11-13-2009TownTimes by Town Times Newspaper

Volume 16, Issue 31

Serving Durham, Middlefield and Rockfall

Friday, November 13, 2009

Remembering our veterans in Durham and Middlefield

Above, Commander John Capega, in front, with Middlefield veterans on Veterans Day before the ceremony on the town green: James Salzano, Chester Mrozowski, Joe Augustine, Joe Konefal, Don Sperl, Daniel Lehet, Stanley Kokoszka, Robert Malcolm, Stan Atwell, William Alford, Ellen Jacobs Williams (representing her late father, Marine Edward Jacobs), Don O’Neill and Ken Kindschi. Right, Maria Fazzino reads the names of Durham veterans on the memorial with her sons Jacob, Josh and fellow cub scout Aidan Garcia. See page 10 for more pictures. Photos by Stephanie Wilcox and Wendy Parker

Durham town meeting approves Code of Ethics By Stephanie Wilcox Town Times

At a special town meeting held at Town Hall on November 9, four items were unanimously approved by a few dozen citizens. First they approved the transfer of $25,000 from #9200 Building Maintenance Reserve Fund to Account #4030 Ambulance Building Maintenance for repairs to 205 Main

In this issue ... Calendar ...........................4 Devil’s Advocate ........11-20 Durham Briefs ...........28-29 Middlefield Briefs......24-25 Obituaries.......................20 Sports..........................31-34 Spotlight..........................26

Street. First Selectman Laura Francis explained that 205 Main is the location where the Volunteer Ambulance Corps is now conducting their business. She said the money will go toward repairs identified as “most immediate in nature,” including correcting the flat roof area, chimney masonry, updating electrical service, some painting and putting in a half-bath. Deputy Chief of Durham EMS Nate Ravid then claimed that there has not yet been an

opportunity for the Ambulance Corps to speak about these priorities. According to the First Selectmen’s office, the group who came up with the immediate priorities includes Francis, the assistant health director, public works, chief of service from the Ambulance Corps, deputy chief of Ambulance Corps, town sanitarian and building inspector, and Ravid said he does not consider their prioriSee Ethics, page 29

Special Thanksgiving week deadline Because of the Thanksgiving holiday, the Town Times will be printed on Tuesday evening, Nov. 24, rather than on Wednesday. That means if you have an article, an announcement, a letter or a photo, we must have it in hand by noon on Monday, Nov. 23. No late items will be printed.

More photos on-line Due to the fact that we are routinely getting lots of wonderful photos these days, we looked for a new method to let our readers see more photos without having to print postagestamp-size pictures in the newspaper, or, heaven forbid, skip planning and zoning or Board of Education news! Since our website went to a new format several years ago, we have had the capability of making photo galleries, but that didn’t seem accessible enough. So, former Town Times reporter and current Record-Journal new media editor Carolyn Wallach developed a system whereby we will post on our website on Friday all the photos that did not fit in the actual printed paper. These photos will be for sale, but our primary aim is to make them available for seeing, and that you can do for free. We will also not publish names with these photos. There will just be one photo on our home page at www.towntimes.com with a title like “Halloween” or “Extra Nov. 6 photos,” and you can click on the appropriate place. The photos we didn’t use in the paper will be posted there. One caveat to this system is that we sometimes hold photos for use in the next issue if there is no timeliness involved, such as a report on a scout trip or project, a new baby or a photo for Spotlight. Please feel free to call and speak to Wendy or Sue if you have any questions; our phone number is 860-349-8000.

Town Times Community Briefs

Coginchaug conferences

Parents will have the opportunity to sign up for teacher conferences in November. Your student can sign you up

Corrections We strive to bring you the most accurate and upto-date information available each week, but if you see something in Town Times that isn’t quite right, give our news department a call at (860) 3498000, and we’ll do our best to make things right.

on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, Nov. 17, 18 and 19 in their classrooms, or you can sign up on those days in front of the main office between 3:30 and 7 p.m. Parent teacher conferences will be held on Wednesday, Dec. 2.

Lions’ breakfast buffet The Lions will hold a “Remembering Veterans Day AllYou-Can-Eat Breakfast Buffet” on Sunday, Nov. 15, from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The Lions Club of Middlefield will honor veterans while raising funds for the local VFW Post. They invite everyone, young and old, to breakfast at the Middle-

Index of Advertisers To advertise in the Town Times, call Joy Boone at (860) 349-8026. Jay Landscaping .......................26 Ken Marino Sales & Service .....22 Kim’s Cottage Confections..........5 Lema, William J., D.M.D............22 Lino’s Market ...............................7 Lyman Orchards........................19 Masonicare................................25 MIddlesex Primary Care ...........10 Micheli Unisex Styling Salon.....21 Mdlfld. Republican Town Com ....23 Middlesex Hospital Vocal..........10 Middlesex Ob/Gyn.......................6 Middletown Plate Glass.............31 Mims Oil.....................................26 Movado Farm ............................31 Neil Jones Home Imp................30 One MacDonough Place...........21 Paint Spot..................................27 Peaceful Healing .........................3 Pet Stop.....................................30 Petruzelo Agency Ins. ...............22 Professional Security Systems .34 Raintree Landscaping ...............31 Realty Associates......................35 Rice, Davis, Daley & Krenz Ins. ..3 RLI Electric ................................31 Rockfall Co. ...............................30 Saldibar Construction................30 Sea Breeze Hauling ..................30 Sharon McCormick Design .......32 Singles Alternative.....................28 Split Enz ....................................29 T-N-T Home & Lawncare..........29 Tile Renovators .........................33 Torrison Stone & Garden....25, 30 Uncle Bob’s Flower & Garden...20 Valentina’s Home Designs..........6 VMB Custom Builders...............34 Whitehouse Construction..........33 Whitney Ridge Stables..............34 Wild Wisteria .............................24 Wildwood Lawn Care ................29 Windows Plus............................27

Food drive The Jolly Ranchers 4-H Club at Deerfield Farm is collecting food for the Amazing Grace Food Pantry. Food items can be dropped off at the following locations: Perk On Main in Durham, Levi Coe Library in Middlefield and Deerfield Farm in Durham. Items especially needed now are: tuna, cereal (hot and cold), pasta sauce, canned fruit juice, dinner sides such

as boxed potatoes and stuffing. Any donation is appreciated. If you have any questions, please call (860) 982-1366.

DMYFS suspends afterschool program Durham Middlefield Youth and Family Services recently announced the suspension of the after-school/vacation enrichment program due to its inability to satisfy some of the state of Connecticut’s enrichment program requirements. The agency was unaware of its non-compliance and was unable to work out a temporary plan with the state that would allow continued operation of the program. The DMYFS Board of Directors is currently evaluating whether or not it will be able to offer this program

again in the future. At this time DMYFS is committed to continuing with all other programs that it has historically made available to the local community, including Red Cross classes, family game night, fifth/sixth grade and seventh/eighth grade dances, holiday shopping day and tot time, as well as newer events such as senior bingo. The agency also plans to continue participation in community activities such as Middlefield Old Home Days, the Memorial Day parade, Community Round-Up, and will remain a member of the Local Wellness Council. Anyone interested in providing input or joining a task force to explore other services that the agency can provide is encouraged to contact Bernadette Basiel, board secretary, at bernadettebasiel@hotmail.com.

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Ace Oil.......................................28 Addy & Sons..............................32 Affordable Excavation ...............34 Allan’s Tree Service ..................32 Anderson Lawn Care ..................3 APEC Electric............................32 Auto Body Specialities ..............33 Barillaro, Michael.......................24 Batters Box................................26 Behling Builders ........................29 Berardino Company Realtor .....36 Binge Bruce, contractor.............31 Bond Dinettes............................26 Book Bower...............................21 Boylin, Dr. William .....................21 Brick Construction .....................29 Cahill & Sons.......................32, 33 Carlton Interiors.........................28 Carmine’s Restaurant .................5 Central Ct. State Univ. ..............15 Chaplin, Bruce, attorney..............2 Conroy, John, D.M.D.................23 CV Enterprises ..........................34 Daricek Landscaping.................34 Dean Autoworks..........................6 Desjarlais, Marsha, realtor ........35 Durham Dental ............................6 Durham Family Eyecare ...........24 Ett Inc. .........................................5 Fairfield, Barbara.......................35 Family Tree Care ......................31 Ferguson & McGuire Ins. ..........19 Fine Work Home Improvement.32 Fosdick, Gordon, M.D. ..............10 Fuel & Service...........................27 Gaylord Hospital........................24 Glazer Dental Associates............5 Golschneider Painting...............34 Handy Man ..................................5 Home Works..............................33 Huscher, Debbie, realtor ...........35 Ianniello Plumbing.....................33 J. Randolph Kitchens ................29

field Volunteer Fire Department. For all you can eat, adults are just $8 and children under 12 are $5. Tickets can be obtained from any Middlefield Lion or by calling Melissa Kowal at (860) 349-0768 or Summer Spencer at (203) 980-9663. Tickets will also be available at the door.

Friday, November 13, 2009

A reasonable fee will be paid for other matters such as: divorce, contracts, wills and other civil lawsuits. CALL OUR OFFICE FOR AN APPOINTMENT.

Town Times

Friday, November 13, 2009

Community mourns teen’s death By Stephanie Wilcox Town Times

Counselors were available throughout the week at Coginchaug High School for students and staff who are grieving the loss of 17-yearold senior Michelle DiVicino.

DiVicino was a passenger in a car heading south on Durham Road on Saturday around 1:24 a.m. when the driver lost control for unknown reasons at the Durham and Guilford line. She was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver, 18year-old Brian Peeler of Durham, was taken to YaleNew Haven Hospital where he is said to be in fair condition. Police are investigating the cause of the accident. If you have any information that could help in the investigation of the accident, call 203-453-8061 and ask for Sergeant Lindgren or Detec-

The students and high school staff who thronged the funeral were clearly still shell-shocked at losing one of their own. “You never get over this,” said one, and indeed, the whole service hearkened to the difficulty of accepting such a loss. “As Christians,” Father Mariadas Lipton of Notre Dame declared in his homily, “we grieve as persons who have hope, who expect to see Michelle again. For us, death is not the end, but the start of a new chapter of eternal life.” Music and shared communion added to the only comfort to be found in such a difficult situation – the comfort we can give each other as we grieve.

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The third Community Round-Up is scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 5, from 9 a.m. till noon. CRU, as it is affectionately nicknamed, is a sweep of the towns of Durham and Middlefield by teams of students in grades 3-12 (with adult leaders if appropriate) who will go door-todoor collecting non-perishable food, household items like napkins and detergent, and cash or gift cards for distribution to those facing hard economic times. The cash and gift cards are split between the social service departments of the two towns, food and household goods are apportioned by what is needed to Middlefield, and the remainder is sent to Amazing Grace Food Pantry in Middletown, which is the food pantry for Durham residents in need. Students in Korn, Lyman, Memorial, Strong and Coginchaug schools will be able to sign up for a team in the next few weeks. Participation is limited to 85 teams, with a deadline before Thanksgiving vacation, so sign up quickly. If you are an adult or student who would like to volunteer at the collection site (Coginchaug High School), please call (860) 349-7221 and leave your name and telephone number. If you are a resident who would like to participate by sharing food and/or household goods with someone less fortunate, please be generous when a team stops at your door on Dec. 6, and if you will not be home, feel free to leave a bag for a CRU team by your door.

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Middle City Stage Company of Middletown is embarking on its next project — 5Arts2010. This project is a weave of five art forms: a visual arts exhibit, a poetry reading, live original music, a short film and two one-act plays. To this end, Middle City Stage Company is now taking submissions of original one act plays for consideration as part of 5Arts2010. The criteria for the one act plays are as follows: the playwright must be a Connecticut resident currently living in Connecticut and have resided in Connecticut for the past three years; the play should be 20 to 25 minutes in length; and the play must not have been produced anywhere else. The plays will be produced in “finished” workshop form; that is, there will be a full rehearsal period, but set, lighting, costumes and props will be minimal. For additional info, e-mail kellydimauro@middlecitystage.org. Send two copies of your script to Kelly DiMauro, artistic director, Middle City Stage Company, 135 Frisbie St., Middletown, CT 06457.

Funeral Home. A Mass of Christian Burial attended by several hundred mourners was celebrated at Notre Dame Church in Durham on Wednesday, Nov. 11, with burial following.

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tive O’Connor of the Guilford Police. Superintendent Susan Viccaro said counselors were at the school on Saturday and Sunday and the library was closed Monday and converted into a counseling center. “The kids are doing the best they can, and so is the staff,” said Viccaro on Monday. “We are here to support them.” DiVicino was a member of the Journalism class and wrote for the Devil’s Advocate, the student-run newspaper. Her classmates went to work right away putting together quotes for a dedication and plan to print her most recent article in this week’s edition of the Devil’s Advocate beginning on page 11. “We decided together that it’s what she would have wanted,” one classmate said. And about her talent for writing prose and poetry, they said, “She was so talented. She was perfect.” Calling hours were Tuesday, Nov. 10, at Wallingford

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Town Times & Places

4 FRIDAY

November

November 13

8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30

Rabbi Kushner Speaks Author Rabbi Lawrence Kushner will speak tonight at 7:30 p.m. and tomorrow at 10:30 a.m. and 7:30 p.m. at Congregation Beth Shalom Rodfe Zedek, 55 East Kings Highway in Chester. For info, call 860-526-8920. Lasagna Dinner Steven Hurwitz and the KClub, Main Street in Rockfall, will hold a lasagna dinner tonight beginning at 5 p.m. Dinner is $8.50 per person, with proceeds to benefit the Middlefield Food Bank. Pianist Noah Baerman Connecticut-based jazz pianist and composer Noah Baerman performs at Wesleyan University’s Crowell Concert Hall 8 p.m. Tickets are $15. For info and tickets, visit www.wesleyan.edu/cfa or call 860-685-3355. Italian Cabaret The Italian Cabaret night will be held at Coginchaug High School at 6:30 p.m. Dinner will include sausage and peppers, chicken parmesan, stuffed shells and sauce and more. Great food, music and bad jokes for only $11 per person. Reserve your seat by emailing llarsen@rsd13.org. Durham Cogin-chuggers The Durham Cogin-Chuggers will dance at Brewster School in Durham from 8 to 10:30 p.m. Will Larsen will be the caller and Sue Lucibello the cuer. Donation is $6. For info, call 203-235-1604 or 860-349-8084.

SATURDAY

November 14 Holiday Bazaar MidState Medical annual gift gallery holiday bazaar will be held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the Horwitz Conference Center at MidState Medical Center. Ten-Digit Dialing Beginning today, you must use the area code for all calls. Classical Night Out An evening of music will be presented by the Arts Center at Killingworth at 7:30 p.m. at the Killingworth Congregational Church, 273 Route 81. Tickets are $20 adults, $15 students, $10 children 12 and under. Cinderella Dance Workshop The musicians from Elek-

tra Ensemble will explore the magic of their instruments with children who can dress up as Cinderella or the Prince as they learn to dance the Cinderella Waltz. The workshop will be held at the Killingworth Congregational Church, 273 Route 81. Call to register at 860-663-5593. Holiday Fair Middlefield Federated Church, 402 Main Street in Middlefield, will present a holiday fair from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. featuring plenty of homemade goods and treats. Christmas Bazaar The Country Christmas annual holiday bazaar will be held at St. Colman Church from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The event will include a raffle, crafts, bakeshop, straw booth, homemade candy, gift baskets, jewelry, a kids’ corner and more. Breakfast and lunch will be available for purchase. The raffle drawing will be held at 3 p.m. Holiday Bazaar For lovely handcrafted gifts and decorations, luscious homemade desserts, and a sit-down lunch in a warm, neighborly atmosphere, don’t miss the Westfield Ladies Aid Society holiday bazaar at the Third Congregational Church, 94 Miner St. in Middletown, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Last Day for Basketball Today is the last day to register for youth recreation basketball at the Durham Town Hall, between 9 and 11 a.m. Call 860-343-6724 for info.

SUNDAY

November 15 Lions’ Breakfast Buffet The Lions will hold a “Remembering Veterans Day All-You-Can-Eat Breakfast Buffet” from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Middlefield Fire Department. All you can eat for $8 for adults and $5 for children under 12. Tickets will be available at the door.

MONDAY

Friday, November 13, 2009 WEDNESDAY

November 16 November 18 Vinal Open House Vinal Technical High School, 60 Daniels St. in Middletown, is hosting an open house for eighth grade students and parents at 6 p.m. The evening includes scheduled tours of technology and academic areas. For info, call 860-344-7100 ext. 313. Free Movie Middletown Senior Center, 150 William St., offers a free movie each Monday at 12:30 p.m. Today’s film is Up with Ed Asner and Christopher Plummer. Call the center at 860-344-3513 for information. Job Success Jan Melnik will discuss techniques to get a job, network and create a resume at the Russell Library, 123 Broad St. in Middletown, from 6:15 to 8:15. For information, call Melnik at 860349-0256 or 860-638-8417. Register at the library or call 860347-2520.

TUESDAY

November 17 Future Planet Earth The Jonah Center for Earth and Arts is hosting a presentation by Diana Lane, PhD on “Climate Change in the 21st Century: A Guided Tour of Future Planet Earth” at 7 p.m. The program will be held at First Church of Christ, Congregational, 190 Court St. in Middletown. For more information, call 860346-6657 x13 or email Hall.john987@sbcglobal.net. Grant Writing Ann Faust and Judith Margolin will show you how to sharpen your grant-writing skills from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. at the Russell Library, 123 Broad St. in Middletown. For info, call 860-347-2528. Heritage Quilters The Heritage Quilters of Wallingford will meet in the auditorium at Masonicare, Masonic Avenue in Wallingford. This evening’s program, entitled “What Was She Thinking?!,” will be presented by Southington quilter Barbara Baume. Guests and new members are welcome; guest donation $5. For information, call 203-269-2065.

TOPS Durham TOPS Club meets every Wednesday at 6 p.m. on the third floor of the Durham Town Hall. For info, call Naomi Klotsko at 860-349-9558 or Bonnie Olesen at 860-349-9433.

Thursday

November 19 Discover Durham The Durham Economic Development Commission initiative called “Discover Durham” will be held at the Durham Volunteer Firehouse. “Discover Durham” will showcase the businesses in the community. The expo is from 2 to 6 p.m. and the community is urged to attend. For info, contact Peter Cascini at 860-349-2309 or Ona McLaughlin at 860-349-8415. Book Discussion Hedda Kopf will lead a discussion on The White Tiger at the Russell Library, 123 Broad St. in Middletown, at 7 p.m. For info, call 860-347-2528. Depression Era Films Gold Diggers of 1933 will be shown at noon at the Russell Library, 123 Broad St. in Middletown. For more information, call 860-347-2528. Canning Workshop Durham Fair Foundation will sponsor a special class on canning at the Emergency Operations Center on the fairgrounds at 7 p.m. Learn what the judges are looking for, review canning techniques and safety. There is no admission fee. Smokeout Today is the Great American Smokeout. Stop smoking today! Call 1-800-QUIT NOW for help. MOMS The MOMS (Moms Offering Moms Support) Club will meet at 9:30 a.m. in the community center in Middlefield. E-mail to momsdurhammiddlefield@yahoo.com or visit www.momsclub.org for info. Time is Not Even; Space is Not Empty The opening reception for this visual and performance art exhibition will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. Eiko and Koma will perform in various parts of the gallery space. The exhibition runs through Dec. 20 at The Ezra and Cecile Zilkha Gallery, 283 Washington Ter-

race in Middletown. For info, or call 860-685-3355.

FRIDAY

November 20 Opera Selected opera scenes and oratorio will be performed under the direction of Priscilla Gale at the Crowell Concert Hall on the Wesleyan campus at 7 p.m.

SATURDAY

November 21 New York Nosh The Rev. Dr. Elven Riggles, Pastor of the United Churches of Durham, will host a day-long bus trip to NYC for a food tour. Buses will depart from the church parking lot at 7:45 a.m. Twenty seats are available. Call Elven at 860-349-3683 or 860-3490742 for info. Set Back The K-Club annual Thanksgiving setback tournament will begin at 9:30 a.m. at the club, 168 Main St. in Rockfall. Call 860-346-9521. HELO Helo, Inc., a local nonprofit corporation, is proud to introduce its Haitian partner to Middlefield, and invites you to help welcome him and learn more about this ministry. Pastor Jean Phares Beaucejour of Aux Cayes, Haiti will speak about Haiti and HELO’s work from 4 to 5:30 p.m. at the Middlefield Federated Church, 402 Main St. For more information, visit www.HeloHaiti.com. Local Night The Middletown Elks have a ‘first ever’ Durham/Middlefield gathering at the Middletown Elks Lodge 771 in the Middletown Crystal Ballroom. Tickets are $20. For tickets, call the lodge at 860346-9771, Jeff Siena at 860-3498031 or Jo-Ann at 860-349-8005. This will be a non-political, no issue, fun time for all

Sunday

November 22 Community Supper A Thanksgiving Dinner, hosted by the Youth Group, will be served at the Church of the Epiphany, 196 Main Street, from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. This dinner is free and open to the public.

Town T imes at the CVEF Spelling Bee

Friday, November 13, 2009

The Coginchaug Valley Education Foundation’s second annual spelling bee was a grand success with 24 teams vying for bragging rights on Friday, Nov. 6, in the Coginchaug auditorium. Above, winners of the 3-8 grade school bees were recognized at the evening bee. Right, The Honeymooners represented the District 13 Board of Education — from left, Kerrie Flanagan, Nancy Boyle and Betsy Gara. Left, the Pollen-ticians — Chris Flanagan, Senator Ed Meyer and Rep. Matt Lesser strewed sparkly pollen between words and made it to the final round. Below left, the bee judges were Judge Richard Adams, Durham First Selectman Laura Francis and Probate Judge Joseph Marino. After the letters cleared, the Sesquipedalians — Jane Harris and Susan Mcwww.carminesdurham.com Namara — emerged as champs. for our menu Photos by Betsy Booz and Sue VanDerzee

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Town Times

Waiting for holiday shoppers The women’s group of the Middlefield Federated Church is famous for their annual holiday fairs. The 2009 version will be held on Saturday, Nov. 14, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Besides decorations galore, Shirley Newcombe’s famous baskets and homemade breakfast and lunch favorites for sale, there will be a silent auction for a variety of goods and services. Come and purchase items for Thanksgiving, Christmas and beyond at reasonable prices in a friendly and festive atmosphere. Pictured above, from left, are Shirley Newcombe, Kim Hummel and Sydney Mintz setting up earlier this week in the fellowship hall of the church on Main Street in Middlefield (across from the Community Center) for the big event. Photo by Sue VanDerzee

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Friday, November 13, 2009

CRHS has two commended students in the 2010 National Merit scholarship program Dr. Steven Wysowski, principal of Coginchaug Regional High School, announced that Danielle Charette and Ryan Ciarlo have been named Commended Students in the 2010 National Merit Scholarship Program. A letter of commendation from the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC) was presented by the principal to these scholastically talented seniors. About 34,000 commended

D-13 preschool screening Regional District 13 offers a play-based screening for children aged three and four. The screening allows parents the opportunity to have their child observed by district professionals in an informal, fun setting to ensure their child’s development is progressing at an age-appropriate level. Participation is also a pre-requisite for a child to be considered as a role model for the preschool program. The next screenings are

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Town Times

Friday, November 13, 2009

Charlie Larsen acknowledged for ‘volunteer spirit’ Middletown Elks Lodge 771 in the Middletown Crystal Ballroom. Tickets are $20 and will include hors d'oeuvres at 6 p.m., buffet at 7:30 p.m. and music by the Monthei Brothers Band. Tickets must be bought in advance by calling the lodge at (860) 346-9771, Bill Currlin at (860) 343-3414, Jeff Siena at (860) 349-8031 or JoAnn at (860) 349-8005.

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When it comes to volunteer spirit, Charlie Larsen has it. Though he gives of himself in many areas of the community, he can be found at the Durham Firehouse every Sunday morning “religiously,” as well as helping out the fire company all over town. “Charlie has been one of the best volunteers over the years,” said Fire Chief Harry Hall. An honorary member of the fire company, Charlie has 14 years of “official” service with them, and “he’s a good, all-around guy.” He was thus the perfect choice when the Middletown Elks asked the fire company to pick someone to be honored at their first Durham/Middlefield Night, later this month. Hall explains with a chuckle that every Sunday Charlie walks from his Main Street home to get breakfast at Perk On Main, and he’s usually waiting at the door when they open. Then he heads to the firehouse and visits before walking back across the street for a second breakfast at Dunkin Donuts. It’s safe to say Charlie likes his breakfast, but even more, he loves the time he spends with the fire company. “An ambassador is what he really is,” said Hall. He explains that when Charlie is on recruiting duty, he’s always popular with the ladies. In fact, he says Charlie often steals the attention, and he even has a signature hug. Charlie marches in every parade, has helped with fire prevention with younger kids at the fair, and recently he was the first one out to help direct traffic when there was an accident in front of the Durham Market a few weeks ago. And then there was the time the fire department had to go to Charlie’s emergency when he was side-swiped by a car across from Notre Dame Church. He was fine, and it hasn’t slowed down his spirit. What Charlie likes best about being a Durham volunteer firefighter is spending time with friends and the chief, going to the firehouse, wearing the uniform and, more than anything else, marching in the parade. When asked how it feels to be honored for his volunteer spirit, Charlie replied it feels

“great.” He got involved with the fire company through Boy Scouts, and lending a hand to the company makes him very proud every day. Charlie will be honored during the Elk’s Durham and Middlefield night on Nov. 21, along with a Durham EMT and a firefighter and EMT from Middlefield. The event will be held at

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Town Times Opinion

Friday, November 13, 2009

Honoring our veterans, at home or school?

Town Times 488 Main St., P.O. Box 265, Middlefield, CT 06455 http://www.towntimes.com News Advertising Fax Marketplace

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Town Times is published every Friday by the Record-Journal Publishing Co. and is delivered to all homes and businesses in Durham, Middlefield and Rockfall. Sue VanDerzee, Editor Stephanie Wilcox, Reporter Brian Monroe, Advertising Director Joy Boone, Advertising Sales Wendy Parker, Office Manager Contributors: Betsy White Booz, Chuck Corley, Chris Coughlin, Trish Dynia, Kathy Meyering, Judy Moeckel.

Students at Memorial Middle School welcomed Middlefield VFW members to Veterans Day assemblies on Monday, Nov. 9. Bob Malcolm, Joe Konefal, John Capega and Al Smith, representing different wars and branches of the military, treated the students to anecdotal recounts of their experience in the service. After each member had the chance to speak, Al Smith took questions from students, including “How did you stay in contact with your families when you were in the service?” “What did it feel like being in war?” “What kind of packages did you get from home?” “Did you make friends in the service?” and “Do you have any good memories from war?” The assemblies ended with performances of “God Bless America” and “The Marine Hymn” by a school ensemble. Memorial School principal Kevin Brough said the school holds assemblies with veterans so fifth and sixth graders have an appreciation for the Veterans Day holiday, which they had off from school. Based on their responses from previous years and the questions they always bring forth, the students continue to enjoy and learn from the program. Editorially speaking, however, we are inclined to agree with letter-writer Janet Rea (see below) who contends that going to school and learning about veterans on the actual day might be Photos by Stephanie Wilcox more beneficial. SV.

Above, Al Smith; below, Joe Konefal. Left, student musicians.

Letters policy Letters to the editor must be signed, with a phone number included. The writer will be called to confirm authorship. No anonymous letters will be printed. Contributions by any individual or group will not be published more frequently than once a month. Every effort will be made to print all letters received. However, the selection and date of publication will be at the discretion of the editor. Finally, the opinions expressed by our letter writers are not necessarily those of this newspaper. Deadline: Tuesday noon for Friday publication.

Thank you, Middlefield Fire

We would like to thank the Middlefield Fire Dept. for their actions during the early morning hours of Oct. 14. We woke up in the middle of the night to a smoky haze filling the second level of our home. After calling 911, members of the Middlefield Fire Department were at our door within minutes and a truck arrived in about five minutes. Although the cause of the smoke was nothing more than a furnace problem, we cannot express how reassuring it was to have so many firefighters on the scene so quickly. They were professional and efficient and removed all the smoke from our home. We would like to give special thanks to our neighbor, Bob Bandzes, who was literally at our door within two minutes and im-

Letters to the Editor mediately assisted us. It is comforting to know that our town has such a dedicated fire department. Cindy and Joel Nick, Middlefield

Why no school? Why is there no school on voting days? Don’t we have to save days for the terrible flu or the FEAR of snow? It can’t be because they can’t use the gym for PE classes. There is always the outdoors, healthier too. Can it be because the buses come twice for about a half an hour? The teachers, aides, custodians and volunteer parents can guide these buses and hold back the traffic for a few minutes. Furthermore, why no school on Veterans Day? Wouldn’t it be better to have programs and speakers come in to honor the vets? What do the kids do when they have

this day off? Let’s see, maybe watch TV? And as far as the fear of a snow storm … bring back Yukon Kelly. Janet Rea, Durham

Ski trip bad idea After reading the last issue and seeing what the Board of Education has been up to lately, their actions clearly beg a response. This is in regards to the approval of the ski trip to Salt Lake City, Utah. I hate to be the wet blanket yet again, and I certainly mean no disrespect to Will Conroy as he shows lots of initiative, but why does District 13 need to sanction a trip of such magnitude to “…bring students together?” Most importantly, I am not enamored of the idea that the district’s insurance policies would be in effect for a trip that displays no educational value whatsoever, and still have to worry about the

threat of a civil lawsuit should something unfortunate happen. This is skiing after all, and there is some degree of ability in question here regardless of protective gear. Since Mr. Hicks had some concern himself over this issue, I have to wonder how his concerns could be resolved so conveniently and a unanimous approval made in the time constraints of one meeting. Surely, the community’s interests are a priority in this respect since they are paying the bills. I don’t care to see the district defending itself from a multi-figure lawsuit. Secondly, I cannot be convinced that this trip be sanctioned because “…the skiing is different out west…” or because there are students … “who don’t normally have much contact with each other…” Are you kidding me? Those are frivolous statements, and this doesn’t sound like an inexpensive diversion.

I do not agree with school money subsidizing any of this. It also occurs to me that this kind of trip would further any gaps that might already be there, since there are families that can’t afford this kind of luxury living in our communities. Especially now. Need you be reminded of this yet again? I’m not surprised, but thoroughly disappointed. Margaret Neri, Middlefield

Thank you

To the Editor Thank you to all who voted in the Nov. 3 election. It has been a privilege and pleasure serving the town of Durham. Congratulations to those newly elected. All the best to them and to continuing board and commission members. Gene Riotte, Durham

Friday, November 13, 2009

Town Times Columns

Lucky 06455 and 06481

A new look at our prisons

Seems that the Speaking of supcataracts developing pers, most of us enon my brain have left joyed and were prideme with a memory blur ful of the parade, hoeover the past four down and over-the-top months. Last June, I fireworks display put said yes to family, on by the fire departfriends and supporters ment in celebrating and went on my fourth their 75th anniverelection run. Thanks to sary. The Lions Club the voters, I won and completed the Norman now once again will be Rockwell day with hot the town’s number one dogs and goodies. The caretaker for the next Fire Company will be two years. Each time I completing their celerun, it becomes more Jon Brayshaw, Middlefield bration with a dinner humbling than the time this month. If you see a before. There is no firefighter, share your greater reward than to thanks. serve and be told No, we are not on “thank-you” by somesnooze with selling one you hardly know Powder Ridge. Like so and to be greeted by many things, it’s comyoung children at the door as mom plicated. The ad hoc Powder Ridge tries to explain who we are and what committee completed its search for a we do. Campaigning twice with Dave suitable recreational developer. We Lowry was like being on a Lewis and are now in the process of crafting a Clarke expedition. Campaigning with deal. I’m totally optimistic! Ed Bailey, I traveled the world on the Speaking of waiting, we have now high seas to a hundred ports. I will miss completed a multitude of repairs to Dave as he circles back around his the Community Center. A new roof home life. I now look forward to work- was the last major item. It’s done and ing with Ed and Mary on whatever looks great. Now, I’m looking for volcomes our way. If your zip code is 06455 unteers to do interior painting. or 06481, take a deep breath and smile And finally, since we do not really for few are as lucky as you and me. have a fully (or for that matter any) All the newly elected officials will staffed Health Department, over the be sworn in on Sunday, Nov. 15, at 3 past three months, Dr. Huddleston, Lee p.m. So, what happened in town since Vito, Terry Parmelee and I have done I was shut off by the Town Times last our best to wade through the piles of July? Let me share a few items in no stuff that is disseminated every day particular order. having to do with seasonal and H1N1 Among the more complex is the vaccines, flu viruses, flu clinics, intrawork on the Metacomet Wind Farm. muscular injection protocols, and all We have significant horsepower the new buzz phrases like “you must from both Middletown and Middle- drive to Cheshire and get your flu field working on obtaining funds to shot.” I’d love to give a few bureaucrats study the wind characteristics atop an intramuscular injection with a Mt. Higby for future energy needs. rusty 4” needle. I can’t wait until the The town was awarded the third government gets their hands on our $300K to continue funding our popu- healthcare system. Readers, you lar Housing Rehab program. If you should call Senator Dodd’s office and need a new roof, windows, siding, sep- tell him to stay out of healthcare before tic, etc. call Joe Geruch at the Town it’s your seven-year-old daughter who Hall for details. needs a flu shot and there are NONE. In October, I was the honored guest And finally, bear scat was discovof the Muslim Community at the Ja- ered in town. In fact several piles were faria Center on Route 66. To most, observed by this writer. I thought of driving by the Center is a mystery. It putting some in a jar … but then was to me also until our commonality thought why? Not that I am an expert was explored first hand as I represent- on such matters but it seems that we ed Middlefield one Sunday evening. had a black fuzzy visitor make his/her Aside from the goat meat, I could have way through town. Why he/she chose been at any church supper. to move on, we’ll never know.

As the budget woes of our state government continue, we must be creative in making state spending cuts above and beyond the $3 billion of cuts that we have already made. I am proposing to the Governor and legislative leaders that we take a new direction in our criminal justice system which will have immense cost savings. Senator Twenty-five years ago Connecticut had about 8,000 prison inmates, but today with virtually the same state population, we have about 19,000 prison inmates. That dramatic increase results largely from our imprisonment of a variety of non-violent offenders for crimes such as drug possession (not trafficking), probation violation and conduct associated with mental illness. Those types of prison inmates cost us about $40,000 per year per inmate, but a prison term does virtually nothing to change their lives. The re-

From The Desk Of The First Selectman

Web update While none of our 57 respondents added the invited comment, the answers to our weekly poll (One year after the election of President Obama, how are you feeling?) were all over the lot with 42% not approving, 33% approving, 14% believing the jury is still out and 11% ambivalent. Go to www.towntimes.com to weigh in on our next poll (below the ads on the right).

sult is a 60 percent recidivism rate. Non-violent offenders who do not endanger our society should be subject to non-incarceration rehabilitation. The cost of those services is far less than the $40,000 per year cost of imprisonment and would make our society safer by the beneficial effects of rehabilitation. IncarceraEd Meyer tion makes little difference to an inmate with mental illness or to a habitual drug user and yet it carries an enormous budget cost. It is estimated that approximately one half of our 19,000 inmates are non-violent offenders. A new direction for them will save millions of dollars as well as make our society safer. Wise economists are telling us not to waste a financial crisis. The current crisis can be used for constructive reform of the criminal justice system.

From The State Capitol

Not your usual sunshine This has not been a week of sunshine. It never is when a young person dies, especially in such a small community where one life can touch so many so quickly. However, we at Town Times send respect and thanks to the three young men who took charge of preparing the memorials to Michelle DiVicino that begin on the first page of the Devil’s Advocate, page 11. Cody Given, Tony Gambardella and Dan Jacobs worked with the students in the CRHS Journalism class and friends of Michelle to craft a memorial to their friend. They spent hours at Town Times making sure everything was just right. Dealing with this kind of loss in this public way is extremely difficult, but the young men put their hearts and souls into the task and did an incredible job. It stands not only as a memorial to Michelle, but it also serves as a step along the way to healing for all those who participated. Sue VanDerzee and Stephanie Wilcox From Lindsay Peeler: I want to say thank you to everyone who has supported my family and I. Brian is going through a very rough time, and even a little support can go a long way. We are so grateful for everyone who has been there for my brother over the years, especially now in his time of need. We thank those who have tried their very best to stay strong for Brian as well. Brian was glad to hear of all of his family, friends and peers who are there for him. He sends his love and best regards to all of his friends and peers. Thank you for all of your help. Michelle, you will always be a beautiful, intelligent, and loving girl who put a smile on everyone’s face with ease. Brian loves you and misses you — we all do. Rest in peace; we will never forget you. Contact the Town Times at news@towntimes.com or 860-349-8000 if you’d like to contribute to our weekly sunshine box. Thanks, congratulations, birthday wishes are all appropriate for this space. It’s your way to lift up a family member or friend in the presence of these communities. Wendy or Sue would be happy to answer any questions.

Honoring Our Veterans

Friday, November 13, 2009

Right, Durham veterans Mykola Danczuk, John Long, Joe Romboli, Bob Peterson, Lou Francesco, Tom Arrigoni, Charlie Arrigoni and Arthur Goddard. Photos byy Judy Moeckel, Wendy Parker and Stephanie Wilcox

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Left, A somber Ellen Jacobs Williams is assisted by Navy serviceman Don O’Neill as she lays the wreath in Middlefield. Right, Doreen Raney and her mother Kathleen Curtis keep their eyes on the flag as students played the bugle. Doreen’s late husband is Captain Greg Curtis of the U.S. Army who served in WWII Germany.

SNUB THE STUB

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Above, Troop 33 in MIddlefield saluting the flag as it’s raised.

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Dr. Brad Wilkinson Dr. Tanya Feke Amber Bowell PA-C Rena Jacobs PA-C

Greta Wilt - Memorial Middle School - Grade 5

Friday, November 13, 2009

Volume 16, Issue 2

Devil’s Advocate

Coginchaug Regional High School

November 13, 2009

In Memory of Michelle DiVicino Why We’ll Miss Her

Michelle wrote the following poem in her creative writing class: If this is arrogant, God, forgive me But this is what I need to say I don’t want to see another child die because he has nothing to eat I won’t stand for another mind lost because of drugs Discrimination, Segregation, Humiliation, God, I won’t take it Are we not all the same species? Why must you let blood bathe your earth Another war? I’ve had enough Not another soul lost Not another person tormented Not another family in mourning Do you hear me, God? If this is arrogant, please forgive me God, this is your earth, please save it You have never heard of a revelation like this Free the poor from hunger, Free the panicked from fear Free the pain stricken from hurt Free the dead from the horrors of life And free the living from the horror of death If this is arrogant, God, forgive yourself, But this is what you need to do.

By Mr. Nathan Fisher

The use of Citrix benefits staff and employees in District 13. As for student use, Citrix fails. No one can deny the problems Citrix creates. However the student body must continue to click through error messages for the remainder of the 2009-

When the new security cameras went up, Michelle was convinced that those administrators were out to get her. “This is like Big Brother!” she said. “Michelle, have you read 1984?” I asked. “No, but I know what it’s about!” That was the first day I met her. I showed her our story from last year about the homeland security grant. Then I taught her how to shake hands, look her source in the eye, warm them up with a little chit-chat, and ask polite questions. She did it. On day three, she stomped in and slammed her bag down on the table. “Homeland Security is really hard to get a hold of!” she said. “Did you try?” “Yeah, nobody knows who I should talk to!” I was impressed. None of my student reporters had even tried to get a quote from a federal agency before. She finished her interviews and typed up her story. She worked through her lunch to lay out the photos on our website; she had taken three. Each one illustrated a specific detail from her story, so it was very important that they were in just the right place. A week later she was in print, on the front page of The Devil’s Advocate, tucked into that week’s edition of Town Times. Not only did her story run on the front page of the student section, but the editor picked up one of her photos for the

See Click, page 18

See Miss Her, page 18

To Click or Not to Click? By Michelle DiVicino Protocol Driver Error. The words haunt those with work to do in the thin client lab and on the library computers. “I was writing a paper due next block, and I was about a page into it when the screen froze. I clicked a few times and nothing happened,” said senior Cam Pollitt. “The whole screen was frozen and Word closed down and a Citrix message popped up that said ‘attempting to reestablish connection.’ The Citrix home screen opened that has all the applications on it, and I clicked on Word. My document was completely gone. I was beyond upset that this had happened. I couldn’t understand why this program was being used if it couldn’t even han-

dle just a Word document. I had no choice but to just start over.” Cam’s tragic predicament is one shared by other Citrix users. Citrix has been around for about six years. “The thin client computers have no hard drives,” said information technology director Rich Fielding. “Citrix allows us to use virtually any type of computer because the programs are located on one of two servers. The computers connect to these servers through Citrix. Citrix allows some programs to be used district-wide. The idea is a cost-saving one, but the maximum connection to a server is 60. Problems such as unestablished connections and drop-outs are linked to this. If there are more than 60 connections trying to be established,

Citrix can’t handle it.” “We’ve outgrown it,” said technology integration specialist William Kurtz. The thin clients are designed for basic word processing and internet access. Writing classes are located in the upstairs thin client lab due to Citrix’s design capabilities. “A lot of class time is wasted,” said English teacher Sarah Aceto, who teaches a writing class first block. “It works eventually, but it’s still annoying. Students get very frustrated, which isn’t a good way to start the day.” Despite Citrix’s failure in the thin client lab, it has its uses. Mac or PC users can access Citrix from their home. Because of this, teachers have access to software needed to do such tasks as grading from home.

“This is a great way to allow Apple users, which many of the staff in the elementary and middle schools are, to access Microsoft applications. It also allows for dummy terminals, like the thin clients, to be used instead of full computers, which can be more cost effective than purchasing a whole lab worth of computers,” wrote systems manager Ken Pietrasko in an e-mail.

Devil’s Advocate

Friday, November 13, 2009

Student Opinion

Editor-in-Chief: Mackenzie Hurlbert Contributors: Sarah Bugai, Jaclyn Caturano, Danielle Charette, Michelle DiVicino, Dan Fonseca, Tony Gambardella, Cody Given, Katelynn Hill, Mackenzie Hurlbert, Dan Jacobs, Rachel Kowalski, Zach LaVigne, Taylor Maus, Joseph Oblon, Jennie Ochterski, Michelle Palmer, Cam Pollitt, Garri Saganenko, Emily Shoemaker and Lauren Stafford Production: Mackenzie Hurlbert, Jennie Ochterski, Cody Given and Joe Oblon Advisors: Mr. Nate Fisher and Ms. Stephanie Wilcox The Devil’s Advocate is the Coginchaug High School newspaper. These pages are the creation and expression of the students.

The Swine Flu Diaries By Mackenzie Hurlbert It’s a scary thing when you have to arm yourself to go to school. Every day Coginchaug and RSD-13 students are taking precautions to avoid the treacherous hand of that big bully: H1N1. Coginchaug students have definitely felt the blow of swine flu lately, and the halls have become less and less packed as the nurse’s office became more and more crowded. Classes of 20 have been reduced to nine while teacher’s struggle to stay sanitized. Not only has the swine flu wreaked havoc with student academics, but it has also severely affected our sport teams. I fought the grasp of the colds and illnesses infecting the school unsuccessfully, and I sacrificed almost all of last week to focus on recuperating. It all started when I woke up with a cough and headache Tuesday morning, and although my mom attempted to persuade me to stay at home, I stubbornly rejected the idea and got on the bus, coughing up a storm. As I passed the wary looks of my peers, some jokingly formed See Swine Flu Diaries, page 15

Some good advice …

Finding the Balance between School and Sports By Taylor Maus everything done without the stress of Dear Devil’s Advocate, I am interested in joining a winter having a concrete time that it must be sport this year, something I have never finished in. done. I was really excited about it, but Also, because of block scheduling, then I heard upperclassmen talking you have two days to complete homeabout how tired they are from trying to work. If you know that you will be out balance sports and schoolwork. Do late one night for sports, make sure you have any suggestions on how I that everything is finished the night becould balance the two? fore so that you’re not struggling to get the next day’s homework done after Apprehensive Athlete the big game. Dear Apprehensive Athlete, One of the biggest problems for First and foremost, relax. Sports are meant to be fun and worrying about many student athletes can be easily school won’t help. Both are important, avoided and will cut stress levels in but worrying is not the way to go; that half: procrastination! Going on Faceonly increases stress. Unfortunately or book or MySpace may seem like the not, school should be prioritized over best thing to do after school, but when sports, so instead of letting grades slip, it you don’t get all of your work done and may be important to cut back on sports. are up until two a.m. the next morning This doesn’t mean don’t do a sport, after a championship track meet, you but instead see what works best for will regret it. Save the computer for the you. In the beginning it is important to leftover time after finishing work. While play around with your schedule. Make this may seem too enjoyable to resist, a plan to do your homework at certain it’s a sacrifice that has to be made in times of the day when you know you order to keep up with school and will not have any practice. Make sure sports. If you’re dedicated to your that you let yourself accept that this sport, your hard work will pay off in the time may not work out and allow your- end, and you’ll be well rested from a self to change your schedule a bit to fix full night’s sleep! The Devil’s Advocate your needs. This will allow you to get

When I say health reform, you say widespread media scare tactics.

By Zach LaVigne Unless you live under a rock, you Now, granted, there may be some bias in have heard about the Obama adminis- the way in which the plan is put out. tration’s push for healthcare reform. However, it is put out so that anyone (inChances are you’ve heard the informa- cluding radicals who spin it around until tion from online public access sites or the it’s unrecognizable) can read it. It’s put news (because horror stories from the out in the midst of full-blown riots every Capital make really great television), and time an inaccuracy is found. Because you’ve picked a side and developed firm you know all this, you can bet your dollar beliefs based on this “information” (be- that it is going to be pretty darn accurate. cause that’s what us nationalistic Ameri- If it’s not, the president will unfortunately cans do). That’s what I did. But then I be dumped on by all of America. So what went to an official government website exactly does the plan say according to and found the actual plan, and realized the official government website? That’s how ridiculous some of the claims of the why I’m here. news and public access media were. I If you already have health insurance, decided to clear things up a bit. you will be able to keep any plan you curSo Obama’s health plan will allow him rently have. The plan will make it illegal to affirm his socialist footing, kill off the to discriminate against those with pre-exold people, drive everyone else bank- isting conditions, and there will be no rupt, destroy the American economy gender/age discriminations in premiums. even further, all while giving everyone It will protect and improve (not destroy bouts of swine flu and the sniffles — and let burn) Medicare while eliminating right? Of course not! Is our nation racist the “donut-hole” gap in prescription drug enough to believe that because he is not coverage on which millions of seniors white, Obama is actually an agent of spend an average of $4,080 out of pockOsama bin Laden who faked his birth et on. The plan will make preventive care certificate to gain access to the highest free to reduce the risk of getting sick echelons of America’s governing body while refusing companies the right to so that he can destroy the country from drop coverage if you do get sick or when the inside? Now some of you might you need it most. Currently, many people make a counter-argument by citing your don’t take preventive measures because information from an online source or a they cost too much. Finally, the plan will news show. That doesn’t mean it’s reli- cap out-of-pocket expenses and prevent able. Anyone can post anything on the the imposition of “annual or lifetime caps Internet; there are still claims that the on benefit payments.” Holocaust never happened. Unless the If you don’t have insurance, the plan information is from a very well known will create the Exchange, a marketplace and respected periodical’s website or an that allows people “to compare plans and official government website, who knows buy insurance at competitive prices” who put the stuff out there? And for those based on quality and benefits. This marwho claim that News shows are reliable, ket will contain a public option for those you’re in luck; they usually are. However, who can’t afford private insurance. It will news companies are headed by hu- increase competition, “[hold]…companies mans, and humans desire money. They accountable, and assure affordable don’t really care what gets put on their choices.” Immediately, those without instations as long as it is some form of the surance because of pre-existing conditruth and makes money. Fortunately, tions will get coverage “without a markloud stories that spin the truth around up due to their condition” until the exmake great news, and loud people are in change is created in 2013. Finally, there excess in this American culture. I actual- will be tax credits that facilitate businessly don’t know any CEOs of news compa- es providing coverage for workers and nies, and the previous was a generaliza- cap what a family spends on premiums. tion that is not supported by fact, but reEveryone gets an improvement in deally. Watch the news and tell me some- livery quality and incentives for improved thing that doesn’t captivate you. Capti- care, the creation of groups of doctors vating news stories = more viewers = and other medical experts who report to more $. So in a world where a Nobel congress with Medicare improvements Peace Prize winner can become the next (this is NOT the infamous death panel Hitler, what should you trust? that will kill off granny if she isn’t up to Official government sites, of course! snuff, because there is no such thing. It http://www.whitehouse.gov/ is a website was denounced by Obama in his conput out by the president of our nation to gressional address), and not a dime of inform the public of political affairs. It’s deficit increase. He will include immedifunny, though, how many people’s first ate medical malpractice reform that can information about healthcare came from put the focus back on helping patients, that site. One can easily peruse the links, and the plan will require everyone who and quickly find the president’s health plan right there for everyone to see. See Health reform, page 16

Friday, November 13, 2009

Devil’s Advocate

The New Faces of Guidance By Emily Shoemaker Meet Mrs. Lynn Schofield and Mrs. Rebecca Sinusas, the new faces of our guidance department. This summer, these two ladies made the trek up the street from Strong to join us at CRHS and lend a hand in guidance. Mrs. Schofield, as you may remember, was previously a guidance counselor at the Middle school, but with the retirement of Ms Lynn Williams last year, Mrs. Schofield has taken over letters A through H in the school alphabet. Currently, Mrs. Schofield has been focusing on the seniors and helping them with their plans for after high school. “I’ve been helping them with any obstacles that get in their way of being successful at school,” she said. Luckily, our new guidance counselor has been adapting well to the Coginchaug atmosphere, “It’s very different from Strong, but not in a bad way,” Mrs. Schofield commented. “[It takes some time] getting used to the whole college application process.” Those worried about another change in guidance staff, have no fear: Mrs. Schofield is here to stay. “I’m very happy to be here,” she said. “It’s nice to get to see all the students again and how they’ve changed and grown. And the staff, counselors, and administration are

all very nice.” But Mrs. Schofield isn’t the only “newbie” in guidance; say hello to Mrs. Sinusas. You may remember her as Miss Evert, one of the special education teachers at Strong, but after going to grad school part time for five years and getting married in the summer, Mrs. Sinusas finds her change in career exhilarating. “It’s exciting to reinvent myself as a counselor, not just as a teacher, and to mesh the two together,” she said. Mrs. Sinusas, in order to return to Strong Middle School as a guidance counselor in the winter, is with us as a guidance intern until December. “I really like being here,” she said. “It will help me to be a better counselor at Strong.” After teaching special education for six years and having students come to her for advice, Mrs. Sinusas found a new passion. “I loved the connection with those students, and I wanted to bring it to the next level to help them,” she said. Working at CRHS has also proved to be rewarding, “[I love] helping people better themselves and reach for their dreams to prepare for the future,” she said. So, let’s give a big, warm welcome to Mrs. Schofield and Mrs. Sinusas, the new guidance staff!

Where Your Parking Money Goes By Jaclyn Caturano For students, the best part of senior and junior year is being able to drive to school. Finally, no more getting up early to only sit on the bus for sometimes a half an hour or even getting a ride in from mom or dad. Now, students have the freedom to pick up their friends, listen to their favorite music and even stop to get some Dunkin Donuts in the morning. But parking in Coginchaug’s school parking lot is a privilege for students. To be able to park, you have to have a parking pass, which you hang from your rear view mirror. The fee is $25. Most students do not see the need for this fee and do not understand where the money is going. Coginchaug’s central office business manager Mr. Ron Melnik said, “The $25 fee goes to the general fund. The general fund is a fund that helps offset all costs to the school. The fund is not designated to any particular thing.” There is a lot that goes into keeping

up a parking lot, too. Head of security. Mr. Richard Astorino, and head custodian, Wayne Kaminski, say that people don’t realize how much they do. They have to sweep and repaint the lines once a year, sand and plow during the winter, and pick up all the garbage left in the parking lot. Also, the fee goes toward security and lighting all year round. Besides the cost of the fee, the other big question students have is, when is the parking lot going to be paved? It is full of pot holes, and the pavement is cracked. When it rains, puddles form easily all around. Mr. Melnik says that they already have a plan for paving it. “After the completion of the new track facility, which will hopefully be this spring into summer, we will begin the paving of the parking lots.” We have to wait until after the track is complete because of all the bulldozers and equipment that are going to be used and parked on the old parking lot.

Guiding Parents Through College Apps Mrs. Schofield

Mrs. Sinusas

FYI: For Yearbook Information By Michelle Palma Walk into the high school computer lab on a Monday or Wednesday night and you’ll see about 20 dedicated students continually working to create the new yearbook for the class of 2010. Believe it or not, the first deadlines are already approaching, and there are some important dates coming up for the senior class. Senior packets will soon be available online through a link on the school library’s website. The packets will contain senior paragraphs of no more than 400 characters, the Class Will and “Remember When” topics, so make sure to submit your packet before the Nov. 25 deadline. Parent ads can also be purchased by family members to display congratulatory messages and treasured images from the past. Information has been sent by mail to all parents of seniors. It may still seem early in the 2009-10 school year, but the Coginchaug High School yearbooks are already on sale. The books can be purchased online at www.yearbooksonsale.com or by picking up one of the forms around school and bringing a check to Ms. Brickley in room 112. This is a great time to purchase books because personalization is only available until Jan. 14. After that date, the original price of $65 will be increasing to $70 followed by $75 on March 1st. So hurry home and order your yearbook today!

By Dan Fonseca Seniors at Coginchaug are in the process and introduced and explained midst of some of the most stressful times the new application tool, Family Connecof their high school career. In a time tion, on Naviance. where seniors are facing upcoming The timeline sheets provided at the SATs, ACTs, and college applications, meeting offered all students a “Senior the Coginchaug guidance department Year Calendar” to use as a checklist for held a meeting to help lessen some of what needs to get done over the course that stress. of the next four to five months. On Thursday, October 1, CoginThe Naviance tool is relatively new for chaug’s guidance department hosted both the guidance team and the stuthe Senior-Parent-College Night in the dents. It is a unique and effective tool auditorium. In an effort to help with the that will certainly aid the college process. college application process for seniors With an individual account for every senand their parents, guidance head Beth ior, Family Connection explains GPA Galligan hoped for this event to be a suc- and SAT or ACT test scores for the stucess. “It is important for the seniors and dents. In addition, it has a feature that altheir parents to hear the same thing lows students to pick and choose their tonight, and be on the same page for this top colleges of choice for applications. It process,” Mrs. Galligan said on Thurs- also tracks deadlines, is a search engine day evening. “Then, when this process is for potential scholarship opportunities, completed and students are accepted, and helps develop resumes. they can continue their focus on sucThe new program allows students to fill cessful completion of their senior year.” out transcript requests online and fill out Along with other guidance counselors other necessary information required to Beth Melillo and Lynn Schofield, Galli- apply to college. While it is a new program gan and her team outlined the key dates and timeline for the college preparation See Guiding Parents, page 16

Devil’s Advocate

Friday, November 13, 2009

Students Work Together for Harmony By Joe Oblon What happens when students from some of the songs were just okay, but competitive shoreline schools come to- the people in the audience were amazed gether to make music? The answer is by the music,” said senior Hannah surprisingly simple: Harmony. Kowalski. This October, about 20 students from Some, such as senior Emily Field, Coginchaug traveled to Old Saybrook were drawn to the festival to work on High School to practice and perform in their vocal techniques. “The best part the 2009 Shoreline Music Festival. Students were chosen based on their hard was learning new ways to improve my work and excellence in either band or singing,” said Emily. “It was awesome to meet a bunch of new people.” chorus classes here at the school. Others liked the opportunity to work “I’ve been doing it for all four years,” said senior Ben Morganti. His favorite with a higher level of musicianship. “The piece performed by the chorus was best part was definitely the experience “Dide Ta Deo,” a difficult African song. of rehearsing in a more professional Both the chorus and band only had band,” said sophomore Zach LaVigne. six to seven hours of practice time to- “The best song was the ‘Barn Dance,’ gether as a group. The students learned the third movement of ‘Country Bandthe music individually at home, while the stand.’ The director was great: he was group as a whole worked on the phras- animated, funny and encouraging but ing and musicality of each piece at the really worked hard with the band.” rehearsals. While the directors for the chorus and Hannah Kowalski in her new Adirondack chair. “It helps [students] to focus on music band were unable to comment due to at a higher level,” said Coginchaug band time, both had participated in music fesdirector Dean Coutsouridis. “They are preparing music for a concert in two re- tivals before. The chorus director, SalvaBy Rachel Kowalski hearsals. The level of concentration is tore Cicciarella, participates in several music festivals a year. much higher.” An exciting and successful craft fair more people walking about the school “The band director was really cool,” At the end of the day, both groups came and passed this last Saturday. with bags full of all sorts of goods. performed a concert for friends and fam- said sophomore Frank Posca. “I would Coginchaug Regional High School held The raffles were successful as well. ily. “I loved how at the concert I thought definitely do it again next year.” its 33rd annual craft fair. All plans came Pulling prizes all throughout the day together when the doorways became were several Coginchaug student volunfilled with eager buyers. A table full of teers. All of this worked up to the final rafbaked goods, gymnasium packed with fle for the large wooden Adirondack vendors, and cafeteria occupied by wait- chair. By mid-day, the raffle had nearly a ers and guests were proof that this was hundred tickets entered. At the end of going to be another good year for the the day, the ticket was finally pulled. The fair. small yellow rectangle showed the name By the end of the day, the kitchen staff of Hannah Kowalski, a Coginchaug senwas running low on a few soups and ior who had been volunteering at the fair other various food items; another good that day. “I didn’t believe it,” Kowalski sign that this craft fair was successful. said, “I only entered one raffle ticket!” The table that was once too small for the Thanks to the countless volunteers, hundreds of brownies, cookies, and workers, and buyers, the fair was possicakes that smothered it became less ble. Hopefully an even more successful and less crowded. And you began to see fair will be possible next year.

Crafting at Coginchaug

The Votes Are In! By Cam Pollitt

Powderpuff to Challenge Cromwell By Jaclyn Caturano Who says football is just for the boys? This year will be the fourth year for senior and junior girls at Coginchaug to play Powderpuff football. But this year there’s going to be a new tradition. In the past, the senior girls have played against the junior girls, both teams usually coached by a teacher and boys on the football team in their grade. Every year the senior girls have won. But for this year’s game, the senior vs. junior game will still remain, but the seniors will be playing Cromwell the day before Thanksgiving. Spanish teacher Ms. Kate Martino is going to be in charge of organizing the games. She said when she was in high school at Lyman Hall, their powderpuff game vs. Sheehan High School was one of the biggest events that took place all year. She would like to make Coginchaug’s powderpuff game that big, too. Physical education teacher Ms. Clare Matasavage, who has been in charge of

Powderpuff for the past four years, has given the coaching position over to Miss Martino. “Teaching football in the touch football class has really helped the girls understand the game. Now, they can have a sense of how to play football for the Powderpuff game,” said Ms. Matasavage. In the Cromwell game, all senior girls will be playing, along with some junior girls who will be subs. Senior Marie Roberts said, “We’re definitely going to give Cromwell a run for their money. Our team this year has a lot of potential.” Both senior and junior teams this year have many athletic girls, and it looks to be a good, competitive game. Junior vs. Senior Game at CRHS: Friday, Nov. 13, at 3 p.m. CRHS Powderpuff Team vs. Cromwell H.S Powderpuff Team: Wednesday, Nov. 25, at 1 p.m.

After a surprising number of potential candidates dropped out of the race, the senior class had only a single competition for the esteemed leadership positions of their class. Lauren Stafford has been the class secretary since freshman year. She is extremely excited for this year since it brings the most responsibility of any grade, and she is sure she can handle it. Lauren often brings to light the many hours of labor that the class council puts in, which numerous students take for granted. Her immediate concern for this year is the prom, which is often considered the make or break sign of how well the class leaders did. Lauren is not shortsighted though, and plans on helping set up class reunions in the future. Another veteran since freshman year is Elizabeth Meiman, the class treasurer, who understands the importance of the dollar sign when it comes down to planning dances and school events. Elizabeth said, “I have helped to organize at least three dances, and we need to know how much money we have for

decorating and other details.” Elizabeth has managed the money of the senior class since freshman year, and it is quite a large sum. In fact, the Class of 2010 has raised more money than any other class in Coginchaug history. Returning once again, Danielle Charette has taken her role as class president, to remain the leader of the 2010 class. Eddy Ruddy failed to defeat the incumbent, who has held this position since sophomore year. After a close race, Danielle looks forward to continuing to strengthen the class and assuring Coginchuag will always remember the Class of 2010. “My main concerns for this year are class unity and participation,” Danielle said. She also wishes to donate a respectable class gift to the school. Danielle believes that she has demonstrated her ability to handle the position of class president through hard work and dedication to her commitments. The prom is also a dominant concern on the mind of the 2010 president, who said she “wants it to be smooth and memorable.”

Friday, November 13, 2009

Devil’s Advocate

Coming Home to Coginchaug By Katelynn Hill chips and soda. Some students already felt pressure having to buy dress clothing for Homecoming, which is already expensive and out of some student’s money range. “It’s always interesting going shopping with your friends an hour before the dance so you have something to wear,” said junior David Wheeler. Shopping and what to wear is always the most talked about subject before a dance. The cost for Homecoming and what to wear wasn’t the only discussion of that evening; many were disappointed in the music that was played. “They didn’t even play one slow song. The music got better an hour before the dance ended,” said

Fall Fashion Fever By Jennie Ochterski ‘Tis the season of warm, fitted white buttondown. To woolly coats, knitted scarves, avoid the “penguin” look, utilize and insulated boots. How to bright silver jewelry in today’s stay warm and look great on a geometric shapes or a more rebudget plagues many autumn laxed chain and pendant style. lovers in Connecticut. Places like Joann Fabrics and Essentials for the chilly sea- Michael’s Crafts are great for son include a fitted blazer in a purchasing inexpensive penneutral color like gray or dark dants, which can be paired with brown. These are available al- a chunky silver chain. most anywhere and can be reThis fall, it’s all about accesplaced by a slouchy, cable knit sories. Little touches in unexsweater with a tie or leather belt. pected places, such as ornate There is no need to run out and jean’s pockets or bright earrings, purchase this season’s studded are a must have. Jewel-tones, gold belts; most women already like royal purple and teal, make own a leather belt or can borrow great contrasts to fall’s basics. one from a man in their life. A Scarves create a bright contrast belt is necessary to define the to a black pea coat or a bland top waist and to add interest to a and can be purchased at stores simple neckline. like Target and Forever 21. Dark colored bootleg pants Remember, it’s not about are great for dressy occasions how much you pay, it’s about and can be more casual with a how the item looks on you!

Swine Flu Diaries

had my bottle of Purel in my backpack, my pockets were loaded with cough drops, and a package of Kleenex stuck out of my jacket. I was ready to face this bully once and for all, and this time I wasn’t going down. Students have gradually been returning to school, but we have all learned a valuable lesson. The fight against swine flu and flu season as a whole is difficult, but we can all help by washing our hands and covering our mouthes when we cough or sneeze. Also, some advice from me to you: Don’t make the same mistake I did; if you are sick, stay home and focus on getting better. Don’t try to tough it out because you’ll only get more people sick, and you won’t get any better.

Dressed for Homecoming, from left, Alicia Lisitano, Taylor DelVecchio, Hayllee Reidy and Julia Gossner. party! There were many students complaints, everyone seemed to at the dance, and despite a few be having a great time.

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x’s with their fingers and pretended to ward off an evil demon as I passed while others shifted away, trying to avoid my cloud of impurity. When the bus careened forward and a new bout of gut-wrenching coughs shook my body, I regretted not listening to my mom. My mantra for the past couple days had been “This is just a common cold,” but as I faced the alienation of my friends, a new doubt crossed my mind: Could I have swine flu? Well, I ended up leaving school early and returning the following Monday. As medication coursed through my veins, I got on the bus to face a whole different scene. This time it was me attempting to stay in my own sanitized bubble, while others were sneezing and coughing. I

(Continued from page 12)

sophomore Carley St. Amand. Songs played ranged from Michael Jackson, some country, classic, techno mixes to modern music. Who could forget the song dedicated to the football team “Party in the U.S.A.” by Miley Cyrus? “Some people left during the dance. It was light in the gym for a while which made the dance less fun,” said sophomore Abbey Kotlarz. A circle often developed in the middle of the dance floor with students from Vinal and Coginchaug break-dancing or having dance battles. Although Homecoming was enjoyable, some look forward to the gatherings before and after the dance. Many take pictures, have sleepovers, go out to eat, dress up with friends or have a

Start with a dream. Finish with a future!

The annual Homecoming dance is a night not only to celebrate our undefeated football team, but to be with friends and enjoy a night of dressing up, food, and of course, dancing. This year’s Homecoming, however, prompted some complaints, starting off with the increase in price for a Homecoming ticket. Homecoming used to be $10 a ticket. Now it is up to $12. Some students wonder if next year it will rise to an outrageous price of $14. “They should include pizza with that amount of money. Twelve dollars is way too much,” said Megan Campbell, a sophomore. The dance included a DJ with

Devil’s Advocate

Spring Break in Costa Rica?

Health reform one who can afford it to get health insurance. Large businesses will be required to either offer insurance or pay a fee to help cover insurance for its workers. I will grant to the anti-change groups that there are some flaws in the plan. According to an acnnmoney.com article from June 11, the ending of gender/age discrimination for premiums will force “young people to pay far more than their actual cost.” Also, forcing everyone to get healthcare may be a problem for those who are only just able to afford it. However, the fact is this is a good idea. Universal healthcare is a good idea. Just because something is universal does not mean that it is bad and will lead to the destruction of the country. Germany has universal healthcare, they still have a better economy than we do, and their people are happier because they can all get healthcare. It’s not even socialist. (No! The S word!) There are still multiple private companies, the exchange is driven by competition, and the only “socialist” part is the fact that it is universal. Nobody has any grounds to call Obama “Obamahdinejad” for actually trying to fix an important problem. These kinds of disrespectful accusations were being thrown out as recently as August of this year according to the Washington Post.

SAT Woes By Danielle Charette

By Lauren Stafford If you’re into zip-lining, kayaking, snorkeling, horseback riding, or hiking, the biennial Costa Rica trip is for you! Biology teacher Mr. Richard Pasieka is the coordinator of the excursion. Since the trip is over spring break (April 1218), students won’t miss a beat at school. Costa Rica has over 9,000 plant, 850 bird, and 200 mammal species. Students will have the chance to “learn some science,” said Mr. Pasieka. “It’s biologically the most interesting country on the planet.” Not to mention it’s tons of fun! On day one, students will be welcomed by their course leader and shown an overview of all of the things they will be learning. By day two, students will travel to Irazu volcano and observe its four craters and plant and animal life. They will learn about eruptions, and see the volcano rocks firsthand. Other activities throughout the next four days include: hiking, bird tours, a boat ride to Osa Peninsula, snorkeling off of Cano Island, horseback riding, kayaking, and a taste of culture with Costa Rican cooking and dancing lessons. Lora Manley, a junior who attended the Costa Rica trip her freshman year, says that the students “were not limited to one specific location, but traveled to different parts of Costa Rica, visiting a few conservations and muse-

Friday, November 13, 2009

ums along the way. It was also really cool because of the language and culture. Although I was only a Spanish I student, I was still able to put my knowledge of the language to use, and learned many additional words there as well.” The trip is a chance to put skills that students learn every day at school to work in the real world. It gives new perspectives and gives kids a chance to travel somewhere truly unique. The Costa Rica expedition that students took two years ago may be similar, but definitely not identical to this one. Additions this year include “more coastal activities. We’ll be spending more time on the ocean,” said Mr. Pasieka. This year they will be snorkeling on the “Pacific cost of Costa Rica.” Also, sea kayaking in Biesanz Bay will be available. Students certainly have heard only positive things about this adventure since its start two years ago. Mr. Pasieka is the only teacher going on the trip for now, but he hopes to have more. So far, there are only six students who signed up to go. Mr. Pasieka would like to have at least 15 students. This is a trip of a lifetime not to be missed! He is “willing to open it up to other schools. Kids from Mercy or Xavier could come too,” he said. (Continued from page 12) And the flaws in the plan are not unfixable. In a country where I can get thousands of songs on a device as small as my hand while browsing the Internet anywhere on the planet using my finger, these problems can’t be impossible. However, the classic story of political partisanship will not allow for a solution. During Obama’s address to Congress about healthcare, the Republican side generally remained seated, using inappropriate comments and being generally angry while the Democratic side was having a party. Nothing can get solved this way. If Congress can for one day forget about being politically appealing to voters and instead attempt to actually work towards getting something done, the healthcare issue can be solved. Obama’s plan is a great idea, but it is only a draft. It needs fixing, and it needs fixing from EVERYONE. So for a while, why don’t we tone down our nationalistic, partisan views and fix the problem instead of scaring the public with outrageous claims of death and socialist destruction? This only complicates the process. The problem with health reform was accurately summed up in a potential ad for Obama’s plan on YouTube, so I will end with the quote. “ Isn’t it time we started acting like adults?’”

See more news on our website: www.crhsnews.org

These days, if you listen to the junior and senior high school students, America isn’t so much in grave danger of terrorism or global warming or even the swine flu. Instead, our nation sits in desperate vulnerability to a three-headed acronym. That is, there’s a triplet of letters out there keeping a Cerberus watch over American academia. You guessed it! The SAT. The Scholastic Aptitude Test is bated as a race-mongering, vocabvexing ogre, polarizing the country into the Knows and Know-Nots. An epidemic haunts the college admissions process, goading university staff into playing Russian Roulette with young people’s futures based on arbitrary numerical scores. We might as well admit Bingo champs into Stanford. Or hopscotch our way into Harvard. But this is all hogwash because the SAT serves a real and viable purpose in this country for the two million plus students who gather snacks and scientific calculators and wield their sharpened Ticonderogas through layers of questions like swords. I began to write this article with the intention of exposing the merits of the SAT in our American meritocracy, yet I soon realized this was delusional — a mental state most likely induced by spending too much time in the anemic dungeon known simply as “the testing room.” I’ve never met anyone who relishes the early Saturday morning wake-up call to contemplate triangles. In fact, anyone who does is probably a square. Aren’t there anti-collusion laws which prevent the monopolistic titan that is College Board, the service which lords over SATs and AP exams? In their heyday, Carnegie and Rockefeller amassed terrific fortunes via steel and oil, but my question is, who is the almighty billionaire behind College Board? I bet the exec is lounging in the Vanderbilt mansion as I dutifully pay $9.50 a pop for colleges to

Guiding Parents that some students felt wary about before Thursday evening, most feel much more comfortable about continuing this important journey. “The session made me feel much more prepared,” said senior Joe Oblon. “I’m much more ready to be able to meet senior obligations.” Senior Jack Bascom also felt the informative session was successful and helpful. “It was an excellent, informative session, and it really helped me learn more about my college process,” he said. Parents were also very pleased with the session, as the process will involve their assistance as much as the seniors themselves. “Tonight was great,” said Joanne Ruddy, mother of senior Eddy Ruddy. “I like how Naviance is easy to access for both the parents and students to see where the student is.” Some students, however, didn’t view the entire night as a success. All seniors

receive my scores. Where’s Teddy Roosevelt and his trust-busting friends to break up this market domination that puts Steve Jobs to shame? I demand an SEC investigation.

The theory goes that back in the 1920s the test allowed colleges, specifically Harvard, to redefine their blueblood reputations in the name of a “natural aristocracy” based on intellectual promise. Yet these days the polo-playing preppies have simply been usurped by the test gurus, and I’m not sure who’s worse. Testing tyrants, as I’d like to refer to them, are those 2400-perfect-score-wieldingGreek-gods who often work for test-help agencies like the Princeton Review to help students boost performance with a kind of you-too-can-dominate-the-multiple-choice-galaxy kind of attitude. Essentially, these SAT gods take their testing skills on the road in some highbrow version of the circus. It’s a traveling show I’m willing to skip, especially if I have to calculate the girth of the elephants.

Writing in defense of the SAT, Booker Peck, a professor at Oberlin College, writes, “The SAT is not the cause of discrepancy in academic performance…any more than a blood test and EKGs are responsible for diabetes and heart attacks…Abolishing blood and EKG tests would do nothing to reduce diseases, and abolishing the SAT would do nothing to improve the academic health of America’s students.” I find it ironic that Peck should use a heart analogy, because at the mention of the SAT, I can feel my circulator system palpitate to such a thunderous rhythm that it may be mistaken for a contraband cellphone ringing in the testing room. It’s too bad “disqualification” is too simple a concept to be a vocabulary term. (Continued from page 13) had already been introduced to the program in their English classes within the past six months, and another night of the same information didn’t sit well with some. “I thought there was going to be more information,” said senior Sarah Bugai. “It was all information that was just repeated to us.” Senior Cam Pollit agreed. “The meeting was repetitive for students,” he said. “And if you haven’t told your parents about this stuff yet, you’re not helping yourself for college.” Mrs. Galligan couldn’t have felt better about Thursday night. “We hoped that tonight would make students and their parents feel much more comfortable with the entire college process. Hopefully, it will keep everyone on track and able to get things done,” she concluded.

Friday, November 13, 2009

Devil’s Advocate

Coginchaug Sports

This is Our Turf

Run to the Sun

By Sarah Bugai

By Joe Oblon and Emily Shoemaker

With the actual construction of Coginchaug’s sport complex at a standstill, students are wondering exactly what some of the issues are. Between arguments over lights, students allegedly peeing on neighbors’ lawns, and projected traffic, it seems as though no one can agree upon anything. Among these controversial topics that citizens have put forth at the Board of Education meetings is the turf field. Artificial grass can either be viewed as a godsend or a completely horrible idea. Neither side seems to agree which would be best for our complex — grass or turf? “It’d be good to have turf,” senior soccer player Erika Blechert said. “It’s really fun to play on and better than grass.” Grass, or the more technical name of graminoid, has been around since the beginning of time. Children have been playing their sports on grass ever since sports came into existence. Grass is a versatile plant that can withstand cold mountains, dry deserts, and even the diverse climate of Coginchaug. However, most real sports complexes with fields of grass take a lot of time and money to keep up. Constant maintenance, including painting of lines, watering, mowing, and fertilizing, is key to the upkeep of any sports field. Nonetheless, without grass in the environment, it could cut back on the biodiversity in the area. Grass is also the natural eliminator of dust, but locals with allergies more than likely wouldn’t see a real change if artificial turf came to town. Artificial turf does not require such regular painting, mowing, or constant watering. Turf comes with pre-painted lines, which can last upwards of ten years, and only needs a cleaning with

disinfectant a maximum of once a month. Some of the down sides of turf include more likelihood of abrasion or cuts due to sliding, and the average temperature of turf exceeding grass, making it quite hot on summer days. Although some older versions of turf were composed of recycled tires and other rubbers that could potentially release chemicals into the environment, most artificial turfs these days are determined safe and won’t leak such chemicals. Turf is also costly in the beginning; however, without the same constant maintenance as grass, it is cheaper for the future. “I understand the concerns people have about turf with the initial expense, but in the long run it’s less expensive,” said assistant football coach and social studies teacher Eric Kallberg. Do locals in Durham and Middlefield actually mind getting a turf field, though? With each passing Board of Education meeting, it seems as though everyone has an issue with the new turf. “It’s all about the grass,” junior soccer player Eric Reilly said. “Turf is horrible! You fall down once and you break everything.” In a local poll of 30 students at Coginchaug, I asked, “How do you feel about the possible turf field at school?” An even 50 percent is “excited to have turf.” Only 20 percent responded that they “would rather have grass,” and 30 percent said, “I don’t care.” Although the turf has already been approved and hopefully will be constructed in the near future, it’s good for every student and citizen to understand the different views of it. Whenever you step foot on the artificial turf, you can be the informed citizen who can decide for yourself: Better than grass?

Hi-yah! Mixed Martial Arts at CRHS By Cody Given A new trend has hit Coginchaug like wildfire; it’s called Mixed Martial Arts, better known as MMA. MMA is fighting brought to the extreme. A large number of Coginchaug students have become obsessed with MMA and its elite fighting division UFC (Ultimate Fighting Championship). Sophomore Justin Miller said, “MMA is incredible. It’s a mix of boxing, kickboxing, muay thai, judo, wrestling, and Brazilian jujitsu. Fighting takes soul and skill, and people who think it’s dumb don’t understand.” “UFC and MMA is a way of life, not just fighting,” said junior James Crompton. “To be a fighter you have to have soul and determination.” MMA is a mix of six main fighting styles and numerous skills. The fighters are broken down into five weight classes: lightweight, welterweight, middleweight, light heavyweight, and heavyweight. Each fighter usually has two different styles — a standing style

and a ground style. Each match can last anywhere from three rounds of three minutes each to five rounds of five minutes, and it’s not over until a fighter gets a KO, TKO, or a submission win. MMA has had plenty of opposition, and people say that the fighters are putting themselves in unnecessary danger. Like any other sport, MMA has plenty of dangers. When it comes down to it, MMA is a lot safer then boxing. In boxing you get knocked out a bunch of times and keep on getting back up. In MMA, you get knocked out once. So when it comes to brain damage, you get a lot less with MMA. Fighting has been around since the dawn of time, and it’s something humans are very good at. There is no reason to fight that fact, so why not have the fights in a controlled environment? Most fighters describe MMA as therapeutic. So maybe the occasional fight is a good thing.

With over 600 runners, unusually warm conditions, and high hopes for victory, the Coginchaug cross-country teams hit the ground running at last month’s Run to the Sun meet. On Thursday, September 24, Coginchaug held its annual home cross country meet. As busses arrived, the Coginchaug sports complex filled with excitement. “It’s definitely nice to relax and have everyone come to us,” said junior Carleen Doyle. “We know where to pick up the pace and where to slow down so we can do our best,” said junior Nate Szymanski. Besides the time to relax before races, home meets have other advantages. “We know the course, we practice the course,” said boys’ captain Ben Shoudy. “[We should] definitely do better than last year. Everyone’s working harder as a team, not just individually.” Teamwork is a very substantial part of the girls’ group as well. Each August the team heads out to Massachusetts to camp at Wellfleet. “It’s an awesome experience. It’s really nice to get together and meet the freshmen,” said senior Amanda Bedding. Sophomore Emily Carria also commented on the cross-country team’s unity. “We do a lot of stuff like spirit and team dinners,” she said. “We’re just really close and it helps relieve stress.” But meets aren’t just for students. Parents as well enjoy the events. “It’s one of the most fun things you can do as a parent because you get a chance to see the kids do their activities,” said Paula Bedding, mother of junior David and senior Amanda. “We usually run like crazy people from one spot to another, we cheer them on. We have as good a time as the

kids do, if not better,” “It’s very social,” said Bitty McCormick, another parent, “[The team does] a great job of supporting each other, helping each other out, cheering each other on, working as a team and, recognizing each one as an individual.” “It’s more about personal things,” Mrs. Bedding chimed in, “everyone cheers when you beat your own best record. It doesn’t matter if you come in last, first, or don’t come in at all. And that’s just wonderful.” Hopes were high for Coginchaug’s results, “I’m just going to try not to come in last,” junior Henry Willis said. “We have a good varsity team, but JV runners have a little bit to go,” said junior David Bedding prior to the race. “Things are good. The teams are fantastic today. The volunteers are making this happen,” assistant coach Mr. Jack McShane said. Coach McShane was right. Varsity boys came in third place overall, with Alex Morin arriving in first for boys’ varsity on the 3.1-mile course. Seniors Sheehan Michael and Ben Shoudy came in 10th and 20th respectively. For the boys’ junior varsity, senior Josh Pollitt finished in sixth place. Freshmen Sean Rogers came in 18th. “Best race I’ve run yet. It was awesome,” said Sean. “Home field advantage was a big help.” Girls’ varsity finished the race in sixth place overall, with Emily Halligan coming in 21st. Amanda Pressutti led the girls’ junior varisty to fourth place, coming in 16th. “It’s never bad weather for the Run to the Sun,” said principal Dr. Steve Wysowski. Watch the video online at crhsnews.org.

Girls’ Varsity Soccer Seniors

Photo by Karen Kean

The girls’ varsity soccer team is in the state playoffs due in no small part to the talents of senior players, from left, Sarah Woolley, Sarah Bugai, Elizabeth Meiman, Danielle Charette, goalie Erika Blechert, Caitlin Breen, Taylor Edinger and Laura Reimer.

Devil’s Advocate

Friday, November 13, 2009

Where the Path Leads: Letters to Michelle ing friend. She was one of the strongest girls I knew. Through it all she always had a smile. Rock the fuzzy boots in Heaven, love! R.I.P. Angel.” Love, Kathy

By now you have all heard of the horrific crash that took the life of fellow student and friend Michelle DiVicino. At about 1:24 am on Nov. 7 Michelle was in the passenger seat of Brian Peeler’s car when he lost control of it and careened into a field off Durham Road. The cause of the crash is under investigation. Michelle, as many of you know, was a senior in Coginchaug. She was a great person, full of life, excitement and potential. “She was one of my best students this year. She was passionate and hard working and funny. It gave me a lot of pride to see her become so successful. It was just a few days ago when I showed her grade for first quarter. She said it was her first A in high school. She was so proud,” Mr. Nate Fisher said. Even though her potential will never be fulfilled, we must keep her alive in our hearts. “Meeshy boo, I remember when I hated you because you came uninvited to my party. Getting to know you has been amazing and so life changing! I’m gonna miss your loud obnoxious laugh and how you would say the stupidest things to make me laugh. I’m gonna miss shopping with you, how you were always attracted to the brightest colors and ‘blinged out’ items. I loved our late night McDonalds and Taco Bell runs, munchiest! This list could go on forever and ever. I wish you were still here, baby girl! I wish this never happened to you. I love you all with my little brown heart, haha. Look out for me, baby! Mija, you will be missed.” Love, Candace “My baby prima, Strong as a DiVicino can get. That’s what I love the most about you. Always strong-willed and respectful to most people, but when they ticked you off! …Oh boy, they would know. I can’t believe it happened like this, already, so soon! It was just recently that you had a home, a place where you were

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(Continued from page 11)

2010 school year. “Depending on what passes in the budget, we hope to redo the Citrix lab with computers similar to the new Mac lab across the hallway from the thin clients,” said Mr. Fielding. “The changes would be done over the summer. It would be an even greater inconvenience to shut down a computer lab during the active school year.” Teachers and students have invented a variety of tips and Citrix rules, designed around the temperamental program. “You can’t complain about the computers for the first 10 minutes of class,” said English teacher Mr. Nathan Fisher. “I noticed that students complained the most in the beginning of class. But once everything boots up, they work fine.” Students and teachers share thoughts of frustration when it comes to Citrix. Those located in the thin client lab will have to endure the year before changes are made.

“Michelle was one of the strongest girls I have ever met. No matter what it was, she would conquer it. She always knew how to put a smile on a sad face. She will be missed, and is so loved. I love you Michelle, save me a spot right next to you, beautiful.” R.I.P., baby, Bryanna Hawley

family and we loved you, and dad took care of you. You finally were settled and ready to move on. Well, you’re safe now, baby girl, and got pretty far. Livin’ life to the fullest at 17 years, but it was great. I will miss you and never forget the day I first met you, and knew I had a cousin my age. I was so proud, and so proud of the person you were becoming. I wish it didn’t have to be this way. R.I.P.” One Love, Nicky DiVicino “Michelle was always there for me, no

Miss Her front page of the regular paper. I saw her pick up that paper for the first time. She saw her photo and found her byline. She sniffed at the fresh newsprint. When Michelle smiled, she smiled with everything she had. On Tuesday, I showed her a computer print-out with all of her assignments from first quarter: 95.3 = A. She scanned it over to make sure it was real. But there it was, black and white; she did all her homework and got a B+ and an A on her first two articles. “Mr. Fisher, I seriously have never done this well in a class before,” she said. “You earned it, Michelle.” On Thursday I filled out my National Honor Society bookmark awards. Of all my students, I chose only four. Michelle’s bookmark was purple. In gold embossed letters, it told her to “Be the change you want to see in the world,” rom Mahatma Gandhi. Michelle was all about changing the world. She never got to read it. When people die, we assess them. It can be hard and cruel, but we judge. We can’t help it; we’re human. Was that person a good president, a good actor, a good father or mother? A good kid? But when kids die, we shouldn’t judge, because they weren’t done yet. Michelle was just learning how to be the change she wanted to see in the world.

“The DiVicino troop lost a soldier. Michelle was a unique girl who had a personality that could touch anyone. She wasn’t a person who just had a couple of friends. She talked to anyone and everyone. Everyone has suffered a great loss. I miss her, I feel like something’s missing every day I wake up. It’s a wound that won’t heal. If she can read this right now, I wanted to tell her how special she is matter if it was thick or thin. When she and how much she meant to me. I would walked by me in the hallway, a smile tell her she was someone I know would would appear on my face instantly. No be there always. I call her a soldier beone can replace such an awesome cause she has been through so much cousin. I love you, Michelle.” and could withstand anything, holding Love, Amanda DiVicino her head high doing it. Nothing could keep her down or hold her back. She had “I love you, Meesh, forever and ever, the heart of a lion. She was beautiful. and I will always have you written by my She’s an angel now, and I know I’ll see her again. It’s not goodbye; it’s I’ll see heart. I’m so sorry.” Love, Christine you later.” Love, Homez (Marie Roberts) “Michelle was one of a kind. No one will ever replace her. She was an amaz“Meesh, I love you with all my heart. You were the most passionate person I have ever met. People knew to get out (Continued from page 11) of your way if you set your mind to something. Throughout high school, She had survived a lot of hard times and you were always there for me, escpeshe was just starting to figure out what cially when I needed to have a good she could do. time. I know how much you have been So when you think of Michelle, you through, but you never stopped reachcan think of who she was, but also what ing. You were an amazing friend, and I she could have been: she was funny, was looking forward to what an incredihard-nosed, confident, poised, caring, ble adult you would have become. You pleasant, with a healthy streak of right- always had my back, and could pick me eous anger. She had a passion for truth up when I was down. I promise to live and a contempt for pomp. She was glee- each day with you in my heart. Thank fully indecorous. She wanted the most you for everything.” Love always, Katie controversial story, every issue. And she refused to be intimidated by anyone. I “When I heard the news, I went home can see her as a tough reporter who wouldn’t take no for an answer, or a civ- and cried for the first time in a long time. il rights attorney doggedly arguing for I couldn’t believe that you were gone, what’s right. I can see what she could and since then you’ve been in my mind have done and what she was just on the and my heart. Not two days ago she and verge of becoming. She would have I were talking about who made the best coffee at Dunkin Donuts and who was been someone we all needed. the better journalist when I knew it was The staff of the Devil’s Advocate her. At first I tried to comfort the one’s spent a lot of time thinking about what who I knew would be hurting exponential we should do with this issue. In less than more than me but I couldn’t find the three months, Michelle came to mean so words. Even now I’m still speechless and much to our journalism class and our pa- I know all I can do is try to keep her per. We’ve decided that she wouldn’t memory alive. Michelle I wish I had the have wanted the rest of the news to chance to tell you how much you instop, and of course, she would have spired me. Whenever I do something I’m wanted one of her stories right on the gonna think what would Michelle do. front page. But most importantly, she Man I wish you were here I would switch would have wanted everyone to know places with you in a heartbeat.” Much love Cody Given her through the words of those who knew her and loved her the most. We’ve See Path, next page done our best to present that here.

Friday, November 13, 2009

Path

(From page 18)

“Michelle will always be a strong presence in our Journalism class. Every time we’d walk in, she’d make sure we were working hard, and she helped make our class the best it could possibly be. She always had the breaking news story, with the most passion out of all of us to be a real journalist. I’m not so sure Journalism will be the same without her. She will be missed by all of us.” Senior Sarah Bugai “Michelle was a great writer. She loved what she did and was so passionate about every article she wrote. No one will be able to replace her presence in this room. But I kind of feel like she’ll always be here, watching over our paper, and making sure it gets done right.” Senior Laura Reimer

Devil’s Advocate in Town Times

classifications of people because she was more than that.” Senior Garri Saganenko “Michelle meant more to this school than many of us know. She was an example of how we all should be. Driven, courageous, passionate; these are the qualities that I respect about her. No matter whether you loved her or hated her, you had to respect her, because she wouldn’t have it any other way. As we in the senior class move through our final year, we should all strive to follow her example. To be better, to be more than simply drifting through school. We should be driven, we should remember that life is short, and a gift. It is to be cherished, not squandered. Never forget what she taught us.” Senior Tony Gambardella

“Michelle was always someone who could make me laugh. “Although I had known She would always find a way to Michelle as my classmate for make something worth comthe majority of my time in Re- plaining about funny and apgion 13, it wasn’t until this year pealing. She was the only perthat I would actually speak to son I knew who had the ability to her at length. Our assumptions, nickname a nickname. Instead our foolish human nature to of calling me “Fish,” like most judge, always gets the best of seniors do, she simply referred us. I won’t lie; I was once again to me as “Fishy.” I don’t even proved to be the fool. Michelle think I’ve ever heard her adand I were both enrolled in Jour- dress me by my real name. But nalism class this year. It wasn’t I am going to miss hearing Fishy long before that I learned of her terribly.” Senior Dan Fonseca ability to give a voice to the “Michelle DiVicino. I’m sitting voiceless, to use the public domain as a place to express her here in journalism, and I don’t talent. I began to get to know know what I am going to do Michelle, learning of her unique without you. You were always views on certain subjects, and the one to yell at me for not dohow she wholeheartedly de- ing my work and always try to fended them. I began to develop a tremendous amount of respect for her, both as my classmate and as a reporter. I learned that we must not resort to judgment, we must not read a lym_SS54_11_07:Layout label and believe it, but look 1be- 11/6/09 2:36 PM Page 1 yond it, look through society’s

get me to do it. Everyone in this class loved you, and no one will be able to run the editorial meeting better than you. I remember just the other day in math class, you were at the board doing some problem, and I was looking at you thinking ‘If anyone else ever tried to wear the things that Michelle wears, they would just look like an idiot.’ But not you, you always pulled it off. I hope you know that during your life so many different people loved you, and that you are going to be remembered and missed forever. But everyone who knew you knows that wherever you are, you’re having a good time.” Love always, Jaclyn Caturano “Michelle was one of the most dedicated writers. Every day she put her heart into journalism. She loved this class and was a huge part of everything. Our entire class will miss her. I admired Michelle’s amount of dedication and committment to writing. Her strong opinions led the class to stronger pieces of writing. She will never be forgotten. Her memory will live on in our journalism class and in the Devil’s Advocate.” Senior Lauren Stafford “Michelle, there are no words. There are no words. The feelings going through my head are indescribable; I miss you so much. Way too soon. One thing everyone knows is that you lived your life to the absolute fullest, something everyone strives for and something you achieved. We had our

good times and we had our bad times, like everyone. I hope you forgive me for all of the bad. Kinda like the time you punched me in the head in eighth grade. You could totally kick my ass. I can gladly admit to that. I’m grateful for both the good and the bad. Like the time we got kicked out of the movies after that guy freaked on us. Or the fair and all of the crazy things that happened. I miss you so much. I love you like crazy. You are the most fun I’ve ever had with a person, and I’ll never forget you. I love you, baby.” Dan Jacobs

“Hunny, I miss you and I hope you are surrounded by angels. You are beautiful and gone too young. I love and miss you.” Love, Lindsey Barzilauskas

ing face every day at school. I don’t know what all of us will do without you. I wish that things were easy for you when you were here and that it didn’t take this for so many people to realize how much you meant. All of us are so proud of the person you have changed into, and I am so glad that I got the chance to make millions of memories with you. You always knew what to say and when to say it and never let anyone push you around. You held your head up high and made everyone happy, even when you couldn’t make yourself happy. I will never ever forget you or the times we’ve shared. I love you so much, and all I want is for you to be with us right now.” Love always and forever, Alyssa Marrone XOXO

“I remember the first day I met you. It was in fifth grade in study hall, and I absolutely loved your laugh. I remember you being on the school bus with me every day up until ninth grade. I remember having classes with you and going on field trips with you and you were my buddy. I’ve always appreciated your relentless attitude and how you always backed me up. You were so much fun to be around, and I miss you and I wish it wasn’t true. I know I’ll see you in the future.” Love, Katie Carria

“Mitch, There’s nothing better to say except you made everyone laugh and kicked ass every day of ya life:) We’re all in the library telling stories about you now, and everyone’s laughing. You truly made my life better by always sharing a smile on your face and putting one on mine. Even more important, you made my fantasy with having Jess as my girlfriend a reality. I owe you so much, and right when I see you, I’ll pay ya back. Michelle, I love you, and I know you know that. Rest in

“You are an amazing person, and you have impacted so many different people’s lives. I cannot believe that I will not be seeing your beautiful, tan, smil-

peace, baby, and have fun in Heaven. I know you will. Love,Steve DelVecchio See Path, next page

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Devil’s Advocate in Town Times

Path

(Billy Joel).” Love, AJ Matalote (From page 19)

“I have always envied you and your limitless abilities. The type of power you had to always be you. Your unique personality to laugh at everything, making the best out of situations, and most of all, always smiling. (And I was always jealous of your perfectly dark tan!) Haha! You were always so strong, mentally and physically. You were ‘that girl’ I would never mess with. Michelle, you were so many things, but most of all, you will always be loved and greatly missed.” Love forever, Caitlin Breen “You would always seem to amaze me by standing for what you believed was right, being an extremely determined person, and just being you. You have taught me many things without even knowing you were.” Love, Mark “Michelle was the only person I know that would make anything possible funny. She was great, wild and beautiful. We had great times in touch football, and she was just an amazing person. I love you, Michelle.” Love Ross “Michelle, My breath is taken away and my mind can’t focus straight. You don’t understand the impact you made in this world. Losing you, with the unique personality you had, and the extra touch you brought as a great individual, made us all heartbroken. No one understands why great people like you are taken away. You had so much more of your life to fulfill and achieve. Michelle, you will always be in my heart and never be forgotten. I’m honored to have had a friend that put smiles on our faces. We all love you, and ‘only the good die young’

I never thought I’d have to write a letter like this to you, and can hardly face the fact that I actually am. There are so many memories I have of you, Michelle, and can write pages and pages of them all, but I’ll just tell you some of my favorites. The first goes all the way back to my eighth grade Halloween party. I guess I liked you at the time, because I remember waiting the entire party to see if you were actually going to show up or not. I was beyond excited when I got your call saying you were going to stop by. Later that night, some of the guys from the party and I decided to be a couple of bad asses and wander to the front of the house to play a few rounds of spin the bottle. You were one of the few girls that decided to come along. It was my first time actually playing the game, and I had no idea what was going to happen. After the bottle landed on me I watched as the neck of the bottle slowly landed on you. My heart sank. I’d never kissed someone before. I won’t get into details, because I’m sure you remember what happened, but if what you said was true, I’m truly sorry if I accidentally bit you. Ahaha. Then there was that time you burnt me that hip-hop CD. You named it the “Middy Mix.” I guess you got “Middy” by taking your name, Michelle, and combining it with 50 Cent’s nickname, “Fiddy”, to end up with “Middy”. I still have that CD, and have to tell you: it was the first hip-hop CD I had ever listened to, and still one of the best. Every time I hear something like “Candy Shop” by 50 Cent play on the radio, I immediately think of you and that CD you made me. The cool thing about you, Michelle was that you were so easy to talk to. You had a wide variety of interests and hobbies that let you connect with so

to be reckoned with. Michele was the kind of person who did not judge you for typical high school reasons. Her friends were from a wide range of backgrounds and cliques did not matter to her. It was the person you are that she was drawn to. I will terribly miss Michele and her memory will always be with me…inspire me…and make me think on how I can be a better person. With love, I will miss you Michele. Mr. Nemphos

many different kids in our school. You were everyone’s friend. I could seriously talk to you about anything, and no matter what it was, you could always let out a huge laugh and a smile to lighten up the situation. I can still see you smiling, and I can still hear you laughing – and I know that’s exactly what you’re going to be doing as you joyfully watch over us from above. I’ll miss you Michelle, we all will. For us, this might be the end of your time here on Earth, but for you, I know it’s just another beginning up there. Yours always, Brian MacDuff A wonderful young woman. Michele is the girl who was the inspiration in PE class. She was on her second quarter of taking my yoga class and when I was not feeling up giving an intense workout she would say “come on Mr. N. lets have a hard workout today”! I was so proud of her and referenced her effort, inspiration and physical gains on a multitude of occasions to both adults and her fellow classmates. Michele was one of only a few girls to have ever taken the touch football elective. She did not know the game but wanted to try something new as she did with the yoga class. Michele earned the respect of her football classmates and was a force

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See one more remembrance — from Ms. Mattei — on page 35. This is going to be a trying time for Coginchaug students and for Michelle’s friends, who she considered her family. Even though we won’t see her smiling face in the hallway we will always have a picture of a smart,

beautiful, funny, outgoing 17year-old woman locked away in our memories. We need to help one another and try to keep each other’s spirits up no matter how hard it is. As we reflect on a devastating loss, we must remember that with grief comes strength. Through the unity that this tragedy has wrought, we will emerge stronger and closer. To dwell solely on the negative is never the correct path. We must celebrate life, and celebrate the memory of a life well lived. Short, and ended far too soon, but nonetheless we remember Michelle as someone who loved her life. Someone of passion, true passion, a quality noticeably lacking in so many. The fire in her heart was one that will live on through her friends and family, those who knew her and understood her.

Obituaries Michelle Ericka DiVicino Michelle Ericka DiVicino, 17, of Pent Road, Durham, died tragically as a result of an automobile accident on Saturday, Nov. 7, 2009. Michelle was born in Hartford, Feb. 1, 1992, and was currently a senior at Coginchaug High School in Durham. She was a parishioner of Notre Dame Church and was employed at Dunkin Donuts in Durham. She is survived by her father, Michael A. DiVicino and his fiancée, Susan Stone of Durham; her sister, Ericka M. DiVicino of East Hampton; her brother, Richard Stone of Middletown; her mother, Carol Lubak of Waterbury; her paternal grandmother, Marylou DiVicino of Wallingford; her aunts and uncles, Diane Paplowski and her husband, Mike of Meriden, Lorraine Christian and her husband, Joe of East Hampton, Andrew DiVicino of Durham, Larry DiVicino and his wife, Donna of Wallingford, and Lorraine Lubak of Waterbury; and several cousins. Interment took place in St. John’s Cemetery in Wallingford. In lieu of flowers, gifts in Michelle’s memory may be sent to the Ericka M. DiVicino Education Fund, c/o The Wallingford Funeral Home, 809 North Main St. Ext., Wallingford, CT. 06492. www.wallingfordfh.com.

Maria Tchapraste Maria Tchapraste, 84, of Durham, wife of the late Gerald Semerjian, died Nov. 9, 2009, at Middlesex Hospital in Middletown. Born in Milano, Italy, she was the daughter of the late Giovanni and Lena Drago. Maria lived most of her life in Middletown before moving to Durham 20 years ago. Her family was her life. Maria’s family would like to thank everyone who made it possible to keep her home for so long and to the staff at the Weiss Hospice Unit. She is survived by two sons, Schahan Tchapraste and his wife, Bonnie, of New York, N.Y., Vasken Tchapraste of Kapaa, Hawaii; two daughters, Lucy Tchapraste and her husband, John, of Rhinebeck, N.Y., Geraldina Muzik and her husband, Tom, of Durham; five grandchildren, Vanessa, Cara, Alexandra, Tony and Zoe; two great-grandchildren, Katherine and Matthew; beloved grandpets, Rosie and Jacky; and many relatives in Italy. Memorial services were held at Doolittle Funeral Home. Interment will be at the convenience of the family. There will be no calling hours. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her name to the Weiss Hospice Unit, c/o Department of Philanthrophy, 55 Crescent St., Middletown, CT 06457. Messages of condolence may be sent to the family at doolittlefuneralservice.com.

Town Times

Friday, November 13, 2009

Off to Israel

The Rev. Dr. Elven Riggles, Senior Minister of the United Churches of Durham, is pleased to announce an April 2010 Pilgrimage to the Holy Land. Departing on April 20, this 10-day journey will follow in the Footsteps of Jesus and the Prophets of Old, visiting such faith-filled and spiritsteeped sites as Tel Aviv and Jaffa, Caesarea, Tiberias, Tel Megiddo, the Sea of Galilee

and Nazareth, Jericho and the Dead Sea, Bethlehem, Masada and the monastic settlement of Qumran where the Dead Sea Scrolls were found, as well as Jerusalem, with all those places so familiar from the Old and New Testaments, and much more. For more information, please contact Dr. Riggles at (860) 349-0742 or (860) 3493683.

Make Christmas brighter for the children at Riverview Hospital

Please visit us for a great selection of used books. If you like to read we have a book for you! We sell + accept for trading credits Gently Used Books of All Genres

shares the holiday spirit in groups and activities. They try to grant the children’s gift wishes as well as encourage the spirit of giving to others, and they have a variety of events designed to that end. If you wish to make a monetary donation, a check made out to the Riverview Hospital Patient Activity Fund would be most welcome. All monies received are expended only for patient activities and gifts. Donations are tax deductible. More info on donations can be obtained by contacting Tom Prue at (860) 704-4000.

Residents of the Village at South Farms in Middletown were treated to a Variety Show on Oct. 15 sponsored by the Middlesex County Toastmasters Club. The entertainment included performances by members and friends of the club. Pictured are Tom Alvord, formerly of Middlefield, playing banjo; Ashley Mason of Durham, singing; and Judith Moeckel of Killingworth, playing piano. The show was created as a way to express gratitude to the residents and staff for the use of their facility for Toastmasters’ meetings in the summertime. The evening included poetry, stories and a variety of music, including guitar and vocals performed by Eva and Ron Brunelle of Durham. Club president Cheryl Mason commented, “The show was a great success – there were lots of smiles and enthusiasm in the audience!” Middlesex County Toastmasters is a local chapter of Toastmasters International, with meetings held the second and fourth Thursdays each month at Middlesex Community College. Club members focus on continuous improvement of communication and leadership skills. Visitors and guests are always welcome. For more info visit: http://middlesex.freetoasthost.com/.

Local news Local events Local issues Every week in the

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For most of us, the holidays are a time of joy and happy memories with family and friends. It is the time of year when we open our hearts and give to others who are less fortunate. This has been a year when many of our neighbors face unemployment so it will be a great challenge to remember the children at Riverview Hospital. Riverview Hospital is the only publicly-operated psychiatric hospital for children in the state. Managed by the Connecticut Department of Children and Families, they have served 369 children in the past two years. This 88-bed facility with eight living units treats children ranging from five to 18 years of age, and provides mental health services for children who are experiencing extreme emotional and behavioral difficulties. For many of the children at Riverview Hospital, the holidays are filled with loneliness and the sadness of not being with family or having a home to go to. At Riverview, the staff

Our Schools in Town Times

Our scarecrows Mrs. Schlicker’s 4th grade

Above, Mrs. Schlicker’s class; below, their scarecrows. We hope you got a chance to see them during the recent Durham Library scarecrow event.

We are the students in Mrs. Schlicker’s fourth grade class at Korn School. This project was inspired by our Core Values: Respect, Honesty, Courage, Responsibility and Kindness. We spent two days brainstorming scarecrow ideas during our morning meeting time and then decided that we wanted to bring our Core Values to the community. We spent the next three days building our scarecrows. We want everyone to know that our class did not spend academic time working on our scarecrows, rather we used recess, lunch and stayed after school to finish them. Everybody tried to bring in supplies to build our five student and one teacher scarecrows. We would like to thank Mrs. Johansen for donating tons of supplies, baking us a delicious treat when we stayed after school, helping us build, and for bringing them to the library and setting them up. We would also like to thank Mrs. McMaster for helping us after school, and Mrs. Pereira for bringing them to the library and setting them up, too.

Friday, November 13, 2009

Scores of families converged at John Lyman School for the annual family open house evening. Students were proud hosts and hostesses. Families particularly enjoyed viewing all the “wall tiles” adorning the hallways. Each family decorated a paper tile with names, photos and interesting information about their family. In the multi-purpose room, ongoing music and dancing accompanied by bubbles was provided by the Bullock family (left). Top left, the Fazzino family. Below right, the Kohs family tile. Photos submitted by Betty Hadlock

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Friday, November 13, 2009

Down on the Farm in Town Times

Durham Co-op at Halfinger Farm

Above, the children enjoyed a hayride at the farm in Higganum. Below left, head teacher Mrs. Lainy Melvin with a large shepherd’s crook. Below right, DJ Kozik and Benjamin Rascati harvested some Indian corm. Submitted photos

Fall is in the air

23 Photos submitted by Patti Checko

The kindergarten classes from Brewster School recently traveled to Halfinger Farms in Higganum. The farmer showed how to plant and grow pumpkins. Each student was given their own pumpkin and took it back to school to do observational drawings, math predictions and graphing. While at the farm, students learned about nature using their five senses. Students used problemsolving skills to navigate a corn maze and were able to explore a teepee. Above right, from left, are Rachel Kosienski, Jenny King, Gianna Christiana and Taylor Milardo. Below left, Amanda Case, and below right, Jennifer Krauss’ morning class at the farm.

Discarding records in D-13

The pupil services office of District 13 will be destroying the confidential special education records of all former students from the Class of 2003. This action is allowed by state regulations per authority of the state of Connecticut office of public records administration and federal regulation 34 CFR 300.573. Copies of the special education records of all former students are available following submission of a written request by the student before May 30, 2010. Letters should be written to Ms. Amy Emory, Director of Pupil Personnel Services, District 13, P.O. Box 190, 135A Pickett Lane, Durham CT 06422.

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Middlefield Town Briefs

Middlefield Government Calendar (Unless otherwise indicated, all meetings are held in the Community Center.) Tuesday, Nov. 17 7 p.m. â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Board of Selectmen 7 p.m. â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Conservation Commission Wednesday, Nov. 18 7 p.m. â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Inland Wetlands Commission 7:30 p.m. â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Board of Education at Lyman School Monday, Nov. 23 11:30 a.m. â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Housing Commission at Sugarloaf Terrace Wednesday, Nov. 25 6 p.m. â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Planning and Zoning Commission

Zoning Board of Appeals The Zoning Board of Appeals met on Oct. 27 and commenced with a request from John and Becky Cousino, of 442 Cherry Hill Road, for a 15foot front yard variance to construct a covered porch that could be used to access the front door. The applicants said the porch will only be coming out eight feet even

though the variance request is 15 feet. In response to how they came to the 15-foot variance, John Cousino explained that the corner of the proposed porch to the line is 45 feet and that the iron pins are marked on the property. The application noted that the house was built before the Zoning Regulations were introduced, and Lars Selberg stated the hardship is all about the land. He suggested they look at other things

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about the lot that make it so there are no reasonable and prudent alternatives. It was recommended that the Cousinoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ask neighbors for any objections and get letters stating their approval. Selberg recommended the commissioners go to the property. Arthur Miller Jr., of Odyssey Historic Construction, requested a 20-foot front yard variance to construct a roof above the existing concrete foundation at 104 Laurel Brook Road for owner Robert Birdsey. The commission discussed the concrete portion of the porch as a structure that has existed for a long time and therefore should be grandfathered in. Miller said he was instructed by the zoning officer to get a variance anyway. There was a discussion on this issue to which Miller said it doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t matter how it is done just that the owner wants the entire porch to be covered. It was agreed Selberg would send an email to the land use advisory attorney for his opinion on whether a variance is needed if the structure is staying within the envelope, with no larger footprint and no

Friday, November 13, 2009

additional height. Commissioners plan to visit the property. After a brief chairmanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s report, it was announced that Brian Clark has sent his resignation to the First Selectman as of Dec. 1, 2009. (From minutes/S. Wilcox)

Levi Coe Library Hours: The library is open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays, and on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Visit www.leviecoe.com or call the library at (860) 3493857 for information or to register for any program. You can also renew, reserve and check your library record on the website. Annual Giving Tree an Open House: The librarians will choose a selection of books that would benefit both collections. Parents, teens and children can then browse the books to determine which ones they would like to donate. The patrons pay for their donations, take them home and wrap them up. The books are then brought back to the library on Thursday, Dec. 10, during the Giving Tree Program and Holiday Open House and presented to 1136732

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Swine flu clinic Middlefield announced that it will hopefully be holding an H1N1 clinic on Sunday, Nov. 22, but particulars are still being worked out. The clinic would most likely be held at the Federated Church from 1 or 2 p.m. to 7 or 8 p.m., though First Selectman Jon Brayshaw said heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not sure if vaccines would be given out by reservation or walk-ins. Check the Town Times website for updates and information (www.towntimes.com). If

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Santa Claus as a gift to the library. A bookplate will be placed inside each donated book in appreciation for the purchase. The librariansâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; choices are now on display and available for purchase. New young author and childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s titles include Dr. Brad Has Gone Mad by Dan Gutman, Fancy Nancy Splendiferous Christmas by Jane Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connor, Fourth Apprentice - Omen of the Stars by Erin Hunter, In Too Deep by Jude Watson, Shampoodle by Joan Holub and Million Dollar Kick by Dan Gutman. New DVDs include Orphan, Whatever Works, Ice Age: Dawn of the Dinosaurs, G. I. Joe: The Rise of the Cobra, The Taking of Pelham 123, Aliens in the Attic and I Love You, Beth Cooper. Great new titles include One Shot by Lee Child, Geno: In Pursuit of Perfection by Geno Auriemma, Ayn Rand and the World She Made by Anne Heller, Grave Secret by Charlaine Harris, Signing Their Lives Away: The Fame and Misfortune of the Men Who Signed the Declaration of Independence by Denise Kiernan and Joseph Dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Agnese and The Book of Basketball: The NBA According to the Sports Guy by Bill Simmons. Come in and check out these books or reserve titles that are coming.

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Middlefield Town Briefs

Friday, November 13, 2009

Bailey sworn in

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Clinic

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Masonicare Primary Care Physicians announces Expanded Hours for the Community

Due to a long-planned vacation, Ed Bailey, Middlefield’s new member on the Board of Selectmen, would have been unable to attend the swearing-in ceremony for elected officials to be held Nov. 15, at 3 p.m. at the Community Center. In order to make everything legal, he showed up last week to be sworn in solo by town clerk Donna Golub. The public is invited to the regular swearing-in ceremony.

On Oct. 22, people gathered at Levi Coe Library to learn about computerized resources to track ancestors. Mary E. Johnson, right, with Kathy Cutler, illustrated some of her own family records and helped others in their searches. Attendees were advised that personal knowledge about relatives sometimes must be juggled with the public records. The website Ancestry.com is one way to trace a family.

Our Primary Care Physicians from l to r: Alla Bernshteyn, MD, Geriatrician; Robert Elwell, MD, Family Practice; Ronald Schwartz, MD, Internal Medicine

To accommodate the busy schedules of our patients and their families, we’re now open Evenings, Saturdays and through Lunchtime. We are accepting new patients and can assist in transferring records. Our patient-centered team has been caring for adults from the greater Wallingford community since 1997. If you don’t have a primary care physician — or would like to make a fresh start — and are over the age of 18, give us a call. We are conveniently located on the first floor of Masonicare’s new Medical Office Building at 67 Masonic Avenue, right off Route 150, in Wallingford. And, should you need a blood test or x-ray, Clinical Lab Partners and MidState Radiology Associates have offices in our building.

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Town Times Spotlight

26 Greta Wilt, of Durham, was one of the 1,500 volunteers who made the ING Hartford Marathon the largest single-day volunteeroperated event in Connecticut. Greta and her mother Josephine Wilt, who works at ING, spent the morning of the marathon taking photos of the kids’ K race and then worked in the afternoon wrapping some of the 8,000 marathon runners in warming blankets.

had an exhibition at the Pegasus Gallery at Middlesex College through October. Schooled in Belgium, Mr. Abid is a fascinating person who created the cover illustration for Zoo Snooze (a collection of poems and stories by Wanda Haan). means farmers and ranchers can depend on this agent to understand farming operations, provide basic risk assessment, educate them about exposures, match the correct coverage, and provide professional, knowledgeable service.

Toni-Lynn Miles, director of the Middlesex Dance Center in Middlefield, has been selected to perform with the ADC International Dance Company in the 2010 AAPAE dance presentations at the Kennedy Center in

Zahir Abid, who works at the Middlefield Post Office,

Ed Zavaski, of the Zavaski Insurance Agency in Durham, has successfully completed a series of educational courses and has achieved the “On Your Farm” certified agency designation from Nationwide Agribusiness Insurance company. Completing the rigorous training program

Friday, November 13, 2009

since the age of 5, minored in dance at Hofstra University and continues to train throughout New England. She teaches jazz, tap, ballet, lyrical, pointe, and hip hop at the Middlesex Dance Center, and is a ‘certified by test’ member of Dance Masters of America and Dance Educators of America. Toni-Lynn choreographs for Coginchaug Regional High School musicals and their Show Choir and has worked for the Hartford Children’s Theatre. Environmental and legislative leaders will be honored on Nov. 21 at a PACE event (Nuclear Power: The Truth) following a Clean Energy Expo. “Rising Sun” awards will be presented to new legislators, including Rep. Matthew Lesser, for his critical and effective support of clean energy. Durham resident Tracy Oullette won second place in the Female 40-49 division with a time of 24 minutes and 44 seconds in the Schol-

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Several Strong School eighth grade chorus members participated in the CT ACDA Honor Choir on Oct. 26 at Windham High School. Katherine Hamilton, Brian Blake, Clarity Huddleston, Molly MacDuff, Nathan Ortega, Melanie Frank and Danielle Drop were a part of this spectacular choir of students from all over Connecticut. The students spent the day rehearsing and listening to concerts by other choirs. The finale of the day was a concert in front of a packed hall at Windham High School. David J. Miner, MD, FACP, of Durham, received the Laureate Award at the October meeting of the Connecticut chapter of the American College of Physicians. The Laureate Award honors those Fellows of the College who have demonstrated by their example and conduct an abiding commitment to excellence in medical care, education or research, and in service to their communities, the Chapter and the College.

Something going on? Send your info to news@towntimes.com

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Town Times

Durham economist forecasts the state economy By Stephanie Wilcox Town Times

ability is problematic.

lasted only one year at a time.

For businesses to succeed, it’s about productivity and profitability, and look for a rise in workweek hours before new hires. The current private sector workweek is 33.0 hours.

Klepper-Smith’s outlook was followed by those of Gioia, who agreed, “We’ve fallen in a deep, deep hole in almost every facet of the economy, and now it’s ticking back up,” said Gioia. “The housing market was probably hit the worst, and we fell into a grand canyon on that one.”

Klepper-Smith suggested turning off “financial entertainment” like CNBC because the most valuable information is that investing in the long run is about risk management and asset allocation.

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“We will grow gradually,” he explained, noting that this is the longest recession since WWII. Thus far, it is 22 months, where historically they have

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The first words local economist Don Klepper-Smith, of DataCore Partners, spoke into the microphone during an economic forecast meeting at the Middlesex Chamber of Commerce Business Expo were, “The recession is over. I’ll repeat. The recession is over.” The purpose of the Oct. 30 meeting was to hear a Connecticut perspective on the economy for the upcoming year from two experts, Klepper-Smith and Pete Gioia from the Connecticut Business and Industry Foundation. Klepper-Smith’s enthusiastic statement on the recession was from a technical standpoint, as he explained monetary aggregates are rapidly increasing and U.S. fiscal policy has been highly simulative, suggesting that GDP numbers are about to turn positive. Other pros of today’s U.S. economy, according to Kleppersmith, are oil prices have dropped from their record highs, interest rates hit record lows, auto sales are up, inflation is easing, 80 percent of the

stimulus packages is still to come, GDP has risen and banks are seeing near-term strength. Some of the cons include high debt loads, retail sales down, equity markets have not recovered, U.S. consumer uncertainty and a decrease in jobs. Klepper-Smith explained that many people associate economic recovery with tangible job growth, which he suspects won’t be seen until next year. Therefore, a “jobless recovery” is the most likely scenario to unfold in the coming quarters. The good news is job loss is smaller these days, which is the first sign of improvement in the job market. According to Klepper-Smith, jobs are critical because there needs to be traction in the labor market before there can be a robust housing market. Fortunately, many areas of the state have seen a bottom in the housing market. As for the credit markets in Connecticut, they are still in a state of transition. Particularly, the availability of credit to small businesses is critical, yet one in three small business owners says credit avail-

explained that too many businesses panicked and over-cut when the economy was going bad, but now is the time to keep your antenna up. Gioia was also very concerned that the state legislature does not “get it” when talking about the budget crisis and economy. His final words of advice were to start talking, emailing and meeting your legislators immediately. “Let them know who you are and that you’re watching,” he said. “If you don’t, you will get the government you deserve.”

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Durham Town Briefs

Board of Selectmen The Board of Selectmen appointed Norm Hicks to the Senior Board during their uncharacteristically brief meeting on Nov. 9. After approving tax refunds and meeting minutes from Oct. 26, First Selectman Laura Francis reported on a few items in old and new business. She announced that the H1N1 flu clinic held at Cow Palace on the

Durham Fairgrounds last Friday was an “incredible effort in partnership with MDA 36.” Seven hundred and eighteen vaccinations, both the shot and nasal spray, were given. Francis praised workers and volunteers for the organization and success, as many people have called to tell her the same. She even said Middlefield was impressed enough so that they’re willing to hold a clinic, hopefully in the near future. Francis said Ivy Way resi-

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dents were not pleased with the decision made at the meeting regarding snow plowing responsibility for the road. It was determined the town will only plow the portion the town owns, which is being referred to as “Ivy Way Extension.” Residents of the private road were hoping the town would take care of the entire road, but the town’s attorney advised that there are liability, budgeting and legal issues in doing so. According to Francis, all residents would have to provide a liability waiver for the town to plow the entire road, so one resident asked about forming a neighborhood association. In this case, only the association would need to sign the waiver. Francis promised this would be discussed among the selectmen at an upcoming meeting.

Durham Library Hours: Regular library hours are 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. Visit www.durhamlibrary.org to search the catalog, review your account, register for a program or renew your mate-

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(All meetings will be held at the Durham Library unless otherwise noted. Check the town Web page at www.townofdurhamct.org for agendas and last-minute changes.) Tuesday, Nov. 17 7 p.m. — Board of Finance at Town Hall 7 p.m. — Economic Development Commission Wednesday, Nov. 18 7 p.m. — Recreation Committee at Town Hall 7:30 p.m. — Planning and Zoning Commission 7:30 p.m. — Board of Education at Lyman School Thursday, Nov. 19 1:30 p.m. — Senior Citizens Board at Town Hall 2-6 p.m. — Discover Durham at Durham Firehouse 7 p.m. — Water Commission at Town Hall 7 p.m. — Public Safety Renovations Committee at the firehouse 7 p.m. — DMIAAB rials online. For information or to register for a program by phone, call (860) 349-9544. New Titles: Grave Secret by Charlaine Harris, Shadow Season by Tom Piccirilli, Sea of Troubles by Donna Leon, Merry, Merry Ghost by Carolyn Hart, The Council of the Cursed by Peter Tremayne, The Cloud Pavilion by Laura Joh Rowland, The End of the Road by Sue Henry, What Remains of Heaven by C.S. Harris, The Body in the Sleigh by Katherine Hall Page, Earthway by Aimee and David Thurlo, The Intimate Lives of the Founding Fathers by Thomas Fleming, High Society, the Life of Grace Kelly by Donald Spoto, The Last Empress, Madame Chiang KaiShek and the Birth of Modern China by Hannah Pakula, Rustic Fruit Desserts, Crumbles, Buckles, Cobblers, Pandowdies and More by Cory Schreiber, Healthy Bread in Five Minutes a Day by Jeff Hertzberg, M.D. and

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Zoe Francois and Artisan Breads Every Day by Peter Reinhart. Author talk and book signing: On Monday, Nov. 16, at 7 p.m., Donna Ferber, psychotherapist and author of From Ex-Wife to Exceptional Life: a Woman’s Journey Through Divorce, will discuss her latest book, Profileactics, a guide for grownups exploring the world of Internet dating. The Teen Book Club will meet on Wednesday, Nov. 18, at 7 p.m. to discuss Epic, a science-fiction novel, by Conor Kostick. The Teen Book Club is open to seventh and eighth grade teens. Read more about it on the library website. The Book Lover’s Circle will meet on Wednesday, Dec. 2, at 7:30 p.m. to discuss The Mapmaker’s Wife: a True Tale of Love, Murder and Survival in the Amazon by Robert Whitaker. Copies of the book are available at the library. Everyone is invited to join this informal discussion. Durham Library website: The new website is up and running with current events, helpful links, interesting programs and the library catalog. Check back frequently as information changes weekly at www.durhamlibrary.org. E-mail: Do you have an email account that you check regularly? If so, you can get instant notice of your holds and reminders of upcoming due dates. It also saves the library money when we don’t have to print and mail out notices. Sign up the next time you are in the library.

Durham Town Briefs

Friday, November 13, 2009

P&Z modifies large animal incinerator conditions

The Planning and Zoning Commission heard a request from Connecticut Horse Cremation LLC during a public hearing on Wednesday, Nov. 4. The applicants asked that the commission modify two of the conditions imposed on its incinerator, one of which would require the incinerator to be tested within the first 30 days of its operation. The ap-

Ethics (Continued from page 1) ties to be conducive to the ambulance building. “Priorities should be on personnel and not the building because personnel can’t maintain their function,” he said. “We think soot and mold take priority over painting.”

who has lived with it, has a right to be offended,” adding that “I’ve had enough.” He suggested that the commission file a Cease and Desist order with the business. As the business is requesting a change to their site plan, town planner Geoff Colegrove suggested that their attorney, Joan Malloy, come in and go through all the minutes and regulations to see exactly what the commission approved for the site. DeFelice felt that Malloy shouldn’t

put this presentation together, preferring a party not representing Greenland Realty do it. The commission will discuss the matter on Nov. 18. One other matter the commission took care of was to release a $7,500 bond for Tom Russell’s property on New Haven Road. Russell recused himself from the commission’s deliberation, and the matter was approved with little discussion. (In attendance/Chuck Corley)

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The final item approved was the acceptance of Turkey hill Road as an approved town road as part of the third phase of Powder Hill Road subdivision. This road has been under construction for four to five years and was maintained by the developer. It is now completed to the town’s satisfaction. In regards to questions, there was a discussion on the bonds and warranty period. It was also noted that there are some houses constructed on the road and some still to be developed.

Ron Westfort and Bill Loveland on Veterans Day at the Durham town green. Photo by Judy Moeckel

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Residents approved the Code of Ethics which will become effective Feb. 1, 2010. Ethics Commission chair Bob Fulton said the code has been worked on for 14 months and there have been two public hearings on it. After much praise from the audience before it was approved, Fulton and the Ethics Commission received an applause for their work on the code.

quire the owner to provide a statement declaring that the animals have no known communicable diseases at the time of death. Member Ralph Chase proved agreeable to this request, noting that part of the point of incineration is to get rid of diseased animals in a safe manner. The commission also proved agreeable to this change and both modifications were unanimously approved during the commission’s regular meeting. At the commission’s public session, resident Diana Cruise came before them with a complaint about the activity on Greenland Realty’s site. According to Cruise, the company was hauling dirt in from 8:27 to 5:45 on Oct. 26 and also moved heavy equipment such as a trackscavator onto the site. She also noted that the site is listed as a trash business with the state. After hearing Cruise’s complaints, commissioner Dick Eriksen stated, “I am personally offended. I think Miss Cruise,

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The next item approved was the transfer of $19,621 from #9685 Reserve for Highway Equipment Fund to #3005 Capital Equipment Leases for the Final Payment on the Loaders. According to Francis, this item was a budget oversight and it will be funded from the reserve account.

plicants asked that the requirement instead be a year, in light of the state now regulating animal incinerators. The applicants also wanted to hold off on immediate testing as it is a $7,000 expense. Attorney John Corona stated that delaying this expense would give the applicants some financial relief for a business that’s just starting up. While the commission saw merit in the applicant’s points, member Frank DeFelice pointed out that part of the reason for the early testing is to insure that the system is running right. The commission compromised by placing the test at 90 days after the incinerator starts running. The other item that the applicants wanted modified was the requirement to have a veterinarian certify the cause of an animal’s death. Corona explained that this can’t be known without autopsying the horse. Corona instead suggested that the condition re-

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Town Times

Friday, November 13, 2009

Scouts take to the sky

Durham/Middlefield Youth & Family Services (Unless noted, all events take place at the Youth Center in the Middlefield Community Center.) New office Hours: 3:30-5:30 Tuesdays-Fridays! Fifth-Sixth Grade Dance Friday, Nov. 20, 7-9:30 p.m. $5 admission; snacks for sale. Parents must drop off and pick up. Infant CPR Class Sat., Nov. 21, from 9 a.m.-noon. Call 860-349-0258 before Nov. 16 to reserve. Red Cross instructor. Photo Contest Photo Contest still going on. Bring in your photos by Dec. 7 to be displayed for the Art Show on Friday, Dec. 11. The contest is open to all ages with a $5 entry fee for up to three 4”x6” and/or 5”x7” photos. Back of photo must have entrant’s name, address and phone number, photo file name and date and place where the photo was taken (must be in the Durham/Middlefield area). Cash prizes of $25, $10 and $5 for first second and third place as determined by a DMYFS committee. Showing Dec. 11 from 7-9 p.m. at the Middlefield Community Center. Prizes awarded and refreshments served. For further info, contact Nicole at 860-349-0258. Holiday Shopping DMYFS will watch your children for only $6 per hour while you shop till you drop on Saturday, Dec. 12 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Call the center after 3:30 p.m. for more information. Family Bingo Night Tired from holiday shopping? Relax and spend some time with family and friends on Friday, Dec. 18 from 6:45-9 p.m. Fee $4 per person. Prizes. Snacks. Call Nicole at 860-349-0258 to reserve your spot. Homework Club, Free to Be Club and Game Club will begin in January 2010. Look for more information in the coming months. Go to www.dmyfs.org for the calendar of events, pictures, directions, information about DMYFS programs and services. If you are interested in volunteering or to register for any of the Center’s programs, call (860) 349-0258 or e-mail nmilardo.dmyfs@comcast.net. Any resident high school age or above who is interested in providing input or joining a task force to explore other services that DMYFS can provide is encouraged to contact Bernadette Basiel, DMYFS board secretary, at bernadettebasiel@hotmail.com.

By Marc D’Orvilliers Special to Town Times Troop 33 Boy Scouts and Troop 20986 Girl Scouts of Middlefield have no need to wonder what it is like to pilot an airplane. These scouts recently participated in the Young Eagles program and experienced the thrill of flying for themselves! Volunteer pilots introduced the scouts to the principles of flight, and each scout performed a pre-flight inspection of the airplane before they took to the sky pilot-

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ing their plane. They buckled up, took off and soon held the stick in their own hands. Whether it was a bi-plane, an aerobatic or twoseat trainer, these scouts enjoyed the freedom of soaring with eagles. They learned so much from the volunteer pilots whose first-hand experiences taught them about flight as they flew over parts of Middlefield, Durham and Meriden. They soon came to understand what impact the ailerons, flaps and rudder have on the airplane as they raced through the sky. After returning to the ground and performing a post-flight inspection, they could hardly contain their excitement as they realized they had actually done what many other kids could only dream about. Who knows, maybe one of these scouts may someday become a commercial pilot or even an astronaut! There is no limit to where this experience might take them. Scouts participating were Morgan Cahill, Mary D’Orvilliers, Andrew Carter, Jayson Gribko, David Bedding, Thomas D’Orvilliers, Fitch Spencer, Brian Blake, Ben Wooding, David Wolak, William Staddon, Alexander Staddon, Lee Houle and Gerg Lineberry. They all received a flight logbook which recorded recognition of their first flight.

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Mariah Carey comes to Las Vegas to meet Jenna Barton, right! Mariah Carey and her husband, Nick Cannon, were at a nightclub at the Bellagio in Las Vegas to celebrate Nick’s birthday on Oct. 10, 2009. This photo was snapped when Mariah, center, was leaving in her Black Escalade. On the left is Jenna’s cousin, Taylor Searles from Shelton, Submitted photo Conn.

Town Times Sports

Friday, November 13, 2009

Sophomores save the day in Hawks’ win By Garri Saganenko Special to the Town Times

righted the ship on offense and patched up the holes on defense, but this was not the case. The defense would give up a 26-yard run by Old Saybrook’s Dane Palletto on the next drive, leading to a Palletto touchdown run two plays later with 3:04 left in the third quarter. VC 28 OS 21 The Rams’ next drive came to a close when the Rams attempted their second fake punt of the night, giving the Hawks great field position when the play went awry. Tyler Doherty then broke a 53-yard run on the second play of the drive to set up fellow sophomore Alec Corazon for his third touchdown of the night, a four-yard run with 10:04 left in the fourth quarter. VC 35 OS 21 To close out the game, Old Saybrook would turn the ball over twice more, both interceptions. The first was by senior Jordan Barton at the

Sophomore Alec Corazzini (#15) rushes for one of his three touchdowns. Photo by Mykola Danczuk Hawks seven-yard line, stunting any hope of a Ram comeback. The next interception would occur in the Hawks’ end zone, with senior Jeff Tiedemann hauling it in.

failed fake punt. On a night that was supposed to be dominated by the seniors, the trio of Conor Finley, Mark Flannery and Nick D’aquila was absent. Flannery and D’aquila had combined for almost 400 yards of offense the week before. Against Old

In a game riddled with turnovers, the Hawks were able to win without ever putting together a drive that wasn’t the result of a turnover or an Old Saybrook

See Hawks, page 32

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On paper, the Hawks had a reason to play: it was senior night. On paper the Hawks had the weapons: an offense that had scored 220 points in six games. On paper, the Hawks should have won convincingly over the Rams of Old Saybrook-Westbrook. Yet, games are played on grass and dirt, not on stat sheets. To give more backing to this adage, the Vinal-Coginchaug Hawks found themselves down 14-0 with 5:17 left in the first quarter. Once again the Hawks won the coin toss, electing to receive. Senior Conor Finley took over from their own 19, only to throw two incomplete passes and fumble the snap on another play, forcing the Hawks to punt. The Rams took over from their own 46 and exposed the Hawks’ biggest weakness on defense, the inability to stop the big play. Old Saybrook had been piecing together a rather pedestrian drive until Old Saybrook’s Addison Morin reeled in a 46-yard touchdown pass, giving the Rams the lead with 7:49 left in the first quarter. VC’s next drive ended when senior Nick D’aquila fumbled the ball on Old Saybrook’s 30yard line. The Rams handed the ball to Addison Morin and watched him batter through the Hawks’ D-line, barreling up the field for a 70-yard touchdown run. OS 14 VC 0. With the crowd silenced and the Hawks in disarray, sophomores Alec Corazzini and Tyler Doherty saved the day on senior night. After a botched punt return by Old Saybrook gave VC the ball at Old Saybrook’s 10-yard line, Corazzini wasted no time, carrying the ball 10 yards for a touchdown with 2:28 left in the first quarter. OS 14 VC 7. A big play wouldn’t happen again until sophomore Sam Baker snagged his fourth interception of the year with 9:39 left in the second quarter. Just 35 seconds later, Conor Finley brought the ball across the goal line for a touchdown. However, Eddy Ruddy had a rare miss for the extra point. OS 14 VC 13. Turnovers plagued both

teams all night. VC had three, Old Saybrook had five; the half would end this way as both teams sustained long drives that would end on turnovers. Beginning the second half with a turnover only seemed fitting for the Rams, who essentially handed the game back to VC. Tyler Doherty capitalized on the chance, rushing the ball 27 yards for a VC touchdown with 11:34 left in the third quarter. VC 21 OS 14 The Hawks would bide their time until Corazzini could get the ball again in the Rams’ red zone. Corazzini is usually the primary back for the Hawks in the red zone, continuing his consistent goal line play by bursting into the end zone from four yards out with 6:35 left in the third quarter. VC 28 OS 14 All looked well for the Hawks, who seemed to have

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Town Times Sports

Friday, November 13, 2009

C Squad Gold wins final game in ‘mud bowl’

were able to score their first touchdown of the game. After a deep kick off, Justin Saks wove his way through the Cougars’ defense and scampered 70-plus yards for the Falcons first kick return touchdown of the season. Taking control for the rest of the first half, the Falcons led by a score of 19-6. The offense pulled away with breakaway speed as Ricky Sorensen ran roughshod over the Cougar defense. The Falcons had a balanced offensive attack with scoring from Sorensen, Gonzalez and Gibbons throughout the game. The team was able to secure their final win of the season by a score of 31-12.

The Falcons flew to victory in Haddam-Killingworth on Sunday afternoon. For the last game of the season, the Falcons were led by their cheerleaders who kept the Falcon spirit soaring high! The captains for the game

A special thanks goes to the dedicated coaching staff of head coach Rick Saks along with defensive coordinator John Delloso, offensive coordinator Geoff Gibbons and assistant coaches Tom Boothroyd, Bob Gleason and Antonio Arreguin.

The Falcon’s C-squad gold team after their victory in the ‘mud bowl’ game against Haddam-Killingworth.

were Jared Gibbons, Alex Boothroyd, Michael Doyle and Andrew Gleason. HK received the ball first and drove down the field, only to be stopped by a very tough defense. The defense was led by Gibbons and Dominick

DeMartino on the inside with Ricky Sorensen and Owen Gonzalez on the outside. Gonzalez made numerous touchdown-saving tackles from his outside linebacker position. On the ensuing HK drive, the Cougars

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Falcon’s Board of Directors openings There are several positions open on the Durham/Middlefield Falcons Football Board of Directors. The board will meet on Monday, Nov. 30. Open positions include president, secretary, coaching director, cheer director, concessions director, safety director and web director. Any interested candidate must complete the application form and submit it to Jim Banack as soon as possible. Application forms can be found at www.dmfalcons.com.

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Winter is coming! The leaves are down and the air is chilled, but it is still wonderfully warm inside the Middlesex YMCA! The Y has exercise classes and facilities for all ages and fitness levels. YMCA aquatic classes teach lessons that last a lifetime, but the commitment is only for one class a week for five weeks so it can fit into even the busiest schedule. Registration is open now for the last fall session (Nov. 15 to Dec. 19), and will start again for the winter on Dec. 21. A complete schedule, membership specials and other info about swimming programs for all abilities can be found at www.midymca.net/ documents/09_Fall_Brochure. pdf or by calling aquatic director JJ Addison at (860) 343-6231.

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(From page 31)

Saybrook they combined for a meager 58. However, head coach John Bozzi had said that the depth with which his team came into the season was better than ever before. Apparently, he is a man of his word, as the duo of sophomores Tyler Doherty and Alec Corazzini combined for four touchdowns on 178 yards rushing. The Hawks play again on Friday, Nov. 13, against the coop of Valley Regional-Old Lyme in Deep River. The Warriors are 5-3 and look to be the last real test before the Hawks take on the defending Class S state champion Cromwell Panthers on the day before Thanksgiving at Palmer Field.

Town Times Sports: Basketball

Friday, November 13, 2009

Dashers off and running By Judi Judson Special to the Town Times

Dominators come ‘so close’ By Alice Blair Special to the Town Times The sixth grade girls’ basketball team opened the season with a white knuckle ride for fans against a strong and physical West Haven team. The game came down to the final seconds after the Dominators rallied from a 10-point deficit. It was almost enough

to win the game, but Durham ran out of time and lost by one point. Alana Beckert started the scoring with two points off an assist from Amy Arcari. Larissa Cade then quickly stole the ball, resulting in a basket by Emma Blair, giving the Dominators an early 4-0 lead. West Haven took a time out to regroup and their strategy worked. Despite sneaky steals by Taylor Marino, West Haven came back with five straight points to pull ahead. With Shaun Whitaker bringing the ball up well against constant pressure and Caitlyn Sibiskie racing back on defense, the score stayed at 5-4 West Haven. Carlie Annechino quickly grabbed a rebound in the second quarter and passed to Sibiskie whose basket brought the Dominators to a 65 lead. Gabriella Diaz and Brianna Sawicki looked to repeat the feat by taking down multiple rebounds. Durham put up many “oh so close” shots, but

points eluded the Dominators, and West Haven moved ahead again, 11-6. In the final 40 seconds of the first half, Dominator’s Cade put it in the net again. West Haven then sank three more quick shots, sending the girls to the half time huddle with West Haven leading 15-10. West Haven took over the third quarter. Although Durham defense really hustled and Blair enhanced the score by five points, West Haven came back with a vengeance and racked up eight unanswered points to go ahead by 10 at the third quarter buzzer. The Dominators reversed the story in the fourth quarter, with a stifling full court press. Intense defense and spot-on passing by Arcari, Annechino, Beckert, Sibiskie and Whitaker kept West Haven from scoring at all for over two minutes and allowed Blair to score twice. West

See Dominators, page 34

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The Durham Destroyers girls’ seventh grade travel basketball team began the 2009-10 hoops season on a positive note. The Destroyers recorded an impressive victory over the visiting Bethany Spartans, 40–17, in the Strong School gymnasium this past Sunday. Durham controlled the con-

nick, all were scrappy on defense and offense, contributing to a 36–11 margin at the end of three quarters. Durham added a few more baskets in the fourth quarter to close out their fist win of the new year. The Destroyers were led in scoring by Mangiameli with 10 points, Davis with eight and Arcari with six. Durham’s next game is Sunday, Nov. 15, in the Strong gym at 11:30 a.m. against East Lyme.

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The sixth grade Durham Dashers started their season with their first win against Westbrook on Sunday, Nov. 8. The game got off to a slow but steady start with the Dashers leading at the end of the first quarter by a score of only 6-4. The Dashers worked their way through the second quarter, increasing their lead to 148 by the half. Then it started to get interesting. Westbrook banked an incredible half court shot at the buzzer that put them within four points to end the third quarter. But the Dashers kept it together, squeezing safely ahead and ending strong with a final score of 36-20. “The boys played with the kind of intensity and desire that it takes to win at this level. I am very proud of them,” remarked the coach, Scott Marks, after the game. Seven players put points on the scoreboard, including Kyle Judson with 12, Scott Marks with eight, Cam Powers with six, Kyle Wyskiel with four and Kyle Adams, Billy Egan and Conner Neidmann each with two. Outstanding defense and tenacity was demonstrated by Sam Temple, Matt Reed and David Pakech. The Dashers also put forth tremendous effort on the glass with a total of 31 rebounds led by Powers and Adams. Marks and Neidmann contributed the most steals for the team. Next up for the Dashers is Old Saybrook on Sunday, Nov. 15 at 2 p.m.

test from the opening tip-off as they jumped out to a 10–2 lead after the first quarter. The Destroyers were solid on both offense and defense, particularly in the rebounding area as they put their significant height advantage to good use. Audrey Arcari, Stephanie Mangiameli, Anni Garvy and Lauren Davis all contributed to Durham’s initial lead. In the second quarter the Destroyers continued to play tight defense and moved the ball around well on offense. Natalie Charette and Mikayla Wyskiel added to the scoring and helped Durham build a 24–8 advantage by half time. In the third quarter, Durham continued to pressure Bethany on both ends of the court. Kendra Landy recorded two baskets off of steals, and Eliza Romien, a new addition to this years’ Destroyer team, also scored twice on offensive rebounds. Another first year Destroyer, Ashtin Solis, along with Kelly Brennan and Mackenzie Rul-

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Town Times Sports

Friday, November 13, 2009

Coginchaug girls’ soccer in state tournament Far left, the Coginchaug girls’ soccer team defeated East Granby 1-0 Monday, and now progresses to round two of the Class S Championships. That game was scheduled to be against Terryville on Wednesday, Nov. 11, at 2 p.m. at Upper Fisher Field in Terryville. Near left, team seniors with their proud parents on Senior Day.

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(Continued from page 33)

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Haven called a time out leading 27-19 with 3:30 left. After the quick break, the Durham girls executed their inbounds plays superbly, confusing their opponents and setting the stage for Blair to grab four more points. Once again Cade took the ball the length of the court to score and brought Durham within two points. Chippy play made the referees call multiple fouls in the fourth, bringing both teams to the line for free throws. West Haven added four points, but Blair sank two free throws to keep things close. With 40 seconds left, Arcari stole the ball once again, sending it down to Blair for the basket that would bring them back within two points. Blair sank one more free throw, and the Dominators came within one point with just seven seconds left. Durham took a timeout, leaving fans to nibble their nails in the stands. But, seven seconds wasn’t enough time to eek out that last point. Although the fired-up Durham girls outscored West Haven 16 to 7 in the fourth, the game ended with West Haven winning, 32-31. Durham’s points came from Blair with 21, Cade with 6, and Beckert and Sibiskie with two each. Dominators play again Sunday at home at 10:15 a.m.

Town Times

Friday, November 13, 2009

Real Estate Page 959610

Sheehan Class of 1979 reunion

Over the course of this quarter in “Great Loves,” Michelle became a rabid fan of Tess of the D’Urbervilles, and because of her fervor and contagious enthusiasm for the trials and horrifying misfortunes of Tess’s life, Michelle infected all of us with a desire to discuss the novel and better understand Tess. Consequently, when the class finally finished the 550+ page tome and the students anxiously awaited turning in the book, Michelle informed me that she was not going to surrender this, her favorite book. There was only one solution — I would bequeath to her my Norton edition complete with my highlighted markings that I used at Mount Holyoke College when

Mark T. Sheehan Class of 1979 will have a 30-year class reunion on Friday, Nov. 27 at Four Points by Sheraton, in Meriden, from 7 p.m. to midnight. Tickets are $75 per person for buffet dinner and open bar. More information can be found at www.sheehan79.com or call Lori Connor Comen at 860-349-1725 or Veronica Zemke Kastukevich at 203-269-8207. Other

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I first read Tess. It gives me great solace to know that Michelle loved a book that I have so thoroughly enjoyed teaching and from which I have learned so much about life. I cannot forget her exuberant class participation and perceptive writing on Tess. We all learned from those discussions, and now I feel a terrible heaviness that our class has lost a wonderful voice which never failed to speak but from the heart. We will carry on with grief and without Michelle, but with the knowledge that whenever we lose young members from our community, we retain the best part of them in our lives. Godspeed, Michelle. Ms. Donna Mattei, CRHS English teacher

Town Times

weekend reunion events will take place this weekend, and rooms can be reserved at the Four Points by Sheraton for Nov. 27; ask for MTS Class reunion special room rate.

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Remembering Michelle DiVicino

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Durham - Come discover a quiet setting in an exclusive east-side neighborhood for this spacious 3,884 sq. ft. home boasting 9 rooms plus a spacious 3 season porch. In addition you will find a 3 car garage and 3+ acres of privacy. The kitchen has a built in oven and microwave,sub zero refrigeration, an island with seating for 4 plus a formal dining area for seating up to 14. You’ll love the family room with raised stone hearth and floor to ceiling fireplace and a rec room that measures 26 x 32. Amenities include central vac, walk in pantry, cedar closet, security system, invisible fence, dumb-waiter from garage to first floor level, storage shed, and large workshop area in basement. More surprises await you when you come to view this fine home priced to sell at $550,000. Call Frank Guodace (860) 301-7400

Exquisitely remodeled! New house without the wait! You must view the details of this raised ranch home with a contemporary flare. Features 1900+ sq.ft. with 3 Bedrooms and 2 full baths. You will be in awe of the beautiful granite entryway, large new country kitchen with new stainless steel appliances. and open livingroom with HW. Huge LL familyroom with fplc., full bath and jacuzzi tub. Set on more than one acre with breathtaking water views! Too many special features to list! $474,900. Dir: Rte. 80 to Little Meadow Rd.

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Town Times

Friday, November 13, 2009

New Listing! Build your dream home on 15 acre lot surrounded by state forest. Filled w/luxurious details, this 4 bedrm home to be built will house your family in style. Open flr plan has wonderful views from every room on 1st flr. Massive kit. island faces dinette that is flooded w/light from windows on 2 sides. Master suite w/tray ceiling, balcony, & spa bath. Ideal for equestrians. For more information, please call agent at 349-0344.

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Ezra Camp Circa 1776 All original features remain in pristine condition. 6 rooms on first floor with 5 fireplaces. Modern kitchen with large windows offering beautiful views of water garden, stone path & formal gardens surrounding the home. Only $489,900! We highly recommend viewing this fine property exclusively represented by Berardino Realtors, please contact agent 349-0344

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Indoor Swimming Pool Over 6700 sq. ft. of glorious finished space dominating 10 private acres with an abundance of diverse wildlife. This important residence offers a rich and full lifestyle to the proud homeowner. Indoor swimming pool, steam room, and sauna for a healthy lifestyle. $750,000. For a private showing, call Berardino Realtors 349-0344.

Estate Sale 3 Bedroom Ranch on almost an acre of land. Located between Peckham Field Park and Recreation area (500 yds), Powder Ridge Ski Area (1000 yds), Lyman’s Orchards (1000 yds), and two Golf Courses (600 yds & 1 mile). Handyman special. $199,900. Call Berardino Realtors 349-0344 for more information.

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