11-20-2009TownTimes by Town Times Newspaper

Happy Thanksgiving to all our readers and advertisers!

Volume 16, Issue 32

Serving Durham, Middlefield and Rockfall

Friday, November 20, 2009

Viccaro reports on handling H1N1 flu clinic coming to Middlefield of fatality, budget plans and suit against track plans By Stephanie Wilcox Town Times District 13 is continuing to provide support for those who are still struggling with the impact of the death of student Michelle DiVicino, Superintendent Susan Viccaro announced at the Nov. 17 Board of Education meeting. She updated the board on how everything was handled, noting that counselors were at the school the weekend of the accident, emails were sent to parents on how to be supportive, and the library was closed last Monday and turned into a counseling center. Viccaro said it was very heartwarming to see students bringing in a constant supply of cookies to the library as well as making purple ribbons — Michelle’s favorite color — for the entire school to wear. Viccaro also discussed an online assessment system for students that will be looked into further with the board and experts before being purchased. She announced that there was a preliminary meeting last week with a group of staff across the district serving as a Budget Committee. They are working on a master list of savings and areas to explore, and will meet again in Decem-

Thanksgiving deadlines 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.

ber. This group was described as being energetic and committed to talking to others in their respective buildings. The board reviewed the 2008-2009 Strategic School Profiles. Viccaro said except Brewster School, whose enrollment increased slightly, all others in the district declined. What jumped out at her was that District 13 is below their DRG (Ct. District Reference Groups) and the state on special education expenditures. Merrill Adams pointed out on a different page that, interestingly enough, D13 special education scores are actually higher than others — a credit to the staff. The board also reviewed and approved the agreement to participate in the H.O.T. (Higher Order Thinking) schools, a program designed to build higher-order thinking skills through strong arts, arts integration and democratic practices. Viccaro said the price is the same as last year, $6,500, a third of which is paid for each by the Lyman School budget, Lyman PTO and Central Office. Because business manager Ron Melnik was sick, there were no business manager, Finance Committee or Long See District 13, page 19

Ecumenical Thanksgiving Service Tuesday, Nov. 24 7 p.m. at Church of the Epiphany All welcome; offering to benefit local food banks.

In this issue ... Calendar.........................4-5 Town Briefs................12-13 Obituaries.......................17 Sports & Fitness.........20-24

The seventh in a series of H1N1 flu clinics sponsored by Mass Dispensing Area 36 (MDA 36) is scheduled for Sunday, Nov. 22, from 3 to 8 p.m. at the Middlefield Federated Church, 402 Main Street (opposite the fire station). The clinic is open only to residents of Cromwell, Durham, Haddam, Middlefield and Middletown. The clinic is free, but proof of age and residency will be required. The vaccine is in ample supply and will be given out alphabetically by last name. People whose last names begin with the letters A through M can get their vaccine from 3 to 5:30 p.m. People whose last names begin with the letters N through Z can get their vaccine from 5:30 to 8 p.m. According to First Selectman Jon Brayshaw, the town is desperately in need of medically trained volunteers — nurses and doctors — to handle the expected crowd. If you can help for the whole day or part of the day, please call the selectman’s office at 860-349-7114. The H1N1 flu vaccine will be administered by nasal spray which has been approved by the FDA (federal Food & Drug Administration) and endorsed by the Journal of Pediatrics. Millions of doses of nasal spray have been administered in clinical trails with little or no side effects. The weakened live virus is introduced to each nostril, thereby providing almost immediate immunity to the H1N1 virus. The spray offers somewhat better protection against the virus as opposed to injection. The spray does not contain preservatives such as thimerisol or cause the flu. Clinic participants must be two through 24 years of age in good health, or healthy 18 through 49-year-olds who live with or care for infants younger than six months of age, or are health-care workers (including school nurses) or emergency medical personnel (license required). Persons aged 25-64 with underlying

Photo by Stephanie Wilcox

FOR YOUR OWN GOOD: The young man above was one of the over 800 participants in an H1N1 flu clinic held at Cow Palace on the Durham Fairgrounds on Thursday, Nov. 5. Town sanitarian Bill Milardo said there was a big rush in the beginning; then it was steady throughout the day. The clinic, which was available for people aged 2 to 49, first responders and the immune-compromised, was by reservation only. However, based on the number of people showing up without reservations, the clinic offered to vaccinate others on a first come, first served basis in the evening. Emergency management director Francis Willett said there were over 800 reservations from the area. Willett was pleased with the organization and cooperation of nurses and volunteers. He was also grateful to the fair association for use of Cow Palace. Willett said Durham may host another clinic, but they are not sure if they can keep the barn warm. For Thursday’s clinic, Middletown Emergency Management lent heaters. medical complications are also eligible. Only one dose of nasal spray is needed to protect adults against H1N1 flu. However, children under the age of nine who receive the vaccine mist must receive a second dose in about 30 days. Parents or guardians should check with their health care provider to determine if the vaccine is appropriate for their child. Children who have already received their first dose and are due for another, may receive their second dose at this clinic (influenza vaccination card must be presented).

People who have a severe allergy to eggs should not receive the vaccine. Pregnant women cannot receive the vaccine by nasal spray but can get intramuscular injection (shot). The H1N1 vaccine is not effective against seasonal influenza.

More H1N1 flu clinics are expected to be scheduled for other segments of the population. The clinics are sponsored by MDA 36, which includes Middletown, Cromwell, Durham, Haddam and Middlefield.

For directions to the Middlefield Federated Church or other info, call 860-349-7123.

Town Times Community Briefs

Troop 27 food drive

Troop 27 will hold its annual food drive at Strong School on Saturday, Nov. 21. Dona-

tions of non-perishable food items will be collected by the scouts from 9 a.m. to noon. The scouts will deliver the food to Amazing Grace Food Pantry and stock the shelves. Amazing Grace Food

Index of Advertisers To advertise in the Town Times, call Joy Boone at 860-349-8026. Ace Oil ............................................5 Groomin N Roomin Kennels ........10 Addy & Sons.................................17 Handy Man ...................................13 Affordable Excavation ..................19 Home Works.................................20 Ianniello Plumbing ........................20 All Ears Hearing Aid Service ........22 Allan’s Tree Service......................17 J. Randolph Kitchens ...................20 Amato’s Toy & Hobby...................24 Ken Marino Sales & Service ........24 APEC Electric ...............................17 Kim’s Cottage Confections.............6 Assisted Living of Meriden ...........15 Lino’s Market ..................................5 B & R Construction.......................23 Lyman Orchards.............................7 Barillaro, Michael ............................4 Masonicare.............................12, 15 Batters Box ...................................22 Michalowski Agency Ins. ................3 Behling Builders............................19 Middlesex Chamber .....................13 Berardino Company Realtor...........3 Middlesex Community College.....22 Binge, Bruce, contractor...............18 Middletown Plate Glass................20 Black Dog .......................................7 Mike & Pat’s Crafts.......................13 Bond Dinettes ...............................13 Mims Oil..........................................5 Movado Farm ...............................20 Brenda’s Main Street Feed ..........10 Neil Jones Home Imp...................16 Brownstein, Jeffrey, attorney..........6 Cahill & Sons ................................18 Pet Stop........................................20 Carlton Interior................................6 Petruzelo Agency Insurance ..........4 Carmine’s Restaurant...................10 Planeta Electric.............................21 Raintree Landscaping ..................21 Carolyn Adams Country Barn ......23 Classic Wood Flooring .................18 Realty Associates.........................23 Conroy, John, D.M.D......................2 RLI Electric ...................................19 CV Enterprises .............................16 Roblee Plumbing ..........................24 Daricek Landscaping....................16 Rockfall Co. ..................................21 Durham Auto Center ....................11 RSDL Home Imp. ........................16 Durham Dental ...............................7 Saldibar Construction ...................19 Durham Market...............................6 Sea Breeze Hauling .....................21 Durham Wine & Spirits ...................3 Sharon McCormick Design ............5 Ett, Inc...........................................14 T-N-T Home & Lawncare .............17 Executive Offices..........................16 Time Out Tavern...........................10 Family Tree Care..........................16 Torrison Stone & Garden .........7, 18 Ferguson & McGuire Ins. .............14 Tynan, Jim ....................................23 Fine Work Home Improvement ....17 Uncle Bob’s Flower & Garden......11 Fuel & Service ................................3 Valentina’s Home Designs ...........10 Fugge, David M ............................19 VMB Custom Builders ..................18 Glazer Dental Associates...............3 Wesleyan Potters ...........................7 Golschneider Painting ..................18 Whitehouse Construction .............17 Whitney Ridge Stables.................19 Good Neighbor Insurance, ..........13 Gossip.............................................2 Wildwood Lawn Care ...................21

Pantry, in Middletown, is a program of St. Vincent De Paul Place. In 2008, Amazing Grace served approximately 8,212 households, a 10 percent increase from 2007. They experienced a 14 percent increase of adults, an eight percent increase in children and a seven percent increase in seniors served. Approximately 24,000 food items were distributed to an average of 685 households per month in 2008. This is a time of great need for many. Troop 27 asks you to please help feed the hungry by contributing.

Last weekend for Around the World in 80 Days Oddfellows Playhouse Teen Repertory Company opens its 35th season with a mainstage production of Jules Verne’s Around the World in 80 Days through Nov. 21. Directed by Jeffery Allen, a talented 26member cast, including Laurel Chausse, Gabriella Delmonte, Emma Lerman and Natalie Spence of Durham and Jacob Cunningham of Rockfall, takes viewers on this tale of action, adventure and romance. Not too long ago, taking a world journey was a dicey proposition, and the idea of circling the globe in 80 days

Friday, November 20, 2009

was the stuff of fantasy. A train was the fastest way across the U.S., and a boat was the only way to cross the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Wealthy Englishman Phileas Fogg and his trusty valet Passepartout employ many methods of transport as they race against the clock through exotic locales to get around the world, and back again. This exciting story of dangers and wonders, leading to the inevitable happy ending, is fun for the entire family. Performances are Nov. 20 and 21 at 7:30 p.m. at Oddfellows Playhouse, 128 Washington St. in Middletown. Tickets are $15 for adults and $8 for students and seniors. For more information or reservations, call 860-347-6143.

Open high school auditions 2009 Shoreline’s Got Talent will hold auditions on Tuesday, Nov. 24, at 2:30 p.m. at Haddam-Killingworth High School, 91 Little City Rd. in Higganum, and Westbrook High School, 156 McVeagh Rd. Auditions are open to high school students who attend area schools, including Coginchaug, Xavier and Mercy. This year’s Shoreline’s Got Talent competition is to benefit Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation of America. First place prize is a $1,000 scholarship provided by Lenny and Joe’s. Whether talented in singing, dancing, playing an instrument, comedy or anything else, every talented person is welcome. On Wednesday, Dec. 23, the finalists will compete on the HKTV holiday show where viewers will vote for their favorite. Each vote is one dollar donated to the cause. For info, contact Marcy Webster, choral director at Haddam-Killingworth, at Websterm33@rsd17.org or 860-345-8541 ext. 214. For updates and printable forms visit. www.rsd17.org/hkhs/hktv.s html.

Open slide night at Potapaug Audubon Potapaug Audubon’s annual “Open Slide Night” takes place on Thursday, Dec. 3, at 7:30 p.m. at Essex Town Hall. YOU be the speaker. Bring your nature-related slides or artwork. Limit your slides to 20 or less. Bring your own equipment or use Potapaug’s equipment. No registration required. Arrive a half hour early to set up. For technical questions, call 860-767-9763.

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Town Times

Friday, November 20, 2009

Basil adds spice to lunches in District 13 maintaining nutritional balance, he has put informational bulletin boards in the schools. The district’s wellness committee is another vehicle for building student involvement.

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Jane Schmitt, who oversees food services at Coginchaug, has a unique perspective, having worked for the school system for 27 years. “You’d be amazed at what we have now — so many choices,” she says. “The kids are thrilled!”

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While there are state guidelines for the fat and sugar content of school snacks (including beverages), it is hard to control what students eat on their own. That’s where education plays a key role. Since so many students are focused on sports, Basil tries to provide information on what the body needs to develop energy and strength needed for optimal performance in sports. To target athletes, he draws upon sports science websites for tips.

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I don’t know if having a last name like “Basil” guarantees one has a passion for food, but District 13’s director of dining services, Mark Basil, certainly does. Besides serving up tasty offerings for the district’s 2,200 students, he is practical, always keeping in mind limited resources and the bottom line. My memory of cafeteria food is pretty dull, not just because it’s been a long time since I was in school, but the food was, well, DULL. We were usually offered one main dish with sides, and that was it. And if you didn’t like fish on Friday, you were out of luck. After visiting Basil’s office at Coginchaug, I find myself wishing I could revisit (and redo) my school years. His cafeteria offers a broad choice of meal choices (all of which include — dare I say the word? — something HEALTHY) at modest prices. Well-rounded meals, including milk, run between $2.75 and $3.50. Best of all, students don’t have to make selections ahead of time. Meal offerings at the high school are organized around the food station concept. My favorite station was the “Marketplace,” which offers salads (including chicken, Caesar and pasta salads) and wraps. Other stations include “IncrEdibles” (which offers food “bars” that change each day), the “Sandwich Depot,” “Hot-nSpicy,” the “Trattoria” and the “Fresh Grille.” Even when a station offers foods like hamburgers and grilled cheese (not known for being “low cal”), it pairs the offering with a vegetable and a fruit. Main dishes are also offered “a la carte” for a slightly lower price. In Brewster, Korn, Lyman and Memorial schools, students order from a choice of two entrees, a hot or cold vegetable, fresh fruit or fruit cup, bread, and various milk selections. The “Lunch Bunch” option offers a cold lunch and includes such items as yogurt, bagels and cream cheese, and cereal, paired with string cheese, baby carrots and fruit. Mark Basil came to Durham in October 2007 after working for a contract food service in East Hampton for 22 years. He has a degree in hotel and restaurant management from Widener University.

When Basil took over, he refocused District 13’s food services towards the goal of having lunch income cover most, if not all, of the cost of producing the meals. His experience in the East Hampton school system told him that a “to order” approach, based on meal choices, was the way to go. Since East Hampton was about the same size as District 13, he used it as a model for the District 13 food budget. “We moved away from the ‘heat and serve’ approach,” he says. Instead, “the focus is on serving fresh food. Ron Melnick (the district business manager) gave me his full support and allowed me to make these changes. We’re happy with where it’s going.” Indeed, his approach seems to have worked. The number of students buying lunch at school has increased steadily over the past few years, and the program as a whole is moving towards paying for itself. Basil estimates that his food program will bring in $500,000 this school year. Because another of Basil’s goals is educating students about eating healthy and

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Town Times & Places FRIDAY

November

November 20

15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30

Around the World in 80 Days Oddfellows Playhouse Teen Repertory Company last performances of Around the World in 80 Days are tonight and tomorrow at 7:30 p.m. at Oddfellows Playhouse, 128 Washington St. in Middletown. Tickets are $15 for adults and $8 for students and seniors. For info or reservations, call 860-347-6143. Holiday Fair Wadsworth Glen Health Care & Rehabilitation Center, 30 Boston Rd. in Middletown, will be holding a holiday fair from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. There will be crafts, ceramics, ornaments, wreaths, gifts, a tag sale, luncheon, entertainment and more. Call 860-346-9299.

SATURDAY

November 21

Craft Fair Haddam Killingworth Middle School PTO will host their annual craft fair from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the HK Middle School, 451 Route 81. Admission is free. There will be professional crafters, lunch,

snacks, a bake sale and more. Set Back The K-Club annual Thanksgiving setback tournament will begin at 9:30 a.m. at the club, 168 Main St. in Rockfall. The donation is $15 per person. Call 860-346-9521 for info. Prizes will be awarded. Family Tree The Godfrey Library in Middletown will host genealogist Jolene Mullen who will present “Growing Your Family Tree,” at 1 p.m. She will discuss how to research their family history using government records, the census, internet and more. Food Drive Troop 27 will be collecting non-perishable food items from 9 a.m. to noon at Strong School. The food will be delivered to Amazing Grace Food Pantry and stock the shelves. Durham/Middlefield night Durham/Middlefield night at the Middletown Elks Lodge 771 will be held in the Middletown Crystal Ballroom. Tickets are $20 and will include hors d‘oeuvres at 6 p.m., buf-

fet dinner at 7:30 p.m. and music by the Monthei Brothers Band. For tickets, call the lodge at 860-346-9771, Jeff Siena at 860-349-8031 or JoAnn at 860-349-8005. This will be a non-political, no issue, fun time for all. Holiday Fair The Church of the Holy Trinity, 381 Main St. in Middletown, will be hold a holiday fair from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the Parish Hall. The fair features crafts, a tea cup raffle, and a cookie walk. Coffee, breakfast and lunch will be available for purchase. For info, call 860-347-2591 or visit www.HolyTrinityCT.org. Wesleyan Orchestra Wesleyan University’s orchestra will perform at 8 p.m. in the Crowell Concert Hall on the Wesleyan Campus. Tag sale The St. James Episcopal Church in Higganum, (Route 81 and Little City Road) will have a tag sale from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. For info, contact Amy Soobitsky at 860-345-2006. Comic Books Learn the process of comic book creations; designed to bring writers and artist together at the Green Street Art Center, 51 Green Street in Middletown, at 1 p.m.

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Coaching Clinic Durham Recreation will offer a basketball coaching clinic at Coginchaug High School for all coaches and parents interested in skill development. Call 860-343-6724 for info. Foot Screening MidState Medical Center and Dr. Tina Boucher will host a free foot screening from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the MidState Medical Services building, 61 Pomeroy Ave. in Meriden, Wound Care Center. No registration required. For info, visit www.midstatemedical.org. HELO Helo, Inc., a local nonprofit corporation, will introduce Pastor Jean Phares Beaucejour of aux Cayes, Haiti who 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.

SUNDAY

November 22 Chorale Concert The Greater Middletown Chorale’s fall concert will be held at 4 p.m. at Zion Lutheran Church in Portland. Tick-

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ets can be purchased at www.greatermiddletownchorale.org or by calling 860526-8891. Nobel Prize Indira Karamcheti will read selected readings from works of recent Nobel Laureates at 2 p.m. at the Green Street Art Center, 51 Green Street in Middletown. There will be a discussion of the criteria of Nobel’s ideal of the “greatest benefit to mankind” as it relates to literature. Church Rebuilding Video The Cross Street A.M.E. Zion Church invites everyone to watch the Cross Street AME Church documentary DVD, titled Building God’s Kingdom, which tells the story of transition from the old church on Cross Street to the new church on West Street. The event takes place at 3:30 at 440 West St. in Middletown. For info, call 860-344-9527. Community Supper This month’s Community Supper will be a Thanksgiving dinner at the Church of the Epiphany, 196 Main St. in Durham, hosted by the youth group of the Church of Epiphany and members of Notre Dame Church, from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. The dinner is free and open to the public. All are invited; all are welcome. BluesGrass BluesGrass, an acoustic duo featuring local musician Jon Swift on upright bass and vocals, and Mark White on guitar, harmonica and vocals, will perform at Perk on Main, 6 Main St. in Durham, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Middletown History Everyone is invited to learn about and celebrate Middletown’s early history at First Church of Christ, Congregational, 190 Court St. in MiddleMore on the next page

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USPS 021-924 Published weekly by Record-Journal Publishing Co., d/b/a Town Times, P.O. Box 265, Middlefield, CT 06455. Periodicals Postage Paid at Middlefield, CT and at additional mailing offices.

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Town Times & Places

November 23

Durham 60 + Club The Durham 60+ Club Thanksgiving potluck luncheon will be held at noon in the United Churches Fellowship Hall. Members are asked to bring a favorite dish.

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November 28

Come to Deerfield Farm from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the corner of Pent and Parmelee Hill Roads in Durham. There will be crepes and coffee from Perk on Main, dairy products, cards, pottery, live music and more. For more information, visit www.deerfieldFarm.org or call 860-3017828 for info.

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TOPS Durham TOPS Club meets every Wednesday at 6 p.m. at the Durham Town Hall. For information call Naomi Klot-

of the park’s main entrance on Route 1 in Madison. The sale continues through Dec. 13, Thursdays-Sundays, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Mondays-Wednesdays, noon to 5 p.m. Visit www.hammonasset.org or call Donald Rankin at 203-245-9192.

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Christmas Trees The Friends of Hammonasset launches its annual Christmas tree sale at 9 a.m., just east

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Teen Anime Film Teens 11 and up are invited to the Russell Library, 123 Broad St. in Middletown, for a showing of Kiki’s Delivery Service from 4 to 6 p.m. Call 860347-2520 for information. Blood Drive Notre Dame Church, Main St. in Durham, will host a blood drive from 1 to 6:15 p.m. To make an appointment call 1-800-GIVE LIFE. Thanksgiving Centerpieces Russell Library, 123 Broad St. in Middletown, will have a children’s workshop at 4 p.m.

sko at 860-349-9558 or Bonnie Olesen at 860-349-9433. Powder Puff Football CRHS will host a powder puff game at 12:30 p.m.

MONDAY

to create centerpieces from leaves, dried flowers, pine cones and other natural materials. For info, call 860-347-2528. Sports Banquet The Coginchaug High School fall sports banquet will be held at 6 p.m. Call 860-3497215 for tickets. Bereavement Support From 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Midstate Medical Center offers a professionally facilitated interfaith group open to all bereaved members of the community in the MidState Medical Center in the Napier Chapel. Call 203-694-8369 for info. Talent Show Auditions See page 2. Ecumenical Thanksgiving The Church of the Epiphany will host this years’ ecumenical Thanksgiving service at 7 p.m. at 196 Main Street in Durham. Everyone is invited to the reception following the service.

town. The program, led by Di Longley, begins at 11:30 a.m. in the Memorial Room. For info, call 860-346-6657 ext. 13.

Friday, November 20, 2009

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Generosity Featured in Town Times

Left, Olivia Tawa, Makayla Cesario, Willow Small and Megan Szymaszek of Brownie Girl Scout Troop 62650 holding one of the boxes of candy they filled for troops serving in Iraq. These girls, along with scouts from troops 62650 and 62092, Stephanie Finaldi, Kylie Johnson, Liliana King, Julia Kalisewski and Caroline Gymrek, gave up half of their Halloween candy to send to SSG Robert Chadd of Durham, serving in Iraq. The scouts generously filled two large boxes for Rob to share Above, Garrett Puchalski, the masked Union soldier seated in center, celebrated his 10th Halloween birthday on Friwith his fellow soldiers. day, Oct. 30, with a party to benefit the Meriden Humane Society and the CRHS seahorses in lieu of Freshly Baked Cakes, Cookies & Candies for gifts. The event included a all your Holiday Parties “devilicious dinner” at the Custom Gift Bags and Baskets Skullcap Cafe, “mummify Cookie Trays and Assorted Gift Items your friends” races and Tower of Sweets and Teacher Gifts “ghost grub” by the bonPhoto by Pamela Puchalski fire. We Ship Anywhere!

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Town Times

Friday, November 20, 2009

â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;We have a problemâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; By Sue VanDerzee Town Times

Dr. Arthur â&#x20AC;&#x153;Buddyâ&#x20AC;? Mc- the exponential growth of the Dowell III of Middlesex Hospi- power of information technoltal used that famous Pogo car- ogy. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The heck with personal toon line: â&#x20AC;&#x153;We are the prob- privacy,â&#x20AC;? he declared. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I want lem; we are all the problem. my caregivers to be able to We have to move beyond share information freely.â&#x20AC;? Eric George, an attorney recognition to defining what we want from our healthcare with the Ct. Business and Insystem. This will require com- dustry Association (CBIA), promise and change, and we also noted the complexity of all must be part of the solu- the job at hand and the need tion, but defining what we for compromise. As a particiwant requires compromise pant in the state governmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and change.â&#x20AC;? He added that successful efforts to reform at the HIPA privacy regulations least some aspects of healthlym_SS54_11_16:Layout 1 11/12/09 PM Page 1 care (the1:48 Sustinet program, fly in the face of the necessary sharing of information and recently passed by the state

legislature over Gov. Jodi Rellâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s veto), George cited some of the positive aspects of living in our state (an unusual position for the CBIA). He pointed to Connecticutâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s â&#x20AC;&#x153;adjusted community ratingâ&#x20AC;? for companies with less than 50 employees as a success and added, â&#x20AC;&#x153;The individual insurance market is like the wild, wild west and that has to change.â&#x20AC;? He echoed Johnsonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s statement that public programs need to be properly

See Problem, page 14

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Former Congresswoman Nancy Johnson set the stage for a panel discussion on healthcare and insurance, and she set it well. A panel of speakers representing all facets of the issue trooped in turn to the microphone at a workshop during the annual Middlesex Chamber of Commerce Expo on Oct. 30, and until the last one or two, the tone she set did not unravel. The essential message from Johnson, as well as representatives from the Ct. Business and Industry Association, Middlesex Hospital, the state medical society, Aetna, Pfizer and Community Health Centers, Inc., was: â&#x20AC;&#x153;We have a problem. We have to do something, and this is an opportunity.â&#x20AC;? Only one speaker seemed relatively comfortable with the status quo. Each of the speakers represented a slightly different focus. Johnson emphasized outdated systems in the face of new realities â&#x20AC;&#x201C; more alternatives for care and an aging

population. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We have outdated systems of insurance and liability,â&#x20AC;? she noted, â&#x20AC;&#x153;and the fee for service model is challenged by chronic illness. We also have persistent under-funding of public programs like Medicare and Medicaid.â&#x20AC;? She also spoke rather strongly in favor of many of the aspects of the current bill before the House of Representatives: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Health information technology must be integrated and patient-centered, pilot programs must be aggressive, mandates on individuals and business are necessary, and limiting insurance premium deductibility for so-called â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;cadillac plansâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; is essential. This bill would impose taxes on plans that cost more than $21,000; the average family plan costs $15,000; thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s reasonable.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;We have a huge opportunity to develop a system of right care at the right time in the right place to move from an unaffordable illness treatment system to an affordable, inclusive health plan,â&#x20AC;? Johnson concluded.

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Town Times Opinion

Friday, November 20, 2009

Healthcare reform as a local issue 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, Trish Dynia, Kathy Meyering, Judy Moeckel.

Letters policy The Town Times intends to present a forum for the lively exchange of ideas. 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. Selection and date of publication will be at the discretion of the editor. Finally, the opinions expressed by letter writers are not necessarily those of this newspaper. Deadline: Tuesday noon for Friday publication.

Thank you To the voters of Middlefield and Rockfall, I sincerely thank you for electing me to the Middlefield Board of Finance. I am encouraged by your strong support and ready to represent your interests on this Board. The Board of Finance plays a critical role in the checks and balances of a town’s government. Therefore, a member of the Board of Finance needs to have varied perspectives and experiences not only with local issues, but also with outside issues that impact the Town’s operations. I will bring all my experiences to the Board of Finance as I serve you and the town of Middlefield in the future. With this fragile economy, keeping taxes down while balancing the needs of the community and the education of our children will be a formidable task. As always, I will do all that I can to make fair, well thought-out, and educated decisions. But, I will need your help as well. Please feel free to contact me with your ideas,

comments and concerns. I look forward to hearing from you and serving you on the Board of Finance. Lucy R. Petrella, Middlefield

Finger-pointing in the wrong direction To the Editor: Critics of healthcare reform are eager to point to the shortage of H1N1 vaccine as an indicator of “big government” ineptitude in the area of public health. While various agencies of the Department of Health and Human Services work to identify new strains of influenza virus and develop vaccines, production of the vaccines is contracted out to private drug manufacturers; it was the manufacturers’ assurances that the federal government relied on when projecting the availability of the H1N1 vaccine. What went wrong? Although the “seeds” of the vaccine grew robustly in labs that produced them for manu-

OK, maybe that should read “Healthcare as the ultimate personal issue,” but whichever, the debate over healthcare will affect everyone, no matter where they live, and Middlefield First Selectman Jon Brayshaw’s comments in his column last week galvanized the need to say something locally about this most private issue. Brayshaw went into a short rant about flu vaccine availability (see letters section below for some alternative interpretations of that muddle), ending with “Readers, you should call Senator Dodd’s office and tell him to stay out of healthcare...” Now Jon and I are both old enough to remember “before Medicare,” that now fiercely-defended-by-its-recipients, sh-h-h don’t tell anyone, government-run healthcare system. Before Medicare, senior citizens too often (and once or twice is too often) had to choose between food and medicine. Anecdotal stories of widows eating cat food so they could afford their medications were regularly covered in the news. Then came Medicare, decried as the advance guard of socialized medicine, if not outright communism, the end of good medical care, an affront to citizens who could take of themselves thank you, etc. etc. Medicare is not perfect, never has been, and faces its own obstacles, such as government under-funding. However, we have not been reading many stories lately about widows having to

choose between cat food and medicine, and that’s a very good thing. It is also telling that the persons who benefit from the Medicare program (a government-sponsored public option program, remember) do not under any circumstances want to lose it. Does that say something to the rest of us? In fact, for those of us just under the qualifying age, Medicare availability is the most important piece of our life plan from here on out. When can I, and others like me, retire? When Medicare kicks in, and not a moment before. Healthcare, however, is incredibly complicated and daunting to consider any more deeply than at the “something has to change” level. That’s why I was delighted to have the opportunity to attend the recent Middlesex Chamber of Commerce forum on healthcare where I was astounded at the unanimity displayed by the panel, including former Republican Congresswoman Nancy Johnson. Please read the article about it on page 7, and then, contrary to what Jon advises, call or write your Senators and Congressional representatives and tell them that the time for action is now, a mere 100 years after President Theodore Roosevelt suggested a government role in insurance regulation and a mere three years after Senator Joe Lieberman expressed his support for “universal healthcare.” Sue VanDerzee

Letters to the Editor facturers, problems began when the virus did not grow as well as expected in the chicken eggs used to produce vaccine. Then, when a potency test became available, manufacturers realized that they had less usable vaccine than they had anticipated. Getting the vaccine into vials and syringes (also needed for the seasonal flu vaccine) caused more delays, and some drug makers waited until mid-October to inform the government how far behind they were in production and packaging. New technologies exist to produce vaccines more quickly, but until very recently the major drug makers have insisted on government funding (um… that’s us!) to pay for the transition. Why, you ask? It’s simple: absent a public health emergency, the monetary return on vaccines is lower than for other drugs. A few years ago, the threat of an avian flu pandemic encouraged the Bush Administration to pay in excess of a billion dollars to manufacturers who promised to invest in a faster cell-based

(rather then egg-based) method… and then decided not to bother. What became of all that money? If you happen to find it, let me know. I don’t think it was used for the public good, since eight of the 11 vaccines for childhood diseases have been in short supply in the U.S. at some point in recent years, including vaccines for tetanus, diphtheria, whooping cough, measles, mumps and chicken pox.

vaccinating priority groups: “The goal of the H1N1 vaccination program is to protect our population — focusing first on these high-risk groups and ensuring equitable access to the vaccine. While vaccine supplies are still limited, any vaccine distribution decisions that appear to direct vaccine to people outside the identified priority groups have the potential to undermine the credibility of the program.”

Much has been made of Wall Street firms getting the H1N1 vaccine while kids and at-risk adults wait for their dose. The Centers for Disease Control sends flu vaccine to state health departments, which then decide how to allocate their supply. In this case, the state of New York gave vaccine to the NYC Heath Department, which distributed it to healthcare providers in both workplace and nonworkplace settings. In the wake of the public outcry over the perceived favoritism shown to moneyed interests, CDC director Dr. Thomas Frieden sent a letter to states reiterating the importance of

Finally, it’s generally believed that the “swine flu” originated in Mexico. In fact, its birthplace (in 1998) was a hog-farming facility in North Carolina. Factory farming and long-distance live animal transport led to the emergence of the ancestors of the current flu threat; intensive confinement of animals in filthy — not to mention inhumane — “farms” is ultimately responsible for this epidemic. It’s easy to blame “big government” for our woes, and awfully handy for those who

See Wrong, page 10

Friday, November 20, 2009

Town Times Columns

The Community Round-Up (CRU) is coming!

Spreading sunshine in our towns

On Saturday, Dec. 5, teams of students will sweep through the towns of Durham and Middlefield between 9 a.m. and noon, collecting food, grocery gift cards, household necessities and cash donations for the less fortunate to be used by the local social service departments and food pantries. Be generous!

Happy birthday, Betsy, and many, many more! Your friends at Town Times To send your bit of sunshine, stop by with $10 in cash or check to wish your friend or family member a happy birthday or congratulate them!

Are you smarter than a fifth grader?

ics studied include Most of us have computation, deciheard of the now ‘fairKevin Brough, principal mals, fractions and ly famous’ game show Memorial Middle School basic geometry. In that challenges conhaving an awareness testants to match wits of the learning styles with individual fifth of pre-adolescent stugrade students. Adult dents, teachers encontestants are concourage acquisition tinually amazed at the depth and variety of questions thrown of skills by using manipulatives or othat them while the cool, confident ten- er hands-on approaches. In addition, year-olds consistently respond with teachers consistently search for applications of mathematical concepts to the correct answer. Are fifth graders actually as knowl- the outside world. In making students edgeable as they appear to be on the aware of the many applications of game show? Do they study a wide math in the outside world, they berange of subjects and explore subjects come motivated in their learning. In science, major units of study cut in a detailed sequential fashion? Do they see the connection between sub- across scientific disciplines. In the disject areas, and are they able to apply cipline of physical science/astrononewly learned information to the oth- my, students study the Earth, moon er settings? The answer is a resound- and sun and explore the relationships ing “yes,” and our goal at Memorial between each of these celestial objects. Middle School is to challenge and nur- Further interaction takes place beture students and provide youngsters tween physical and biological science with experiences and opportunities to in the study of light and sound and enable them to learn and appreciate how the human body processes these with the senses of sight and hearing. more of the world around them. Each fifth grade student at our Students also study scientific inquiry school enters as a new student. The and the structure and formation of livemphasis of each teacher is to promote ing things. Each of these units features independence and organization in a a variety of hands-on investigations. The units studied in social studies caring, supportive classroom climate. But what exactly do our fifth graders consist of the time period prior to the learn? What academic subjects do they American Revolution to the westward take on a daily basis, and how do these expansion of our nation. North American geography and the basics of Unitclasses prepare them for the future? Each fifth grader has the equivalent ed States government and the citizen’s of two class periods per day in lan- role in the government are also examguage arts. The emphasis is on an inte- ined. This knowledge is explored grated program that incorporates and through project work, cooperative promotes skills in both reading and group activities, role-playing and diswriting. In the area of reading, the em- cussion of current events. Rounding out a fifth grader’s experiphasis is on historical fiction and making connections with the literature. ence at Memorial Middle School is our Students are asked to describe specific related arts rotation which features details, predict future events and make art, music, computer and library connections between the literature skills. Each of these subject areas foand themselves. Our ultimate goal is to cus on an engaging hands-on aphave our fifth grade students become proach. In addition, students particilifelong readers who explore a variety pate in activities that promote good of literature types and incorporate health through their health and physical education classes. Students also reading in many aspects of their lives. In writing, the emphasis is on ex- have an opportunity to engage in the pository writing and writing as a com- performing arts though involvement munication tool. Students are asked to in band and chorus. Through it all we develop their own writing and to take emphasize the importance of responsithat writing piece from a collection of bility and caring by incorporating the thoughts to an organized coherent Core Ethical Values into everything piece. The major emphasis is on expos- we do. So the next time you turn on the telitory writing and students are taught the major elements of an expository evision and begin watching the latest piece and asked to develop it, often in a episode of “Are You Smarter Than a Fifth Grader?” consider all of the imcollaborative setting. As mathematicians, our fifth portant lessons learned each day by graders are asked to engage in a vari- our hard-working youngsters as they ety of mathematical operations. Top- progress through their schedule.

A View From District 13

Stretch energy dollars for a more festive holiday As you gear up for another holiday seaClaudia son in the midst of recession, think of ways to stretch your energy dollars so you have more money to spoil loved ones with tokens of good cheer. According to the most recent Gallup poll, Americans estimate they will spend $638 for holiday gifts this season, down from $866 in 2007. Now everyone has certain nonnegotiables – things they won’t budge on even during tough times, but there are plenty of things you can do to save on your energy bill this season and throughout the year that can favorably impact your bottom line. Saving energy at home: When the heat is on, keep doors closed. Windows should be locked to minimize heat loss and maximize the efficiency of window seals. Turn out the lights on your way out of the house and when you leave a room. Adjust the water heater thermostat to 120 degrees to realize savings on your next utility bill. (My savings was about $20 a month.) Turn off stereos, televisions and computers when not actively in use. According to Connecticut Light and Power, having just one computer running continuously for a month will add $30 to your annual electric bill. Chargers should always be unplugged once a charge is complete. Turn down the heat while you invest in warm bedding and train family members to dress in layers around the house. Saving water at home: Limit shower time and save water and energy simply by keeping an eye on a water-resistant timer placed inside the shower. A 10minute shower typically costs $2.10. If you do the math and consider other members of your family, this can be a great place to save. If you wash dishes by hand, fill your sink or basin with hot soapy water and eliminate running

water. Apply the same concept when rinsing vegetables and fruit by filling a bowl or pot. Run only full dishwashing loads and omit the heat dry stage. Saving energy buying gifts: As a local newspaper, we are happy to urge our readers to shop locally whenever possible. If not, get out of your car and embrace the internet for on-line shopping. There are tons of deals which include free shipping, lower-priced items and internet specials. You’ll love the convenience of shopping on the internet and the fool-proof way it circumnavigates impulse purchases — yet another way to save. Saving energy with small investments: Energy saving fluorescent bulbs are continuously being improved and can make a big difference in your electric bill. In North America, electricity used for lighting could be cut by 50 percent by replacing incandescent bulbs with compact fluorescent. During its lifetime, each compact bulb will reduce carbon dioxide emissions from a typical coal-fired power plant by one ton. And for roughly $20 each, programmable thermostats are a sound investment. These are easy to program around your family’s comfort needs, and they more than pay for themselves as they effortlessly regulate temperature settings while reducing heating and cooling costs. I’ve touched on only a short list of opportunities to save energy in a typical day, but they represent the types of changes that would be easy for most of us to implement. While it’s easier to do nothing, I’m hoping that the potential for a reduced electric bill at a time when other bills typically run high could be a great motivator. Happy savings and happy holidays.

O’Connell

Earthwise

You are what you eat: Creative Arts 2009 invitation It’s that time of year again – candy bowls still overflow with candy corn and tiny candy bars, turkeys and cranberry sauce looms this week and Christmas cookies are just around the corner, as is our annual Creative Arts issues. Each year we publish an issue or two around the holidays chock full of your efforts, sharing our readers’ considerable gifts as our seasonal offering to the community. It has become a wonderful tradition, and in past years we have had such themes as “Heroes,” “Home for the Holidays” and “Love the Earth.” This year, with national news stories focusing on eating locally, creative food preparation, changes in the American diet, eating as a challenge to health, etc., we decided that food might be a very timely See Food, page 14 and interesting theme.

More Letters to the Editor

10 Wrong

(From page 8)

oppose healthcare reform that involves government participation. In the case of H1N1 flu, I would suggest that any finger-pointing should be in the direction of factory farms, drug makers and state or municipal health departments. Suzy Mongeon, Durham

Thanks to Durham vet,

Janice and CATALES When my parents came home from the vet’s Wednesday, I immediately sensed that something was wrong. When I saw that my skinny beat up gray cat wasn’t with them, I knew things had turned for the worse. About six weeks ago, a starved gray cat wandered up to my house. When it turned it’s head, I saw the wound. The wound was the

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Friday, November 20, 2009

best for Providence. I would like to thank CATALES for all their help and guidance through this, along with Durham Veterinary Hospital for trying to give Providence a chance for a better life and for the comfort they gave us, and my Mom who rescued Providence in the beginning. She was the reason he had held on for as long as he did. Thanks to Janice who came over and set us up with our makeshift vet hospital room at home. Without you, Janice, we would have been in trouble that night. All of you are the reason Providence made it this far and having Providence showed me that one animal can make a difference in our lives and maybe some good can come out of this. I would like to add that if anyone is interested in makPlease call for corrections at 203-317-2308 - after 5 pm call ing a donation to CATALES in 203-317-2282 memory of Providence, it Ad#:1137704 Pub:TOWNTIMES Date:11/20/09 Day:FRI would be appreciated... the address is CATALES, Inc P.O. Size:2X7.5 Cust:TIME OUT TAVERN Last Edited By:DWILLIAMS on 11/17/09 4:22 PM. Salesperson:114 TagBox 901, Middletown CT 06457. They have a website, too, and Line:NONE Color Info: plenty of cats and kittens that 1137704 - Composite need homes. Thank you. Starting November 23rd Megan Rowe, Middlefield largest I had ever seen. I’m a volunteer at CATALES (an animal rescue in Middletown) and working there, I saw a lot of sick cats, but nothing could compare to this. We brought it to the emergency vet hospital since it was a Friday evening. The emergency vets did what they could do to get the injured cat through the weekend, then we took him to Durham Vets. They told us the cat was a boy and an older, neutered cat, I named him Providence which means fate, I had hopes that this cat would have a better future. When my Mom and I told CATALES what had happened, they said they would pay for all of Providence’s ex-

penses. Providence was on numerous medications, but I needed him to make it through. Weeks passed and I thought Providence was progressing. He was the most affectionate cat I had ever had, and I planned on keeping him out of harm from now on. I wanted him to have a better life and a new beginning where he was going to be o.k. So when my Mom didn’t come home with him I knew that he was gone. The wound has gotten worse and the weekly antibiotics were not working against his injuries...My heart was broken to know my weak little kitty wouldn’t be coming home, but I knew it was the

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eggs, pancakes, bacon, sausage, hash, home fries, juice, coffee, and yes, that Lion staple, the little mini-donut with or without cinnamon sugar, was just right. There was something there for everyone. At most Lions’ events, there is a raffle of some sort. This year it was a 50/50 raffle. Over $700 was collected (thank you!), and Barbara Rowe was our grand winner. Barbara, who

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Town Times

Friday, November 20, 2009

Breakfast (From page 10) recently retired after 25 years of service as Middlefield’s Registrar of Voters, was surprised and appreciative. Our sincere thanks to all who helped: to Mark Gribko and his donut/grill crew; to Robin Heath and the Troop 33 boy scout crew; to family members and friends; to all who bought 50/50 raffle tickets. Most importantly to all the Middlefield Lions who gave their Saturday afternoon (setup) and Sunday (early!) to provide a warm, easy social event on a rainy November morn. Summer Lerch-Spencer for the Middlefield Lions

HOT Schools partnership blooms Students from the John C. Daniels School in New Haven are partnered with third and fourth graders in two classes at John Lyman School in a special program sponsored by the HOT (Higher Order Thinking) Schools. Writer Leslie Johnson and musician and songwriter Thomasina Levy are working with the children and their teachers during individual visits to each school and in partner visits between schools. This intense five-week artist residency is providing students and teachers with rich experiences. Students have been writing original lyrics and songs describing their ur-

Photos submitted by Betty Hadlock

ban and country settings and using masterpiece artwork to write poetry focusing on landscapes and cityscapes. The first joint school meeting happened Oct. 19 at Lyman School. The children wrote po-

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Durham Town Briefs

Friday, November 20, 2009

Durham Government Calendar Swearing-in ceremony (All meetings will be held at the Durham Library unless

VOLUNTEER HONORED: Lynn Stanwood, center with flowers, was honored at the annual luncheon as the Durham Library “volunteer of the year.” With her, from left, are library staff members Carol Herzig, Patti Holden, Melissa Albin, board chair Jane Eriksen, library director Valerie Kilmartin, Cyndi Shirshac and Christine Tkaczyk. Photo by Karen Kean

otherwise noted. Check the town Web page at www.townofdurhamct.org for agendas and last-minute changes.) Monday, Nov. 23 7 p.m. — Ethics Commission Thursday & Friday, Nov, 26 & 27 Town offices closed for Thanksgiving Monday, Nov. 30 7 p.m. — Board of Selectmen at Town Hall Tuesday, Dec. 1 6:30 p.m. — Public Safety Committee 7:30 p.m. — Midstate Planning, 100 DeKoven Dr., Middletown Wednesday, Dec. 2 6:30 p.m. — Volunteer Ambulance Corps at ambulance bldg. 7:30 p.m. — Planning and Zoning Commission Thursday, Dec. 3 7 p.m. — Public Safety Renovations Com. at the firehouse Sunday, Dec. 6 1 p.m. — Swearing in ceremony at the library Monday, Dec. 7 6:30 p.m. — Emergency Management

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The swearing-in ceremony for elected officials of the town of Durham will be held on Sunday, Dec. 6, at 1 p.m. at the Durham Public Library on Maple Avenue. Refreshments will be served following the ceremony.

Time to keep streets clear

The Board of Selectmen would like to remind Durham residents that, per Section 14-2 of the Durham Code of Ordinances, it is unlawful to deposit snow, ice, leaves or other debris on public roadways or sidewalks. No person shall deposit any snow, ice, leaves or other debris onto any portion of any public town road, street or sidewalk, so as to impede or render unsafe any manner of use or travel upon said public town road, street or sidewalk. Any person violating this article shall be guilty of an infraction. This infraction shall result in a fine of $50 per offense.

Project proposed for stimulus money

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The town of Durham has proposed a pavement preservation project for the resurfacing (2” asphalt overlay on the existing roadway) of approximately 3,200’ of Maiden Lane from Main Street (Route 17) to Wheeler Hill Road. It is anticipated that $127,263.00 in funding will be available through the Federal American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) for the construction phase of this project. Based on a preliminary review, the Connecticut Department of Transportation has estimated the construction costs to be approximately $156,000. The town will be responsible for any cost greater than the ARRA allotment and the cost of design, administration, advertising and inspection. This project, if supported by the community and Durham officials, is expected to occur in 2010. Anyone interested in obtaining further information or providing input may do so by contracting Laura Francis, First Selectman, at 860-3493625 or lfrancis@townofdurhamct.org.

Middlefield Town Briefs

Friday, November 20, 2009

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Middlefield Government Calendar (Unless otherwise indicated, all meetings are held in the Community Center.) Monday, Nov. 23 11:30 a.m. — Housing Commission at Sugarloaf Terrace Wednesday, Nov. 25 6 p.m. — Planning and Zoning Commission Thursday & Friday, Nov. 26 &27 Middlefield town offices closed for Thanksgiving Tuesday, Dec. 1 7:30 p.m. — Midstate Planning, 100 DeKoven Dr., Middletown Thursday, Dec. 3 7 p.m. — Board of Finance

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Hours: The library is open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays, and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Visit www.leviecoe.com or call the library at 860-349-3857 for information or to register for any program. You can also renew, reserve and check your library record on the website. The library will close at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 25 and reopen Monday, Nov. 30. Enter to Win a Children’s Book: Between now and Dec. 10, children can enter their

names in a drawing to win a signed copy of Fancy Nancy Splendiferous Christmas by Jane O’Connor, illustrated by Robin Preiss Glasser. The winner will be picked Dec. 10 at the Giving Tree Celebration. Annual Giving Tree and Open House: Parents, teens and children can browse the selected books on display to determine which ones they would like to donate. 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 Santa Claus for the library. A bookplate will be placed inside each donated book in appreciation.

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Pelton’s Home Healthcare of Wethersfield will be visiting the Middlefield Senior Center on Monday, Dec. 7, at 12:30 p.m. This is a “must attend” presentation. The topic of the presentation will be how to continue to live at home in your elder years, safely and independently. The theme will be supported by valuable information and a show-and-tell demonstration of simple products that help achieve this goal, such as cushion lift chair, walking aids, button aid, sock aid, grab bars and more. Jaye Veley, marketing director, will do the presentation. Donuts and coffee will be served. The annual Christmas luncheon will be held on Wednesday, Dec. 16, at noon. Enjoy a traditional holiday meal and the sounds of the season with entertainer Ralph Sacco. This is a great time to catch up with old friends and neighbors and surround yourself with the joy of the season. The suggested donation is $2 and early reservations are recommended. Call the Center at 860-349-7121 and don’t forget to bring your mugs! Bingo games are played every third Monday at 1 p.m. The next game will be on Dec. 21. Popcorn and drinks are served. Cards are $1 each, with a four-card maximum. All sen-

iors are welcome. Setback is played every Tuesday at 1 p.m. Coffee is served. No partners are needed. As with all senior center programs, you are asked to lug a mug (bring your own beverage cup) to help cut down on paper waste.

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Town Times

14 Food

(From page 9)

We can imagine still lifes of fruit bowls, favorite family recipes – perhaps with a few sentences of background story, photos of kids in the kitchen, family album photos of “cooking in the old days,” memories of favorite meals, restaurants and holiday food traditions. Get out your pens and word processors, your cameras and paints, and help take us all to the land of “bon appetit.”

We prefer that creative writing be emailed to news@towntimes.com. It’s easiest if you cut and paste the writing directly into the email; that way computer and program differences are minimized. Artwork should either be brought into the office so we can scan it or emailed as a digital photo attachment in JPG format. You can, of course, drop photos or stories or art at the office, 488 Main St. in Middlefield (next to Liberty Bank) or mail you work to Town Times, PO Box 265,

Friday, November 20, 2009

Middlefield, CT 06455. The deadline for all Creative Arts submissions will be Wednesday, Dec. 16, at 5 p.m. We make every effort to print whatever we receive, but the final decision is up to the editor and depends on space available. As always, we welcome submissions on any topic and suggest “food” only to give readers an idea on which to hang their creative hats. We also encourage adults to give creative expression and sharing a try; you’ll be glad you did and so will we!

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funded because otherwise we are “just shifting costs to the insurance companies and their customers.” Mike Hudson, of Aetna, was also no apologist for the status quo, noting that access, cost and quality of our current system need to improve. “We need payment reform. We need to move from productiondriven (fee for service) payment to outcome-based payment. The doctor who keeps you well needs to be paid as well as the one who orders a CT scan when it might not be needed,” he said. He alleged that over the last eight years, insurance premiums have increased 59 percent, health costs 57 percent and wages 21 percent. “Who’s to blame? Everyone – and that’s freeing thought,” Hudson added. He urged listeners “not to

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demonize the public option or Sustinet. The uninsured are a diverse group; there’s not one magic solution. We have to have open discussion about all options, and strong emotions and the strong technical component of much of the discussion makes this harder,” Hudson cautioned. Margaret Flintner, a nurse for 35 years and a “public option” supporter, spoke next in support of Connecticut’s efforts to improve its system through the Sustinet debate. “This was robustly but respectfully debated,” she noted, “it provides real options, and the state is mandated to collect data so the system can be improved as we go along.” Tamar Abdelgawad, of Pfizer, had a slightly different perspective. “Healthcare is 16 percent of our economy,” he said. “But it is not just a cost; it is a value, and pharma is just 10 percent of the total cost.” He felt that access is the biggest problem, and that governments have two choices faced with the current system – “they can regulate or they can participate.” Dr. Matthew Katz, executive vice president of the Ct. State Medical Society, gave some alarming statistics. “Eighty percent of our members are physicians in groups of four or less,” he said. “The mean age of physicians in Connecticut is 55, and we have 417 emergency room visits per 1,000 people annually. Two-thirds of our doctors are specialists. As of Jan. 1 there will be a 21.5 percent reduction in already low Medicare reimbursement and a 14 percent reduction in Medicare reimbursement. It has been 100 years since President Theodore Roosevelt suggested changes to the system. The status quo is not sustainable. We need to reward primary care, and we need to consider the ‘F’ word and be flexible,” he concluded. And then there was John Leone, president of the Chamber Leadership Council and an employee of CIT (Chamber Insurance Trust, a company that arranges insurance for Chamber members in Ct. and western Mass.), who warned against moving too fast on any of the remedies supported by all other speakers. It was a fascinating, detailed and educational workshop, true to form for the programs arranged by the Middlesex Chamber of Commerce.

Friday, November 20, 2009

Scouts in Town Times

Another Eagle Scout project launches By Tyler Gray Life Scout

TRAIL WORK: Pack 27, Den 6 and boys from Troop 27 had the privilege of maintaining parts of the Wolf Tree Trail at Brewster School. The trail was made as part of two previous Eagle Scout projects. Photo submitted by Dawn Amendola

Boot

(From page 24)

ready for work, get the kids to school, etc. “Drill Sergeant” former Navy Seal Kevin Lacz, keeps things exciting and fun. The cost is $5 per session. For

more info, call 860-349-9926. Evening Boot Camp Monday, Tuesday and Thursday evenings at 8 p.m., Boot Camp meets in the Memorial School band room. Cost is $5 a class, pay as you go. For more info call 860-349-9926.

On a cold, windy and rainy Oct. 18, 15 scouts and six adults met at the Coginchaug River on Route 17 to assist in my Eagle Project. My project for the CT Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) is the “Coginchaug River Fishing Trail” that consists of a quarter-mile trail down the river with various fishing access points. In the planning process, advice was gathered from local Trout Unlimited members who provided history on the river and thoughts as to what should be accomplished. After developing my plan, I had to

get various approvals prior to starting work. Then it was time to gather the troops and get busy. Trail work consisted of clearing brush and making river access easier for fishermen and DEP stocking crews. The new trail will also allow hunters and others easier ac-

cess deeper into Durham Meadows. A new three to fourcar parking area will also be created to allow better off-road parking for anyone wishing to enjoy the trail and river. A river/trail clean-up will also take place prior to seeking DEP final approval.

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Town Times

Binke and Kimble wed

Sarah Binke, formerly of Middlefield, daughter of Louise Binke of Rocky Hill, and Ronald Binke of Portland, married Thomas Kimble, of NY, son of Rita Kimble and William Kimble, both of NY.

The ceremony took place at St. Colman Church in Middlefield, on June 20, 2009, officiat-

ed by Reverend Deacon Peter Gill and Father Gregory Mullaney. The maid of honor was Jessica Hess and bridesmaids were Adrienne Clements and Natalie Dixon. The best men were Jason Colunio, Nathan Parmenter, Ethan Saxby and Robert Trumbull. The reception was held at The Riverhouse at Goodspeed Station in Haddam. The couple honeymooned in Jamaica. The bride is a graduate of the College of the Holy Cross and the Medical University of South Carolina. She is a Physician Assistant and employed by the Endocrinology Department at the Medical University of South Carolina. The groom is a graduate of LeMoyne College and employed by Verizon Wireless as a technical coordinator. The couple live in Charleston, SC.

Town Times Welcomes New Citizen

Friday, November 20, 2009

Local firefighters honored

Beth Ann Johansen Born Nov. 7, 2008 to Mike and Kim Johansen, Durham Grandparents: Howard and Lillian Eckels, North Haven Russell and Mary Ann Johansen, Durham Big sister: Kayley, 9

Allen Fritts and his daughter at the “Salute” dinner. Durham volunteer firefighter William “Allen” Fritts and Middlefield volunteer firefighter Bob Bandzes were honored at Connecticut Exchange Club’s 12th annual “Salute to Connecticut’s Bravest” ceremony on Oct. 22 at the Aqua

Turf Club in Southington. Fritts has been a volunteer firefighter since 1997 and has served as a firefighter/MRT and a chaplain. He served as the company’s secretary for years. He was chosen by the Durham Volunteer Fire Company for his hard work and commitment which have resulted in many enhancements to the fire company and community. Allen has served on, and chaired, many committees within the fire company, including the Tax Abatement and Length of Service (LOSAP) programs. Allen strongly feels programs like these help the recruitment and retention of members and will increase the company’s effectiveness.

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Bandzes has been a firefighter for 18 years, 12 in Middlefield and six with the Cromwell Fire Department. He has been responsible for fire prevention and education programs, including work in local schools and daycare centers. Bob’s commitment to his firefighters and community is evident in the countless hours he has given to help keep the town safe from fire. He wholeheartedly embraced taking over the fire prevention and education program when the previous member retired. He also always accommodates the local schools and day cares so the kids can see the fire trucks and learn the importance of fire safety. In addition Bob instructs classes at the fire station on hazardous communication and firefighter safety. He has been chairman of the fire department’s health and safety committee for the past five years.

Town Times Obituaries

Friday, November 20, 2009

Valerie Helene (Ross) Palmisano

Kenneth Norton Kenneth Norton, 50, of Durham, beloved husband of Wendy (Richter) Norton, passed away Monday, Nov. 16, 2009, at his home. He was born in Middletown,

the son of Caroline (Wimler) Norton of Durham and the late Ralph Norton. He was most recently employed with Wygant Construction and Landscaping in Southington. Besides his wife and mother, he is survived by his children, Jay, Brandon and Amanda Norton, all of Durham; his sister, Barbara (Norton) Litwin and her husband, Michael, of Colchester; and nieces and nephews, Kevin, Justin, Ryan, Alyson, Collin, Vanessa and Jenna. Funeral services will be held Sunday, Nov. 22, at 1:30 p.m. at the United Churches of Durham, 228 Main St. in Durham. Burial will be at the convenience of the family in Mica Hill Cemetery. Friends may call at Biega Funeral Home, 3 Silver St. in Middletown, Saturday from 6 to 8 p.m. Memorial contributions may be made to the Durham Volunteer Fire Department, P.O. Box 154, Durham, CT 06422 or the Durham Ambulance Corp., P.O. Box 207, Durham, CT 06422.

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Addy & Sons Landscaping

APEC ELECTRIC

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349-1314 • 349-3297 Decorative Walkways, patios and Retaining Walls

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Lic.# E1123497

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David Louis Jettinghoff, 82, of Middletown, passed away peacefully at home on Saturday, Nov. 14, 2009, one day shy of his 83rd birthday. He was the husband and “roommate” for 58 years of Rosamond “Roz” Jettinghoff. Born in Lima, Ohio, on Nov. 15, 1926, he was the son of Rudolph Henry and Mildred Huber Jettinghoff. He was predeceased by his brother, Rolf Jetting-

boro, Maine; and eight nieces and nephews. The family would like to extend their deep appreciation to the Hospice Home Care professionals and volunteers for their compassion and concern during the past six months. Funeral services will be held Thursday, Nov. 19, at 10 a.m. at Biega Funeral Home, followed an 11 a.m. funeral liturgy at St. Colman Church, Hubbard Street, Middlefield. Burial with military honors will be in Middlefield Cemetery. Contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association CT Chapter, 279 New Britain Road, Suite 5, Kensington, CT 06037, Hospice Palliative Care, 28 Crescent St., Middletown, CT 06457 or to a charity of the donor’s choice.

SEPTIC

1137700

David Louis Jettinghoff

he received the Book of Golden Deeds award and holds the distinctive honor as longest and oldest member of the club, recognized with the Distinguished Citizen Award from the Middlesex Chamber of Commerce, and received the Silver Beaver award. Dave often reminisced about treasured times spent with family and friends at 14 Valentine Lane, as well as long walks on Baker’s Beach in Westport Point, Mass. He will be remembered for his generosity and acts of kindness. To quote him, “Do a good turn daily and drive safe.” Besides his wife, he is survived by his daughters, Carol Skultety of Newington, Susan Nettis and her husband, John, of Middletown; four grandsons, Steven Skultety, Ryan and his wife, Lauren Skultety, Matthew and Christopher Nettis; and great-granddaughter, Skye Madison Skultety. He also leaves behind his sister, Miriam Rudden of Morris Plains, N.J.; sister-in-law, Pauline Jettinghoff of Noble-

Town Times Service Directory 1137699

Valerie Helene (Ross) Palmisano, 45, of Durham, wife of William N. Palmisano, passed away on Saturday, Nov. 14, 2009, at Connecticut Hospice in Branford. Born in Washington, D.C., she was the daughter of Dennis and Dianne (Driscoll) Ross of Plantsville. Valerie resided 33 years in Ct. She was a 1982 graduate of North Branford High School. She had lived in Durham for the past 15 years and was an active part of the community. She was most recently employed at H&M in Cheshire as a distribution manager. She enjoyed Old Orchard Beach and the Colorado Rocky Mountains and being involved with her children’s many school activities. Valerie had a wonderful personality, and her mottos were “always hope for the best and prepare for the worst” and “never give up.” Beside her husband and parents, she is survived by her son, Jeremiah N. Palmisano of Durham; her sister, Catherine (Ross) Mason and her husband, Glenn, of Plantsville; and several nieces and nephews. Valerie was predeceased by her beloved daughter, Allyson E. Palmisano. A memorial service will be held on Friday, Nov. 20, at 1 p.m., at the United Churches of Durham, 228 Main St. in Durham, with the Rev. Dr. Elven W. Riggles Jr. officiating. Burial will follow in Mica Hill Cemetery in Durham. There will be no calling hours; in lieu of flowers, friends may make donations to the Jeremiah Palmisano Trust Fund c/o TD Bank, 121 Main St., Southington, CT 06489. Messages of condolence may be sent to the family at doolittlefuneralservice.com.

hoff, and daughter, Diane Jettinghoff. Upon graduating from LaSalle Academy, Providence, R.I., he served his country as a corporal in the Army Air Corps in Austria and finished his education by graduating from Providence College with a degree in Sociology in 1950. He worked in professional scouting for many councils throughout Massachusetts and Maine before moving his family to Connecticut in 1964. He actively continued his scouting career, during which time he was instrumental in the formation of the current Middletown Police Explorer Post 54. He was an active member of St. Colman Church, serving as a lector, past council member and organist. He was a participant in Big Brothers and Christmas in April. He was a board member for the Middlesex Community College Foundation, volunteered at Middlesex Hospital and as a frequent pianist at Wadsworth Glen Nursing Home. He was a past president of the Exchange Club where

Dan Jacobs Owner Dependable & Reasonable

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Friday, November 20, 2009

Town Times

Durham/Middlefield Youth & Family Services

Chili contest was delicious!

(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. Red Cross Infant CPR Class Sat., Nov. 21, from 9 a.m.-noon. Call 860-349-0258 before Nov. 16 to reserve. 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, 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 860-3490258 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.

Above, Brian Rigney of Guilford, with Ana and Bella and their mother Jessica Coviello. Left, Kevin Gawron, of Durham; directly below, Pat O’Connor, of Durham; bottom, Seamus Doyle, of Durham, were among the many who enjoyed Church of the Epiphany’s annual chili cook-off.

Photos by Judy Moeckel

Town Times Service Directory V.M.B. Custom Builders “No jobs too big or small” Mike Gerchy OWNER/BUILDER

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Town Times

Friday, November 20, 2009

District 13

(From page 1)

Range Planning Committee reports. The Building Committee did, however, meet, and chair Bill Currlin announced that a second appeal was filed last week against

Hey! Nice T-Shirt! By Stephanie Wilcox Town Times

on last year’s interest. Nice T-Shirt is run out of the Volenec’s home on Creamery Road. Call 860-349-0727 for more information or to meet with them, or email nicetshirt@sbcglobal.net.

Joel Volence of Nice T-Shirt

by the appeals, the district will still have to find a space for the team to practice/play, and the same goes for the tennis, soccer and track teams. The Policy Committee also met and looked at five policies with minor adjustments to be made which will be presented at the next meeting. Norm Hicks, who chairs the Magnet School Committee, said there is a new magnet school agreement with no significant changes. He informed the board that he dropped the seat allotment number to 10, which the district will be able to exceed if they would like to purchase them. He noted that the issue of having to pay for seats that are not being used did not come up in the meeting. The board will need to vote on the agreement in the near future. During her report, the Superintendent talked about problems presented on the news with Hartford Magnet Schools, such as transportation. She wanted to bring it to the board’s attention that the

Durham High School reunion

The Durham High School Class of 1969 celebrated its 40th reunion on Oct. 24 with a dinner at San Souci Restaurant in Meriden. Photo submitted by Gail Thody Open Choice program allows students to attend other schools with available openings, and District 13 pays tuition if a student attends such a school. Thomas Edison Magnet School is the only school that District 13 is a partner with, and so D-13 is responsible for paying for transportation also to that school. Her concern was that the board will have to come up with a figure in the budget to cover

all the other schools that “we don’t have a handle on.” For instance, sometimes the board won’t know until after the budget numbers are completed in March that they will need to pay for a student attending the Hartford Academy, which could be a major budget issue if they haven’t budgeted for the amount of students enrolled elsewhere. The next meeting will be Dec. 9 at 7:30 p.m. at Memorial.

Town Times Service Directory 1129146

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Susan and Joel Volenec put their creative heads together to create a screen printing business called Nice T-Shirt. Joel comes from an artistic family and has been involved in graphic design for a long time. Susan has experience with fashion in the big city. When they moved to Durham eight years ago, they started the business right away. “There are lots of local businesses in Durham,” said Joel. “The great thing about this town is lots of people support us.” Whether you’re looking for uniforms, promotional items, or things for runs or benefit rides, Nice T-Shirt will create it for you. “We don’t just do tshirts,” said Joel, who came up with the company name because of the simple, easy to remember phrase, “Hey! Nice tshirt!” “We do jackets, scarves, embroidery services, and we even did a silk cloth one time used for taking apart a microphone with all its little screws and parts.” Though Joel creates much of the graphics himself for those who don’t already have logos, many customers may have a design concept that Joel is happy to create. They’ll do small order or huge orders and small groups like cub scouts or businesses of any size. Most of their customers come from word of mouth and cold calling. The husband and wife-run business, of which Joel does the graphic design and production full time and Susan does sales mostly part time, held a contest last year where they called upon community members to create designs based on a theme. The winning design was put on garments and sold to local businesses around town. It was a great contest where everybody won, explained Joel, and the Volenec’s look forward to doing it again in the next few months based

P&Z decisions on the upgraded athletic facility, so now the legal process starts. The projects are on hold, which Viccaro said is a shame because “we have an undefeated (football) team and no place to call home.” Viccaro stressed that despite the delay caused

Durham, CT (860) 349-1131 Pick-up & Delivery

Town Times Sports

the third quarter and ultimately ended the game with a strong final score of 43-17.

Durham Dashers undefeated

Cam Powers was on fire and led the team in scoring with 20 points. Scott Marks and Kyle Judson each had eight points, followed by Billy Egan with four, Sam Temple with two and Kyle Adams with one. Judson led the team in assists.

By Judi Judson Special to the Town Times

Ok, ok….. so the sixth grade boys’ basketball team had only two games so far, but the fact remains that they are still undefeated and really excited about it! Everyone will be even more excited when point guard Jake Sapia returns from a recent injury. Hopefully, he will be ready to play just in time to face the “tough to beat” Hamden team on Sunday, Dec. 6. Heal up fast, Jake! The Dashers dominated this week’s game against Old Saybrook from start to finish. By the end of the first quarter, they held them to just three points with the Dasher’s scoring 16. By halftime the score soared to 23-11, and there was no looking back. The Dashers increased their lead to 34-13 in

“We played well and played great defense,” remarked guard Adams after the game. And boy, was he right! The Dashers out-rebounded Old Saybrook 33-21, which is an uncommon occurrence for the usually outsized Dashers. Aggressive defense was played by Connor Neidmann, Kyle Wyskiel, David Pakech and Matt Reed. Egan and Marks led the team in rebounds while Powers and Adams had the most steals. Next up for the Dashers is Branford next Sunday, Nov. 22, at 12:45 p.m. at Strong School.

Dominators lose to East Lyme By Alice Blair Special to the Town Times The Dominator girls didn’t lose quietly. The sixth grade girls looked like they would get the come-back win when they took the lead for the first time late in the fourth quarter. But, a speedy East Lyme got it back with less than a minute remaining and beat Durham, 29-23. East Lyme started by scoring two points before 30 seconds ticked off the clock. Gabriella Diaz’s pass led to Amy Arcari putting up Durham’s first points. Dominators played good defense, such as a full-court hustle by Shaun Whitaker. However, Durham’s score remained at two while East Haven scored six in the first quarter. Taylor Marino started off the Dominator scoring in the second quarter with a suc-

Friday, November 20, 2009 cessful shot near the corner. East Lyme then sank two shots. With Durham down by five, Emma Blair stole the ball and went the length of the court for two points while being fouled. Sinking a free throw brought the Dominators up to six points, just two behind. Larissa Cade put the pedal to the medal with just a couple of minutes left in the half and made a shot off a great pass from Alana Beckert, who also scored in the quarter. Feisty rebounder Carlie Annechino then made a foul shot to again bring Durham just one basket behind. Finally, East Lyme scored off an offensive rebound. Both teams scored 10 points in the second quarter, but East Lyme remained ahead 16-12 at the half. The Dominators started the second half off right by not allowing East Lyme to get the ball inbounds. Blair scored first off an offensive rebound. Cade then answered an East Lyme basket with a well-

Town Times Service Directory Dave Monroe

Durham Dynamite wins inaugural game

MIDDLETOWN PLATE GLASS CO., INC.

1128180

Guardian Pet Fence

placed shot off a steal. Caitlyn Sibiskie responded to the competition’s next basket with one of her own, adding offensive points to her scrappy defensive game. The final quarter started with Durham down just 20-18. Cade tied the game right away off an assist from Diaz. At 4:20 left in the game, Cade’s next basket led to the first lead for the Dominators, firing up the crowd. Durham took a time out with 3:45 remaining after East Lyme scored twice to take the lead back. Out of the huddle, Cade tied the score again after the girls’ perfectly executed the coach’s play. Blair then made a free throw, giving the Dominators a one-point lead with less than two minutes left to play. It looked like Durham might be the comeback kids. Then East Lyme executed their press break perfectly, getting a couple of last minute lay-ups and foul shots, sealing Durham’s fate at 29-23. The following Dominators put up points: Cade eight, Blair six, Arcari two, Beckert two, Marino two, Sibiskie two and Annechino one. The Dominators play next at home on Sunday, Nov. 22.

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The Durham Dynamite fifth grade girls’ travel basketball team opened their inaugural season by recording an impressive victory over North Branford at Strong School on Nov. 15. Durham Dynamite team members include Allie Alsup, Abby Blair, Amy Boyle, Paige Copeland, Julia Davis, Megan Decker, Jordan Felgate, Brittany Hall, Katelyn Richardson, Emily Stanwood, Madison Terrill and Bridget Turecek. The first quarter of the game was dominated by defense from both teams. The stalemate was finally broken when Amy Boyle banked in a nice two-pointer off the glass. Continued excellent man-toman defense by the Dynamite kept North Branford scoreless, and at the end of the first quarter, the Dynamite led 2-0. The Dynamite’s offense started clicking in the second See Dynamite, next page

Town Times Sports

Friday, November 20, 2009

Spirit a-plenty on the Dynamite bench.

Dynamite (Continued from page 20)

By Heena Kapadia Firestorm, Durham’s fifth grade boys’ travel basketball team, is off to a strong start, with decisive wins against North Haven and Westbrook.

Aidan Doyle found the basket in the second quarter, and a poised Firestorm defense continued to be pivotal, with steals by Camden Stockdale and offensive and defensive rebounding by the Murphy

brothers, Jeremy Orozco, Kyle Grenier and Morris. Despite those efforts, the Durham boys trailed by one point at the half. After halftime, the team emerged more focused and added another ten points to the scoreboard with baskets by Griffin and Jack Murphy, Adam Doolittle, Gonzales and Vynalek. Stockdale and the Murphy brothers kept pressure on the boards, and the entire Firestorm defense forced North Haven penalties and turnovers throughout the quarter. Justin Faiella contributed with solid ball movement and defensive positioning, allowing the Firestorm to maintain a lead of 17 to 10. In the fourth quarter, the Firestorm continued to trap the ball and capitalized on turnovers. Grenier and Jack Murphy made key steals, and Doyle, Grenier and the Murphys continued to control the boards. The Firestorm fourth quarter offense was led by Doyle, Griffin Murphy, Oroz-

Ct. Eliminator 2010 girls’ softball openings The Connecticut Eliminators Girls’ Fast Pitch Softball Travel League are looking for the following players. 18U pitcher; 14U Middle infielder/short stop and strong outfielder; 12U catcher and positional players; and 10U various positions. For further information, please call 860-5636554 or email at CTEliminators@aol.com. Information about the Connecticut Eliminator program can also be obtained on our website at www.cteliminators.com.

co and Gonzales, capping off the 24-16 win.

Read how the Firestorm did in their next game against Westbrook at www.towntimes.com.

Town Times Service Directory (860) 759-2432

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quarter. Paige Copeland was fouled on a strong drive to the hoop, and followed it up by swishing one of two shots from the foul line. Durham’s lead increased to 5-0 after Bridget Turecek sank a sweet bank shot. Then Madison Terrill stole the ball and dribbled the length of the court to score a perfect layup. Brittany Hall finished up the second quarter by scoring another two-pointer off a great assist by Boyle. At the end of the first half, the Dynamite held a commanding 9-0 lead. In the third and fourth quarters, the Dynamite maintained their scrappy team defense. Katelyn Richardson kicked off the Dynamite scoring with a steal and took it coast-to-coast to drop in a nice layup. Then Julia Davis capitalized on an open lane, and drove straight to the hoop to score again. Excellent ball-handling by Megan Decker, solid defense by Abby Blair and terrific contributions by Emily Stanwood and Jordan Felgate helped the team to shut down North Branford’s offense, holding them to only two points. Terrill closed out the Dynamite scoring with another full court drive to the hoop. The Durham Dynamite’s 152 victory in their first-ever game was a result of good teamwork and strong effort from all. Led by enthusiastic and supportive coaches Rick Terrill, Debbie Decker and Dave Blair, the Dynamite are off to a great start. Their next game will be against East Lyme on Sunday, Nov. 22, at Strong School.

Firestorm wins first two games

On Nov. 8, the Firestorm took on North Haven in a home game at Strong Middle School. The team had a slow start in the first quarter, allowing North Haven to make two quick baskets. Shaking off their first game jitters, the team settled down and took complete control of the court. The Firestorm’s offense moved the ball well, and having no trouble in-bounding the ball in the face of North Haven’s full court press. Owen Gonzales, Griffin Murphy and Ryan Vynalek led the offensive surge with field goals in the first quarter. With strong rebounding by Griffin Murphy and Trevor Morris, and well-timed steals by Gonzales and Patrick Piscatelli, the Firestorm finished the first quarter in the lead by two points.

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Town Times Sports

Friday, November 20, 2009

Hawks win despite rain; clinch playoff spot By Garri Saganenko Special to the Town Times

Playing under an ominous and obsidian-scorched sky that would eventually give way to a deluge, the rainy conditions in Deep River benefited the Vinal Tech-Coginchaug Hawks, whose running onslaught is less affected by rain than a more pass-oriented offense is. Bearing down more heavily than the rain were the implications riding on winning this game. A win would put the Hawks at 9-0 and clinch a spot for the Hawks in the class MM playoffs. Four years ago the Hawks went 010, the year after that 1-9, a year later, once again 1-9. Last

over with great field position but was stopped in four plays when they failed season’s to convert on record of 6-5 fourth down and tied the four yards. s c h o o l The Hawks rerecord for claimed possesmost wins sion, piecing toin a season, gether a twelve the Hawks play drive that were now was made up of all treading in running plays, unknown the Hawks would waters. run the ball 69 The contimes and only test began pass three times. with a rare D’aquila and senloss of the Sophomore Tyler Doherty (#11) slips on the muddy field. ior Mark Flancoin toss for Photo by Mykola Danczuk nery carried the the Hawks, work load on the yet Valley deferred to receive as quickly as it had begun, drive that would come up the ball at the start of the sec- when senior Nick D’aquila short on fourth down at the ond half, a pivotal decision. fumbled the ball on the first Valley 25-yard line. Valley’s The Hawks first drive ended play of the drive. Valley took

next drive would end worse than the first. The Hawks’ defense forced the Warriors to punt in three plays. The snap, most likely due to the wet conditions, flew over the punter’s head, rolling into the end zone where the Warriors would pick it up and carry it to their eight yard line. If one thing can be guaranteed about the VC Hawks, it is that if a turnover is made, they will make you pay for it. Senior Conor Finley carried the ball from 2-yards out, with D’aquila converting the twopoint conversion for the Hawks with 1:48 left in the first quarter. VC 8 Valley 0 Eighteen seconds later the Warriors would be celebrat-

See Hawks, next page

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Town Times Sports

Friday, November 20, 2009

Hawks (Continued from page 22)

FALL BALL CHAMPS: Bottom, from left, Connor Rulnick, Kevin Huveldt, Adam Doolittle, Tanner Jamison and Kyle Roberts; middle row, Jason Datillo, Thomas Vallone, Kyle Strang, Hunter Jamison, Brandon Johnson and Cal Pitruzello. Coaches were Mike Rulnick, Ken Vallone, Dave Doolittle and Steve Huveldt. Submitted by Ken Vallone

BY OWNER Durham historic district. 1 BR in 62+ community, newer appliances, tile kit. floor, close to library, post office, town hall and market. Patio & shed. Parking. $136,900. Call 860-349-1108.

MIDDLEFIELD APARTMENTS FOR RENT

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567 New Haven Rd., Durham New Home Without the Wait!

Hot New Listing! This 2342 sq. ft. Ranch style home has been completely gutted & remodeled. Features 3 BRs, 2 full baths, granite counters, all new stainless steel appliances, beautiful HW & tile flooring. Also has vaulted ceiling w/skylites, 1 wood fplc. & 2 propane stoves, c-air & 2 car garage. All set on nearly 1 acre. MUST SEE! Offered at $324,900. DIR: New Haven Rd. (Rt. 17). Visit with Bridie Bradbury or call Pam Beaudoin at 203-623-9959.

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Hawks now let their victory soak in instead. An exclusive playoff spot had been clinched and the Hawks remained unbeaten heading into their contest with the defending class S state champion Cromwell Panthers. Cromwell (6-2) has lost only to Hyde Leadership (8-1) and Avon (9-0). VC beat Hyde Leadership 28-21 earlier in the season. A win against Cromwell would ensure an undefeated regular season and an outright Pequot Sassacus division championship. The game is Wednesday, Nov. 25, at Palmer Field in Middletown at 6:30 p.m. There is a very large crowd expected, showing up early is recommended.

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Warriors would be celebrating in the Hawks’ end zone when Valley QB Logan Whaley ran the ball through the defense for a 65-yard touchdown with 1:30 left in the first quarter. With all the excellent play by the defense this season, they have shown their Achilles’ Heal to be their inability to stop the big play. Valley could not convert the extra point. VC 8 Valley 6 The Hawks responded with a patient, efficient drive that had Flannery compile 49 yards on four carries. Sophomore Alec Corazzini would punch the ball in from one yard out, with another D’aquila two-point conversion with 9:58 left in the second quarter. VC 16 Valley 6 To only be down 10 going into the half was great for the Warriors who started the second half with the ball. After trading failed drives, Valley began their fifth drive of the game from their own 41-yard line, two plays and a 59-yard Logan Whaley touchdown pass later, the outlook of the game had changed. Valley’s second big play of the game,

coming with 3:41 left in the second quarter showed that they could score quickly on the Hawks. VC 16 Valley 12 at the half. Valley’s choice to defer possession to the second half proved to be the correct one. Xavier transfer Kyle Cunningham took the kickoff 70 yards up the field to give Valley the lead before fans were even back from the halftime trip to the concession stand. Valley 19 VC 16 To be resilient is a quality that cannot be taught, the Hawks just have it. Facing a deficit for the second week in a row, the Hawks’ next drive was a meticulous, ten play drive. The Hawks gained yards on every single play, with the biggest play being a rare pass- 26 yards from Finley to senior Jeff Tiedemann. Corazzini capped off the drive with a one-yard touchdown run with 6:47 left in the third quarter. VC 24 Valley 19 A battle of attrition ensued with neither team scoring again. Valley’s best chance came with 23 seconds left in the game when Logan Whaley began firing Hail Mary passes, completing one of them to about the Hawk 40 yard line. However, time had expired. The rain let up and the

Clayton Marcus Sofas & Chairs

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Town Times Health and Fitness

Friday, November 20, 2009

Exercise classes being offered in Middlefield

If early mornings (5:30 a.m.) does not work for you and you can’t find time in the evenings (8 p.m.) to attend one of our ex-

ercise programs, then how does 9:30 a.m. sound? Morning Exercise Starting on Friday, Nov. 13,

people will have another opportunity to get in shape. Led by Robin Reynolds, the class will meet on Wednesday and

Friday mornings at 9:30 a.m. Robin, a certified personal trainer and fitness coach for over 14 years, is dedicated to getting results with challenging and motivational workouts. Participants will work on cardio fitness, core stability, balance and overall strength. All fitness levels are welcome.

Cost is $8 per session. For more info, call 860- 614-1679. Morning Boot Camp Join the fun-loving people who meet at the Community Center weekday mornings at 5:30 a.m. Finished by 6:30, you have plenty of time to get

Jump back to page 15, Boot

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