stu-
dents use it appropriately,” said guidance counselor Mrs. Beth Melillo, “Some students work better with music on.” “The administration is trying to be very accommodating to students. The times are appropriate, and the student body should be happy with the leeway they’re given,” said P.E. teacher Bob Nemphos, “it would be inappropriate to be allowed to listen at any other time.” Senior Will Conroy agrees with Mr. Nemphos, “It’s a good thing that [the school is] moving forward in the era of modern technology.” Other students, however, are weary of the new rules, saying that many people have been listening to their music even before the change. “I like it, but a lot of teachers didn’t enforce the [no headphone] policy before,” said sophomore Colin Plant. “I just hope teachers will be [lenient] with the new rules and let us listen during free time in class,” said senior Jessica Sliney. So grab your iPods and mP3 players and prepare yourself for study halls, frees, and lunch – because this new headphone policy is “hear” to stay!
Senior Dylan Pedersen and junior Megan Campbell snooze off in free. Photo by Joe Oblon.
Securing a solid slumber By Joe Oblon Sleep. School. Homework. Eat. Repeat. There you have it, the model of an average teenager’s life. However, most teens have added activities such as sports, clubs, community service, musical groups, and procrastination. Remember, that’s in addition to all the homework and projects teachers assign. While doctors differ over the amount of sleep they recommend for teenagers, on average they suggest devoting at least nine hours. From seven a.m. to two p.m., Coginchaug students spend their days in the classroom. By devoting two hours to eating meals and preparing for the day, only six hours remain in the day. In that small window of time, students take up the large tasks of homework, sports, and extra-curricular activities. Precious moments are also spent traveling to a student’s destination. Most teenagers also spend a lot of time social networking online, texting their friends, and watching TV. Let’s face it - school activities are important, but time for relaxation is also a necessity. There simply aren’t enough hours in a day to be a teenager and get the recommended nine hours of sleep. Senior Dylan Pedersen has successfully gotten his schedule worked out to allot himself about seven to eight hours of sleep each night. “I usually go to bed between ten and eleven. When I wake up in
the morning, I feel that I have gotten a solid amount of sleep,” said Dylan. “The only part of my day [which] gets affected is the immediate morning right when I get up.” After a long day of homework and other activities, Dylan isn’t the only one searching for the snooze button in the morning. “In my first two classes, I’m always asleep,” said senior Marisa Doyon. “But when I get enough sleep, that doesn’t happen. It goes in cycles. Sometimes I nap or sleep in late on the weekends, which doesn’t help the [sleep] cycle.” In college, things don’t get any better. Late nights result from piles of homework and watching your favorite TV shows. “I press my snooze button a lot,” said college freshman and Coginchaug graduate Lauren Peters. “People will randomly knock on doors at four in the morning.” Living in a dorm with other people who don’t go to bed at the same time as you can also bring complications. Some people stay up “watching Law and Order on full blast in the [early] morning,” Lauren said. Every teenager knows that plenty of sleep helps both with staying healthy and staying focused in class. However, fitting everything into the day can be very difficult.
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Friday, January 29, 2010
Devil’s Advocate
Homeroom door decoration superlatives The Devil’s Advocate traveled the halls capturing the true essence of Coginchaug’s Spirit Week. Here are the best of the best: superlative style.
Snow day blues
Most Lights Foods Room
Most Holiday Spirit Ms. Christian Bertz
Most Class Spirit Music Room
Best Line Design Ms. Kate Martino
By Cameron Pollitt Snow falls steadily outside the ally sleep in or have homework to window, transforming the world into do,” said senior Heidi Emack, “I do a magical land of pristine white. The have to shovel my driveway though, weatherman reports a cancellation and that is a pain, but aside from of school, and you breathe a sigh of that it is mostly a day to stay inside relief as you go back to bed. Waking and relax.” up late seems to be a very popular Often staying home is the only part of the snow day as today’s stu- choice students have. The roads dents waste the rest of day playing can be dangerous, and without the the latest video game rather than luxury of travel students resort to building a snowman. When did the other options to stay in touch such glory of the snow day die? Local as Facebook and other social netteenagers have the answer. working sites. “It doesn’t even regisMost School Spirit ter to me to go outside anymore,” “I really can’t remember when I Mr. Phil Martel stopped going outside,” said senior said Tim, “I shovel and that’s it. I Tim Rizzo. “I am kind of bummed now guess at some point I outgrew it.” that I think of it; it used to be so much The precise age when students outfun as a kid.” As children, the students grow the various snow day activities of Durham and Middlefield used to is hard to find. Jimmy Malcolm, a dress up and prepare for the winter sophomore said, “I sometimes go wonderland that had transformed the sledding or to a friend’s house, or town into a magical white world. sometimes I stay inside and play Snowball fights, sledding, making Xbox. I don’t see what’s wrong with snow angels and building snowmen doing what’s fun. People should do were just some of the activities that in- what’s fun for them.” trigued the youth of the town. “I don’t On the last snow day, the hills of go out anymore,” said Tim, “There is Coginchaug had at least half a no point. I wouldn’t mind sledding dozen people sledding down the though. That’s always fun.” hills as the snow slowly blanketed A loss of freedom and innocence the earth. Parents, grade-schoolers is something that every teen experi- and even some teens braved the ence as they grow up. The absence cold to race each other down the hill of snow day activities in high school in the early morning. A small snowis a perfect example of this. With man was even built before a little girl Most Confusing, yet every passing season, snow sounds who was sledding fast enough to be less and less fun, as students grow on the American bobsled team at Intriguing. preoccupied with other parts of life. the Olympics quickly destroyed it. It Ms. Sarah Aceto Eventually, a snow day, which used was a perfect picture: people of all to be a time of fun and exciting new different ages brought together in a experiences, has become just an- snowstorm to relax and enjoy life, other day. “Snow days aren’t that even if it was only in the time span of exciting for me anymore. I don’t re- a few snowflakes.
Fire
Most Sea Worthy Mrs. Katherine Munson
Most Abstract Ms. Kathy Zygmont
Most Political Ms. Megan Kavanaugh
brings her to King City where the royal family needs her to expose the lords’ plans against King Nash. It is here that Fire discovers how much more there is to her power. Her power is the key to the safety of the kingdom. The only obstacle that stands in her way: her fear of becoming the monster her father was. The companion to Graceling, Fire is a journey you wouldn’t want to miss. As you read, you will fight
(Continued from page 5)) with Fire and marvel at her bravery. You will cheer with her for every victory and cry with her with every loss. Kristin Cashore has not yet disappointed me as she follows the spellbinding Graceling with this captivating book. As you live through the adventure all the way to the end, you’ll want to start another adventure in Graceling as well. Enjoy!
Devil’s Advocate Sports
Friday, January 29, 2010
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The life of a student athlete By Dan Fonseca In modern American academia, most students find themselves torn between their work behind their school desks and in between the white lines on the field or on the court. Many leading experts on the relationship between sports and schoolwork have disagreed over the years as to how successful it can be for students. But more often than not, sports serve as a way to channel life lessons and apply them directly to the classroom. Here at Coginchaug, roughly half of the student body participates in some form of school sports team. “Sports are huge here,” says Athletic Director Ted Lombardo. “They’re bigger here than at most area schools. In all three seasons combined, you have about 600 students participating. And when you factor out the students that play multiple sports, about half of the student body is involved in some way.” One student that is heavily involved in both his studies and sports is sophomore Alec Corrazini. An athlete in all three sports seasons through football, basketball and baseball, Alec strongly believes in good time management skills. “I usually try to make time for my work before practices and games,” he said. “If you’re not doing anything, you might as well get it out of the way and just do it. That’s why I get my homework done on the weekends too. I usually have a lot of free time on a weekend morning, so I can always find time to get the work done.” He also said that sports do serve as a positive role in a student’s life. “If you don’t do well in school, you’re not eligible to play the sports you want to. It promotes you to do better in the classroom so you can be eligible to play the sports you want to.” Senior Eric Hewitt agrees. “Time management plays a role in sports and school, but if you know how to manage it well, you can avoid struggles,” he said. Hewitt stated that while there isn’t enough time in the day to get all the tasks done that you want to, its important for sports to be a place where you can get a break from your work. “You should always have a plan where you can always
try your hardest.” Not all students look at time management in the same positive way. Senior Matt Solomon feels that it may depend on what sports you play and when you get home from all your activities. “Sometimes I won’t get home until late at night, and just don’t have time to do the work.” While he feels that sports are great for a student, he does feel that they can be too much of a challenge for certain students. “But if you can do it,” he said, “then there’s no reason to not push yourself and learn valuable life lessons. The general consensus among student athletes at Coginchaug is pretty universal when dealing with the secret of their success. “Sleep is key,” said senior Mike Finley, a participant in Coginchaug’s Boy’s Tennis team. “If you can get your rest in, and stay organized, then getting your work done and being successful in the class is a whole lot easier.” His teammate, Nick D’Aquilla, agrees. “School comes first, but when you can get the sleep that you need, managing time becomes routine, and your success level off the field will probably increase.” With the total number of Scholar Athletes Awards presented at the end of the year steadily increasing, the Coginchaug student body has adapted to a much better routine in regards of their sports and schoolwork. Student athletes across the school have started to look at sports with a new light, and have moved passed an era where sports were always superior to school. Instead, they have matured into a sense where one can complement the other and create success at such an important time in their lives. Corrazini is one of the students in Coginchaug that has already adapted to that philosophy in the brief time he has attended high school. “Sports are great,” he said. “They’re fun. But doing well in class is much more important. It will get you further in life than your success on the field will.”
The next deadline for Devil’s Advocate is Thursday, February 25! Send your stories and photos to news@towntimes.com.
Senior Elizabeth Meiman shoots during the game versus H-K on January 12. Photo by Joe Oblon.
Lady Devils are on fire By Sarah Bugai With one of the best seasons in Coginchaug girls’ basketball history, it seems as though this team cannot be stopped. Already making the state tournament, a feat most teams wouldn’t dream of accomplishing in past history, the girls’ basketball team is definitely on a roll. Recently the team achieved an impressive victory over Sports and Medical Sciences Academy of Hartford. The final score was 56-34. Team captain senior Taylor Edinger said, “People don’t expect us to do as well as we are, and we’re first in our division.” Among the nine wins and one loss racked up this season, the team has also been named Connecticut Sun High School Girls’ Basketball Team of the Week for the week of December 14-20. Mohegan Sun names outstanding teams
statewide who have shown a powerful presence on the court. This is a first for Coginchaug. When asked how the rest of the season would play out, Coach Megan Kavanaugh said, “As long as we keep working together and playing as one unit, we will go far.” “If we keep playing like a team, we’ll just get a better seating for the tournament,” said Taylor. On Jan 12, the Lady Devils beat HK, an impressive win. As for the future, no one is certain of what will become of the Lady Devils. However, the girls’ basketball team is creating excitement, and the rest of the season is sure to be interesting no matter how it plays out. Senior captain Elizabeth Meiman said, “I can feel it! We’re going to the Mohegan Sun finals this year!”
Devils rise again in 2009 By Tim Rizzo This year will be a very interesting year for the Coginchaug Blue Devils’ basketball team, one that could be considered a rebuilding year, but the players see it as just another season. After losing formers seniors Matt Biesak, James Carmichael and Mike Markoski to college, the team looks to build off their 16-4 regular season record from last year. The team hopes to improve on their opening round exit to Old Saybrook in Shorelines and their respectable second round loss to Stafford in states. Senior power forward and varsity starter since sophomore year, Jeff Tiedemann feels the change. “Our
team’s a lot faster and will apply a lot more pressure and is more excited on the court then last year,” he said, “This is a different style team, and we still have a lot of talent and chemistry.” Jeff remains optimistic for this year’s team, and rightfully so, under head coach Todd Salva who has led the team to the state tournament the past three years. To get to that glorious ending of winning a state and shoreline championship, they will have to face the same rough schedule of teams, such as North Branford, Cromwell and Hyde Leadership among many others. See Devils, page 18
Devil’s Advocate
18 Avatar
(From page 13)
goes native as he falls in love with the tribe and a certain Na’vi. Cameron does an amazing job of getting the audience connect to the story and hold their breath as it unfolds. This movie is not for the impatient. For over two and half hours, we are woven into the story and CGI effects. Regardless of the length, this movie is truly a “must see” for one reason: the computer generated Images. Without a CGI. doubt this is the most visually powerful movie ever produced using CGI. Never before has a director created a world so realistic and believable, and by the end of the movie, the audience will be wishing they lived on Pandora. This movie is beautiful in every sense of the word, and if you can afford to spend a little more, it must be seen in 3D. Unlike any other 3D movies it’s not trying to wow you with objects flying at you and making you reach out to touch them, but rather provides a whole new factor when viewing the movie. The audience has constant depth
Salary major league baseball not only doesn’t make sense, but flat out won’t work: Under criticism for overpaid players and extraordinarily high team payrolls, the MLB introduced a luxury tax in 2003, where teams were taxed if their payroll exceeded a certain figure, determined annually. The tax is paid to the league, which then puts the money into its industry-growth fund. Major league baseball teams have had enormous revenues since the new bargaining agreement was decided following the strike of 1994. To install a salary cap, where huge market teams such as the Yankees, Red Sox, Angels, Dodgers, and Tigers make upwards of a quarter of a billion dollars annually, would do little to stop what they’ve done thus far. If anything, the price reduction of those teams would probably not exceed more than a $10 to $15 million price cut. And yet, fans cry out the age old adage of “Small market teams can’t compete with huge payrolls for a championship.” If you look at the list
Devils The success of this team could very well rely on knowing one another and trusting each other on the court. As senior guard Ben Shoudy says, “Can we learn to play as a team? We’ll go very far if we can, but without that cooperation we’re going to have a rough year.”
perception as the creatures of the jungle fly around the horizon, and Jake Sully tries to adapt to the tribe. As strange as this story sounds, it is by no means unique with notable similarities to Dances With Wolves, Romeo and Juliet, Matrix and even Ferngully. The story itself is quite good — just not all that original. The audience is satisfied, and it is rare for a story to feel so complete in today’s era of giant explosions and bad clichés. Casting new actors is also interesting, and it will be interesting to see how their careers play out. Sam Worthington does a spectacular job of playing Jake Sully, and we can see the inner turmoil of his orders to betray the Na’vi and his desire for no one to see him as a crippled Marine. Sigourney Weaver also does a great job portraying a scientist who is losing faith in her own race as war draws ever closer. If you can see one movie this year, it has to be Avatar. A unique and visually powerful masterpiece which leaves the audience not only shocked by its beauty but one that inspires the imagination of youth once again. (Continued from page 12) of World Series champions since 2000, that isn’t true at all. In the 2001 World Series, which featured the upstart Arizona Diamondbacks and the Yankees, the payrolls of each team were $109,791,893 for New York, and $81,206,513 for Arizona. Arizona won in seven games. Advantage smaller market team. In 2003, the World Series again featured the Yankees, the $180 million team, and the $63 million Florida Marlins. For mathematicians, the Marlins payroll was 35 percent of the Yankees’. They won in six games. Since 2000, the smaller market team has won five of the 10 World Series played. If half of the time, the team with the smaller market is winning a championship, is there a need to change the format that has clearly worked thus far? Is this change really good? Until baseball teams with the highest payrolls begin reeling off consecutive championships, there is no need to do the unnecessary: install a salary cap in major league baseball. (From page 17) Sounds like this team’s success could very well rely on one teammate knowing another like the back of his hand. Look for the Blue Devils to have another solid year under Coach Salva’s wing. These fast-paced players will make some noise this year, for sure.
Friday, January 29, 2010
this as a way to amend the sys(From page 11) tem. It was designed as an exercise for the government class.” talking about other schools.” From Since we can’t just throw out there, the conversation turned to a design of their own. After seeing homeroom all together, at least havthe potential for something truly in- ing a student designed system will teresting coming from this train of make everyone a little more hesitant thought, Mrs. Selberg took the the next time they ask “Who deidea to the administration, and signed this thing?!” If you’ve been found them open to change. around the library the past month or “I give [Homeroom] a six when so, you’ve likely seen Katie and asked for a one out of ten. I think Eddy Ruddy with a group of people there is a lot of room for improve- in the Reference Room. These ment,” said principal Dr. Wysows- meetings were focus groups, by ki. “It’s a great concept, but there’s very little student buy-in. I was which the AP class could listen to speaking with Mrs. Selberg, and the students’ opinions on the plan, she broached the idea [of the AP discuss potential improvements and class’s discussions].” The primary learn about the behind-the-scenes reasoning, Dr. W said, was the work that goes into creating a sysprecedent of student ideas being tem such as this. And there were huge successes. “The concept of cookies, which actually enticed a late arrivals and free time were fair number students into hearing student concepts. We’re looking at the presentation out.
Homeroom
VC Hawks year was great but senior year was by far the best. Being awarded allconference was also great. I wouldn’t trade the past four years for anything,” said offensive linemen Jack Bascom. “At the end of our state game versus East Lyme, our coach came up to us and gave us a congratulatory hug, saying it was a privilege to coach us. It was more of a privilege to play for him,” said wide receiver Dan Fonseca. “Playing in the state playoffs,” said linebacker Steve Santoro. Finally, offensive linemen Justin Johnson added, “Beating Hyde” to the list. What are your plans for the future? Looking ahead to college and beyond, the seniors gave insight as to where they will be going in the next few years, adding whether or not they would be pursuing a chance to play at a higher level. Jordan Barton has plans to be a physical education teacher, looking at Southern Connecticut State University or Curry College. Justin Johnson plans to major in marketing at Western New England College (WNEC) or Plymouth State and is planning to try to play football at those schools. Dan Fonseca hopes to major in accounting at WNEC or Mount St. Mary but won’t be playing football come next fall. UConn, CCSU and WNEC are all schools Mark Flannery is applying to. He will be vying for a walk-on spot on their teams. Although unsure as to whether he’ll play or not, Nick D’Aquila has applied to CCSU, University of New Haven, SCSU, and Quinnipiac, with plans of major-
(Continued from page 11) ing in construction management. Jeff Tiedemann has applied to UConn and WNEC with plans on majoring in exercise science. Eddy Ruddy has applied to Northeastern. If you could give one line of advice to future players, what would it be? “Don’t ever take anything for granted, always cherish your years,” said Dan Fonseca. “Be dedicated from the beginning, and when you’re a senior you’ll have a good year,” said Justin Johnson. “Do whatever you can to be better the next season; the last thing you want are regrets,” said Mark Flannery. “Remember, kid, there’s heroes and legends, heroes get remembered but legends never die,” said Nick D’Aquila. “We got where we are by hard work, not by luck,” said Jack Bascom. “Hard work pays off, never give up,” said Jordan Barton. “Football is both special on and off the field; it’s about being a winner,” said Steve Santoro. “Get in the weight room,” said Jeff Tiedemann. With that said, the VC Hawk legacy is over and a new legacy is born. Like the undying work ethic of the VC Hawks, football at Coginchaug will live on.
Town Times
Friday, January 29, 2010
Roses
(From page 10)
was coincidental meetings between old friends and businesses and the autism community,” said Hipp. “It was circles of influences colliding.” The first business endeavor for Growing Possibilities is Roses for Autism — just six months in, five employees, or 1/3 of the workforce at Pinchbeck’s, is on the autism spectrum. The excitement and pride the individuals have for their jobs is rewarding for Lyman. He witnessed it directly during the company’s open house in December when an autistic employee enthusiastically gave tours and showed how he cuts roses and does pest scouting. Lyman adds, “I’ve even had a mother tell me her autistic son says it’s the first time he feels like he has a purpose; that’s chilling.”
search, etc. “The potential is huge, based on what we hear from families and businesses,” said Hipp, who is managing director of Growing Possibilities. Not to mention, one in 100 people is diagnosed with autism, so the need is there. The autism spectrum is incredibly wide — from high functioning Asperger syndrome with genius qualities to very low functioning adults — all of whom need a real life setting and practice for employment, said Hipp. And some of it is not even job related, it’s socialization — like conversations around the water cooler — that doesn’t come natually for autistic individuals. Roses for Autism is a win for both the agriculture and
19
autism worlds, as well as Pinchbeck’s Rose Farm. After Valentine’s Day, an Agriculture Steering Committee will be formed to identify farms that express an interest in Growing Possibilities. “We’ll make it happen, I know we will,” said Lyman. “If the interest wasn’t there on the farmer level, I would be less hopeful, but I know it’s there.” There will be a lot more opportunities for autistic individuals as the project keeps rolling, Lyman says. As rose sales increase, the program will strengthen and broaden, and he has confidence in the roses. “There’s no question we will sell out this Valentine’s Day,” said Lyman. And that’s good news for everybody. Pinchbeck Rose Farm is lo-
cated at 929 Boston Post Rd. in Guilford (across from WalMart). The sign says “Roses for Autism.” Orders can be placed at 203-453-2186. Orders can be picked up at Lyman Orchards Apple Barrel from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on the Saturday before Valentines Day. If you are an interested business who wants to get involved or donate funds, or anyone who would like to speak anonymously with Lyman, call 860-662-1007 or email james_lyman@farmfamily.co m. More information can be found at rosesforautism.com.
Recycle
(From page 9)
ated feedback. This system lets the eBay community know if there are problems with a sell-
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Finally, after you receive payment for your auction item, your last step includes careful packing, labeling and shipping. Once you see how easy it is, you will be hooked. Anything not nailed down in your home will become fair game. I just love the auction format and never knowing what will happen in the final moments. Recycling has never been this much fun!
Note: While there are many online auction sites, I only have experience with eBay and the personal opinions expressed apply only to eBay. I can be reached for more info coconnell1927@sbcglobal.net.
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Durham Town Briefs
20 BOS
(From page 3)
five Durham residents attended Emergency Shelter Training in New Haven: Frank Giantonio and Dan Murphy from emergency management, Sue White and Tiffany Hesser from the Animal Response Team (DART), and herself. Last week Durham was granted a 2010 CIRMA Risk Management Achievement award in the category of Establishing Risk Manage-
ment as an Organizational Priority. In new business, the Department of Public Safety was awarded federal grant funding as a sub-recipient to the Justice Assistance Grant/Local Law Enforcement program. Durham will receive $2,935.05 rebate for Resident State Trooper services. There will be a Board of Finance site walk at the town garage on Jan. 28 at 6 p.m. This is good timing as the storm water permit study will
Friday, January 29, 2010
p.m. for a joint meeting of the boards of selectmen and finance from Durham and Middlefield.
be presented the same afternoon detailing ways to bring the site into compliance, Francis explained. There will also be a site walk on the property across the street from Time Out Tavern, according to Joe Datillo from the Conservation Commission. Time Out Tavern owner Gary Carmichael would like to rent the property for employee parking or overflow, which the Conservation Commission deems a common-sense use of the land. It is being turned over to the Board of Selectman who will work with the Public Safety Department, Inland Wetlands and the property owner. A tentative date and time has been set for Feb. 10 at 7
Tax relief available Applications for the elderly homeowners’ and totally disabled tax relief program are currently available at the assessor’s office in the Town Hall. Filing period for the elderly homeowner’s is Feb. 1 to May 17. Qualifying income limits are as follows: $32,300 for married applicants, $39,500. Additional veterans’ exemption applications are available for income qualifying veterans. Filing period for
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an additional veteran’s exemption is Feb. 1 to Oct. 1. Qualifying income limits are as follows: Unmarried applicants, $32,300 for married applicants $39,500. For veterans determined to be 100 percent disabled by the VA, income limits are $18,000 for single applicants and $21,000 for married applicants. Social Security income is not considered. Applications for the town freeze and deferred benefit are available from Jan Muraca. Residents 65 years and older who meet the income requirements may apply.
Greenland Realty hearing closed; no vote
Greenland Realty’s request to add an on-site fuel tank and store equipment outside continued during a public hearing called by the Planning and Zoning Commission for Wednesday, Jan. 20. Representing the applicant was attorney Joan Molloy, who addressed some of the concerns brought up by commission members and the public. In discussing the fuel tank, Molloy explained that vehicles coming to refuel would do so between the tank and the building to reduce the amount of light on nearby residents while pulling up to the pump. Molloy added that refueling will generally take place once per day, at the end of the day. Furthermore, while the tank is near a residential area, Molloy pointed out that the tank owned by Murphy Pool isn’t far from Dolphin Day Care. The deereaten arborvitae trees will also be replaced to put a buffer between the business and its neighbors. The size of the fueling pad was questioned, as the sketches place it at 20’ long for 24’ long tank. Molloy explained that the 20’ pad size is based on an original sketch and should be modified after everything is settled with the fire marshal. Commission members also pointed out that two tanks will be necessary if the applicant plans on using the fuel for on- and off-road vehicles
See P&Z, next page
Town Briefs
Friday, January 29, 2010
P&Z
(From page 20)
due to the taxes imposed on road fuel use. Zoning member Ralph Chase pointed out that so long as the tank prints out a receipt each time vehicles are refueled, it shouldn’t be an issue. Dave Foley also remarked that off-road fuel has red dye placed in it to identify that it wasn’t taxed, thus preventing Greenland Realty from using untaxed fuel on the road should any of its vehicles be inspected. One issue that was brought up a number of times throughout the evening was whether or not the commission had the authority to go back and change the existing site plan based on prior compliance issues on the site. According to Molloy, the commission had to address the proposal in front of them and not the current site plan. This came up in part because commission members such as Joseph Pasquale wanted to put operating hours on the business to cut down on the number of complaints by neighbors. Although Molloy
said that the commission could put in operating hours for any changes to the site plan, she recommended against it as such restrictions haven’t been imposed on other, similar sites in the Design Development District. Another matter brought up was the 30’ dirt pile on Greenland Realty property. While there were complaints by consultant Bill Corbeau about the way it looks, the commission explained that Greenland Realty’s attempts to remove the pile have been denied in the past. Molloy also stated that the pile is technically on a separate piece of property owned by Greenland Realty. A few other items were discussed briefly during the hearing. Molloy stressed again that the site is a trucking business and not a landscaping business, according to the town attorney. As for outside storage, no more than 10 pieces of equipment should be outside at any time. Molloy also offered maintenance and cleaning receipts going back to April of 2009 to prove that Greenland Realty is performing neither on the
21
site. Resident Fred Sirles disagreed, stating that the applicant still washes vehicles onsite and that Greenland Realty only cleans up its act when the zoning commission comes out to visit. Sirles also doubted that the site brings in much tax money to the town. With all of that said, the commission chose to close the hearing. Only Flanagan voted against closing the hearing. The commission chose not to vote on the proposal right away, instead leaving time for discussion at a later meeting. In other business, zoning alternate Mike Geremia mentioned that an electrical business is storing equipment and using it on the fair grounds. He mentioned this as it’s not a permitted use in the residential zone and the business could be fined for it. Resident Alison Gaffney also addressed the commission. Gaffney wanted to know what could be done about abandoned buildings, as she had safety concerns about the building on 322 Tuttle Road. She told the commission that it was recently destroyed by 2" fire and that she was worried
about rodents, ticks, asbestos and other dangers as potential problems for her children. The commission informed her that the building could be razed if it met certain criteria, but that it was beyond their jurisdiction. They suggested that she speak with the building official and the first selectman if she wants something done about the property. (In attendance/Chuck Corley)
don Wapping, who handles legislation for the State Fair Association. However, Lesser believes that the DPH is more likely to revise the statute than grant specific exemptions. Even so, ideas were thrown out from all corners of the room: “Can a permit be issued that doesn’t require a town to do anything?” “Can regularly established fairgrounds be added as a statute exemption?” “What does it take to be government-sponsored?” and “Can additional language about proof of liability be added therefore exempting fairs who provide it?” Along with their suggestions the audience also had concerns, such as “How much is the fine if towns don’t comply?” — between $1,000 and $10,000 each day of the fair (each day is a separate offense) or the fair could even be shut down; “How soon can our suggested changes go into effect?” — As soon as possible. And they hope it does. Chiappetta told the 50-plus stake-
Fair purposes only. Ad templates are for width The length can vary depending on the (Continued from pagesize 1) “The statute is one size fits all” and the umbrella for exemptions should be raised. A Durham Fair member agreed, saying, “(The Durham Fair) is a whole bunch of things that make us something between a carnival and a zoo…We’re unique so an exemption is probably the best way to go.” In fact, proposed exemptions had been drafted prior to the meeting by Durham Fair Association attorney John Corona as well 3" as Gor-
See Fair, page 30
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Middlefield Town Briefs
Middlefield Government Calendar (Unless otherwise indicated, all meetings are held in the Community Center.) Monday, February 1 7 p.m. — Board of Selectmen Tuesday, February 2 7 p.m. — Levi E. Coe Library Association at the library 7:30 p.m. — Midstate Planning, 100 DeKoven Dr., Middletown Thursday, February 4 7 p.m. — Economic Development Commission Wednesday, February 10 6:30 p.m. — Planning and Zoning 7 p.m. — Water Pollution Control Authority 7:30 p.m. — Board of Education at Korn School
Middlefield Finance Board The Board of Finance met on Thursday, Jan. 21, atwhich time Jeremy Renninghoff reported to the board on his meeting with the District 13 business manager Ron Melnick. Renninghoff detailed a few notable items from the school audit, such as a $600,000 surplus in the certified teacher account. The reason Melnick gave him for this surplus is that the school often goes over on what it expects to pay for salary due to various experience levels between teachers. The support staff for the schools was specifically
mentioned as going over due to special education kids who sometimes come in partway through the year. Otherwise, Renninghoff stated that the students are getting what they need and that past years have had worse surpluses, such as the milliondollar surplus from 2007. According to Renninghoff’s research, however, it shouldn’t have a surplus at all. Renninghoff felt that the school’s surplus was there to make purchases that might be objected to if brought up in town meeting. Board member Rebecca Adams added that the school should use its surplus in the same way that the town does, to reduce the tax burden on residents.
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Friday, January 29, 2010
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The final item Renninghoff brought up was a suggestion he said originally came from the First Selectman. Renninghoff stated that the financial managers of Middlefield, Durham and the school should vote when it comes to using the school’s contingency budget to allow the towns greater say over school funds. One item Adams brought before the board involved the Emergency Notification System that Durham currently has in place. She said it will cost Middlefield $2,500 over the next two years if the town wants to become part of the system. Rather than discuss it at length, the board decided that they should speak with Durham emergency management director Francis Willett at a future meeting. Board member Bob Yamartino also suggested that the town should explore having someone look into grant opportunities for the town. Yamartino felt that the town should be more proactive about looking for grants. Adams noted that the town can’t afford to hire someone just to look for grants right now, though they may be able to find a volunteer. It was also mentioned that the board should speak with finance director Joe Geruch to find out how much grant research he already performs. The board is trying to stay in contact with other departments throughout town, and Lucy Petrella stated that she has not been able to find a schedule for Park and Recreation. Adams mentioned that when she recently went to a Park and Recreation meeting, they claimed that the finance board was “spying on other committees.” However, Adams explained that the board is sending liaisons to other departments to better understand programs and how best to help. Two transfers were approved: $2,700 was taken from contingency and placed in the Assistant Town Clerk’s lineitem to pay for additional hours worked in the absence of the Town Clerk, and $450 was added to the Senior Social Services Office account to pay for office coverage due to the absence of the Municipal Agent. The final item was an executive session regarding Powder Ridge negotiations. (In attendance/Chuck Corley)
Town Times
Friday, January 29, 2010
DMIAAB
years with the Department of Public Works in Durham. “One Saturday,” she says, “one of the guys in the department was getting married and all the staff were going. I worked at the transfer station that day and it evolved from there.” She became, as Bob Bascom used to call her, “lead dog.” She didn’t flinch at driving the payloader (but managed to keep her nails manicured). “The townspeople like their dump…it is a gathering
(From page 6)
Nice, freshly shredded mulch at the transfer station; much of it was made from all those Christmas trees. It’s there for the taking, says Bob Matuszkiewicz.
place, and it has also been a training ground for student drivers, who would come with their fathers.” McGee thinks the term “municipal solid waste” is an elegant term for something that is not very elegant. “But,” she says, “the more you remove from the stream, the better….if there’s less to transport, there are lower tipping fees.” “One evening — this was
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containers). It was expensive. Now, staff can plan “runs” more efficiently. They also move stuff around as needed, which saves money. Commercial haulers bring trash directly to Hartford CRRA and Willimantic, rather than to the transfer station. The end result of these efficiencies (including recycling income), Colegrove says, is that, despite increased costs (such as “tipping fees” or disposal fees at CRRA) in recent years, DMIAAB has been able to lower its net expenditures significantly.
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Midstate Regional Planning Agency, drafted the agreement, which was fine-tuned by a committee of eight people, four from each town. A geography major at Central Connecticut State University, he had taken a course in “Geopolitical Geography,” where he learned about cooperative agreements among other towns in central Connecticut. Durham and Middlefield were a classic case, he says, because the landfill straddled both towns. “State statutes give the towns flexibility in how they govern ‘interlocal’ agencies and allocate costs,” Colegrove says. Under DMIAAB, costs are allocated between the two towns, based on population figures provided by the state Department of Health. The agreement specifies how the cooperative effort to dispose of refuse will be overseen (by a board with four representatives from each municipality), but does not tell the entities how to actually run the operation. It allows DMIAAB to purchase equipment and hire staff. But when it comes to land ownership, each town has an “undivided interest” in the property occupied by the transfer station. Colegrove says recycling began in the late 1970s, but the landfill ran out of space anyway, in part because bulky waste (large items like construction debris) was stored there. Gradually, the old dump was reshaped into a transfer station. Over the years, more and more material has found its way out of the former dump and into the recycling stream. The bulk (no pun intended) of it goes to the Connecticut Resources Recovery Authority (CRAA) in Hartford, and some to Willimantic Recycling. Perhaps the biggest change over the years has been that DMIAAB now runs the transfer station itself. For a while, they had an administrator to oversee things, but, according to Colegrove, contracted haulers were moving refuse out “at their convenience” and nearly every function was done under contract. DMIAAB hired staff to do the jobs that needed to get done, and purchased their own equipment (such as hauling trucks and
23
Town Times
24 DMIAAB (From page 23) before the attacks of 9/11 — an older woman told me there was something in the bulky waste area that looked like dynamite. It was some red tubes labeled “TNT,” with white stuff on them. We got them out of the can — I can’t believe I did that — and I thought maybe I should call the police barracks.” When she called them, they told her she had to close up. A trooper came to help, but people were not happy. “One guy started complaining loudly to the trooper about how he paid taxes, etc., and the trooper had his hand on his gun, and called for backup!” The bomb squad came and took the stuff away, but was it really dynamite? Another favorite memory is of the goats that lived there
for a while, having escaped from the Middlesex Livestock Auction. A few years back, Ellen met West Virginian George McGee, who was installing power lines for Par Electric. They married and now live in George’s home state. She tells people she “picked her husband up at the dump.” Jim Gibbons says that, “it went from a hole in the ground to a very successful transfer station, and it is updated all the time.” He gives special credit to Bob Matuszkiewicz, who oversees day-to-day operations. “Dollar for dollar, the capital improvements have been well worth it. The staff and the board have been very frugal,” Gibbons notes. Dominic DelVecchio, who has served on DMIAAB for nine years and chaired it for six, says it is a “great example
“The transfer station is a social magnet!” Middlefield First Selectman Jon Brayshaw of towns working together” that works well for both towns. He says the agreement has helped reduce costs for both towns, through the joint ownership of items such as the payloader. “Recyclables generate considerable income, which is used to offset costs. The townspeople have done a great job of recycling. But we’re not here to make money; DMIAAB is non-profit.” Middlefield First Selectman Jon Brayshaw feels the transfer station is “way ahead of its time in terms of cooperative services and sharing resources.” The focus of the transfer station remains recycling. Over
Friday, January 29, 2010 the years, Corona says, “We’ve learned that if we educate children about recycling, they take it home.” In her opinion, it’s time for a new education initiative. With the present agreement “sunsetting” in 2011, she says it’s the perfect time “to have a broad discussion, to re-examine the broader waste disposal issue, from both a cost allocation and an environmental viewpoint.” First selectmen Brayshaw and Laura Francis are committed to reviewing and revising the current agreement. Brayshaw is confident the joint venture will continue. Francis envisions initial research and review being done at an executive level, utilizing the services of Geoff Colegrove, Midstate Regional Planning Agency and CRRA. “In 1971, there were certain ways to partner,” Francis says,
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“maybe there are more now; we need to investigate this.” Brayshaw predicts that the next 40 years will see waste and its management change. Not only do we make more waste now, he says, but we make different kinds of waste, and this evolution is likely to continue. Ultimately, a volunteer committee, with representation from both towns, will be set up, and their ideas will go to the voters for approval. Issues that will no doubt be looked into include singlestream recycling (where items do not need to be separated) and curbside garbage pickup. Echoing Marianne Corona, Francis asks, “If we are making money on recycling, are we doing all we can to encourage it? It’s a hot button now, and the environment is ripe to increase recycling.” She notes that the agreement has created a stable budget, and is a regional model of interlocal collaboration. Brayshaw agrees that the agreement has fostered a costeffective operation, and he thinks it will get even better with the possible development of a CRRA site in Wallingford and the interest shown by private concerns in running the transfer station. Colegrove is proud of the regional solution he helped develop, and notes that certain municipal functions — cleaning catch basins, for example — can be done more cheaply when done jointly, because you get bigger bang for the buck and “efficiencies of scale.” There are times, however, when going bigger or changing an operation triggers new state standards. An example is if a new cooperative project required “substantial renovation” of an existing building, which could, in turn, trigger the accessibility mandates of the Americans with Disabilities Act. Time for a final quiz: In state fiscal year 2009, how many tons of the following were recycled by your transfer station? 1. Cans and bottles? 2. Paper, including corrugated paper and cardboard? 3. Recyclable metal? 4. Demolition material, such as sheetrock and ceiling tiles? 5. “Municipal solid waste” (all that stuff that you throw in the compactor)? See answers on page 9
In Our Libraries
Friday, January 29, 2010
The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us by Daniel H. Pink. Reading History: Patrons can keep a reading history of the books they have checked out from the library, by going to www.durhamlibrary.org. Select “Catalog,” “My Account” and fill in last name and patron ID number (barcode on your library card). Select “Submit” and then “My Reading History.” Choose the “Opt In” button and any items checked out after opting in will be recorded. Items can be deleted from the history and patrons can always change their mind and “Opt Out” of the process.
Levi Coe Library Hours: The library is open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays, and on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Visit www.leviecoe.com or call the library at 860-349-3857 for information or to register for any program. You can also
renew, reserve and check your library record on the website. Children’s Storytime will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesdays and Wednesdays for pre-kindergarten children. To register or for more information, call the library. Great new titles include Small Wars by Sadie Jones, The Burning Land by Bernard Cornwell, The Only Thing Worth Dying For by Eric Blehm, The Last Train from Hiroshima by Charles Pellegrino, Kisser by Stuart Woods and Be Careful What You Pray For by Kimberla Lawson Roby. New young adults’ and children’s titles include Frozen Fire by Tim Bowler, Never After by Dan Elconin, Daniel X: Alien Hunter by James Patterson, The Zombie Survival Guide Recorded Attacks by Max Brooks, A Banquet for Hungry Ghosts by Ying Chang Compestine,. It’s Picture Day Today! by Megan McDonald, The Big Storm: A Very Soggy Counting Book by Nancy
Tafuri, Who Wants to Be a Poodle: I Don’t by Lauren Child, Star Crusher by Jake Parker and The Wizard of Rondo by Emily Rodda. Come in and check out these books or reserve titles that are coming soon! To view anticipated arrival dates for new titles, visit our web page www.leviecoe.com, click on Activities and Events and go to monthly calendars. Valley Central Homeschoolers’ Annual Art Gala: Creations from the Hands and Minds of Children: An Art Gala will be held at the library on Saturday, Feb. 20, from 5 to 8 p.m. Dress to impress as you view the great art work, live music, hors d’oeuvres and meet the artists. Participation is open to all homeschoolers across Connecticut. All work will be for sale for a small donation. Proceeds will benefit the Levi E. Coe Library Children’s Room and Young Adult Department. Public is welcome the day of the event.
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Hours: Regular library hours are 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. Visit www.durhamlibrary.org to search the catalog, review your account, register for a program or renew your materials online. For information or to register for a program by phone, call 860-349-9544. Storytime: The winter/spring 2010 story times will run through April 7. Mother Goose for children 18 to 30 months will be on Mondays at 10:15 or 11 a.m., Time for Tots for children ages two and half to three and a half will be on Wednesdays at 10:15 or 11 a.m. and the Preschool Story Time will be on Tuesdays at 10:15 a.m. or 1:30 p.m. Please stop by or call the library to register. Coupons: The library has free 20 percent off coupons for admission to the Connecticut Science Center - free while supplies last. The Book Lover’s Circle will meet on Wednesday, Feb. 3, at 7:30 to discuss Finn by Jon Clinch. Everyone is invited to join this discussion. Taste of Durham: The 14th annual Taste of Durham will take place at the library on Saturday, Feb. 6, from 6:30 to 9 p.m. More than 20 restaurants and caterers will provide food for sampling. This is an adultonly event and patrons must be 21 or older. Price of admission is $30. Payment must be made at the time of registration during regular library hours. PALS is the sponsor of the Taste of Durham Children’s book discussion and trivia: Read The Lightning Thief before the movie release! Children in grades four through six are invited to share their thoughts on this fun adventure story on Tuesday, Feb. 9, from 7 to 8 p.m. There will be a raffle for tickets to see the movie. The Mystery Book Discussion Group will meet on Tuesday, Feb. 16, at 7:30 to discuss Raven Black by Ann Cleeves. Copies of the book are available at the library. Everyone is invited to join this informal discussion. Durham Author Nights: On Thursday, Feb. 18, at 7 p.m. Amy Bloom will read from her latest book, Where the God of Love Hangs Out. This is her first collection of short stories
since A Blind Man Can See How Much I Love You and follows her bestselling novel, Away. Copies of her book will be available. On Thursday, Feb. 25, at 7:30 p.m. Kristan Higgins will read from her newest novel, to be published in February, The Next Best Thing. Kristan is the winner of the 2008 Romance Writers of America RITA award. Copies of her book will be available for sale. Teen Book Club: Teens in grades seven through nine are welcome to join the discussion of Ender’s Game by Orson Scott Card on Wednesday, Feb. 24, at 7 p.m. Drop-in for a fun time. Check out new titles: The Wolf at the Door by Jack Higgins, Kisser by Stuart Woods, Doors Open by Ian Rankin, Among Thieves by David Hosp, The Burning Land by Bernard Cronwell, Fun with Problems by Robert Stone, One Year to an Organized Financial Life by Regina Leeds, Why Good Kids Act Cruel by Carl Pickhardt and Drive:
N
Durham Library
25
Town Times Scouts
26
Welcome to Cub Shop!
Friday, January 29, 2010
Troop 27 active in 2009 - more to come By Nancy Beckert Special to Town Times
Middlefield Boy Scout Troop 33 invited Pack 33’s Den 2 to join them for a carpentry workshop. Brian Blake and Alexander and William Staddon built the toolbox kits last week and helped the Cub Scouts assemble them. Above, Brian Blake assisting Cub Scouts David Fraulino and Jake Toth. Right, Alexander Staddon helping Cub Scout Jordan Sinclair. Local carpenter Jerry Russ supplied the expert guidance. A good time was had by all.
Troup 27 is a group of busy boys who enjoy being active, camping, hiking and building relationships. What they don’t always realize is that, while they are participating in all the weekly meetings, skill building exercises, campouts and community hours, they are learning about becoming strong members of the community with a sense of achievement and self-worth. Troop 27’s 2009/2010 activities began in September with a campout. “High Bank camping trip was probably one of the more fun camping trips this year. High Bank is on the Housatonic River in Kent. What we did there was pretty fun. We canoed about
Troop 27 at High Banks three miles down the river, but there were only a few rapids. One of the highlights on this trip is that two assistant scoutmasters were testing the waters and they flipped their canoe over. The good thing is that they weren’t hurt. They were just drenched the rest of the day.” - Steven Fumiatti Other campouts this year included: A trip to Herkimer Diamond Mine, in Herkimer, NY, where scouts
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can get their geology badge while finding out how rock formations are made, and then get to harvest their own “diamonds.” “We had sledge hammers to break open the rocks and we had to wear safety glasses. The next day we went to the pit to mine for more diamonds. The first scout who found the biggest Herkimer diamond was Paul Van Steenbergen.” Michael Liseo. The troop also, went orienteering at Gay City State Park and cabin camping in Clear Lake, NY. The Durham Fair involves the whole town, but for Troop 27, it lasts for about two weeks. The boys begin by un-stacking all the trash and recycling barrels, lining them with trash bags and setting them out across the fairgrounds. Throughout the fair, the boys take turns manning the bottle recycling station. The fair may be over, but not for these hard-working boys. They help clean the fairgrounds and town green and collect and restack the barrels. Other community service efforts by Troop 27 since September 2009 include: adopt-a-road cleanup, food drive for Amazing Grace food kitchen, church grounds cleanup and the Giving Tree. 2010 promises to be great fun with activities including: Klondike - a winter competition in sled building, fire building, ice fishing, etc.; a ski trip to Bromley, VT; a trip to Gettysburg and the Road Island air show, to name a few. Troop 27 also hosted the community supper on Jan. 24 at the Church See Scouts, page 27
wishes are to have all donations be made payable to Middlesex Hospital Dept. of Philanthropy, memo Hospice Homecare.
Cemetery, 280 Secor Rd., Hartsdale, NY. There are no calling hours. Biega Funeral Home has care of the arrangements.
Vincent J. Barbera Ann May Vincent Joseph Barbera, (Juhnowski) 76, of Hunting Hill Ave., in Middletown, died Thursday, Rupacz Edward William Cashman Jr.
Jan. 20, 2010 at his home. He was born in Bronx, NY, the son of the late Francis P. and Anna (Granese) Barbera. Prior to his retirement, he was employed with his family-owned dress factory in Mt. Vernon, NY. He is survived by his brother, Frank Barbera, of Las Vegas, NV; two sisters, Anita Pagano, of Durham, and Marie Nannariello, of Yonkers, NY; and several nieces and nephews. A memorial service will be held Saturday, Jan. 30, at 9 a.m. at Notre Dame Church, Main St., Durham. A 12:30 p.m. graveside service will be held in Ferncliff
Ann May (Juhnowski) Rupacz, 62, of James Road East, in Durham, wife of Richard William Rupacz, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, Jan 20, 2010 at Middlesex Hospital Hospice. Ann was born on May 19, 1947 in Providence, Rhode Island, the daughter of the late Anthony and Jennie (Lawrynowicz) Juhnowski. For 23 years Ann worked as a cook in the Regional District 13 schools, with the majority of her years at Frank Ward Strong School. Ann is survived by her daughters Sandra Ann (Rupacz) Stickler and husband David Stick-
ler, of Wallingford; Karen Ann Rupacz, of Schwenksville, PA; son Gary Allen Rupacz, of Malvern, PA; two granddaughters, Victoria Lynn Stickler and Michelle Frances Stickler; and brother, John Juhnowski, of Warwick, RI. The family welcomes friends and loved ones for funeral services on Saturday, Jan. 30. at 11 a.m. at Notre Dame Church, Main St, Durham, CT. Following the service, all are invited to join the family in the church hall for a reception and a chance to share memories of their time with Ann. At a later time, Ann will be buried at Saint Ann Cemetery in Cranston, RI. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, 538 Preston Ave., Meriden, CT 06450 or Operation Smile, 6435 Tidewater Dr., Norfolk, VA, 23509 one of Ann’s favorite charities. Biega Funeral Home has care of the arrangements.
Regarding obituaries Starting Feb. 6 (next week), we will charge a $25 processing fee to print an obituary (not based on length) and have informed local funeral homes of this change. We will not search for obituaries that may apply, and will print only those that are submitted by funeral homes or family. Currently the office manager looks for obituaries of Durham, Middlefield and Rockfall residents on-line and in other publications, and we print them for free. This is not a foolproof system. We sometimes miss a particular obituary, and the responsibility has been mostly on us. It is rare that a family member actually submits an obituary, though funeral homes sometimes do so and are astonished that this service has been free. Starting next week, obituary publication will cost $25.
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Ed Cashman Jr., 79, a resident of Durham since 1969, passed away peacefully at his home with loved ones by his side on Jan. 21, 2010. Ed was a devoted husband, father and loving grandfather. Ed is survived by his wife Marylou, son Edward and wife Regina of Chula Vista, CA; son Richard and wife Patricia, of Madrid, IA; and daughter Jennifer Hufnal and husband Mathew, of Havertown, PA. His grandchildren are Chelsea Cashman and Hayden and Shelby Hufnal. He is also survived by a sister, Edith Ray, of Rockville, MD; and a brother, Richard, of Merideth, CO; and nieces and nephews as well as great nieces and nephews. The Cashmans will open their home at 296 Maiden Lane in Durham to friends and family in memory of Ed on Sunday, Feb. 7, from 1 to 3 p.m. In lieu of flowers, their
27
Town Times Obituaries
Friday, January 29, 2010
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of the Epiphany and will be assisting in the construction of a new playground at Brewster school this June. This year, Boy Scouts of America is celebrating 100 years! Founded on Feb. 8, 1910, under the Taft administration, in a YMCA in NYC, scouting is still strong in America. The Boy Scouts saw its 100 millionth member join in the year 2000 and its two millionth Eagle Scout in 2009. For more information regarding Troop 27 and its activities, please contact Scoutmaster James Smigel at 860349-9418.
Town Times Sports
28
Friday, January 29, 2010
Coginchaug girls off to an explosive start
The real soccer champs!
By Alan Pease Special to the Town Times
In last week’s edition of the Town Times we accidently used the wrong photo with the story about the Coginchaug U-10 Oakwood Indoor Soccer Champs! This is the team: in the front row, from left, Demarie Del Vecchio, Shannon Carey, Julianna DeFlora, Colleen Coogan and Nicole Murphy. In the back row, Jamie Breton, Carly Lane, Isabella Santoro, Madeline Montz, Lydia D’Amato and Hannah Photo submitted by Rob Coogan Clark.
The girls’ basketball season is well past the half way point, and the Coginchaug team has a lot to crow about, but hasn’t seen much press. I hope this remedies that to some small extent. The team is captained by seniors Erica Jones, Taylor Edinger and Elizabeth Meiman and has three sophomore who lead the team in offensive output, Lauren Esposito, Samantha Mancinelli and Audrey Biesak. Juniors Cassidie Cade and Amanda Boyle are key contributors off the bench. Juniors Hannah Elliot and Amy Solomon and sophomores Kara Levine, Andrea Braga, Jackie Benson and Jessica Solomon round out the varsity roster. Game one at North Branford On Thursday, Dec. 10th,
Photo by Lisa Sattler Biesak
Lady Devils versus Old Saybrook on Jan. 25,: standing from left is Coach Rett Mancinelli, Jackie Benson, Amy Solomon, Jess Solomon #34, Kara Levine #11, Amanda Boyle #21, Andrea Braga #33, Lauren Esposito #3, Liz Meiman #15, and Coach Dubey. Seated from right are Audrey Biesak #14, Taylor Edinger #25, Cassidie Cade #10, Samantha Mancinelli #22, Erica Jones #20 and Coach Calcagni in center. the Coginchaug girls visited the Thunderbirds of North Branford and came away
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with a 25–18 win. Biesak led the way on offense with 11 points and Mancinelli added seven. The Devils also got great defensive efforts out of Edinger, Jones and Cade to cement the low-scoring win. Game two versus Valley Regional On Saturday, Dec. 12, the Devils hosted the Warriors of Valley Regional. A good team defensive effort resulted in a 59–41 win. Mancinelli led the way with 18 points and 11 assists, Esposito added 16 points, Biesak contributed 10 points, and Taylor Edinger pulled in 10 rebounds and scored eight points. Game three versus Morgan On Tuesday, Dec. 15, Coginchaug again played host, this time to the Huskies of Morgan. Meiman and Boyle were defensive standouts in the 53–47 win. Biesak led the way with 18 points and Esposito and Mancinelli each scored 12. Game four at H-K On Friday, Dec. 18, Coginchaug traveled to Haddam Killingworth to play the Cougars. Somehow, the Devils fell behind 16–3 at the end of one, but they were able to pull back within five points to 24–19 by half-time. Meiman provided a real spark in the comeback with six big points. In the second half, the Devils’ pressure defense turned the tide, resulting in the hard-
See Devils, page 29
Town Times Sports
Friday, January 29, 2010
Devils (Continued from page 28) fought win. Biesak led the way with 13 points, Cade scored nine, and Esposito and Mancinelli each scored seven.
both teams were unbeaten, and both teams played well in a game the Panthers won 54–52, largely due to 28 points from their outstanding center, Kelly Coleman. The game was a back and forth affair, with Portland scoring the winning basket
Fast break: Taylor Edinger (25) rips down a rebound as Lauren Esposito (3) and Cassidie Cade (10) start the Blue Devils signature run and gun offense Photo by John Esposito
with four seconds to go. Biesak was able to get off a shot before time expired, but it fell off the back of the rim. Mancinelli and Esposito each scored 12 in the courageous but losing effort,
and the subs came in to stem the tide and buy the Devils some time. Coginchaug was able to enter the second half in good shape, and the starters were able to put the game away. The contributors off Photo by John Esposito the bench in this effort were Boyle, CRHS Spirit: The ladies getting Meiman, Elliot, fired up before a game. Amy Solomon, Braga, Jessica Solomon, Benson and Coginchaug trailed by three after one period and by Levine. Esposito and Mancinelli eight, 32–24 at the half. They led the scoring parade with were able to pull back to 12 points, Edinger added within two points at 44–42 afnine and Jones and Biesak ter three periods. In the each dropped in seven fourth period, a pressing depoints. This win qualified fense resulted in 22 points the team for the State Class S scored, and a final score of 64–58 in favor of the Devils, tournament. for the most emotional win Game 10 versus H-K On Tuesday, Jan. 12, the of the season. Devils again played the See Devils, page 30 Cougars of Haddam-Killingworth, this time at home.
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Game five versus East Hampton On Monday, Dec. 21, Coginchaug played host to the Bellringers of East Hampton. Mancinelli had a great floor game playing the point as the offense clicked, and Edinger had an excellent defensive effort against Kelsey Booth of East Hampton (possibly the best player in the Shoreline Conference) in a 64–54 win. Esposito led the way with 20 points, Edinger scored 13, Audrey Biesak added 12 points and Mancinelli, in addition to the strong floor game, scored 11. Game six at Canton On Wednesday, Dec. 23, the Blue Devils went to Canton to play a very good Raiders team. In a slow down game, Jones played great defense, as Coginchaug came away with a 33–30 win. Esposito scored nine points, Mancinelli had eight and Edinger scored seven in the Devils offensive effort. Just before this game, the team found out that they had been selected as the Mohegan Sun Connecticut High School Team of the Week. A letter of commendation from the Sun’s coach, Mike Thibault, and a plaque will be placed in the Coginchaug trophy case. The team will be honored, along with other winners, at a Sun’s game this June – quite an honor! Game seven versus Portland On Monday, Dec. 28, Coginchaug hosted the Portland Panthers in a nonleague contest. At the time,
Jones dropped in nine points and Biesak scored eight. The fact that this was a nonleague game, even though Portland is in the Shoreline Conference, was critical, since it left the Devils with an unbeaten conference record. Game eight versus Sports and Medical Sciences Academy The Devils hosted the Tigers of SMSA on Jan. 4. In a good bounce-back from the Portland loss, Coginchaug ran away with it in a 56–34 win. Jones and Meiman were defensive standouts. Mancinelli led the team with 20 points, Biesak dropped in 16 and Esposito chipped in 10 points. Game nine at Hale Ray On Tuesday, Jan. 5, Coginchaug traveled to Moodus to visit the Little Noises of Hale Ray, and came away with a 53–34 win. Despite the final score, the bench was critical in the win, as four starters had first half foul problems,
29
Robert Trombetta 860-798-5374 Middlefield, CT
Town Times Sports
30 Devils
Friday, January 29, 2010
Photo by Lisa SattlerBiesak
Knights, coming away with an overwhelming 50–17 win. CRHS was up 18–0 afCoach ter one period, and 12 playCalca ers scored for the Devils.
(From page 29)
Mancinelli scored 23 points, Esposito dropped in 14 and Biesak added 12 in the offensive effort. Great team defense was a key to the win. Game 11 versus Old Lyme On Friday, Jan. 15, Coginchaug hosted the defending Class S state champions, the Wildcats of Old Lyme. The Devils trailed early, but were able to come back and make it a nip and tuck game, and ended with a solid 60–47 win. Pressure defense wore down the Wildcats, with Cade,
gni Esposito led the way for the celeDevils with 12 points, and brates Biesak chipped in nine. win As of this game, Coginvs. Hchaug was 11–1 and 9–0 and K. Mancinelli, Edinger and Boyle turning in very good defensive efforts. Biesak led the team with 21 points, Mancinelli scored 15 points, Esposito added 12,
Edinger added six and Cade chipped in four points. Game 12 at Westbrook On Monday, Jan. 18, the Devils traveled to Westbrook to play the White
alone in first place in the Shoreline Conference. They have an away game on Friday, Jan. 29, at Morgan, and a home game versus Cromwell on Monday, Feb. 1.
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By Scott Strang Special to Town Times Durham Men’s League basketball began their 2010 season with a pair of doubleheaders last Thursday night. In the opener, defending league champions Torrison Stone defeated the Young Gunz 63-47. Three players on Tyler Gerry’s Torrison team scored in double figures, while Alex Schade led the Young Gunz with 15 points. In game two, Tim Schuler’s orange team edged Frank DeFlippo’s red team 44-42, in a game that was tight all the way down to the final seconds. Pete and Ryan Donecker led the orange scorers with 11 and 10 points respectively, while Ryan Cove scored 15 in the loss for the red team. Durham men’s league plays a 10-week regular season, with playoffs starting in April. For info on the league, contact scott_strang@yahoo.com.
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(From page 21)
holders that although the statute was identified as a revenue source, the revenue from all the fairs combined wouldn’t amount to much. Instead, it could add significant costs from a fair’s view, leading to closing or curtailing certain fairs. Specifically, the statute requires a municipal permit with a fee, which he fears could cost the town more to enforce than they would collect from revenue, thus making it a bad deal for towns as well. “We feel the Durham Fair is a large fundraiser for this community and are concerned with the ramifications of this statute for all fairs,” Chiappetta said. “If you agree, please contact your legislators. Fairs need to agree on a position for DPH to cooperate.” Lesser said he hopes to have a bill ready for when legislators meet in session in two weeks. In the meantime, the drafted exemptions will be looked into further and discussed again at the next State Fair Association meeting on Feb. 7. At the Feb. 10 Durham Fair Association meeting, 2009 members only will vote on adding a fourth day, Thursday from 4 to 10 p.m., to Durham Fair weekend.
Town Times Sports
Friday, January 29, 2010
31
U10 boys start session with a win
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Notice is hereby given to the taxpayers of Durham that the second half of real estate and personal property taxes (no bill is sent for this 2nd installment) and the total supplemental motor vehicle tax on the Grand List of 2008 are due and payable to the Town of Durham on January 1, 2010. If not paid by February 1, 2010, these taxes will be considered delinquent and interest will be charged at the rate of 1.5% per month from the due date, with a minimum interest charge of $2.00. (Feb. 2nd payment will be charged a 3% penalty). Payments may be mailed to the Town of Durham, P.O. Box 428 Durham, CT 06422. Hours for the Tax Collector’s office are Monday, Wednesday and Thursday 8:30 am-4:30 pm, Tuesday 8:30 am-7:00 pm and Friday 8:30 am-3:00 pm. Additional hours for this collection period will be Saturday, January 30, 10:00 am-12:00 pm and Monday, February 1, 8:30 am-6:00 pm. Martin French, CCMC Tax Collector Town of Durham, CT
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In the back row, from left, Scott Romeyn, Jakob Northup, Riley Carey, Timmy Arcari and MacGuire O’Sullivan. In the front row, from left, Garrett Puchalski, Seth Azevedo, Connor Rulnick and Tyler Woodward. Not pictured are Larry Hennessy and Troy Willis.
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At the start of the second session, at Oakwood Sports Center, the Coginchaug U10 boys came out with a performance that kept the fans riveted. The game started off fast and furious with a goal from Timmy Arcari. The fast pace of the game continued with goals on each side. At the half, the score was 3-3, with additional goals from Seth Azevedo and Riley Carey. MacGuire O’Sullivan was extremely strong in goal, saving multiple shots. The second half brought Azevedo into goal but the pace continued. Glastonbury Hartwell came out in the second half extremely strong. Coginchaug’s answer was a superb defense by Larry Hennessy, Scott Romeyn, Garrett Puchalski and Tyler Woodward. With continued pressure up front from Connor Rulnick and Arcari and a solid midfield performance by Carey, the boys were able to hold scoring by the opponent to a minimum. The game began to take a slight turn with a strong goal off a restart by Jakob Northup. O’Sullivan gave the team the equalizing goal. With the
score tied 5-5 and minutes to go in the game, the intensity of the boys was at an all time high. Hennessy hit a strong shot, the keeper punched the ball out. Woodward, with quick thinking, headed the ball into the back of the net for the game winning goal.
DURHAM
By Pam Carey Special to the Town Times
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Friday, January 29, 2010
Valentine Letters Of Love Do you have someone special in your life?
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