10-21-2011 Town Times by Town Times Newspaper

Volume 18, Issue 28

Serving Durham, Middlefield and Rockfall

Friday, October 21, 2011

First selectman candidates in the hot seat at Exchange Club forum By Cheri Kelley Town Times

First selectman candidates (l-r) Roger Kleeman and Laura Francis in Durham and Lucy Petrella and Jon Brayshaw in Middlefield. Photo by Cheri Kelley

BOE looks at changing curriculum, population By Mark Dionne Special to the Town Times At Regional School District 13’s (RSD13) regular Board of Education (BOE) meeting on Oct. 12, Superintendent Sue Viccaro led the board through discussions of the changes in state curriculum standards and student population. Like the rest of Connecticut, RSD13 has been put on a three-year timetable to transition from the Connecticut Mastery Tests (CMTs) to Common Core State Standards (CCSS). Students currently in kindergarten will never take the CMTs, since those standardized tests will be dropped when they reach grade three. Viccaro’s presentation concentrated on the elementary grades and cited numerous areas requiring curriculum changes to prepare students for the CCSS. The new standards have fewer elements but require greater mastery. “There are fewer standards in the [kindergarten] math curriculum, but they are much deeper,” Vic-

caro said. In order for future kindergarten classes to meet the new standards, Viccaro said, “They need to be in a full-day program. There is not a doubt in my mind.” RSD13’s curriculum will undergo an overhaul, adding and dropping elements that have previously been part of the classroom. Preliminary work to investigate this transition led Viccaro to conclude, “This is not work for the faint of heart.” Viccaro predicted that there will need to be significantly more funds in professional development, specifically citing the need to unite elementary teachers spread among three buildings. “This is no small undertaking.” Member Merrill Adams expressed concern about pulling teachers away from classroom time. Plans for the curriculum overhaul and associated professional development were not finalized. Student population declines The 2011-12 student body See BOE, page 17

Do you know whom you will vote for in the Nov. 8 election? Have you considered the candidates running for first selectman and thought about what you’d like to see in your town government? On Thursday, Oct. 13, about 50 people attended the Durham/Middlefield Exchange Club’s forum at the Durham Firehouse to figure out their answers to the above questions. It was a

chance for the candidates running for the position of first selectman in both towns to tell the community about themselves, what they plan to do if elected to office for the next term and why they feel they are qualified. Lucy Petrella, a Democrat and challenger for first selectman in Middlefield, went first. Petrella has lived in Middlefield for 25 years, has been married for 43 years and is a retired teacher. As a teacher, she worked with kids in kindergarten through

eighth grade in both special and regular education classrooms. She feels that it is her background in teaching that gives her the skills needed to be a first selectman with a “proactive leadership approach, who will make timely decisions.” Petrella has an action plan that covers many areas, including economic development, asset management, a specific plan of maintenance, seniors’ needs, education and emergency management. See Candidates, page 3

Locals run half-marathon These four Middlefield and Durham locals ran in Hartford’s half-marathon on Saturday, Oct. 15. From left to right: Bert Plant, Chloe Poisson, Ben Plant and Collin Plant. Submitted by Pat Bandzes

No two days the same for RSD13 Teacher of the Year By Cheri Kelley Town Times Jan Wenzel, art teacher at Coginchaug Regional High School (CRHS), is humbled by receiving Regional School District 13’s (RSD13) Teacher of the Year title for the 2011-12 school year. CRHS principal Andre Hauser explained why he nominated Wenzel: “Jan’s most important contribution is that she really and truly believes in and nurtures the potential of every single student who walks through her door. No matter how great students’ challenges are, Jan can

Jan Wenzel find, nurture and describe in detail both their specific artistic talents and what

makes them interesting and unique people. Thanks to this and to Jan’s completely open and accepting nature, I believe that there are students who come to school each day just for the chance to work with her. And that is what makes Jan Wenzel the Teacher of the Year.” This year is the beginning of Wenzel’s 23rd year teaching; she has taught all over the state, including in Windsor Locks, Westport and Milford. Within RSD13, Wenzel taught at Strong Middle School for 13 years and has See Teacher, page 17

Adopt-a-Road clean-up Hurricane Irene had her way throughout our town last month! Now it is up to us to help clean up some of the mess! We all have the opportunity to improve our society, even if it is on a small scale. It might be right here in our own front yards! Why not take a couple of hours on the celebrated national “Make A Difference Day” to help clean the roads of Durham and Middlefield? Join us at the Exchange Club pavillion at Allyn Brook Park on Saturday, Oct. 22, from 8 to 9 a.m. Have a cup of coffee, juice and donuts be-

Town Times Community Briefs fore your journey with the bags and special ties for your road! More than likely, it will only take a couple of hours, but the spirit of helping others will last the whole year through! You alone can make a difference. Our Durham-Middlefield Exchange Club does the “Adopt-a-Road” project two times a year — the first Saturday in April and the last week in October (along with national “Make a Difference Day”). You do not have to belong to a group or civic organization. Get together with your family or neighbors and collect some of the unsightly debris along the roads of our towns. You can do the actual “clean-up”

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CROP Walk Middlefield Federated Church will host this year’s CROP Walk to help end hunger around the world and at home at Peckham Park on Sunday, Oct. 30. Registration opens at 12:30 p.m. Step-off is at 1 p.m. Participating churches include United Churches, Epiphany and Notre Dame, all of Durham; St. Colman’s and Federated in Middlefield and Third Congregational in Westfield. For info, see Trish Dynia after church at Epiphany or call her at 860349-8378. Contacts for the other churches are Jan Wenzel for United Churches, Judy Hurlbert for Notre Dame, Peter Gill for St. Colman’s, Jackie Clark for Third Congregational and Sue VanDerzee or Millie Simonzi for Middle-

Corrections We strive to bring you the most accurate information available each week, but if you see something in Town Times that isn’t quite right, give us a call at 860349-8000, and we’ll do our best to make things right.

field Federated. Walkers unaffiliated with these congregations are most welcome and can call anyone on the list. Refreshments and surprises will be available under the Peckham Park pavilion the afternoon of the walk. The walking path at Peckham Park is a measured half-mile, and walkers can make the circuit as often as they’d like. The walk is held rain or shine in solidarity with people around the world who must walk in all kinds of weather to gather the necessities of life. One quarter of the funds raised at the walk will be returned to our communities for local hungerfighting initiatives. Come be part of a great cause!

POPS clothing drive, tag sale Fall cleaning has begun, and you can bring your clothes, shoes, curtains or anything fabric to the POPS (Parents Of Performers) semi-annual clothing drive on Saturday, Oct. 29, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and Sunday, Oct. 30, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Strong School parking lot. Unload your clutter and support POPS and the CRHS music department! Also, Saturday, Oct. 29, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. will be the POPS tag sale along with the clothing drive. You can

call 860-803-5665 to rent a space. Clean out and call soon!

Free flu clinic slated The second in a series of free flu clinics open to Durham and Middlefield residents will be on Friday, Oct. 21, from 9:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. at AME Zion Church, 440 West St. in Middletown. The vaccine will be given by injection only (flu mist will not be offered). Any person three years of age or older and in good health is eligible to receive the vaccine. Insurance is not needed, and residency not required. There is a limited supply of the vaccine which will be given out on a first come, first served basis. Appointments not needed. Free flu clinics scheduled in November: Nov. 2: Coles Road Firehouse, 105 Coles Rd., Cromwell, noon to 8 p.m. Nov. 15: Activity Center (second floor), 350 Main St., Durham, noon to 8 p.m. Nov. 30: Westfield Firehouse, 653 East St., Middletown, noon to 8 p.m. Participants can save time by registering online at: www.cromwellct.com, www.townofdurhamct.org or www.cityofmiddletowncom. For more info call: 860-3498253 (Durham) or 860-3497123 (Middlefield).

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later that weekend if it’s more convenient for you. Call 860-349-0798 for more info or e-mail adoptaroad@att.net.

Friday, October 21, 2011

Candidates (Continued from page 1) Petrella said, “I kind of look at the first selectman a lot like being a teacher. Especially in a classroom. In my first year, I had four grade levels and about 15 children. We were juggling all the subjects, and we had four, five or six groups going on at once. So I am very much into juggling various things — and knowing that I would have to put in a lot of time to keep things going.” She closed by saying that it comes down to what type of town the voters want. “Whether you want to have a laid-back, easygoing town...or whether you want to have a town with a leader who is in charge of things, in control of things and really keeping an eye on things.”

field, spoke about his background. Born in Middlefield, he moved to Meriden and then back to Middlefield. He has lived here for the past 46 years, been married for 46 years and worked as a civil engineer and architect. He has been the first selectman in Middlefield for the past six years, during which time he has helped work on the sale of Powder Ridge Ski Area, acquired a $500,000 grant for Powder Ridge, worked on the Brookside Industrial Park, among other things. A question posed by a resident was what, if anything, would he do differently if he could redo his time in office? He said, “I would reduce the amount of initiatives. I proba-

bly tried to tackle too many things at once.” The incumbent first selectman in Durham is Republican Laura Francis, who said she is proud of the accomplishments of the Board of Selectmen and all that it has done during her time in office. She is a mother of two and has been married for 30 years. She worked first as the assistant town clerk and then as the town clerk. She believes her work in these positions helped to prepare her and give her much-needed experience for being first selectman. Among her priorities as first selectman are to maintain the quality of life in Durham, protect property

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Kleeman believes that his government background has prepared him for the position and that his experience in infrastructure gives him the knowledge that would aid in his focus on the highways, roads and buildings. “I want to keep moving forward and try to get this plan in place and make Durham a better place to live.”

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When Francis was asked if she would have done anything differently, she responded, “I echo what Jon said. I may have over-taxed some of the personnel, and (therefore) might have pulled back on some of the projects. That being said, I would put more deadlines on activities so we can get things accomplished more quickly.”

man, a long-time resident. He worked for the Connecticut Department of Transportation for 33 years, mainly in the bridge safety and evaluation area. Kleeman said, “I am committed to the future of Durham; I will work to bring back transparency to town hall and on long-term planning.”

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values and create a businessfriendly town. Some of the accomplishments she spoke about are keeping town spending extremely low, public safety and being “relentless about getting grants; I will not rest when there is money on the table.”

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4 FRIDAY

October 21

Watercolor Classes Watercolor classes for seniors with well-known local artist Aleta Gudelski will be held in the Durham Activity Center. Classes will meet on Friday mornings from 10 a.m. to noon through Dec. 2 (excluding Nov. 25). Ten students will be allowed in the class. The fee for Durham seniors is discounted. Please call Sherry Hill, recreation director, at 860-343-6724 for prices and reservations. Bridge Night Come to the Durham Activity Center every Friday at 6:30 p.m. for a night of bridge. You may call Jim at 860-3466611 with bridge questions. Call Durham Rec at 860-3436724 with other questions. CRHS Italian Cabaret Join CRHS Choirs for the Italian Cabaret at 7 p.m. in the CRHS cafeteria. The evening includes a buffet of Italian specialties prepared by Chef Kevin Smith, sing-along songs, student performances and really bad jokes...really. Seating is limited. Not recommended for children under eight. Tickets must be purchased in advance from Lisa Larsen. Calling 860-349-7215 (ext. 259) or email llarsen@rsd13.org. Students may purchase tickets directly from Lisa.

SATURDAY

October 22

Bark & Boo The C.A.T.A.L.E.S. 1.5mile trick-or-treat walk is from 2 to 5 p.m. at Veterans Memorial Park (Walnut Grove Road in Middletown). All are welcome to wear Halloween costumes (trick-ortreat bags provided). Open to parents, children and pets. For prices and info, visit catales.org, e-mail sandy@reynolds.org or call 860-344-9043. Fall Tag and Craft Sale Come to the fall tag and craft sale to benefit the mission trip at the United Churches (228 Main St. in Durham) from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., rain or shine! White elephant, crafts, antiques, bake sale and lunch. To re-

Town Times & Places

Friday, October 21, 2011

Main St. in Rockfall at 7 p.m. Pasta Dinner The Democratic Town Committee invites all to an evening of good food and company at their annual Gourmet Pasta Dinner at the Durham Firehouse on Main St. Doors open at 6 p.m. Donation includes a great selection of gourmet pasta dishes, salad, home-baked breads and a delicious dessert medley. Call Karen at 860-3493468 to reserve tickets.

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serve a table, please call the Church Office at 860-349-3683 or speak to Elven Riggles at 860-349-0742. First come, first served; space is limited. Free parking is available. Dudley Farmers’ Market The Farmers’ Market at the Dudley Farm, corner of routes 77 and 80 in North Guilford, is held every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. through Oct. 29. Local and organic produce, herbs, eggs, flowers, baked goods, honey, maple syrup, soaps, jewelry, knitted things and more. Durham Registrars of Voters The Durham Registrars of Voters will be in session in their office on the second floor of the Durham Town Hall from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. to enroll new voters who are United States citizens over the age of 18 and residents of Durham. If you want to vote on Nov. 8, the last day to register to vote by mail is Oct. 25. The last day to register in person is Nov. 1. Middlefield Registrars of Voters The Registrars of Voters will be in their office at the Community Center, 405 Main Street, today from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and on Oct. 25 from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. to register voters for the Nov. 8 election. Hand-delivered mail-in applications must be received by the Registrars or by the DMV or by the Municipal Clerk by this date for the applicant to be entitled to vote in this election. Mail-in applications must be postmarked by this date; Monday, Nov. 7, from 9 a.m. to noon for a limited voter registration session for the municipal election. This sessions is to register only those persons whose qualifications as to age, citizenship or residence was attained since Oct. 25. Yoga For Moms Learn yoga poses that will repair and strengthen your postpartum body, especially abdominal and pelvic muscles, from 1 to 3:30 p.m. at Eco Yoga in Durham (16 Main St.). Develop long-term endurance to keep up with growing kids. For more info, call 860-395-8787 or e-mail mail@ecoyoga.info. Halloween at the K-Club K-Club is hosting their annual Halloween party at 168

SUNDAY

October 23 Open-Air Market The Wadsworth Mansion Open Air Market planned for Aug. 28 has been rescheduled to today from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Autumn Concert The Four Seasons Plus “Leaves of Autumn” concert will take place at 4 p.m. at the Emmanuel Episcopal Church, “The Little Church in the Wilderness” (50 Emmanuel Church Rd. in Killingworth). The concert features David Ewart and friends (virtuoso violins, voice and pianos). For info, call 860-663-1109 or visit www.churchinthewilderness.org. A Celebration In Music The highly-acclaimed San Francisco group, the Real Vocal String Quartet (RVSQ), will perform a free concert at 5 p.m. at Congregation Beth Shalom Rodfe Zedek (55 East Kings Highway in Chester). For more info, visit cbsrz.org or call the office 860-526-8920. Zumba® at Core Club Ditch the workout and join the party from 11 a.m. to noon. This is a Latin-inspired exercise movement where you dance your way into a leaner, healthier, happier you. In a Zumba® class, you’ll make simple cardio-healthy dance steps that help you shed those extra pounds and re-create yourself in a new image. Aerobic shoes are recommended.

MONDAY

October 24 Durham Senior Lunches Every Monday and Wednesday, hot lunches are available for seniors over 60 and their spouses at the

Durham Activity Center located at 350 Main St. Following the lunches on Mondays is game time which includes billiards, Wii and cards. For pricing info and to make a reservation, call Amanda Astarita at 860-349-3153. Middlefield Senior Lunches The Middlefield Senior Café is serving lunch three times a week, on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Reservations are required 24 hours prior, and their monthly menu can be picked up at the center, Town Hall or at www.middlefieldct.org. MOMS Open House The MOMS Club will have an open house at 10 a.m. at the Middlefield Community Center. A tour of the Middlfield Firehouse will take place at 10:30 a.m. For more info, please contact Kate at kate.momsclub@gmail.com.

TUESDAY

October 25 Destination Durham Every Tuesday at 1 and 7 p.m. on Comcast Channel 19, Destination Durham will be aired for those living in Durham. DVDs are also available at the Levi Coe and Durham libraries.

WEDNESDAY

October 26 Durham Senior Lunches Every Monday and Wednesday, hot lunches are available for seniors over 60 and their spouses at the Durham Activity Center (350 Main St.). Bingo starts at 1 p.m. on Wednesdays. For pricing and reservations, call Amanda Astarita, senior café manager, at 860-349-3153. Halloween Lunch Come in costume for lunch at the Middlefield Senior Center on Oct. 31, and you might win a prize. A lunch of teriyaki chicken, bowties, vegetable, rye bread, apple cider and a Halloween dessert will be served. There will be favors for all, and games will be played. Please make your reservation by today. Lunch is provided by CRT and extras are provided by the Senior Center; a donation is appreciated. Please call Antoinette Astle to RSVP at 860-349-7121.

Middlefield residents are welcome to come and enjoy some snacks, as well as conversation about our town and what can be improved, from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Black Bird Tavern.

FRIDAY

October 28 Tot Time The MOMS Club of Durham and Middlefield sponsors a weekly Tot Time Fridays from 10:30 a.m. to noon at Peckham Park, or, if it’s rainy, at the Middlefield Community Center. This open-age playgroup is available for all residents and their children of Durham, Middlefield and Rockfall. Email momsdurhammiddlefield@yahoo.com. Spelling Bee Registration It’s that time of year to register your team for the fourth annual Coginchaug Valley Education Foundation (CVEF) Spelling Bee. This year’s event will be Friday, Nov. 4, at 7 p.m. at CRHS. Registration deadline is today. If you are interested in forming a team or want more info, please e-mail cvefspellingbee2011@comcast.net or go to www.coginchaugvef.com. Business to Business Expo Come to the 2011 Middlesex Business to Business Expo at the Crowne Plaza in Cromwell from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. You will find a 2011 economic forecast breakfast, social media boot camp workshop, 2011 expo luncheon, The Art of Public Speaking workshop, Middlesex County fall career fair, Middlesex health and wellness fair and an executive evening at the expo (from 3 to 7 p.m.). Register at www.middlesexchamber.com. Trunk Or Treat Third Congregational Church is holding a Trunk or Treat event from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Children are invited for a haunted maze, crafts and trick or treating. For more info, please call 860-632-0733. All are invited to attend.

Friday, October 21, 2011

Town Times

Powder Ridge closing delayed again suggested changing the word “confirmed” to “acknowledged.”

The closing date for the sale of Powder Ridge has been extended to Nov. 30, as was reported at the Oct. 18 Middlefield Board of Selectmen (BOS) meeting. First Selectman Jon Brayshaw said, “We are going month to month now.” An additional nine-month short-term financing at approximately two percent was approved by the board. (See page 13 for more on the delay.) DMIAAB hearing Prior to the meeting there was a public hearing where about 18 people attended to discuss the DMIAAB inter-local agreement. Chad Spooner, DMIAAB Task Force chair, answered questions. One area of concern was Section 5.3. The language says, “At the annual meetings the members shall choose from its membership a chairman (who’s election shall be confirmed in writing by the First Selectmen of the constituent municipalities.” Many residents had issue with involving the first selectmen in this process at all. Ellen Waff and Marianne Corona said that DMIAAB is a totally separate entity, like the Board of Education. Dom DeVecchio stated, “We want it out. It needs to be deleted. [DMIAAB] needs to be outside of the political arena.” Spooner said that he agreed with what they were saying, but not with their interpretation of that portion of the agreement. Brayshaw

A question of whether this agreement has been looked at by an attorney was asked. Spooner said that there is an attorney on the board, and Brayshaw added, “When the final, final, final draft is done, then each town attorney will look at it.”

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The board will set a date for the town meeting so a vote can be taken. Spooner thanked everyone for the input and will bring that information back to the task force. See BOS, page 13

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Bob Fulton from Durham asked about the six-month opt-out section. Section 1-5 through 1-7 would give both towns the option to get out of the agreement. Fulton said he understood why the op-

tion is in there but said “six months is such a short period of time to un-bundle the infrastructure there.” Brayshaw agreed, stating, “The six months does seem a bit short with the way municipalities work.” Spooner thought that even one year might be too short.

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By Cheri Kelley Town Times

Proven Leadership... Fiscal Responsibility... Preserving Durham’s Charm! Planning and Zoning is the Key to retaining Durham’s Charm! Experience matters, and our team has the education, experience and commitment to insure that any development serves the best interests of our town! FRANK DEFELICE is an advocate of Durham’s neighborhoods. Frank has served on the Planning and Zoning Commission for the past 10 years and was the Chairman of Durham’s Public Safety Committee for 11 years. A graduate of the University of Hartford with a degree in Engineering, he brings his extensive Engineering and Project Management background to this role. Frank is a Licensed Electrical Contractor, Operating Engineer and a Ranking Member on several NFPA Standards Development Committees. He is committed to sensitive and appropriate development, enhancing the beauty of Durham and supporting the town’s agricultural heritage. Frank and his wife, Debra, live on Cherry Lane. RICHARD ERIKSEN is an advocate of well-ordered and planned development. Richard has served on the Planning and Zoning Commission for 22 years and is currently its Vice Chairman. Richard is Chairman of Midstate Regional Planning Agency and Vice Chairman of the Inland Wetlands Commission. He has served for many years as a member and Chairman of DMIAAB. Richard retired from the business he founded, New England Wine & Spirits, Inc. several years ago. He is a veteran of the United States Navy. Richard and his wife, Jane, raised two children in Durham and live on Haddam Quarter Road. STEVE DEMARTINO advocates balancing the needs of a growing town with the responsibility of maintaining its charm. Steve has served on the Planning and Zoning Commission for the past 2 years. He graduated from the College of the Holy Cross with a B.A. in Economics and Accounting, and earned his MBA in Finance at UConn. He is a Certified Public Accountant and the President and CFO of TransAct Technologies Inc. Steve coaches Durham Youth Baseball, Softball and Soccer; and is active on the board of a non-profit organization that provides pro bono financial planning services to veterans. Steve lives on Agerola Road along with his wife, Kristen and their two children, Amalia and Nicholas. DAN MELNIK brings a fresh perspective, as a young adult with a keen interest in planning Durham’s future. Dan holds a Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering from the University of Hartford, where he was named to the Dean’s List. He earned his Engineer-In-Training credentials, the first step towards becoming a Professional Engineer, and is employed as a Water Resource Engineer at the firm of Milone and MacBroom, Inc. Dan believes in preserving Durham’s small-town flavor while incorporating development that is appropriate and fiscally responsible. Dan lives on Higganum Road. BONNIE RYDER is an advocate of sustainable growth. Bonnie learned the value of good planning during her years in Scotland, where historical treasures are cherished alongside modern necessities. Bonnie attended Regional 13 District schools and graduated with a Bachelors of Arts from the University of St. Andrews in Scotland. She is current employed as a Licensed Producer for the Allstate Insurance Company. and served on the Board of Directors of the Middlesex Association of Retarded Citizens. Bonnie lives on Higganum Road. NORMAN JASON is an advocate of maintaining our town’s historic character, while being committed to appropriate, controlled, growth and development. Norm currently serves on Durham’s Historic District Commission. He is a retired educator with over thirty years of administrative experience, including 22 years as the Headmaster of three independent day schools. Norman lives on Hamlet Manor Lane.

Republicans for Durham Planning & Zoning Commission Paid for by the Durham Republican Town Committee / Approved by Frank DeFelice, Richard Eriksen, Steve DeMartino, Dan Melnik, Bonnie Ryder and Norman Jason

Friday, October 21, 2011

Town Times

Rockfall Foundation helps start conversation on food security By Sue VanDerzee Town Times “Food is a big deal.” Mark Winne That’s how the 25th annual Rockfall Symposium on Oct. 13 began. Winne is the author of two books, numerous articles and also former executive director (for 25 years) of the Hartford Food System. The 60 or so attendees at The Kate in Old Saybrook could not have agreed more with the notion that food is a big deal. Most elementary school kids could tell you that food, water and air are the three essential ingredients of life, and there we were, listening to a man who had established Connecticut’s first farmers’ market in 1978 at the Old State House, as well as a 25-acre commu-

nity supported agriculture (CSA) farm, a food bank, food and nutrition education programs, Hartford Food Policy Council, Connecticut Food Policy Council (first statewide organization in the nation), Working Lands Alliance and the Connecticut Farmland Trust. Winne’s central point is that food security (“everyone in a community has enough good food for a healthy life”) is the kind of back-to-basics notion that can grow communities, along with fruits and vegetables. He sees hopeful signs in such things as the 20 percent growth of farmer’s markets across the country over the last year (to 7,100), the establishment of a new girl scout badge based on food and the appearance of a new Sesame Street muppet, Lily, who is

dealing with food insecurity. “This is a new and timely topic,” he asserted. Even his 85-year-old mother has begun to send him articles about food, telling him over the phone one day: “Now I understand what you’ve been doing.” He also sees, however, enormous challenges, chief among them the corporatization of the food industry. As an example, he held up a backpack and pulled out a Chapstick, a petroleum product manufactured by Monsanto, one of the “food giants.” “This was given to attendees at a food conference paid for by the food giants,” he explained. “That’s the danger; money equals access equals power.” “Only 10 percent of our food production is sustainable, and just four percent is

organic,” he said. To add to the confusion, corporations such as Coke and Pepsi have donated $5 million to Save the Children, an anti-hunger conference sponsored by the corporate food industry banned Winne’s books, and the corporate food industry fights attempts to require labeling, ban trans-fats and supports criminalizing undercover workers who report on conditions at factory farms. Other threats include the $170 billion-a-year fast food industry, the possibility that one-third of American adults could have diabetes by 2050 and the “institutionalization” of feeding programs (from 0-206 in the state since the ‘70s and 60,000 across the nation). “We have to get beyond that,” he stated. Additionally, Winne quot1221472

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ed statistics that cast the USA as particularly challenged with the third highest income inequality among 33 developed nations, the highest food insecurity and the lowest life expectancy. “The top one percent took home 10 percent of total national income in 1970 and 24 percent in 2007,” he said, adding that this was one of the chief propellants of the Occupy Wall Street movement burgeoning here and around the world in various forms. So what are the solutions? How can we feed a hungry world? Winne listed several solutions, among them holding governments accountable, forming public-private partnerships, promoting food education, saving local land for agriculture, reflecting on the growth of the need for feeding programs such as soup kitchens and food banks (“Simply giving back is not enough,” he said) and the creation of regional food policy councils. “You need

Friday, October 21, 2011

Food

(From page 6)

one in Middlesex County,” Winne stated. The local panelists who followed Winne’s keynote speech fleshed out some of the solutions that might work locally. Panelists included David Zemelsky of the organic Star Light Gardens in Durham; Izzi Greenberg, executive director of North End Action Team (NEAT) and manager of North End Farmer’s Market in Middletown; John Guszkowski, partner, director of planning and associate planner for Essex through CMA Associates and board president and CEO of Eastern Connecticut Resource Conservation and Development Area, Inc.; and Nicole Berube, executive director of CitySeed and affiliate member of the New Haven Food Policy Council.

minor miracle to see the plants perk up as the day progresses.” He spoke to the justice part of the equation by explaining, “There’s no way to grow for people of low income and keep the business going.” High property taxes and living wages for workers are two of the economic challenges he noted. Greenberg detailed some of the successes in a low income neighborhood through a 15-year-old community garden, a farmer’s market in the North End of Middletown, food education at the market and a program that supplies cash to kids to shop at the farmer’s market, thus hooking their families into local and healthy food. Guszkowski talked about the difficulty of supporting local meat-producers without a certified, commercial slaughterhouse in Connecticut. “More urgency is needed on the issue of food sustainability,” he said. “The lack of slaughterhouse capacity locally has impact on the capacity of Connecticut to process its own food.” Having come through a bruising zoning fight last year to site a horse crematorium in Durham, it’s easy to see that siting a slaughterhouse would be equally difficult in Middlesex County. Such “out of sight, out of mind; not in my backyard” reactions, however, have long-term im-

pacts on the state’s and region’s abilities to take care of their own food in a more sustainable manner. Berube urged attendees to go to the Connecticut Grown website to find food sources and told of the success of cooking classes at New Haven farmer’s markets to teach people how to use and enjoy the fresh, local foods offered at the markets. “Every neighborhood is clamoring for its own market,” she said. A new initiative is working with neighborhood bodegas to supply more fresh, locallygrown food. So, what do you think? Is food a big deal? Is our food system broken? How can we fix it if it is? Rockfall Foundation, located at 27 Washington Street St. in Middletown, aims to take this conversation further. Log on to their website at www.rockfallfoundation.org for more information.

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Above, from left, John Guszkowski, Izzi Greenberg, David Zemelsky of Durham, and Nicole Berube were panelists at the annual Rockfall Symposium on Oct. 13. Right, author Mark Winne was the keynote speaker at the symposium where the subject was food security.

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Zemelsky noted that Star Light Gardens has a 0 carbon footprint despite being able to supply organically-grown produce year-round. He explained that the key is picking suitable crops, prompting a wave of laughter from the audience when he described “Armegeddon in the spinach patch” after a very cold night. “But they have an incredible antifreeze system,” he explained. “It’s a

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Town Times is published every Friday by the Record-Journal Publishing Co. and delivered to all homes and businesses in Durham, Middlefield and Rockfall. Stephanie Wilcox, Editor Cheri Kelley, Reporter Kimberley E. Boath, Advertising Manager Joy Boone, Advertising Sales Michelle P. Carter, Office Manager Contributors: Trish Dynia, Elisabeth Kennedy, Judy Moeckel and Sue VanDerzee.

Letters to the Editor Re-elect Martin French I am writing in support of the candidacy of Martin French for another term as tax collector for the town of Durham. The business of collecting taxes is not one that appeals to me personally. It costs a lot of money to live here, and keeping up with local taxes takes a painful bite out of all our budgets. But this letter isn’t about that. The fact is, people like doing what they’re good at, and Martin is good at his job and is always trying to get better. To become a Certified Municipal Tax Collector in Con-

necticut requires three years of tax office experience, plus classroom instruction and comprehensive exams. Martin has completed those requirements and obtained his certification, and, with now seven years of experience, he has done an excellent job of updating operations and ensuring compliance with our tax obligations. Martin attends several continuing education classes each year and belongs to several professional tax collector organizations. He has become an experienced pro, and I’m voting that he gets to keep doing this thankless but very important work for our town. Suzy Mongeon, Durham

Letters policy Letters to the editor must be signed, with a phone number included (phone numbers won’t be printed). The writer will be called to confirm authorship. No anonymous letters will be printed, and letters may be edited for grammar or content. Contributions by any individual or group will not be published more frequently than once a month. Finally, the opinions expressed by our letter writers are not necessarily those of this newspaper. Deadline: Tuesday noon for Friday publication. In order to allow the largest number of citizens to express their opinions on the upcoming elections, we set a few special election season letter rules. First: the deadline for election letters will be Monday at 5 p.m. Second: election letters will be limited to 250 words. For the last week before elections (deadline Oct. 31), only positive letters of support will be accepted.

I’d like to take this opportunity to thank the town of Durham for having Coginchaug High School open as a shelter during Hurricane Irene. I was at the high school by 6:15 a.m. daily, and, believe me, it was great to have a hot shower at my disposal. The individuals staffing the shelter were courteous and respectful, and their efforts and the town’s efforts during a relatively stressful time are very much appreciated. Thanks to all who made the shelter a success. Dave Regan, Durham

Occupy your head first I apologize for the late rebuttal, but my full-time family, full-time school schedule and full-time job took top priority. Without further ado, Ms. VanDerzee’s interpretation of “Occupy Wall Street” made my stomach turn. The romanticization of a social movement founded upon envy of prosperity defines what is wrong with America. The entitlement generation has consumed the nation. First of all, why are protesters demonstrating on Wall Street if they want federal regulations on “big business”? Is it not Congress that drives legislation that regulates the economy? Should the protests not be in Washington, D.C.? The “Occupy Wall Street” distraction illustrates the basic lack of civic education prevalent in young America. As your tax money goes to clean up after, protect and foster these demonstrators, the message is still lost somewhere in the park. Second, why aren’t the demonstrators protesting President Obama? There are plenty of anti-war signs present at the demonstration. I didn’t know that Wall Street is secretly fighting a war in Afghanistan. The fact of the matter is that the protesters, comprised of liberal activists, won’t confront the

president. In an attempt to create a “marketplace” of ideas, the demonstration sounds like a giant gripe session. News flash: Obama is the Commander in Chief. Obama sends troops into battle. There is no correlation between the 99 percent and the war in Afghanistan. Just feel lucky you don’t have to protect the liberties you take for granted. Leave that to the brave. Third, what happened to the American Dream? When I grew up, my parents taught me that I could be whatever I wanted to be — I just had to work at it. I am not part of the top one percent of this country. I certainly do not fall into the “99 percent” proposed by the Wall Street derelicts. I served my country as a US Navy SEAL. My aspirations to succeed in life fall in line with the natural rights protected by the Constitution: life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. The concept of pursuit of happiness requires, however, that somewhere along the way I will have to work at it. What the demonstrators are missing is that “pursuit” is an active verb. What the Founding Fathers intended was the opportunity to achieve our dreams, not the expectation that we could sit at “the creativity table” with our hands out and our mouths open. The Wall Street protesters have not addressed the issue of rising American debt and a broken tax code — rather they have heightened class warfare and further polarized a nation. Ms. Vanderzee’s misinterpretation illustrates the greed and entitlement crisis that pervades our society. Americans are guaranteed the pursuit of happiness. How they get there is up to them, not the government. Kevin Lacz, US Navy SEAL, Middlefield

Donna Golub for town clerk With Election Day just a few weeks away, we are thinking about the candidates and who will do the best job for us in Middlefield/Rockfall. When it comes to the posi-

Friday, October 21, 2011 tion of town clerk, we don’t have far to look. Donna Golub has served Middlefield/Rockfall residents since 1998. She knows her job and is very good at it. Through Donna’s efforts and persistence, Middlefield/Rockfall has received $60,000 in grant money from the state of Connecticut Public Records Administration for the conservation and preservation of our historical records. Donna continues her education by attending town clerk workshops and conferences. Donna is always ready to answer questions, help with locating maps and land records and issuing marriage and hunting/fishing licenses. Middlefield/Rockfall residents can confidently reelect Donna Golub as town clerk and know they are voting for the best person for the job. Vote Line “A.” Maria Zajac, Rockfall

Vote for Amy Greenbacker Amy Greenbacker is a hard-working, dedicated individual who is long-rooted in the Durham community. I feel she would make an outstanding contribution to Durham by serving as its tax collector. She is experienced with millions of dollars in transactions at her current position and is extremely efficient. Her warm, honest and caring personality make her a joy to do business with. Please join me in supporting Amy on Nov. 8. Julie Raymond, Durham

Two fiscally important choices In this election, Durham will win if Martin French is re-elected to continue his unquestionably successful work as tax collector, and if Roger Kleeman is elected to help lead our town government. There is absolutely no doubt that, if elected to See Durham, page 19

Friday, October 21, 2011

Town Times Columns

Block Island Birding

Google Me This

more light and, with As a child, I always Judy Moeckel this, different birds.) liked to be outside, For all this, I can’t catching toads, nibsay I ever learned to bling whatever plant identify a lot of birds I happened to come across and picking up shells when accurately. Sometimes, to really see, we were at the beach. I didn’t pay you need the help of an expert, much attention to birds, though, ex- whether in architecture, wildflowers cept for the resident ducks that used or birds. A good bird book (Sibley’s to come up from Trout Brook, which is one of the best, birders say) and a ran behind our little patch of woods really good set of binoculars also in suburban West Hartford. I fed help! Armed with a not-so-good bird them corn, but when they started to demand food at dawn every morn- book and an okay set of binoculars, I ing, my mother banished them — no joined a three-day trip, sponsored by Connecticut Audubon Society Eco more handouts. Most of all, I liked to explore and Travel, to Block Island in early Octohide in the overgrown farm across ber. This is a time when thousands of the street, now preserved as open birds fly across the island on their space by the town. Without under- way south to spend the winter on the standing what was going on, I southern coast, the Caribbean or watched as the habitat of this area even South America. On this all-too-brief trip, I was aschanged from open field to mixed cover (we used to hear pheasant) to tonished to see how many birds fly dense undergrowth and trees (after I over little Block Island during a few grew up and moved away). The bird weeks in the fall. The island is an important resting and feeding place for population changed over time, too. Over the years, I came to pay more them, allowing them to prepare for attention to birds, thanks mainly to long trips to warmer places down the patient, observant nature of my south. I didn’t recognize many of these husband, Jeff. He has pointed birds out to me as we moved from a rental birds; many spend the spring and in Durham next to Lino’s (lots of summer up north, so we don’t tend to birds in the fields behind us) to see them in Connecticut, as they do Williams Drive on the edge of the much of their traveling over water. I admit, at first, many looked like Durham Meadows, to Killingworth where we bought a house in the mid- sparrows. On this trip, however, I dle of dense woods. (We have since opened the area up a bit, bringing in See Birding, page 26

Those of us who Trish were born before visionaries such as Steve Jobs changed our view and expectations of the world can remember a time when writing a report on George Washington required a trip to the den in search of the W volume of the family’s encyclopedia set. You then simply read the section on the father of our country and turned in your report the following day after changing it up a bit so the teacher wouldn’t accuse you of copying it verbatim. It was a simple matter, unless your mom had only purchased volumes A through L by the time the supermarket promotion ended or the door-to-door salesman stopped coming. Or worse, the full set was purchased in the 1950s and your assignment is to write about the first moon landing. You can’t very well turn in a paper proclaiming that the United States hopes to land a man on the moon someday. This would only work if your teacher happened to be a moon landing conspiracy theorist. Indeed, you were out of luck unless the problem was discovered early enough in the evening to beg a ride to the library from whichever parent appeared to be in a better mood. However, neither of them would be too pleased at the prospect of missing Walter Cronkite’s evening commentary because you waited until the last minute to turn in a report that was assigned two weeks ago. But all that changed as home computers became as ubiquitous as rooftop television antennas once were. Today, anything you want to know is instantly available through Google and other search engines. If your cat wakes you up at 2:30 a.m. because she wants to go outside, it’s easy to find out the average life span of a house cat (13 to 14 years). Google it. Need to settle a ridiculous argument with your spouse on who invented Velcro? (George de Mestral).

Guest Column

Along the political trail... Absentee ballots available Secretary of the State Denise Merrill announced that absentee ballots are available for any registered Connecticut voters who will be out-of-town or otherwise unable to go to their polling place and cast a ballot in municipal elections on Tuesday, Nov. 8. At the same time, Secretary Merrill is also urging eligible voters to register to vote by the deadline of Nov. 1 so they can cast ballots in the municipal election. To obtain an absentee ballot, registered voters can download an application from www.sots.ct.gov or local town websites, or they can contact their local town clerk’s office to pick up an application in person or receive one through the mail. After the applications are submitted, absentee ballots will be sent within days to registered voters who request them. Absentee ballots must be signed and can be returned through the mail or in person. In order to be counted for the general election, absentee ballots must be received by town clerks no later than 8 p.m. on Election Day, Nov. 8. Voter registration cards sent in the mail must be postmarked by Tuesday, Oct. 25, in order to qualify for the November elections. Eligible voters can also register in person at their Registrar of Voters office until 8 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 1, to qualify for the municipal elections. Polls will open statewide from 6 a.m. until 8 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 8. Tuesday, Oct. 25, is also the last day write-in candidates wishing to run in the municipal elections can register. Write-in candidates must register in person with the Secretary of the State by 4 p.m. that day. Readers can find more information under our special elections tab at www.towntimes.com. Check next week’s paper for our special election section.

Google it. But like everything else in life, there’s always a down side. And here I refer to Google’s desire to constantly “help” me. Type in any letter of the alphabet and Google will proudly display the 16 other searches I’ve conducted over the past three years that began with the same letter. Some of them are completely innocuous, others are perplexing and a few are downright disturbing. Case in point: Last week I was looking up a recipe for Chicken Cacciatore. As soon as I typed in the letter ‘C’, Google reminded me that I had looked this same recipe up before. (Okay, so I forgot it. No big deal.) Then it reminded me that for some inexplicable reason I once looked up “Chicken Dance.” (Why did I look up an annoying dance that is only performed at the tail end of wedding receptions by the highly inebriated and children under 10?) The third helpful reminder was “Chicken Sledgehammer.” (Why was I looking up a disturbing 1980s rock video that featured two raw, headless chickens dancing? What was I thinking? I don’t want to know.) Then there was the time I started typing in Bar Harbor, Maine and Google came up with ‘Barbie boobs.’ (Okay Google, now you’re just messing with me!) Recently, my son told me that Google auto-completes popular searches they’ve recently received from anyone who uses Google. I really hope he’s right. Actually, I’ve decided to go with that so I can sleep at night. Google’s sadistic need to help can become downright embarrassing at times, especially when someone is looking over your shoulder as you conduct a search, or when helping a child to Google information for a research project.

Dynia

Guest Column

See Google, page 16

Paws Place: Happy Beans Happy Beans still needs a home. She is a oneto two-year-old terrier/beagle mix, about the size of a beagle and a very lovable, silly little firecraker. She is very affectionate and loves to be with people and would learn quickly. She is good with male dogs and loves to walk, run and hike. Happy Beans has a special inner glow about her. She was bred and then dumped and is so desperate to have a real family. Will you rescue her? E-mail paw364@yahoo.com, call 203-235-4179 or go to Petfinder.com. The Meriden CT Animal Control, located at 311 Murdock Ave. in Meriden, has public viewing hours every day from 3 to 4 p.m., or you can call for an appointment.

Friday, October 21, 2011

Town Times

Breast cancer awareness

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month

By Elisabeth Kennedy Special to the Town Times

Ways to Help Borrowed from that “Network” of Caring Women - Prepare dinner; bake cookies, bread or a pie (involve your children, it will help them, too). - Give gift cards to local restaurants. - Communicate: phone is not always best because of the need for quiet time to rest, but try e-mail or greeting cards throughout the treatment period (another way to involve your children — have them make cards). - Flowers and plants cheer up a home when a patient is required to stay at home. - Give scented soaps, skin crème, pajamas, bathrobe, a comfortable throw. - Give magazines, brain teasers (soduku, etc), books, or something indulgent like chocolate. - Watch movies – happy, upbeat, encouraging. - Offer to help (laundry, grocery shopping, rides to treatments). -Take child(ren) to the movies, for ice cream, or maybe a sleep over.

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A recent study revealed that Connecticut has the second highest incidence of breast cancer in the nation. It has touched me; it has likely touched you. We probably all know someone who has been affected by it. Although we would like to have answers to why our small state is number two, why this woman and not that one, why some women die while others survive, these answers do not come. So we continue to work toward awareness, prevention and, we pray one day, a cure. Many — most — women I know or have had the privilege of interviewing have a strong commitment to a future without breast cancer. Many strides in research and treatment options have come from the passion and commitment of breast cancer survivors. Nancy Cappello is one example. Cappello had regular mammograms, including a routine mammogram in late 2003, which, according to the let-

ter from her doctor (which she fondly refers to as a “happy gram”), was fine. Two weeks later, during her annual exam, her doctor felt a ridge in her breast and ordered a repeat mammogram and ultrasound. The repeat mammogram revealed nothing. The ultrasound, however, revealed a large 2.5 cm tumor. After winning the fight of her life, Cappello began to raise awareness of the limitations of mammograms in women with dense breasts. Tumors in women with dense breast tissue are often not detected as tumors appear white, and dense tissue is white, so there is no contrast to detect the tumor. In addition, according to the National Cancer Institute, women with dense breast tissue are at higher risk of breast cancer, and their tumors are more likely to have aggressive characteristics (Journal of the NCI, July 27, 2011). Hoping to spare other women her fate, Cappello began a campaign to pass legislation requiring health insurance companies pay for an ultrasound if a mammo-

gram demonstrates dense breast tissue. She founded Are You Dense, Inc. (www.areyoudense.org) to educate the public about dense breast tissue and its significance in early detection and to push for legislation requiring doctors to inform their patients of their breast density risks. Thanks to Cappello’s efforts, laws have passed in Connecticut and Texas and are pending in California and New York. A federal bill has been introduced by Rosa DeLauro of Connecticut and Steve Israel of New York (Breast Density and Mammography Reporting Act of 2011). Because of Cappello’s commitment and legislation that passed, Durham resident Claudia White is alive today. Like Cappello, White had normal mammograms, but early this year her physician recommended an ultrasound because she had dense breast tissue. Claudia recommends every woman ask about her breast density. “Don’t rely on the letter from See Awareness, next page

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Friday, October 21, 2011

Awareness

(From 10)

your doctor — that ‘happy gram.’ Ask to see the radiologist’s report,” urges White. The results of her repeat mammogram, which she received after her cancer diagnosis, were “normal.” After years of normal mammograms, one ultrasound revealed tumors in both breasts, and biopsies confirmed cancer. White is extremely grateful to Cappello for her efforts to pass legislation that probably saved her life. “If my doctor had not ordered that ultrasound, I would not be here. I would not be celebrating another birthday,” she explained. “Even if the cancer were de-

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Patient Resources:

tected in the next mammogram in January, it would have been too late.”

Wanting some normalcy for her family and because of the therapeutic value of journaling, Claudia signed up for a Caring Bridge website to communicate with family and friends without spending hours on the telephone. Claudia had heard about Caring Bridge from a coworker and highly recommends the site. Caring Bridge provides free websites to people experiencing a significant health challenge, offering a personal and private space to communicate and show support. (www.caringbridge.org). “It helped me process what was happening and to share with others,” explained White. She hopes she has helped others by telling her story and found emotional support in the guest book, which provides loved ones an opportunity to write to her. Claudia is so appreciative for the feedback, prayer and emotional support she has received throughout her treatment. As of Oct. 15, 2011, Claudia’s site has had 10,241 visits. That is powerful support! Claudia also recommends the American Cancer Society as a great resource, from rides to advice and referral, prosthetics and “look good/feel better” classes.

Claudia is grateful to other survivors as well, experiencing that “network of care” and wondering if it exists everywhere or is a benefit of living in this close-knit community. “It’s a good place to have cancer, if you have to have it,” she explains. “I have been overwhelmed by generosity, kindness and support.” These women, some friends, others she has never met, “swooped in” to help, guide and support. Claudia looks forward to joining that team, intending to put herself out there to support other women and work to end the disease.

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Middlefield Town Briefs

Middlefield Government Calendar (Unless otherwise indicated, all meetings are held in the Community Center.) Monday, October 24 11 a.m. — Middlefield Housing Authority Tuesday, October 25 7 p.m. — Zoning Board of Appeals Wednesday, October 26 6:30 p.m. — Planning and Zoning Commission 7:30 p.m. — Board of Ed at Korn School

Planning & Zoning The Oct. 12 meeting of the Planning & Zoning Commission (P&Z) opened without public comment. The agenda was amended to remove Raymond Termini’s request for a home occupation permit (carried over for two weeks

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per Termini’s request). Robert Johnson reported that, as requested, he had obtained a legal opinion on whether Termini (or any other applicant) can operate a business without holding the professional license. Attorney Matt Branse explained that a resident can

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open and run a business employing other licensed professionals. Johnson indicated that other regulatory concerns will be addressed when Termini returns. Also removed was Anthony Crescimano’s request for informal discussion regarding possible development of 48 Meriden Road (as requested by Crescimano). While waiting for Brian Chaffee, chairman Johnson provided members background on the relocation of Chaffee’s business, E-Muscle. Chaffee has gone before the Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA), answered their questions and concerns, and the matter will now go to public hearing at the next ZBA meeting. Town planner Geoff Colegrove indicated that Chaffee must also go before the Inland Wetlands Agency (IWA) in order to obtain the necessary report for P&Z approval and is on their agenda

Friday, October 21, 2011

for Oct. 19. Colegrove further indicated that Lee Vito has requested septic inspection and a water sample. When he arrived, Chaffee presented members with a site plan, hours of operation and signatures of Orchard Lane property owners, sharing that that neighbors were receptive and friendly. Johnson expressed concern that the site plan presented is nearly 40 years old, and, although Chaffee had updated it, he was not sure if the commission could accept it. Colegrove felt it was acceptable because the map reflects the existing site; Chaffee added that the storage units make it representative of what is there today. However, Colegrove explained that, by statute, the commission could not make a decision until it receives the IWA report. Johnson indicated that the site plan was accepted and the matter would be put

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on the next agenda, allowing Chaffee to go before the IWA and ZBA. Moving on to zoning enforcement, Colegrove reported that a Hubbard Street property has been cleaned up slightly but is not completely compliant. In his town planner’s report, Colegrove shared that the depth of the lake has been measured and is acceptable for the easement. However, the Powder Ridge deal is stalled pending an engineering report, which the DEEP must have before it will issue the easement. Colegrove reported that the potential sale of the last lot in the industrial park is in limbo as the cost to restore the property is evaluated. He reminded members that a party is interested in purchasing the lot but found the site damaged by a trench that was dug to create a water table to grow trees on the Dumas property. Colegrove will meet with the Dumas’ attorney and report back to the commission. Discussion on changes to industrial zoning regulations continued. Colegrove reported that letters had gone out to property owners after addresses were verified with the tax collector and tax assessor. The letter explained the commission’s intent to change industrial uses and extended an invitation to attend the meeting to offer input and suggestions. He expressed disappointment that none of the business owners came out. Colegrove described the five industrial districts on the Planning & Zoning map, explaining that many existed prior to planning and zoning, some back to the 1800s, and that use tables do not reflect current uses, which are generally not the use originally intended for those older buildings. The task at hand is to make a new use table that is more practical and productive. Colegrove proposed reclassifying uses, cherry-picking from zones or coming up with new commercial and industrial uses, being careful of parking and access issues. First Selectman Jon Brayshaw addressed members, stressing that the world is See P&Z, next page

Town Briefs

Friday, October 21, 2011

P&Z

(From page 12)

changing, and the town of Middlefield must keep up. He feels that, if a new array of uses was defined, there would be a place for new business in town. He commended members for the great job they did on the Route 66 design district and suggested they do the same for the industrial districts to make them more business-friendly. Johnson thanked Brayshaw for coming and asked Colegrove to develop a tentative list of uses, ensuring building and fire code compliance, and assured Brayshaw that they are moving forward. Johnson also indicated that they will again invite business owners to come to a meeting. (Elisabeth Kennedy/In attendance)

Pie contest

Regional Planning The second subject for the public hearing was the C.O.G. Regional Planning Agency formation. There were few comments or questions from the community, and so a town meeting was set for Nov. 7 on the topic. Proclamations During the selectmen meeting, two proclamations were announced. One was for Eagle Scout Andrew Carter, and one declared the week of Oct. 21-28 “Red Ribbon Week” to encourage residents to wear red ribbons to make a visible statement about drug prevention and a drug-free town. Levi Coe Library’s annual book and bake sale kicks off with a preview on Friday, Nov. 4, from noon to 4 p.m. There will be a small entry fee. Regular sales will continue on Saturday, Nov. 5, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Browse through the selection, and take home a tasty treat.

More on Powder Ridge closing delay By Sue VanDerzee Town Times “Going month to month now,” Middlefield First Selectman Jon Brayshaw’s comment at a selectmen’s meeting last Tuesday, probably elicited groans from citizens anxious to turn over the Powder Ridge ski area property to purchaser Dennis Abplanalp and Alpine Ridge LLC. At the time the May 24, 2011 town meeting voted to sell the 246-acre town-owned property to Alpine Ridge, a closing was forecast on or before Aug. 1. That date had been pushed back twice before Tuesday’s meeting, at which time it was pushed back again to Nov. 30. How could this have happened, and what is going on? Resident Marianne Corona, who has been involved both formally and informally with Powder Ridge for decades, explained in a phone interview that the time period involved (from May 24 to this week) was not a long time for such a “many-legged” business deal. The problem is that townspeople have been hearing about the sale/purchase of

Powder Ridge since April 2007 when the town voted overwhelmingly in a referendum to purchase the failed ski resort. (That’s the difference between four-and-a-half years and five months.) According to Brayshaw, town attorney Ken Antin and town planner Geoff Colegrove, the delay has been caused by a “new wrinkle” that only emerged this summer after the town meeting vote to sell the property to Alpine Ridge. That wrinkle is the necessity of getting an easement from the Property Review Board of the state Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP, formerly DEP). While town officials had talked since the beginning of the process of the necessity of obtaining (or transferring from former owner Ken Leavitt) an existing permit which would allow the diversion of

water from Lake Beseck to snow-making machines at the ski area, until this summer, they were unaware of the need for an easement from the DEEP. The diversion permit has reportedly been in Brayshaw’s office for several months, which is why explaining the third postponement of a closing seemed to require a bit more digging. Since learning of this new requirement, Brayshaw, Colegrove, Antin and Corona were unanimous in their opinion that town officials and volunteers had worked as expeditiously as possible to secure the easement, with the active cooperation of officials at the DEEP, on the Property Review Board and in the state Department of Economic and Community Development (DECD, the folks who just awarded the See Powder Ridge, page 27

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Members of the Middlefield/Rockfall VFW will be conducting a flag-burning ceremony on Nov. 27 at 10 a.m. Rain date the following week. Residents may drop off used American flags that are no longer serviceable — tattered, soiled or unsuitable for display — at the Middlefield Town Hall or Community Center before Nov. 25. Collection boxes will be available at these locations. Family members may remove flags from the Main Street Cemeteries by Nov. 19. After this date, the flags will be removed by the VFW. Al Smith for John Capega, Commander Middlefield VFW

(From page 3)

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There are only 10 more days until the Light Up Middlefield pumpkin pie contest! If you think you have a pretty good secret family recipe for pumpkin pie, pull out those cookbooks, grab some pumpkins and start baking! Entries will be accepted (at no fee) on Sunday, Oct. 30, at Peckham Park from 4 to 5:30 p.m. The judging will begin at 5:45 p.m., and the winner will be announced when the panel of five judges choos the pie that exemplifies homemade pumpkin pies. So please get baking, Middlefield. For info, call Melissa Kowal, 860-349-0768, or e-mail gr8finishes@att.net.

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Durham Town Briefs

Durham Government Calendar (Unless otherwise indicated, all meetings are held in the Durham Library. Check the town website at www.townofdurhamct.org for updates.) Monday, October 24 7 p.m. — Board of Selectmen at the Town Hall third floor meeting room 8 p.m. — Public hearing on DMIAAB agreement at Town Hall third floor meeting room Tuesday, October 25 7 p.m. — Ethics Committee 7 p.m. — Board of Finance at Town Hall 7 p.m. — Economic Development Commission Wednesday, October 26 6 p.m. — Board of Education Finance Committee at Korn School 6:30 p.m. — Durham Volunteer Ambulance Corps at 205 Main St. 7:30 p.m. — Board of Ed at Korn School Thursday, October 27 1:30 p.m. — Senior Citizen Board at Durham Activity Center

Durham 60+ Durham 60+ will meet Monday, Oct. 24, at 1 p.m. at the United Churches Fellowship Hall at the corner of

Main St. and Route 68. The newly-elected officers will take their positions, and the variety table will be held, which is a member favorite. The Thanksgiving potluck

date has been changed to Monday, Nov. 14, at noon. There is no meeting Nov. 28.

CERT training The Department of Emergency Management will be holding a training program for the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) for residents of Durham. The training program will be held at the Durham Firehouse on: Friday, Oct, 21 from 6 to 10 p.m.; Friday, Oct. 28 from 6 to 10 p.m.; Friday, Nov. 4 from 6 to 10 p.m. and Saturday, Nov. 5 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Class workbooks and training materials will be provided, as well as CERT backpacks and equipment for all students completing the course. Instructors are highly qualified senior officers from the fire, police and Emergency Management Services. The training will include

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Friday, October 21, 2011

identification of hazards in your community, fire safety at the community level, life safety at the community level, public health concerns in disasters, community involvement in search and rescue (SAR), organization of a CERT Team, emotional considerations for those assisting in disasters, CERT role in terrorism awareness, animal response in emergencies (Animal Response Team) and NIMS (National Incident Management System) training and qualification. If you have further questions and to reserve a space in the class, please contact Dr. Steve Levy, deputy director of Durham Department of Emergency Management, at 860-316-5752 or drstevelevy@yahoo.com.

Registrars of Voters The Durham Registrars of Voters will meet on Wednesday, Oct. 26, on the second floor of the Durham Town Hall at 9:30 a.m. for testing the memory cards, ballots and the tabulator machines prior to the Nov. 8 municipal elections.

Order holiday wreaths now The Durham Garden Club is taking orders now for their individually-decorated holiday wreaths. The wreaths, a popular Durham tradition for decades, will be decorated and delivered the first week of December. The club offers four styles of wreaths and two styles of sprays. Each live green wreath is decorated to individual order with natural materials and is finished off with a colorful bow. The 12-inch wreaths are available in traditional, Victorian and della robbia styles or can be purchased undecorated. The club offers a 30-inch wreath in traditional or della robbia style. Sprays are also offered in traditional or della robbia style. The bow colors are red, red plaid, burgundy, gold and antique white. Please call Laurie Stevens at 860-349-1916 by Oct. 29 to place your order. The wreath sale is the club’s main source of revenue. The club’s recent maSee Wreaths, next page

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Town Times

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Dan Biagioni, right, with baseball great Luis Tiant. Submitted photo

Lake Grove School and knew that the kitchen space was available. Biagioni said, “It was a no-brainer.” Biagioni worked as the director of sales for another catering company in the state for five years before he decided to branch out on his own.

He said that he felt like clients needed more flexibility and more economical options while retaining high standards and custom designs. “I am the owner, and I am the person whom you are going to talk to. I will walk you through it all the way.” It is this kind of service that Spice Catering Group aims to provide, along with high-end food, event planning, music and tablescapes and everything in between. “We like to take things that people are familiar with and change them up,” Biagioni said. An example of this is their new cheesecake lollipops that this reporter was lucky enough to try.

They also aim for making events one-of-a-kind, like when they worked an event at Wesleyan University last April where Luis Tiant, the world-famous Boston Red Sox player, was honored. Tiant was originally from Cuba, so the entire menu was created with a Cuban theme. Biagioni said, “We are an off-premise caterer. We do corporate drop-off business for lunch meetings to large receptions. Spice Catering also has a room for rent for parties up to 60 people at their Durham location. For more info, call Dan at 860-316-2759 or check out the website at www.spicecateringgroup.com.

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jor project has been the restoration of the treescape on Main Street. Members also plant and maintain the gardens at Town Hall, the triangle at routes 79 and 17 and Korn and Brewster schools. The club has made contributions to the landscaping of the Durham Public Library and installed a garden at Coginchaug Regional High School. Other projects include floral decorations for the Coginchaug High School graduation, for the Memorial Day parade and for events at the Wadsworth Atheneum. It also provides holiday wreaths for Town Hall and the library.

ten: “That’s a lot of work.” If that’s your thought, there is new local help at hand. The Spice Catering Group in Durham, located on what was the Lake Grove School campus, has everything one could need for any and all events during the holidays and throughout the year. Owner Dan Biagioni has many years of experience working in the industry. With an executive chief and team of employees, he promises to provide a custom experience for large and small events. Biagioni is from Oxford, CT, but has a lot of contacts in the triangle between New Haven, Hartford and Middletown and wanted to have a home location within that area. He said he likes the Durham-Middlefield area and had some friends here, so he thought it was a great spot for his business. One of his former clients used to work at the

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Town Times (From page 9)

For instance, how awkward would it be if while helping your father-in-law look up Red Sox statistics, he sees that you’ve recently Googled “rest homes?” (Honest, Pop, your grandson told me Google comes up with this stuff all on its own.) And there was the time I was helping kids in my son’s class at John Lyman conduct online research for projects

they had chosen to study. Imagine my consternation when a freckle-faced fourth grade boy said with a bright smile, “I’m doing my report on the Blue-Footed Booby.” (It’s a bird, by the way, native to Central and South America.) Google it. Trust me, my hand was glued to that mouse, and as quick to react as a dad hitting the imaginary passenger-side brake the first time he drives with his newly-licensed teenager.

Friday, October 21, 2011

New computers at Brewster School Brewster School has a new computer lab, and the students are so excited. The lab will be used by all the students from kindergarten to grade two. Michele Gohagen, one of District 13’s technology integration specialists, will be working in the lab with classroom teachers to educate the students and guide them through lessons and the use of technology. At Open House, held on Sept. 21, students brought their parents to the lab to show them the new classroom at school. In photo, Justin Patenaud and Eric Camero. Submitted by Patti Checko

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Friday, October 21, 2011

Teacher (From page 1)

Though Wenzel tries not to repeat the same project twice with her students, one area that she really likes to work on with her students is collage and mixed media, working with found objects and different materials.

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RSD13 who have taught her so much. She finished, “It is nice to know that, on the

l al ood uld sm f o A ed w tly d. nn ion ea te ca nat gr cia e e do b ppr a

There is so much about teaching art that Wenzel loves. She says, “I love and admire children and young people and watching their ideas transform into different art, art projects and art expressions. It’s very exciting.” In order to keep kids interested, Wenzel said, “You have to be very animated and be interested yourself and show enthusiasm.” She tells her kids at the beginning of the year that “art is the only class where failure is a good thing,” meaning that what you might have set out to accomplish may not result in an outcome that you expected, or the way in which you went about it might not have worked. It is through this exploration that great things are created and discovered. “Grading,” Wenzel says, “in art class is different; it is based on one’s own journey through the process and not necessarily on how ‘good’ the work is.”

“Mixed media frees them to look at a wide range of materials and put them together. There are more possibilities. It pulls them away from realism, which is such a frustration and goal [for the students]. It is the definition of success in art for them. The general population tends to look at capturing a realistic image as successful artwork rather than something that they have to try to figure out.” What she likes the most about her job is that no two days are the same and that you are always using your mind in a creative fashion. She shared, “The students energize me, and I really enjoy working with young people so much. It’s the best thing in the world. As a teacher you really have to love kids and be interested in who they are as people.” Wenzel was honored and sur-

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just started her sixth year at CRHS. When Wenzel was in high school, she received a full scholarship for the undergraduate Hartford Art School program at the University of Hartford. While there, her art teacher convinced her father that she had ability and that she would do well. Back then, she always knew that she wanted to be a teacher, but “it was a toss-up between art and the biological sciences. They both have an element of discovery and research — there is some kind of connection there.” Wenzel, whose role model was her high school art teacher, ultimately received a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA). Wenzel went on and earned a Master of Arts in Liberal Studies (MALS) at Wesleyan University. She has lived in Durham for 33 years with her husband and has two grown sons, all of whom are in the art field as well.

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for RSD13 has declined by 41 students from the previous year. Although the state cuts funds based on student enrollment, it can be difficult for a district to realize the savings if the population decreases are spread among several grades as they are in RSD13. The most startling drop is in the kindergarten population, which had 125 students in 2010-11, but only 101 in 2011-12. A half-position was cut in kindergarten from this year’s budget. This population dip, if maintained, could have implications for staff and class sizes in future years. The current class of ninth graders has 28 fewer students than the same class had as eighth graders, but this is an annual shift mostly reflecting students attending alternative high schools. Legislative issues The BOE is considering asking the state Department of Education to shift the burden of proof in special education disputes from the state to the parents. Currently, the state shoulders the expense of investigation and expert witnesses. School districts could save money and follow federal law by changing the burden of proof. The next BOE meeting is on Wednesday, Oct. 26, at 7:30 p.m. at Korn School.

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Town Times Sports

Friday, October 21, 2011

Falcons D-Squad rebounds with a win in Canton By Steve Roccapriore Head Coach After a tough loss two

weeks ago against East Hartford, this past Sunday the Falcons D-Squad traveled to play Canton. The Falcons scored

on their first play from scrimmage with a 55-yard run by AJ DeFilio. The Falcons’ defense played tough all day

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with Anthony Bizzario, Aaron Faiella, Tyler Florio, Nevin Moore, Michael Andrews, Sebbi Hallock, Jorn Layman, DeFilio, Tyler Garretson, Michael Roccapriore, Shea Larkin, Logan Saks, Ryan Doyle, Francesco Moratta and Anthony Santangelo shutting Canton down. Again in the first quarter, the second touchdown was scored by Santangelo on a 35-yard run. Quarterback Faiella followed up with the extra point on a QB sneak. Halfway through the second quarter, DeFilio scored his second touchdown, with

Bizzario to take it in for the extra point. The half ended with the score 20-0. In the second quarter, the Falcons’ defense dominated over Canton’s running and passing game. The Falcons’ offense moved the ball down field, with great running by Roccapriore, Larkin and Saks, which set up a 30-yard touchdown run by Larkin. The final touchdown came from Saks on a 25-yard touchdown run on the outside. Quarterback Ryan Doyle took a knee to end the game with the final score 32-0. Congratulations, D-Squad!

CFC Impact U13 team won the Rocky Hill Columbus Day Tournament coached by Jon Ruddock. Strong School seventh grader Katelyn Richardson is picSubmitted by Maria Richardson tured top left with her team.

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More sports on the web! Due to the amount of news and election letters, we areunable to print the stories on our other local sports teams. To read about Falcon teams A, B and C and the Blue Devils, visit www.towntimes.com.

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More Letters to the Editor

Friday, October 21, 2011 Jane Churchill, longtime librarian at Durham Public Library, passed away on Monday, Oct. 17. Check the Town Times website, www.towntimes.com, for service information.

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(From page 8)

serve, Roger will make an appreciable difference in Durham’s town government. He has been a vigilant observer, an avid listener and active presence in nearly every aspect of town business throughout his 38 years in Durham. Roger focuses on the efficient management of town dollars; he abhors waste and actively seeks answers for many of Durham’s challenges. Martin has continually proven his ability in managing the revenue side of the town resources. And Roger will be a conscientious guardian of how every town dollar is expended. As tax collector and first selectman, Martin and Roger will make a highly effective team in managing

Durham’s fiscal affairs. We urge you to consider this on Election Day. Anne Cassady & Jon Swift, Durham

Keep David Foley on P&Z As a citizen of Durham without any strong party loyalty, I try my best to vote for the candidate who I feel will best serve all of the town’s inhabitants with devotion, diligence and integrity and who will best safeguard Durham’s future. David Foley will continue to receive my vote. We have been fortunate to have David serving our town on the Planning and Zoning Commission (P&Z). As an engineer with professional

expertise in land development and traffic design, David Foley is exceptionally qualified, thorough and insightful. Before a decision is made by P&Z, David will be getting answers to difficult questions that others may not think to ask to ensure a big decision does not become the wrong plan that could adversely impact our town. The future physical appeal of Main Street in Durham and the development of future industry and commerce in this town will be impacted by decisions made by members of the P&Z that will be serving us after Nov. 8. Let us select a member who, like almost all of us, has neither a political agenda nor any conflict of interest in development and whose only interests are attracting commerce to our town without ever sacrificing its historical culture or beauty. Like Laurie Stevens requested in her letter to the Town Times two weeks ago, I also ask that we vote to keep a bright, insightful, gifted and experienced town servant “working for all of us.” Brad A. Jubelirer, Durham

STRO NG VA LU ES . STRONG ACADEMICS . STRONG LE A DE R SH I P

P&Z needs to step back The Durham Planning & Zoning Commission (P&Z) really needs to back-off! They need to take a step back and understand the possible results their actions will bring. They are making poor decisions that will negatively burden economic development in this town for years to come. Even though they will tell you that they play just a “review, advise and consent” role in economic development locally, in reality they play the largest role by making the rules and interpreting them. The commission’s current war on business signage in town is a good example. In the toughest economy in decades, businesses are struggling to survive and do

business locally. They need to do what it takes to promote themselves and increase traffic. Now is not the time for a crackdown on sandwich board and directional signage. In fact, the commission and town government should be out there helping local businesses to be successful and local residents should be supporting them even more. The commission’s decision on drive-thru restaurants is also shortsighted. Saying we would be overrun by fast food, there would be trash in the streets and we would all be choking on the fumes of car exhaust are just not proven by the facts. All surrounding towns allow drive-thrus and none of the dangers sited by the commission members seem to have See Zoning, next page

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Zoning

(From page 19)

appeared. Haddam has one drive-thru, North Branford has two soon to be three, Middlefield has none, Portland has three, East Hampton two, Guilford two, Madison one, Killingworth one and even Middletown only has eight. So let’s not over-react and understand that a few drivethrus will, in reality, benefit local economic development and tax revenues.

As the commission currently reviews and updates its regulations, now is also the time to consider some new ideas, like loosening the regulations concerning accessory apartments in town. Allowing homeowners the ability to add an accessory apartment would allow greater housing flexibility and choices, additional income and increased quality of life by allowing people to remain in place despite lifestyle and family changes.

Changing demographics, aging population and adult children living at home all point to the need for this choice. Of course, all work, remodel and additions would be inspected and done to code. This could also be job-creating and would enhance town revenues with added permit and property tax funds. Overall it’s time the Planning and Zoning Commission take a step back and consider how their work and

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its results truly affect our future as a town. Eric Davis, Durham

Tuttle for BOF Having been married to Laurie Tuttle for 25 years, I am an expert on her qualifications. Therefore, I urge Durham voters to elect her to the Board of Finance. Laurie has been employed by Cigna Corporation for 26 years. She earned a BA in accounting as well as an MBA. She served on the Finance Committee for seven years at our previous church. She was the treasurer of our daughter’s Girl Scout troop for seven years as well. Additionally, Laurie owned her own business as a Longaberger independent consultant for almost nine years. During her time at Cigna, Laurie became an insurance taxation specialist and an audit negotiator. She recently earned the distinction of Green Belt in the Six Sigma business process philosophy. What this all means is that she enjoys doing things that make my head hurt to even think about. Still, as we teach our two daughters, all the skills in the world are useless unless you can work well with others. Laurie displays this skill at every venture. As a Girl Scout volunteer, small business owner and church

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Friday, October 21, 2011 member, she has successfully disagreed without being disagreeable — a vital skill in politics. Laurie has always been fiscally responsible and is blessed with common sense and integrity that is all too rare. Laurie and I were drawn to Durham 22 years ago by its excellent school system and small town charm. Laurie now proudly joins Laura Francis’ team to keep Durham charming and on a sound fiscal footing. John Tuttle, Durham

Re-elect Francis I am writing to show support for the re-election of Laura Francis as first selectman. Our family has known Laura and her family since our early days as residents of Durham. Our children went to the same schools, participated on the same sports teams and attended the same town events. We are fortunate to reside here and feel that Laura’s leadership has played a key role in our great community. If you know Laura, you know her as someone with a welcoming demeanor and ready smile, someone who will look you in the eye as you interact with her and who has a keen sense of selfawareness as the leader of See Francis, next page

More Letters to the Editor

Friday, October 21, 2011

Francis (From page 20) To Wall Street occupiers: our town, a role she takes quite seriously. When one considers what is going on nationally and statewide, I think it is no small feat that she was able to keep spending stable while still taking care of our infrastructure. One final comment I have is that Laura, in a time of division, somehow builds consensus in a very congenial, bipartisan manner. If you stop and think about it, you will come to realize how uncommon that is in today’s political atmosphere. This is the first time I have ever written a letter to the Town Times. I felt strongly that I should on this occasion as I feel that Laura Francis’ leadership needs to continue for the benefit of its citizens. Thank you for your consideration of this message, and help me re-elect Laura Francis. John E. Sullivan, Durham

I found the Occupy Wall Street article, written by Sue VanDerzee, to be amusing and confusing. What exactly are these young people protesting, anything and everything? Isn’t it ironic that some are protesting capitalism while texting on their iPods, organizing on the Internet and calling each other on their cell phones? What created these electronic gadgets, socialism? It seems some are protesting that life is not fair. Hell, I learned that on the playground when I was five years old. We kept score while playing kickball, and one team usually won while the other did not. Would it be more fair and equal if no team won, if there were no winners and losers in the game of life? How is it possible to make all things fair and equal? Equality ex-

ists only in a vacuum. Is communism fair? In China, if you dare protest, they shoot you on the spot. Some are protesting the militaryindustrial complex. Doesn’t our military, both now and in the past, protect our liberty and freedoms from dictators, insane fascists and those who wish to destroy our constitution? People are still willing to die for me and for our country so that I can still have the freedom to write a letter to the editor, or, guess what, to PROTEST! And Wall Street is to blame for a nine percent unemployment rate that doesn’t want to go away? Try Chris Dodd and Barney Frank and a Congress that enacts programs that give loans to people who have no way to ever pay the loans back. Try President Obama

who gives billions of dollars in loans to green companies who can’t make a profit and stand on their own and never will. It’s our money that’s being wasted. Government doesn’t create a job. Government is a parasite and a thief! Many of these protesters have recently graduated from colleges and have student loans that they can’t pay back. They want the loans forgiven. Now where did the money for your education come from, heaven? Didn’t Mom and Dad work their butts off to provide you with an education? Didn’t Wall Street grant you a loan? Doesn’t your college professor, an avowed communist, get a big fat paycheck for teaching you that capitalism is evil? But this is what you get when you have spoiled chil-

More letters next page

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22 Letters continued

Vote for Schmaltzes I have some good news for the voters on Nov. 8. We have a slate of excellent candidates, but today I’m just giving you the facts on two of them, a mother and daughter combination, who deserves our vote because of their abilities and desire to serve. The first is Vanessa Schmaltz who is running for town clerk. Vanessa is a lifelong resident of Middlefield, having raised two children who are residents; she has two grandchildren. Vanessa has been active in town through volunteering, church committees and Little League. She was an active part in the day-to-day operations and business of the former Schmaltz Farm in Middlefield. She also has over 16 years of banking experience,

More Letters to the Editor

Friday, October 21, 2011

Please join me by giving these ladies your vote. Barbara S. Rowe, Middlefield

held our town budget in check yet again. The people who were out front during the storm this summer making sure the town was safe and the people cared for. Our town leaders have come through for Middlefield and deserve to be re-elected. Vote for Jon Brayshaw and Ed Bailey as our first and second selectmen. Bob Veeley, Middlefield

background in records coordination and now is an administrative assistant. All of these show stability, knowledge of business practices and organizational skills. She would like to take town clerk training and obtain certification. Vanessa has a pleasant personality and would be a great and deserving attribute to our town government. Kimberly Schmaltz, daughter of Charlie and Vanessa, went through the RSD13 school system and has a BA from Central Connecticut State University. She also has 15 years experience in the banking and financial industry. This certainly qualifies her for the position of treasurer for Middlefield. It is good to have some of the younger citizens of town willing to get involved. This is not meant to reflect on the present treasurer or opposing candidate.

DeFelice for Durham I am pleased to learn that Frank DeFelice is running for re-election to Durham’s Planning and Zoning Commission (P&Z). Frank loves this town, having served on a number of Durham’s boards and commissions over the years — with a decade of service on P&Z, as well as serving as the chairman of Durham’s Public Safety Committee. Frank is a great fit for P&Z, bringing his knowledge of how the zoning laws work with a strong engineering background. He is not afraid to ask the tough questions of potential developers to ensure our town retains its beauty for future generations. Frank is sensitive to the needs of business as well,

as evidenced in his current role as chairman of the subcommittee working to improve Durham’s industrial and commercial zoning regulations. He brings a measured balance of reason and experience. Frank is the right man for the job. This November, let’s keep Frank DeFelice working for us by re-electing him to Durham’s Planning and Zoning Commission. Eric Berens, Durham

Brayshaw and Bailey deserve re-election This is the time of year when candidates for elected office are telling us who they are in generalities and slogans. A tough year for everybody has shown us who our elected selectmen really are. They are the people making something happen at Powder Ridge. The people who

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Vote for Roger Kleeman It is with conviction and great pleasure that I endorse my son, Roger Kleeman, to be elected as the first selectman of the town of Durham. Roger’s motto has always been “People First,” and the good citizens of Durham are very well aware of this. Roger is not interested as much in national politics as in the wellbeing of the local community. He will always take the time, have the courage and speak up in the interest of the citizens of Durham. I trust you will vote for Roger in November. Joan Kleeman, Durham

Vote for Szewczyk I have known John Szewczyk for many years. I witnessed him grow up in our community, excelling in both the classroom and on the athletic fields. John also worked for me at Durham-Middlefield Youth and Family Services while he was a college student. I have witnessed him grow up from a student into a dedicated police officer. Four years ago, I was extremely proud when John was elected to Durham’s Board of Selectmen (BOS). Over these past four years on the BOS, John certainly has not let our community down. He has remained independent and hasn’t played politics as usual. I think it is extremely important that we keep fair, level-headed and community-minded individuals in government. Accordingly, please support John Szewczyk for re-election to the Board of Selectmen. Cheryl Lonergan, Durham More letters next page

More Letters to the Editor

Friday, October 21, 2011

Town clerk asks for support

Dan brings a unique blend of engineering knowledge and keen interest. He is an inquisitive and conscientious young adult. A water resources engineer in his full-time employment, Dan has an EIT and holds a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering. He is experienced reading blueprints and understands topography, land features and water resources. He is committed to looking at issues from the perspective of what is important for today in terms of appropriate development and fiscal balance, as well as planning for future generations. His current knowledge, desire to contribute, and, frankly, ability to be a fresh face on the commission, complementing the existing talent and experience,

is a big plus. I believe it’s important that our young adults become involved and give back to the community. I’m very proud that Dan has stepped up to this challenge. I know he’ll be able to do positive things for the town of Durham. Please join me in voting to elect Dan Melnik to Durham’s Planning and Zoning Commission. Bob Francis, Durham

Kleeman for first selectman This letter is to support Roger Kleeman for office of first selectman in Durham. Roger’s involvement in the community has been extensive. I have known Roger, personally and professionally, for more than 30 years, and have always known him to be fair, honest and smart. He and his family have longtime ties and commitments to the community, and even

Re-elect Golub For those of you who do not know Middlefield’s town clerk, Donna Colub, I would like to point out the following. Since 1998, Donna has been town clerk for the residents of Middlefield/Rockfall and has done her job well. She has made the commitment to preserve Middlefield’s historical records and bring Middlefield’s town clerk’s office into the 21st century. She has applied for and received multiple grants from the state of Connecticut Public Records Administration, which has allowed her to electronically index the

town records. Donna keeps up-to-date with ever-changing rules, regulations and state laws, whether concerning real estate recordings, marriages, campaign finance or election laws. In addition, she attends conferences and workshops on all phases of her work as town clerk. Donna is always ready to help all of us with answers to questions and obtaining information from them. Donna Golub knows her job, does it well and deserves to be re-elected. Vote Line “A” on Nov. 8 and support the entire Democratic slate. Dolores C. Congdon, Rockfall

Support French I am writing to ask you to support Martin French for tax collector. Martin is knowledgeable and honest. He fairly ensures that residents equally pay the taxes See French, next page

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I’m writing in support of Dan Melnik for Durham’s Planning and Zoning Commission (P&Z). As someone who has known Dan for more than 20 years and as a former

though I no longer live there, I can’t think of a better person suited for the office of first selectman — or a person better suited to give more to the community than Roger Kleeman. Glenn Orkney, formerly of Durham

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As town clerk, I am asking for your support for re-election on Nov. 8. My husband, Richard, and I have lived in Middlefield since 1977. In my role as town clerk, I am committed to preserving Middlefield’s historical records and bringing the town clerk’s office into the 21st century. To date, we have scanned and indexed town survey maps dating from 1866 to present. We have also started to scan other documents, such as land records and Board of Selectmen minutes to make them more accessible to everyone. I also continue to stay updated and informed of changes by attending town clerk seminars and conferences. I have also been responsible for getting the town clerk’s office online with the state’s Voter Registration System, as well as a program which allows hunting and fishing licenses to be processed through the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection. I have implemented a new program for dog licenses, which allows us to update licensing information in a more timely fashion. Through the Connecticut Department of Public Health, I am working on the installation of an electronic death registration system, which will allow for death certificates to be available electronically. I enjoy singing with the Middlesex Hospital Vocal Chords, this year participating in a very special program commemorating the 10th anniversary of September 11. With your support, I remain committed to you, the residents of Middlefield/Rockfall. Donna M. Golub, Middlefield

P&Z commissioner myself for eight years, I can objectively say I know a lot about Dan and a lot about planning and zoning.

Letters continued

French

(From page 23)

they owe the town. He has streamlined and improved the ways of collecting delinquent taxes and his collection rate is consistently around 99 percent. In this economic climate, it takes a dedicated, experienced person to collect taxes compassionately, yet fairly. Please vote to re-elect Martin French to the office of Tax Collector on Nov. 8. Karen Dyndiuk, Durham

More Letters to the Editor

Friday, October 21, 2011

the future of Middlefield and Rockfall, and I am proud to support her for the position of first selectman. Across the state, municipalities large and small are competing for grant funding for everything from economic development projects to improvements to local buildings and roads. Lucy will not only find those opportunities, but she will give 110 percent in supporting and advocating for them as well. Join me in supporting Lucy Petrella on Nov. 8! Sebastian J. Aresco, Rockfall

ence that they possess will keep our town budget in check and preserve the quality of life that makes our community unique. Jon and Ed have proven themselves on numerous boards and commissions and service to the community. They will continue to make the best decisions for the town and its people of all parties. This is a winning combination that will benefit all generations of residents. Please join me in voting for Jon Brayshaw and Ed Bailey on Nov. 8. Cecelia Parillo, Middlefield

Lucy Petrella equals big leadership Our small community needs big leadership. For too long we have accepted the status quo. In these challenging economic times, we need a leader who will be committed to both ensuring that we hold the line on taxes and that we are actively seeking to secure grant funding. Lucy Petrella has made this a central tenet of her plan for

Re-elect Bailey, Brayshaw Honesty, dedication, experience: these are the qualities that Jon Brayshaw and Ed Bailey have shown over the last two years to Middlefield and Rockfall residents. Having town representatives with these traits ensures the success of all residents. Both candidates will continue to provide the most value for your tax dollar. In difficult times, the experi-

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Having grown up in Durham and lived here my entire life, I care about the town, the people and its future. This is why I have decided to get involved in my town and run for Board of Assessment Appeals. After graduating from Coginchaug Regional High School in 2003, I attended Anna Maria College where I majored in history and education. In college, I was captain of the soccer team and president of the Student Government Association. Currently, I am privileged to serve the Durham community as a social studies teacher at CRHS for the last three years. As a teacher and coach already serving Durham, I look forward to the opportunity to serve the town in another capacity. Thank you for your consideration. Matt Thompson, Durham

Support Lucy Petrella For those of us who exercise our constitutional rights on a regular basis, the crisp, cool air, changing leaves and pumpkins in the farm stands are all signs that this season’s election cycle is upon us. It’s an odd year, so local candidates populate the ballot. This year, we have an opportunity to elect a uniquely qualified woman to the spot of first selectman. Her name is Lucy Petrella, a resident of Middlefield for over 24 years See Petrella, next page

More Letters to the Editor

Friday, October 21, 2011

Petrella (From page 24) and a summa cum laude graduate of Central Connecticut State University. Lucy is fiercely dedicated, punctual, gets things done on time and stays on top of projects from start to finish. No missed opportunities. No missed deadlines. Yet Lucy has the unique personality that puts us at ease and makes us feel comfortable in her presence. She has been walking the town, meeting people and communicating her ideas for Middlefield. If you have a chance to meet her, please do so. Spend some time talking to her and see for yourself. Like so many others, I suspect you will find it was worth it. So on Nov. 8, vote line “A” and support Lucy Petrella and the entire Democratic slate. Richard Golub, Middlefield

In an age when politics seem riddled with partisan attacks, it’s reassuring to know that some people are willing to stand on their own, regardless of party. One such person is David Foley, candidate for the Durham Planning and Zoning Commission. If you’ve ever met David, you know that he is, in the best sense, his own person. He is outgoing, confident, generous and incredibly trustworthy. I have had the good fortune of

knowing David for the last 16 years. He is a tireless community volunteer who has a strong protective instinct and an equally strong desire to maintain the small town character of Durham. His training as a civil engineer and his previous experience on the Planning and Zoning Commission make him an excellent choice for this position again. I am happy to support David Foley and am confident that he will work hard to serve Durham.

Homecoming game After years of planning and construction, the CRHS track, field and tennis courts are finished. There will be a grand opening on Oct. 22 with a brief dedication beginning at 12:30 p.m. The Blue Devils will host Saybrook/Westbrook at 1 p.m. in their first Homecoming football game! Last year’s seniors are welcome back and will be recognized as part of the class of 2012 and a member of this team. All are welcome.

Dwain Fehon, Durham

Town Times Service Directory

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I am writing to introduce myself to the voters of Durham: I’m Dan Melnik, and I am seeking your support as I run for a seat on the Planning and Zoning Commission (P&Z). Some of you might be asking yourselves, “What can a 23-year-old bring to the table?” I’d like to present my interest and qualifications. I have lived in Durham all but the first year of my life. I was a scholar/athlete at both Coginchaug and the University of Hartford, where I was on the Dean’s List. I earned my bachelor’s degree in civil engineering as well as my EIT (Engineer-in-Training, the first step toward becoming a licensed professional engineer). While completing my undergrad studies, I had the opportunity to develop and implement a water harvesting and filtration system in Abheypur, India. I worked with a team of Engineers Without Borders, putting into practice collaborative team-building skills. I was employed immediately upon graduation and use my civil engineering skills as a water resource engineer working on projects in Connecticut and New York. I bring energy along with a

Support Foley

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1212100

Dan Melnik for Durham P&Z

fresh perspective that I believe will complement the mix of talents already on the commission. Decisions made today will have long-term impacts on not only our lives but also of those of our descendants. Durham faces critical decisions — balancing our agricultural heritage and small-town flavor with appropriate and fiscally responsible development. I am eager to work hard as a P&Z commissioner and respectfully ask for your consideration at the polls. Thank you.

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Birding

Friday, October 21, 2011

Town Times (From page 9)

learned that many of the smallish birds, with their “coats of many colors,” were, in fact, various types of warblers. One, the Blackpoll Warbler, migrates more than 2,000 miles in the fall, traveling from the northeastern United States to the West Indies or even to South America. And it does the flight nonstop. This was not an easy chair type of trip. We walked all over the island and, with permission, on private land where there were many birds, large and small. Block Island has hundreds of freshwater ponds and marshes, as well as open fields with stands of trees and shrubby, scrubby cover. It’s a perfect place to see a wide variety of birds, and we did. As we docked at Point Judith in Rhode Island after the trip home, we had counted more than 100 species of birds. “Birders” are serious about keeping lists of

the birds they see, but amateurs like me are accepted by the birders; we are birders-inthe-making, likely to catch the bug. So that you don’t think the trip was all work and no play, know that each night we went to a nice restaurant and enjoyed excellent cuisine. While we did get up very early, it was well worth it; both mornings we went to the Block Island Airport diner, which served up great grub, and then watched birds come and go around the runway as the sun rose. The knowledge of our tour guides, and their ability to identify birds whizzing by or hidden in the branches of a tree, astonished me. As someone who is somewhat visually challenged, I found it hard to pick out the birds, whether by naked eye or with binoculars. By the end of the trip, though, I was a little better at it. I also had a better idea of what I was looking for, thanks to our guides, as well as other group

members, many of whom were very savvy birders. I particularly enjoyed watching the way the birds could be coaxed to come closer. Our leaders made sounds to pique the birds’ interests, such as the call of an owl, “pish, pish” or something that sounded like, “chich, chich.” It worked! They came out to see what was up. To put up my binoculars and have a bird jump into view in front of my eyes was nothing short of elating. Several of us visited the island’s labyrinth, a maze-like design of stone-lined paths that encourages meditation as one walks around it. As I stared at my feet shuffling around and around, I heard birds in the shrubs around me, but otherwise, it was quiet. I felt a rare sense of peace. Connecticut Audubon Eco Travel trips range from local ones of a few hours in length to international trips of a week or more. For example, they are running a trip to

New York’s Central Park on Saturday, Oct. 22, to see the birds that migrate through that park at this time of the year, as well as beautiful foliage. Another trip to New York City (this one on Saturday, Dec. 10) focuses on the holiday display at the New York Botanical Garden. Or you can search for wintering bald eagles on the Connecticut River next February and March (the roughly two-hour trip is in a winterized vessel). For those with more exotic tastes, there are trips to Trinidad and Tobago, Alaska, Nova Scotia, Machu Picchu, Patagonia and much more. For information, go to www.ecotravel.ctaudubon.or g, or call 860-767-0660 or 1-800996-8747. Andy Griswold, who directs the Eco Travel program at Connecticut Audubon, says many group leaders are professionals, “but some guide tours solely for the pleasure found in helping others discover the treasures

nature has to offer. All of our leaders welcome the beginner naturalist as well as the seasoned birder.” You can learn a lot when you are part of a group that has both intense interest and deep knowledge. We also had fun, and those of us who were novices were made very welcome. As we learned from each other during our three days on Block Island, we also shared our sense of amazement at nature and its beauty.

A warbler about to be banded so that its travels can be recorded.

Sitting ‘pretty’

Town Times Service Directory

Durham

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I am not a “Birder” so I do not claim to know for certain that these birds roosting high in a dead tree near Korn School are turkey vultures, but they look like it to me. On Oct. 5, when the skies were dark and gloomy, these creatures were not at all disturbed by my grandson and I stopping by to capture their picture on my cell phone. I wish I had had a better camera with me because they sure looked like they were posing for a Halloween card! Submitted by Bobbie Sicignano

Friday, October 21, 2011

Powder Ridge (Continued from page 13)

son to worry about it since Kastner has been cooperative from the beginning, and the bank that holds the mortgage on the property also seems willing,” said Antin cautiously, “but we have another alternative, and that would be an easement from Pete Sibley to place the pump house on his land next door if necessary.”

“Hopefully, this is the last time,” sighed Colegrove. Residents can only agree.

Third and fourth graders in Mrs. Hadlock’s class raised and studied monarch caterpillars and butterflies. Andrew Sacco holds his tagged butterfly ready for release while classmates watch. Submitted by Elizabeth Hadlock

Our e-mail addresses: news@towntimes.com advertising@towntimes.com

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We hope this explains to restive citizens just why the Powder Ridge closing has been postponed yet again.

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town $500,000 to help improve the infrastructure that will allow the ski area to reopen). So, what’s holding things up since everyone seems to want to get it done? According to Colegrove, “We have done everything asked of us. There’s absolutely nothing else we can do to move things along.” What’s necessary instead is a report by Abplanalp’s engineers on the plan for the system that will take water from Lake Beseck and send it to the snow-making machines at the ski area. That plan, according to Antin, is being developed by an engineer with specific expertise in water diversion for snow-making. Colegrove added that he had spoken to Abplanalp last week and that Abplanalp said he was going to lean on the engineer to get the plans in. The plans are important, explained Corona, because DEEP officials want to make sure that fish will not be sucked into the system. “It’s to protect wildlife resources,” she added. “I urge people to keep in mind that five months is not a long time to finish a deal like this.” While Corona and Brayshaw see the submission of plans for the system to be installed on the lake bottom as the last step, Antin and Colegrove caution that there is one more possible sticking point, and that is the granting of another easement, this one to place the pumping station on property partially owned by 1234 Meriden Waterbury Road, LLC, whose spokesperson has been Raymond Kastner. “There appears to be no rea-

Town Times

Friday, October 21, 2011

Town Times

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