Volume 17, Issue 36
Serving Durham, Middlefield and Rockfall
Friday, December 17, 2010
Empowering our youth as community leaders By Jane Moen Special to Town Times On Friday, Dec. 3, Durham Middlefield Youth and Family Services (DMYFS) traveled with a team of 10 students and two staff from Coginchaug and Strong Schools to a youth leadership conference, “Leading with Assets” at Middlesex Community College. Ten teams representing the entire county participated in the conference. The DMYFS team of students participated in the fullday conference focusing on the role they have within their community to build “Developmental Assets,” otherwise known as the building blocks to a young person’s success. The team rose to the challenge of developing a school/community project for the youth of Durham and Middlefield. Their project: to create, publicize and implement a “Gratitude Day” in each school. Gratitude Day will be See Youth leaders, page 24
Above, front row: Jared Deflippo (grade eight), Evan Sliker (grade eight), Kaylynn Sambor (grade twelve), Gaylynn Marquez (grade twelve), Stacey Cummings (grade twelve), Jane Moen (DMYFS program director); back row: Brody Ziegler (grade eight), Jenn Crandall (grade eight), Deanne Pulchaski (grade nine), Brenna Goldberg (grade nine), Chris Peach (grade eight), Betsy Dean (DMYFS executive director), Morgan Kuehnle (grade nine). Not pictured but in attendance at the conference were Mike Klimas (Strong teacher); Christen Bertz (CRHS teacher) and Becky Finnerty (DMYFS volunteer) Photo submitted by Jane Moen.
John Lyman School holiday concert The recent winter holiday concert at John Lyman School directed by music teacher Mike Meurs featured the entire kindergarten class and the third and fourth grade chorus singing a variety of songs to celebrate. Photos submitted by Michael Meurs
Lyman golf school discussion returns By Chuck Corley Special to Town Times Meeting on Dec. 8, the Middlefield Planning and Zoning Commission (P&Z) reported that they met with representatives from Lyman Farms, Inc. as a special permit for the construction of a golf school/training center along Main Street has expired since it was first issued in 2002. While the project has a number of other permits associated with it, no other permit has lapsed, and the applicant plans on resubmitting the original, unanimously
approved application for a public hearing. The commission was asked to schedule a hearing as soon as possible, as the applicant wants to begin construction immediateSee Mfld. P&Z, page 16
In this issue ... Calendar............................4 Durham Briefs................14 Middlefield Briefs...........15 Sports ..........................25-28 Libraries.........................18
Town Times Community Briefs
2
Riding for Rudolph
The Mini Mustangs 4-H Horse Club will again be collecting pet food, supplies and donations for “Help Willy’s Friends.” Help Willy’s Friends is an animal welfare charitable organization that provides care for homeless cats and dogs, and raises awareness about the need to adopt homeless animals. The third annual Riding for Rudolph will be held on Saturday, Dec. 18. Donations can be dropped off at the Middlefield Community Center, 405 Main Street, between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Stop by and have your
picture taken with one of Rudolph’s helpers. For more information, contact Pat Bandzes at 860-349-3076, or email pbandzes@gmail.com.
DMIAAB holiday hours Durham Middlefield Interlocal Agreement Advisory Board will be closed Saturday, Dec. 25, for Christmas and Saturday, Jan. 1, for New Years Day.
Nutmeg at Night On Tuesday, Feb. 1, the third annual Nutmeg at Night will take place at the Durham
Index of Advertisers
Youth job bank The youth job bank is a great opportunity for youth aged 12-18 years old who are looking to volunteer or make
a little money. Interested youth should contact Durham Middlefield Youth and Family Services for an application form to be matched to available job opportunities submitted by patrons within the community. Parents will be notified of possible matches for their teen and should consider each job opportunity carefully with their teen to determine suitability. If you live in the Durham/Middlefield and have jobs that could be completed by youth (i.e. yard work, babysitting), e-mail jmoen.dymfs@comcast.net and we will try to match you with youth applicants on file.
CRHS Scholarship Ball
in your life... Occasional
plies. Our annual ball will be on Saturday, March 19, 2011 from 7 p.m. to midnight at the Marriot in Rocky Hill. Highlights include a two hour open bar and buffet dinner, dancing to the sounds of Prelude, silent auction and dessert and coffee bar. The hotel will offer reduced room rates for those who wish to spend the night. If you have attended before, your hostess will be contacting you soon. A limited number of new hostesses are needed. If you don’t have a hostess and want to attend, we will be pleased to seat you with old friends or new ones. Seating will be limited this year. Contact Kim Donecker at 860-349-9840 for ticket prices and reservations.
Corrections
The CRHS Scholarship Committee announces the return of the band “Prelude” for entertainment at the annual fundraising ball this year. Proceeds from the ball go towards a scholarship to every Coginchaug senior bound for further education who ap-
Special Gifts for the Special People
We strive to bring you the most accurate information available each week, but if you see something in Town Times that isn’t quite right, give us a call at 860-349-8000, and we’ll do our best to make things right.
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Public Library. Due to the popularity of this special evening, the venue has changed from the Memorial Middle School Media Center and will take place downstairs at the public library. Any child in fourth, fifth and sixth grade can participate in this “spicy” evening. To be included, a student must fill out a registration form and read a minimum of three Nutmeg books. Registration forms can be filled out at the Durham and Coe public libraries, or the Memorial, Lyman and Korn school libraries. The students will be organized in teams of four and will be asked questions from one of the 10 Nutmeg books that have been chosen by librarians, teachers and students throughout the state of Connecticut. Parents are also encouraged to read the books. If students are stuck on a question, the parents can be their “spicelines” and help them out of a “spicy” situation.
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Town Times
Friday, December 17, 2010
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Durham BOS approves numerous board/commission appointments As a continuation from last week’s Durham Board of Selectman (BOS) meeting, the board reconvened Monday, Dec. 13, primarily to approve appointments to boards and commissions. “Yes, this has been frustrating, but as I said, this is a good problem to have,” First Selectman Laura Francis stated when talking about the new appointments. “We are very appreciative that people have come forward and want to volunteer.” Appointments Richard Spooner was appointed to the Compensation Review/Personnel Policy Commission. Maureen Dooley Sr. and John Lacashu were appointed to the Ethics Commission in alternate po-
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There was approval for the First Selectman to sign an agreement between the state of Connecticut Department of Emergency Management and Homeland Security and the town of Durham for the FY 2010 Emergency Management Performance subgrant in the amount of
The town received a letter from a resident who wants a stop sign to be installed in the area of Foot Hills Road and Johnson Lane heading into Middletown. Francis stated that the town maintains that stop signs are not
Stop Signs
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pointed to the Economic Development Commission. Tim Larkin was appointed to the Inland Wetland and Watercourses Agency. Frank DeFelice was appointed to fill a vacancy for the 2011 term. Trish Crowley was reappointed to the Water Commission. Disbanding of Groups The Complete Count Committee was disbanded because the 2010 Census is complete. The Youth in Government group was also disbanded because it has been inactive for years, but an amendment was put in by selectman John Szewczyk, saying that they are disbanding this group, but they are interested in working with the SPIN group, a new student government initiative.
sitions. Clark Kearney was also appointed to the Ethics Commission. Francis explained how it was especially difficult to find people to serve on this commission. “Those on the Ethics Commission have to be people who aren’t already serving on a town board or commission,” she explained. “We are very fortunate to have them filled.” Selectman Jim McLaughlin suggested setting a town meeting to elect the Fire Company trustee. Francis agreed, but stated that it must be discussed at a BOS meeting first. Tom Woodson was appointed to the Historic District Commission, and George “Chip” Williams was reappointed as an alternate board. Diane Moore was reap-
By Cheri Kelley Town Times
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Town Times & Places
4 FRIDAY
December 17 Tot Time Tot Time is an open age playgroup held at the Middlefield Community Center. This program is open to all Durham and Middlefield residents and their children. Join the fun every Friday from 10:30 a.m. to noon. Christmas Extravaganza The Zion Church, 440 West St. in Middletown, is hosting their Christmas Extravaganza from 6:30 to 8 p.m. It will be an evening of elegant music and singing followed by an fancy reception. The performers are Middletown’s very own Yvette Early, vibraphonist Jay Hoggard, Kitty Riley and the “True Worshippers.” Please wear formal or semiformal attire. For more info or for the suggested donation, call 860-344-9527.
SATURDAY
December 18 United Churches of Durham bus trip to New York City The United Churches of Durham will host a bus trip — A Christmas Nosh, Gourmet Fling to New York City. The cost includes round trip coach transportation, gourmet shopping and noshing, all taxes and gratuities. We will be visitng specialty and import shops, such as Agate & Valentina, Dean & DeLuca, Citarella, the Gourmet Garage and Zabar’s, along with a stop in Little Italy and Chinatown for lunch on your own. We depart from the United Churches at 7:45 a.m. and return approximately at 8:30 p.m. Bring your coolers! To sign up to participate, or for prices, please call Dr. Riggles at 860-349-3683 or reserve your space by mailing your payment to The United Churches, Box 66, Durham, CT 06422. Space is available on a firstcome/first-served basis. Holiday bus trip to New York City Enjoy New York City during the holiday season. The bus leaves from the Durham Town Green at 8 a.m. Drop off and pick up are near Rockefeller Center around
10 a.m. and another drop off and pick up near Macy’s around 2 p.m. Dinner is at Forlini’s Restaurant in Little Italy at 6 p.m. The bus will return to Durhams’ Town Green around 10 p.m. The cost covers a four-course dinner, unlimited beer and wine, tax, tip and a clean, warm, private coach bus. Call Wendy for reservations and prices at 860-538-1221 or 860-349-0008. Holiday Baking Classes Durham Recreation is sponsoring special holiday baking classes at Strong School from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. This is the second of the twosession program. Students will learn how to make popular 7-Layer Italian cookies for holiday entertaining and gift-giving. The program is recommended for adults and young adults with basic baking skills. Ingredients and materials are included, plus each student will take home a holiday-packaged gift tin of cookies. Please call Durham Recreation at 860-343-6724 for info and prices. Holiday on Main Street Main Street in Middletown will once again host a Holiday on Main Street event. From 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., an Ornament Decorating Workshop will be at the Green Street Arts Center (51 Green St.) and The Buttonwood Tree (605 Main St.) .From 11:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. it’s Holiday Story Time at Broad Street Books (45 Broad St.) with Santa and book-signing by Clifford the Big Red Dog. Amato’s Train Display Bring the family to see the first annual holiday operating model train display at Amato’s Toy and Hobby, Main Street in Middletown. The Amato elves have created a wonderland of operating model trains and antique toys in the store’s lower level. The holiday operating model train display is open thru Dec. 30. The hours are 5:30 to 8 p.m. on Thursdays and Fridays, 12 to 5 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays, with special hours on Christmas Eve. For details call Amato’s 860-347-1893, or visit AmatosToyandHobby.com. For your admission, please bring canned goods for the Amazing Grace Food
Pantry. Cash donations will also be accepted for the sponsored charity of the week.Organizations or Scout clubs interested in setting up a private viewing of the display in January should contact Diane at 860-347-1893 or email diane@amatostoyandhobby.com. Riding for Rudolph The Mini Mustangs 4-H Horse Club will be collecting pet food, supplies and donations for Help Willy’s Friends, www.helpwillysfriends.org. Donations can be dropped off at the Middlefield Community Center, 405 Main St., between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Stop by and have your picture taken with one of Rudolph’s helpers! For more info, contact Pat 860-349-3076 or email pbandzes@gmail.com.
SUNDAY
December 19 Vocal Chords The Middlesex Hospital Vocal Chords are performing their winter concert at 2 p.m. at Portland High School. For ticket info call 860-346-8045. Service for Sadness The holiday season reminds many people of what they have lost or nearly lost. A special service, sponsored by the MACM of the Episcopal Church, will be held at 6:30 p.m. at St. James Church, Route 81 in Higganum, to acknowledge people’s common sadness and loss. Refreshments will be served after the service. All are invited. For info, email cherylczuba@comcast.net. Holiday Dinner and Theatre Following the 10 a.m. worship service, the Mother Annie Hunter Annual Christmas dinner will be held in the church hall at the Cross Street Zion Church, 440 West St. in Middletown. Then at 3:30 p.m. the Christmas production of Real Love: A Christmas Story, will feature the Cross Street Drama Ministry, Dance Ministry and all of the church Choirs. All are encouraged to attend. For more info, call the church 860-344-9527. Free Community Supper This month’s free community supper will be held at the Church of the Epiphany in Durham from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.
Friday, December 17, 2010
It will feature a Christmas dinner with all the trimmings, Santa Claus for the young at heart and joyous holiday music. All are welcome. CRHS Holiday Concert Coginchaug will host their annual Holiday Concert today at 2 p.m. in the CRHS auditorium.
MONDAY
December 20 Banned Books As part of a Literature for a Lifetime series at the Wallingford Public Library, 200 N. Main St. in Wallingford, The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger will be discussed as a book previously banned. The discussion will take place at the library from 3:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. and be facilitated by writer and author Beth Levine. Contact the library for more info at 203-265-6754 or www.wallingford.lioninc.org. Giving Tree Wrapping Day Monetary donations to the Giving Tree are still being accepted and can be made payable to Durham Interchurch Assistance and can be either mailed c/o Town Hall, P.O. Box 428, Durham, CT 06422 or can be dropped off at the Human Services office in Town Hall from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. This year volunteers will gather at Durham Town Hall today from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. to prepare gifts and packages for distribution.
TUESDAY
December 21 PFLAG Meeting Greater New Haven/Shoreline Chapter of PFLAG (Parents, Friends and Family of Lesbians and Gays) meets to offer support, information and education and to advocate for LGBT loved ones. They maintain a lending library of materials on the various aspects of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender life. Meetings are held at the Church of the Redeemer 185 Cold Spring St. in New Haven, the third Tuesday of each month at 7:30 p.m. For info call 203-458-0493 or e-mail greaternewhavenpflag@yahoo.com. Christmas Caroling Rehearsal for the Valley Shore Chorus of Sweet Ade-
lines International is tonight and will continue every Tuesday in December from 7:15 to 8:15 p.m. Women who want to join the four-part a capella harmony barbershop style singing group may attend. Rehearsals are at St. Paul Lutheran Parish Hall, 47 Oak St. in Middletown, where music is provided and carpooling is available. Performances are throughout the holiday season and are fun and informal. Call Joan at 860-767-8540.
WEDNESDAY
December 22
TOPS Durham TOPS Club meets every Wednesday at 6 p.m. on the third floor of the Durham Town Hall. For information call Naomi Klotsko at 860-349-9558 or Bonnie Olesen at 860-349-9433. Classic Holiday Movie Enjoy classic holiday movies at the Middlefield Senior Center every Wednesday in December at 1 p.m. Today’s movie will be Holiday Affair. Warm up with some good holiday classics and a steamy mug of hot cocoa and popcorn. The movies are free. Healing Eucharist Come to the Church of the Epiphany, Main Street in Durham, at 9 a.m. for the weekly Holy Eucharist with healing.
FRIDAY
December 24
Spiritual Christmas Eve Come and celebrate a beautiful and spiritual Christmas Eve at The Little Church in the Wilderness, 50 Emanuel Church Rd. in, Killingworth All people of good will are welcome. Starting at 5:30 p.m. there will be carol singing, accompanied by organ, violin and violoncello. A candlelight service will be at 6 p.m. Join us for warm cider and Christmas cookies after the service For info or directions call 860-663-1109 or visit www.churchinthewilderness.org. See more Xmas Services, pg. 23
Friday, December 17, 2010
Town Times
5
Coginchaug High School’s new Vote on grant for Powder assistant principal takes the spotlight Ridge possibly illegal By Cheri Kelley Town Times
Brian Bodner, right, standing at Coginchaug Regional High School, is pleased with his new role as the school’s assistant principal, which he assumed at the start of the 2010-11 school year. Photo by Cheri Kelley
technology education, visual art and design, music and athletics programs. Bodner stated, “The teachers are doing a fantastic job without a lot of resources.” When asked if he missed being in the classroom, he said that he still gets to develop good rapport with students. “They’re different lessons that I am teaching, but I am still teaching,” he said. He added, “It’s funny, when I was an undergrad at the University of Pennsylvania, in Philadelphia, I intended to go on to law school. I also played football, and it happened that the LSAT exam was the same day as a football game. I decided it was in my best interest to wait a year before going to law school, and it was then that three people I greatly respected questioned whether I thought about becoming an educator.” Bodner really thought about it and decided it would be a good direction for him. He immediately enrolled in the teaching program at Quinnipiac University. He said he was very lucky: “I don’t ever wake up wishing that I worked somewhere else or did something else. I never looked back and second guessed my decision to become an educator, and that is very special to me.”
and two members of the commission were not in attendance and did not send anyone to fill their place. “There were lots and lots of things voted on,” said Brayshaw, who was at the commission meeting. “And now there is suspicion as to whether the members who were in attendance had the ability to authorize the requests.” The request for the Powder Ridge grant was item number 30 contained in a request from the Office of Policy Management (OPM), which totaled $15 million in requests. If OPM didn’t get six votes, and Middlefield’s request was in there, then it’s not looking good. At press time, Michael Cicchetti of OPM said there will be a new Bond Commission meeting next week, and the Powder Ridge grant will be back on the table.
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school years. After completing the program and seeing there was an administrative position available at Regional School District 13, he was thrilled at the possible opportunity. It was close to home, and as he observed during his internship, a great school. Bodner said there were many applicants for the position and when it was offered to him, he happily accepted. When asked what was particularly special about CRHS, he said that he is impressed with the rigorous course work provided at the school. “Along with academic work, the teachers are preparing the students for life outside of high school. They are developing skills that will help them in whatever road they take, whether it be through the military, vocational studies or college.” He believes that the district goes out of its way to teach Core Ethical Values. He stated, “It is much more than a one-year initiative to print posters to place in classrooms; the district makes it a part of everyday practice.” Bodner also discussed how he was impressed with the Computer Assisted Drafting (CAD) and automotive programs offered at CRHS. He thinks they are assets that not every school has available to their students. He was equally impressed with the
It was announced last Friday that a $500,000 grant was approved by the state Bond Commission for work on Middlefield’s Powder Ridge infrastructure (electrical, water and septic). After the meeting, First Selectman Jon Brayshaw was pleased, saying, “It’s one more way we see the importance of Powder Ridge to the state of Connecticut. Right up until today, we never counted on that money being there...it was a very nice Christmas present, and it will sweeten the deal for Alpine.” But Middlefield might not see the $500,000 after all. According to Brayshaw, last Friday afternoon he learned that there was a question as to whether or not the vote of the Bonding Commission was legal. Six votes are needed on each item requested,
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Brian Bodner, the new assistant principal at Coginchaug High School, is enjoying his time working with the students, staff and community in his new position. “Everyone has been very welcoming, there are great kids, great teachers and staff members,” Bodner stated. He believes that one of the things that stand out at CRHS is that the culture of the school is great. The behavior of the students is excellent, for the most part, the halls are very quiet and the students are respectful. Interaction with the teachers is very positive. Bodner feels it is very helpful to have the last person who filled his position right next door. Andre Hauser, principal and former assistant principal, has been very helpful to him, as has Superintendent Susan Viccaro. Bodner expressed that they both are extremely visible and involved in the school community, attending numerous sports games and other events. Bodner said, “Susan Viccaro has gone out of her way to check in with me to see if I needed anything and to offer advice and support.” Bodner lives with his wife and two little girls in Durham, and he loves how it has a great proximity to Middletown and New Haven but is still so quiet and laid back. Bodner has 15 years of experience working in high schools. He worked in Norwalk, and the bulk of his experience was in North Branford, where he was a social studies teacher and, for a time, the department head. This is his first position as assistant principal, and he is loving it. He participated in the University of Connecticut Administrator Preparation Program (UCAPP) through which he was awarded his sixth-year diploma. As part of the program, he participated in a two-year internship at CRHS during the 2007-2009
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Friday, December 17, 2010
Budget talk at Middlefield Board of Finance meeting By Elisabeth Kennedy Special to Town Times The Dec. 9 meeting of the Board of Finance was dominated by concerns of overbudget items in the current budget and brainstorming ways to avoid such pitfalls in the 2011 budget. In an effort to better understand departments’ needs, many departments will be invited to attend workshops. A schedule and list of departments and outside agencies the board would like to meet with was developed. Rebecca Adams will prepare a letter indicat-
government, hoping that the budget workshops will also help create more efficiencies as the board begins to understand departments’ tasks and standardized procedures, as well as capital and fixed asset inventories and requests.
ing the date and time and materials to bring to the workshop. The purpose of the workshops is to give departments/agencies an opportunity to share their hopes and needs and educate the board on all services provided. Armed with that knowledge, the board will be in a better position to advocate for the departments in preparing the 2011 budget, and hopefully prepare a budget that avoids being blindsided with unexpected expenses.
The budget format was discussed, with Bob Yamartino proposing a new format to include three prior years’ actual, year-to-date expenditures, and proposed budget. The board approved and will forward the layout to the finance director for use in developing the 2011 budget.
The board also revisited its discussion of policies, processes and ways to create more efficiencies in town
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members to attend a workshop offered by CCM (CT Conference of Municipalities), Overcoming Challenges in Budgets, a relevant topic that she felt would be of assistance to the board. It was decided that Adams and Lucy Petrella will attend. Liaison reports were offered by Alice Malcolm and Jeremy Renninghoff, both reporting good communication with library and DMIAAB boards, which will continue in budget workshops. Old business concerned additional street lights targeted (pink notices on lights indicate they are targeted for termination). Ten lights have been marked, and residents have 30 days from date they are targeted to challenge its removal.
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Friday, December 17, 2010
7
Middlefield Community Services Council Celebrates 25 Years The idea started out simply enough. former First Selectman Jim Blois and his secretary, Donitta Griffith, drove through Middlefield one November passing out Thanksgiving food baskets to members of the community from the back of Jim’s truck. The baskets were filled through donations from the Middlefield Lions Club and a number of private citizens. The year was 1985. Later that fall, Father Tom McConaghy and Dora Peters from St. Colman’s Church, along with Rev. Larry Smith and Margery Miller from the Federated Church, joined Jim and Donitta in recognizing that a more organized effort was necessary to maintain and expand this wonderful community outreach. This initial group expanded to include Municipal Agent to the Elderly Roland Sabourin, Judy Didato and Dorothy Waller who officially formed the Middlefield
Community Services Council (MCSC). For the next 25 years, the MCSC underwent a number of personnel and programmatic changes but has never wavered from its original intention of reaching out and supporting members of the community who are facing tough circumstances. Through all those years, the members and clergy of St. Colman’s Church and the Middlefield Federated Church, along with other concerned members of the community and various town officials, have met regularly to facilitate these efforts. The work of MCSC is now a year-round effort. The delivery of Thanksgiving baskets has been expanded to include Christmas and Easter baskets. The council began operating a Back-to-School Backpack program to help many community children gather their school supplies.
Past and present members of the Middlefield Community Services Council celebrate 25 years of outreach. Back row: Eleanor Melmer, Judy Didato, Pastor Dale Azevedo, Jon Brayshaw, Deacon Peter Gill, Mary Polocko, Connie Drega, Dolores Augeri; front row: Donitta Griffith, Joan Lombardo and Antoinette Astle. (Missing from the photo are Roberta Steele, Dorothy Waller, Pamela Basilicato and Jim Blois.) Photo submitted by Rev. Dale. Additionally, countless individuals and families have received meals through MCSC’s food bank or shortterm financial assistance
when federal and state programs do not apply. All efforts of the council go through a series of checks and balances and are kept
confidential. Antoinette Astle, Middlefield’s Senior and Social Services director and See Council, page 24
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Town Times Columns
Friday, December 17, 2010
Our journey with leukemia “We can only be said to be alive in those moments when our hearts are conscious of our treasures.” Thornton Wilder My daughter, Brenna, turned three on Aug. 6, 2010. On Sept. 29, she was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL). Leukemia is a cancer of the blood. More than 8,000 cases of cancer are diagnosed in children ages 0-14 every year. Of these children, approximately 3,000 will be diagnosed with leukemia. Over the last four decades, significant medical developments have led to improved survival rates, but the goal is to cure 100 percent of these children. Our pediatrician, Dr. Jeff Jennings of Pediatric Medicine of Wallingford, was instrumental in putting all the pieces together and sending us to Yale Children’s Hospital. After many stressful hours, we were told that day that Brenna had leukemia and would be admitted that night and begin chemotherapy the next day. She and I spent the next 10 days at Yale where I prayed to God that my child would not die. Brenna’s blood was tested daily in the hospital for the presence of leukemia. We could only go home when the medication cleared the disease from her blood. We reached that point at day 10. At day 28, Brenna was declared to be in remission. The leukemia was out of her bone marrow. We are very blessed and thankful to have reached these important milestones, but the journey is far from complete. Leukemia has a very high rate of recurrence. Therefore, Brenna will have various forms of chemotherapy for the next two years and will be monitored closely for three years after that. She will be in third grade at John Lyman School before any sort of a normal life returns. She has lost her beautiful blond hair, but thankfully not her spirit. In the hospital, she needed oxygen, and she suffered high blood pressure. In a short time, she has
Jen Zettergren, Durham
Guest Column endured vomiting, stomach cramps and painful constipation. Each medication has terrible side effects. There is a chance she will be sterile after this, which I find terrifying, knowing how much I love my children and wish the same love for them. Our entire lives have been turned upside down by this disease. My older daughters, Bailey and Maura, are going through tough times adjusting to having a sibling with cancer. We live with a fear we have never known before and have had to put complete faith in her team of doctors and nurses at Smilow Cancer Hospital. But we have learned powerful lessons about hope and faith. We have also been supported by the love and generosity of our family and friends. Before cancer entered my home, we were living a fastpaced life. My husband I both work outside the home, our kids play sports, go to CCD and take part in many school activities. Cancer has caused a severe halt in our activities, but more important, in our thinking. We have never been more aware of our treasures. We are spending less time out of our home and more time with each other. I have never taken my loved ones for granted, but I am much more conscious of what I could have lost. Several people have told me that our story has caused them to see things differently. They have stopped more often to play a game with their children. They have chosen not to worry over trivial matters. They realize how lucky they are to have healthy children and how everything else pales in comparison. I know that many friends have made donations to CaringBridge.org and the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. Others have had their bone marrow tested to see if they are a potential donor for someone. Many people have
bought orange leukemia bracelets, key chains and ornaments at the elementary schools, all of which goes toward the fight against leukemia. All of these things are making a difference in the world of cancer. I would like to tell you about one more grand gesture that is happening right now. The family who owns Libero Jewelers in North Haven is hosting a New Year’s Eve Gala, and all the proceeds will go to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society in Brenna Zettergren’s name. They are having this party in her honor to help fight a disease that no child should have to endure. The event will take place at Il Solice in East Haven, and tickets include open bar, appetizers, dinner, dessert and dancing. For more information, please contact Mike Libero Jr. at 203-624-0525. Brenna is courageous and strong-willed. And luckily because of her age, she is not burdened by fear of dying. She doesn’t know the word cancer yet, but too many children already do. We would love to have you join us in our fight against leukemia and look forward to toasting our treasureBrenna Sweeney Zettergren.
Below, Brenna Zettergren with the Libero family. Photo submitted by Jen Zettergren
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Contributors: Chuck Corley, Diana Carr, Trish Dynia, Elisabeth Kennedy, Karen Kean, Judy Moeckel, Kathy Meyering, Tori Piscatelli and Sue VanDerzee.
Letters policy The Town Times intends to present a forum for the lively exchange of ideas and issues. To facilitate the publication of your contributions, several guidelines should be followed. Letters to the editor must be signed, with a phone number included. The writer will be called to confirm authorship. No anonymous letters will be printed. Contributions by any individual or group will not be published more frequently than once a month. Every effort will be made to print all letters received. However, the selection and date of publication will be at the discretion of the editor. Finally, the opinions expressed by our letter writers are not necessarily those of this newspaper. Deadline: Tuesday noon for Friday publication.
Friday, December 17, 2010
Town Times Columns
November police statistics Monthly statistics for the month of November 2010 from the Town of Middlefield: troopers responded to 645 calls for service; seven
Middlefield Resident State Trooper, Tom Topulos
Trooper Talk
criminal investigations; five motor vehicle accidents; three criminal arrests; 232 motor vehicle infractions and 25 warnings.
Accomplishments of Connecticut’s Teen Safe Driving laws or 17-year-old diver The week of Dewas at fault has recember 6 was Teen Tori Piscatelli duced by 16.6 perSafe Driving Week in cent since the new Connecticut. Teen teen laws were Safe Driving week adopted. What is recognizes the accomplishments the state of Con- more impressive is that fatalities in necticut has made since instituting teen car crashes dropped by 20 perthe new Teen Driving Laws about cent and injuries dropped 21 pertwo years ago. These laws were de- cent. A major aspect which has helped signed to help new teenage drivers be safe and become acclimated to to make teen driving safer and these driving while gaining experience at laws affective is community involvement and support. Throughout the wheel. According to the Connecticut De- schools, teen safe driving has been partment of Motor Vehicles, Con- brought to the forefront. Students necticut has some of the strictest across Connecticut are involved in teen driving laws. These new laws promoting teen safe driving by subimplemented new restrictions. No mitting videos to the Connecticut passengers under the age of 21 are al- Department of Motor Vehicle’s teen lowed in the car with a new driver driving public service announceuntil that driver has had their li- ment contest and forming clubs cense for a year. Teenagers are not which direct their attention to stuallowed to drive siblings until they dents’ decisions involving safe drivhave had their license for six ing. On Monday, Dec. 6, there was a months. The curfew for teenagers ages 16 and 17 is 11 p.m.; therefore, press conference held at the state no teen driver should be on the road capitol to honor Teen Safe Driving after 11 p.m. unless for a school or re- Week. I was honored to attend this ligious function. Along with the new press conference and represent restrictions, the law against using teenagers across Connecticut. Durcellular devices and texting while ing this conference I was given the driving have also been factors in opportunity to speak about teen safe driving and how the laws are effectlowering teen accidents. Statistics prove that these teen ing us teens. During my speech, I driving laws are effective and have stressed the importance for teens to made positive changes for teen driv- remember that driving is a priviers. The DMV has found that the to- lege, and for parents to uphold the tal number of crashes in which a 16 driving laws at home.
Guest Column
9
Children and their pure and simple joy for life’s pleasures Being a parent of two young boys, I ofCheri ten marvel at the richness that my children bring into my life, and also the shear hilarity. The situations that kids bring about are a screenwriter’s dream — people just couldn’t come up with this stuff on their own. My kids are adventurous and creative little people with full, robust personalities at the ages of four and 22 months. For example, the little guy just recently climbed out of his crib for the first time, and so was moved into a big boy bed later that afternoon. What was an ordinary Wednesday that would usually consist of a nice, quiet — wait, did I say quiet? It’s never really quiet. Some times are quieter than others, but unless both kiddos are sleeping, quiet is a rare commodity. But it was to be a relatively calm day for us, maybe a bit of play dough or a nice Christmas special to enjoy after dinner. Well it turned out that converting the crib into a toddler bed was the easy part. Empting every toy bin out and baby proofing the kid’s room for the teeny tiny fingers again took a bit more time. All while bed-time was laughed at, because this new found freedom was so exhilarating to an almost two year old that bedtime was laughed at straight in it’s face. “I think not,” his eyes twinkled at me, as he went running quick as lightening from the new bed to the freshly organized book shelve, where every single book was re-
leased from its neat rows and piles and thrown about the floor with such enthusiasm and glee it was as if it was a 90 percent off sale at toys-R-us on Black Friday. And forget the idea of letting him lull himself to sleep on his own, with no sweet serenity of a crib. Not only was the baby awake, but he was giggling and chatting it up with his big bro, climbing up into his bed and screaming loud, high-pitched squeals of laughter each time I came in that night (five times) to tuck him back into his new cozy bed, complete with race car sheets and baby bunny stuffie. When he finally closed his little eyes for the night I looked around the room that I spent hours organizing, and the sight before me was evidence of a tornadic toddler aftermath. I was rumpled, sleepy and desperately needing a warm bubble bath, but I actually started to giggle a bit myself. He was so excited, and it was another milestone to cherish and enjoy. It was just another way kids revel in the pure joy of life, something we adults should take the time to do. I mean, really, when is the last time you were so thrilled about something you decided to toss about the contents of your linen closet because you were free to do so? Or place a colander on your head and beat it with a wooden spoon just because you liked the sound it made? My guess is, it has been a while, but to kids, that is real living.
Kelley
Guest Column
Web update What kind of Christmas tree do you have? When we asked this question on our website this week, 64 people had responded by press time. Based on your responses, it looks like most people have Real Christmas Trees, at least 56 percent said so. Following at 33 percent are Artificial Christmas Trees. Six percent have No Christmas Tree at all and only five percent report having a Charlie Brown Tree, like the one seen here. Whatever tree you have, we hope “it lights up” your holiday. Go to www.towntimes.com to answer our next poll question.
Photo at left, Tori Piscatelli, of Middlefield, at the state capitol for Teen Safe Driving Week.
Town Times
10
Friday, December 17, 2010
Rell says goodbye at Middlesex Chamber breakfast By Stephanie Wilcox Town Times The year is nearing its end for all of us, but for Governor Jodi Rell, it signals the closing of the last four years she’s been the 87th governor of Connecticut. Every December, Gov. Rell has been the guest speaker at the Middlesex Chamber of Commerce member breakfast meeting. Her annual recap always ends comically, so I didn’t want to miss this year’s, which sold out. Not to mention, what would the governor have to say at her last time at this meeting as governor? Though she didn’t want to
give too much away as she’ll have a closing address when she turns over the reins to governor-elect Dan Malloy, Gov. Rell, who was the firstever woman Republican governor of this state, said she did what she wanted to do as governor: restore honor so residents are proud of the state of Connecticut. And then she wanted to move on. In those years, she took credit for improved campaign finance and the state’s Ethics Commission. Saving of the naval base in Groton was one of her proudest days, the governor noted. And she said the state continues to move forward.
Transportation is imperative; “Without it, our economy — at best — is on life support. We have to move.� In 2005 she proposed a transportation initiative, and 180 rail cars will be carrying passengers in the very near future. (She had hoped one would have been ready to display outside the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Cromwell where the breakfast meeting was held). Gov. Rell is embarking on “a new chapter for me. I will pass the torch and let others do the job.� But she had one final duty. To commemorate the 375th anniversary of the state of Connecticut, the governor buried a time capsule. It was
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Oh, and finally, because her scarves have become so infamous, she will graciously give her collection of silk scarves to the time capsule. “I won’t burry the memories of you all,� and “The support of the people has been inspiring,� were Gov. Rell’s last points as she thanked many. Teary-eyed, she wished all a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year and received a long standing ovation.
Please send us artwork of all kinds for our Dec. 31 and Jan. 7 Creative Arts issues. This year’s theme is food, but we’re happy to accept anything artsy. We will need them emailed, dropped off or faxed to the Town Times office by today, Friday, Dec. 17. Don’t forget to include your name with your submission. Thanks for participating! 1183479
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18x18x18 inches and “I couldn’t put everything in there that I wanted to.� Therefore, she proceeded to read off a list of items she wanted to include. Some of these included: her blackberry (“I never want to hear a beep, tweet, ring or ding ever again. Gone!�); the secretary of state’s calculator; a spare bag of Bridgeport ballots (“So they know where they are.�); wornout office supplies (like...“a pair of scissors that won’t cut� - referring to budget cuts.) and the use of the term “smack down� in any form of media.
Creative Arts! Creative Arts! Creative Arts!
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Town Times
Friday, December 17, 2010
Durham/Middlefield Youth & Family Services Unless noted, all events take place at the Youth Center in the Middlefield Community Center. Office hours: 10-3 Tuesdays-Fridays; phone 860-349-0258. *** Astro Program Are you a teen in grades seven through twelve, who is looking for something to do after school? Sign up for one or more of the Astro Programs activities by calling or visiting the library. On Mondays they are offering “Card Mania,” where you can try your hand a new card game or have fun with an old favorite. On Wednesdays they have “Video Game Fun,” when you can check out a great game with a few friends. The Astro Program is at the Durham Library Community Room from 3 to 4:30 p.m. and snacks are provided. Keep watching for new Astro activities coming soon and keep in mind that space is limited. Donations are appreciated. Astro is looking for donations of 2 larger screen TV’s and any gaming systems that your family may have outgrown! We’ll put them to good use! Contact Jane Moen, DMYFS Program Director at jmoen.dmyfs@comcast.net if you have a donation to offer! *** Tot Time is an open age playgroup held at the Middlefield Community Center. This program is open to all Durham and Middlefield residents and their children. Join the fun every Friday from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. *** 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 bdean@comcast.net.
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Every year, Middlefield Federated Church members are asked to bring in a homemade or special ornament in a single holiday shape. This year’s theme was bells, and dozens of bells adorn the tree in the sanctuary donated by Alan Poole. As you can see, diversity is celebrated! Photos by Sue VanDerzee
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Holidays on a Budget
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Friday, December 17, 2010
There’s still time for the elves in your house to create gifts By Sue VanDerzee Town Times One of the ways to disengage a bit from the rampant commercialism of the season while saving money is to get the “elves,” also known as children, in your house to spend a few hours creating seasonal gifts for friends, teachers and family members. We have a few ideas for you – all tested by real children. The first is a surefire way to focus on the meaning of the season, even with only just a week to go. Most families who celebrate Christmas have a nativity set somewhere among their decorations. Place it on a table or counter reachable by the youngest in your house and provide a small box for a manger with a pile of hay nearby (either the real stuff
or strips of yellow and brown paper). Encourage your children to make the manger ready for the Baby Jesus by putting hay in the bare manger when they do something kind or helpful. (They can place the hay secretly.) When Christmas Eve or Christmas morning arrives,
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place the Baby Jesus nativity figure in the (hopefully) full and soft manger and ask each child or person for an example of one kind or helpful thing they did to make the manger soft for Baby Jesus. Here are two gift ideas, both involving that most ubiquitous of materials – old Christmas cards! The first is a wreath. (I still hang the one made by my niece Michelle 10 years ago!) Cut a piece of corrugated cardboard from an old box into a wreath shape – a foot in diameter works well without being overwhelming. Then get out a stack of old cards and cut out shapes, words and designs. Glue them all over the wreath shape to cover. When finished, dilute craft glue Wreath made with waout of cardboard ter and p a i n t and cutouts over the
from old cards.
whole thing for a nice shine when it dries (or spray with clear shiny spray if you have it). Don’t forget to sign and date the back and perhaps tape a loop of string or ribbon for hanging. The second idea I just learned about this year, and it’s great. Take old cards with a horizontal shape and cut off the front. Fold the front in half horizontally and cut ½ inch (or so) strips to
A lantern made from an old card with a tea light inside.
within ½ to one inch of the top. When you’ve cut all across, flatten the card, bend into a circle shape with ends overlapping and fasten with tape or staples at top and bottom. Set the circular tube on a flat surface with a tea candle or (even better) an LED tea light inside and squash down a bit. Watch the scene come to sparkling life. Several of these could be placed on a piece of cardboard for a lovely, inexpensive and thoughtful gift or centerpiece. And there’s always cookie-baking and decorating to charm the younger set, as well as introduce them to the idea of homemade gifts prepared with love and creativity. Finally, when all the “work” is done, if you have a large cardboard box, your elves will love creating their own walk-in gingerbread house. (I know this for a fact as my grandchildren, aged 49, spent several happy hours
Custom Gift Bags and Baskets, Cookie Trays, Jelly Belly Jelly Beans, Specialty Coffees, Cocoas and Teas, Holiday Novelties and Assorted Gift Items
See Kid’s crafts, next page
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Friday, December 17, 2010
Holidays on a Budget
Kid’s crafts continued ...
mission is $23.50 for 13 years of age and over; $11.50 ages 6–12. Children under 5 years of age are admitted free. All prices include sales tax and gratuity. Pre-paid reservations are required, and are
pecially appealing. Here’s to inexpensive projects made with love this holiday season!
Left, Elisabeth and Stephanie Coutsouridis in their walk-in gingerbread house at Grandma and Grandpa’s Durham home.
13
now being accepted at Lyman’s Apple Barrel Market or by calling 860-349-6043. For menu details and more information visit: www.lymanorchards.com All are welcome to take a
break from the hustle and bustle of the season and spend a few quiet moments one-onone with Santa and Mrs. Claus. It will surely bring back memories of a traditional Christmastime.
SATURDAY, December 18th 10:30 AM - 2:30 PM
SPARTANS FOOTBALL TEAM OF MIDDLETOWN DAY! DECORATING WORKSHOP
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Decorate an ornament to place on your tree at home, or give as a gift to a loved one. As long as supplies last at two locations:
GREEN STREET ARTS CENTER
Santa Brunch Santa Claus has announced that his wife and he will again visit Lyman Orchards in Middlefield. The happy couple will host the last 2010 traditional family Sunday Brunch at the historic and beautifully decorated Lyman Homestead on Dec. 19. Santa looks forward to visiting with the children and listening to their holiday gift wishes. Mrs. Claus and the Lyman chefs are now busy planning a delicious and old-fashioned brunch menu the whole family will enjoy. Four seatings are available at 10 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 1 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. All children will receive treats from Santa. Ad-
(605 Main St.)
11:30 AM HOLIDAY STORY TIME (45 Broad St.) and a “BOOK
SANTA will read stories at Broad Street Books BIG RED DOG
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12:30 AM SANTA will be at It’s Only Natural Market (575 Main St.) to collect LETTERS TO SANTA FREE HAYRIDES • GREET SANTA • POPCORN & HOT PRETZELS • HOLIDAY MUSIC HOT CHOCOLATE & COFFEE provided by New England Emporium For complete information go to: www.middlesexchamber.com or call 860.347.6924
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doing this last week.) Cut a door and windows out of the box (still fastened at one side if you want them to open and close. Then set the kids loose with construction paper, markers and even old cards to decorate their house. A string of Christmas lights will be just the right touch to make the holiday house es-
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Durham Town Briefs
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Durham Government Calendar (All meetings will be held at the Durham Library unless otherwise noted. Check the town Web page at www.townofdurhamct.org for updates.) Monday, December 20 7 p.m. — Agricultural Commission Tuesday, December 21 7 p.m. — Board of Finance at Town Hall Tuesday, December 28 7 p.m. — Ethics Commission Wednesday, January 12 7:30 p.m. — Board of Education at Korn Wednesday, January 26 7:30 p.m. — Board of Education at Memorial School
Interchurch Giving Tree Each year, for many years, Durham Interchurch Assistance has a Christmas “Giving Tree” program. The Giving Tree is located on the first floor of Town Hall in the
Human Services office. This year Brownies from Troop #67798 decorated the Giving Tree with their handmade ornaments, assisted by troop leader Donna O’Malley on Dec. 2. Also placed on the Giving Tree are tags that symbolize an item of need or a Christmas dinner for a dis-
advantaged family. The tags contain information on each gift recipient, such as size, age and needs. Names are not listed or given to donors. Each family or individual is designated by number or letter. The Giving Tree gives to all participants. Recipients receive a Christmas gift from a donor. Donors receive, within their hearts, the emotional gift of sharing and knowing the true spirit of Christmas. Residents, service organizations and businesses wishing to make a monetary donation or donate a gift or a Christmas dinner gift card may come in and pick a tag of their choice from the Giving Tree. After purchasing a gift, the donor returns the purchased item to the Giving Tree, wrapped and labeled
T
— Catherine Schneider Wallingford
with the tag removed from the tree. Gifts and Christmas dinners are distributed to individuals and families by volunteers. Monetary donations to the Giving Tree can be made payable to Durham Interchurch Assistance and can be either mailed c/o Town Hall, P.O. Box 428, Durham, CT 06422 or can be dropped off at the Human Services office in Town Hall from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. This year volunteers will gather at Town Hall on December 20 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. to prepare gifts and packages for distribution. Anyone wishing additional information can contact Jan at 349-3153 from 9 to 5 Monday through Friday.
Community Supper This month’s free community supper will be held at the Church of the Epiphany in Durham on Sunday, Dec. 19, from 5:30-6:30 p.m. It will feature a Christmas dinner with all the trimmings, Santa Claus for the young and young at heart, and holiday music. All are welcome.
he homemakers and attendants from MASONICARE AT HOME can help you stay safe and comfortable in your home.
“Since 2005, I have relied on Masonicare at Home for help with homemaking. It has truly made a difference in my life and my ability to maintain my home and independence.”
Friday, December 17, 2010
Senior Board call for interest
If you or a loved one needs help with housekeeping, shopping, transportation — even bathing or dressing — Masonicare at Home can help. Our assistants and homemakers are specially trained and prepared to provide caring, helpful service that comes to you daily, weekly or at intervals that suit your particular situation.
Do you have an area of special interest that other adults would enjoy learning about? The Durham Senior Board would like to offer an educational lecture/discussion series and is calling for
We also provide companionship and respite. Please call 203-679-5888 for more information or to arrange a complimentary assessment.
participation by local residents. Contact Board members Anne Cassady, Henry Coe or Lainy Melvin with your proposal. We look forward to hearing from you.
Clean Energy Forum The Durham Clean Energy Task Force is hosting a Clean Energy Forum for town residents and businesses on Tuesday, January 18 at 7 pm in the Durham Library. Available for discussion and Q & A will be residents and businesses that have implemented some kind of clean energy systems in their homes and businesses. Among presenters will be residents who have had solar electric and solar thermal systems installed, businesses who have chosen clean energy purchases, builders with geothermal integrated into their construction projects. Stay tuned for more details.
Got news? We’d love to print it — photos, too! Send it: P.O. Box 265 Middlefield, CT 06455 Fax it: 860-349-8027 E-mail it: news@towntimes.com
Town Times Your source for local news and events
• State-of-the-Art Dentistry • Friendly, Caring, Clean Atmosphere • Providing the Full Range of Dental Services • No More Silver Mercury Fillings
1183480
www.masonicare.org
1178547
For more than 100 years, Masonicare has been providing state-of-the-art healthcare to Connecticut seniors. Masonicare at Home is a service of Masonicare Home Health.
16 MAIN STREET, DURHAM 349-3368 WWW.GLAZERDENTAL.COM JASON GLAZER, DMD • KATE GLAZER, DMD
Middlefield Town Briefs
Friday, December 17, 2010
Old Home Days is back — and we’d love your help! Summer Lerch Spencer Special to Town Times We are once again returning to good times and cheer at Peckham Park on June 10/11, 2011. Those are the dates of Middlefield/Rockfall’s Old Home Days. We look forward to celebrating with you! This year our theme centers on our agricultural past and present: Celebrating Our Past ~ Looking to Our Future, Embracing Our Agricultural Heritage. We plan to explore the history of farming in Middlefield/Rockfall and its current impact on our lifestyle. We will be showcasing our farms and their products. We will be bringing in historical and current farrming equipment for viewing and discussion. We will be exploring home farming, gardening and buying local as a way to sustain our way of life here in our towns. We plan to explore the future of farming in our area with a commitment to education, preservation and much more. We invite you, your friends and families to participate in the activities. It could be in creating an agricultural themed children’s/young person’s booth. It could be being in the parade with a float or in a marching band. It could be playing music or offering entertainment on our main stage; it could be providing art work for posters or
The Middlefield Historical Society is selling two movies during the holiday season. 300 years of Middlefield History covers 17001970 and VOICES is history and interviews with Middlefield residents from 1900-2000. Both films are available in DVD or VHS. They make great holiday gifts for only $15 each! To order a video, or for more info, call Lynette or Annette at 860-349-0665 or 860349-9497.
Old Home Days is also a good way to raise money for your school, club or non-profit organization. We offer deeply discounted booth space to any local non-profit for craft, activity or food vending. With no commercial vendors and with our local folks participating, this can be a fruitful endeavor for your club. The format is very similar to past years. Friday night will begin the festivities with a Lions Club of Middlefieldsponsored event at Peckham Park. Saturday starts with the parade and continues
with events scheduled all day at the park, ending in the wonderful fireworks display that Old Home Days and Dan Kellish and Telstar Fireworks have become famous for. And we need help! All committee members are back and in some cases doing the work of two or three people. Carrie Anderson is our Parade chair and Children’s Area chair. We would really like to expand and separate these two main functions, relieving some of Carrie’s overall responsibilities. Same goes for Ron Frost, whose career keeps him extremely busy. Ron is in charge of the Grounds, Security and Parking. We would love help, young and old here too. Joe Liseo is back and in charge of Entertainment. Jean Gay and Louise Tosetti (thank you for coming back, Louise!) are our Craft and Business Booth co-chairs. Carol Schilling is our Concessions chair. Both subcommittees would love help. Rob Badin, along with Don Ginter,
Middlefield Government Calendar (Unless otherwise indicated, all meetings are held in the Community Center.) Tuesday, December 21 7 p.m. — Board of Selectmen 7 p.m. — Conservation Commission Wednesday, December 22 6:30 p.m. — Planning and Zoning Tuesday, December 28 7 p.m. — Zoning Board of Appeals Wednesday, January 12 7:30 p.m. — Board of Education at Korn Wednesday, January 26 7:30 p.m. — Board of Education at Memorial School Wednesday, February 9 7:30 p.m. — Board of Education at Brewster School (thank you too for coming back, Don!) will manage the General Entertainment. Sydney Mintz is in charge of Fundraising and Budgetary matters. Please look for her mailing soon. Our meetings are at each other’s homes on the third Wednesday of the month. They are fun, lively and full of food, drink and camaraderie. Come join us; you are wanted and welcome! I
can be reached on my cell at 1-203-983-9663 or at drlerch@theartofsmiles.com for any questions, offers or general information. I invite you to reach out – you will be a part of something fun and joyous, based on partnership and love that makes a difference in the community you live in. What could be better than that? Give me a call, and thank you in advance!!
Celebrate “Premium Quality and Old Time Service”
238 Main Street, Durham
860 349 1785
thedurhammarket@aol.com 1185311
Movie sale
the program book. It could be singing the national anthem. It could be showcasing your gardening talents. Maybe a group would like to provide a farming demonstration. Maybe you want to lead a discussion about the future of farming. You may be thinking of another way to participate and contribute to the fun. We would love to hear from you. All ideas are welcome! (Contact information is at the end of this article.)
15
Holiday Plants and Wreaths
Merry Christmas from all of us at The Durham Market
with a Holiday Feast! • Shrimp • Rib Roast • Veal Loin • Filet Mignon • Stuffed Pork Roast • Boneless Pork Roast • Crown Roast of Pork or Lamb • Giant Grinders 3’, 4’, 5’ & 6’ • Fruit Baskets • Platters • Turkeys • Storemade Pastries • Delicious Pies • Fresh Bread • Fresh Ricotta
Order now for Holidays!
Hours: Mon. - Fri. 7:00 am - 7pm, Sat. & Sun. 7am - 6pm • 10% Senior Citizen Wednesdays We are not responsible for typographical errors. We reserve the right to limit quantities.
Town Times
16
John Lyman School tour
Mfld. P&Z
Eric Pitruzzello, Rohan Patel, David Skelps, Sierra Astle and Owen Gonzales, students at John Lyman School, explain a math problem with life size ten rods at a recent assembly.
Dur BOS to be used for speed control. A letter was sent back to the resident offering to have them come in to discuss it further; a traffic engineer may be requested to study the area in the future. Old/New Business With such a short period between meetings, there was
Friday, December 17, 2010
(Continued from page 3) little to report on, however Beth Moncata, Martin French, Maryjane Malavasi and Laura Francis will participate in passport processing training. There will be a Regional Energy Commission level II audit for the library and Town Hall.
1183615
A hearing was then scheduled for the commission’s next meeting. In light of the Lyman Farms’ permit lapse, town planner Geoff Colegrove suggested that the commission may want to review the regulations on when construction must begin after a permit is issued. The town currently requires that construction begin before two years pass, while the state allows up to five. Colegrove felt that the two-year start time may be difficult to manage in the current economy. Monarca update The commission once again discussed the use of town property by Monarca Masonry. Despite the commission’s repeated requests for Sal Monarca to appear before the commission, he still has yet to attend one of their meetings. One of the matters they want to discuss with Monarca is the fact that there’s too much material on the site for even a one-acre expansion to adequately address. They also want to review the land’s current vio-
(Continued from page 1) lations before proceeding any further with the possible lease of town land to the company. The commission agreed to send Monarca one more letter inviting him to their January meeting. Should he not meet with them, they plan to discuss enforcement for his company’s various zoning violations. Public session complaints There were also a few complaints heard during the meeting’s public session. The first came from resident Susan Maloney, who claimed that a construction company was being run on a neighboring property in a residential zone. She had issues with the noise, the appearance of the site, and previously informed both sanitarian and the former ZEO about problems on the site with solid waste and hazardous materials. During prior inspections, no issues were found with the site. However, she noted that she was told that a construction company can’t run on the site. Commission chairman
Bob Johnson stated that the current ZEO will need to inspect the site before they can take any action. A complaint also came from Matthew Crescimano, who informed the commission that protest signs against his business are still up at the corner of Lorraine Terrace. He asked that they be removed, as he repeatedly asked since he first brought the complaint up back in July. As one of the signs is located on public property, he asked that the town remove it. The commission agreed to write a letter to the sign owner, asking that the one on public property be removed lest the town remove it. The commission also agreed to seek legal counsel on what to do about the signs on private property. Monthly meeting changes One final matter brought up for discussion was possibly eliminating the second meeting in January, February, March and April. Although no decision was made, the commission agreed to consider it.
William J. Witkowski, D.M.D. 360 Main Street P.O. Box 177 Allan A. Witkowski, D.M.D. Durham, CT 860-349-1123
1185243
1144283
Town Times
Friday, December 17, 2010
17
Independent Day School and Whole Foods “go green” together
CT BEVERAGE MART
New Britain Rt. 71 615 Hartford, Rd.
Wallingford 1070 North Colony Rd.
Newington Rt. 5 & 15 3127 Berlin Turnpike
Middletown Rt. 66 955 Washington St.
(Near Westfarms Mall) 860-225-1444
(Across from Home Depot) 203-265-1474
(Across from Wal-Mart) 860-667-1339
(Next to Better Bedding) 860-347-1624
Beer
1.5 Liter Wines Barefoot All types
Chat. Ste. Michelle
1.5 liter . . .$10.99
Charddonnay 1.5 liter . . .$19.99
Mondavi Woodbridge
The Independent Day School in Middlefield has created a partnership with Whole Foods in Glastonbury to educate their students, pre-k through grade eight, about the impact of recycling, the benefits of composting, and the ability to reduce carbon footprints by eating locally grown foods. The Whole Foods Green Mission Team has guided IDS kindergarten, second, third and fourth grade students through their colorful produce displays, down their aisles of recycled products and past counters filled with fresh meat and fish. During a recent visit, a kindergartener remarked, “I never, ever knew you could make toys and scarves out of plastic bottles, did you?” With their trained staff, the students have learned about healthy eating and important ways that they can recycle and be earthfriendly thinkers. Students will continue to work with Whole Foods throughout the year to help “Green the School!” In the photo, from left to right, Jordan Leonardi from Middletown, Alexandra Santiago from Durham, Jacqueline Kelly from Durham, Sarah Weiss from Middletown, and Elena Rotman from Killingworth are tasting locally produced apple cider.
HEARING AID SERVICE, INC. • FREE Hearing Evaluation & Consultation • SERVICE It’s what makes us different • FREE In-Home Service for all area patients, “Let us come to you.” • We Fit Most Major Brands Serving Central CT Since 1985
Rex Goliath
All types 1.5 liter . . .$16.99
All types 1.5 liter . . .$9.99
Lindemans All types 1.5 liter . . .$9.99
All types 1.5 liter . . .$14.99
Clos du Bois
Long Trail
Pale Ale or Celebration 12 pack bottles . . . .$13.99
12 pack bottles . . . .$12.99
Chardonnay 750ml . . . . .$9.99 Pinot Noir 750ml . . . . .$9.99
Chateau Ste. Michelle Chardonnay 750ml . . . . .$8.99
Hob Nob Pinot Noir 750ml . . . . .$10.99
Liquors
RUM
VODKA
Mark West
Bacardi
Pionot Noir 1.5 liter . . .$18.99
1.75 liter . . . . . . . . . . .$29.99
Captain Morgan
Relax Riesling
Grey Goose
1.75 liter . . . . . . . . . . .$28.99
1.75 liter . . . . . . . . . . .$49.99
1.75 liter . . . . . . . . . . .$16.99
1.5 liter . . .$16.99
1.75 liter . . . . . . . . . . .$21.99
Coconut Jack
BOURBON
Ketel One
OZ
1.75 liter . . . . . . . . . . .$36.99
Jim Beam
All types 1.5 liter . . .$7.99
All types 1.5 liter . . .$9.99
Stolichnaya 1.75 liter . . . . . . . . . . .$34.99
Jack Daniels
Ravenswood
Beringer
Belvedere
1.75 liter . . . . . . . . . . .$39.99
Pinot Grigio 1.5 liter . . .$10.99
1.75 liter . . . . . . . . . . . 49.99
Mezzacorona
1.75 liter . . . . . . . . . . .$27.99
Southern Comfort
$
1.75 liter . . . . . . . . . . .$28.99
Ciroc 1.75 liter . . . . . . . . . . . 50.99
Early Times
Pinot Grigio 1.5 liter . . .$12.99
Tito’s
Makers Mark
Bella Sera
Finlandia
Pinot Grigio 1.5 liter . . .$10.99
Root 1
$
1.75 liter . . . . . . . . . . .$19.99
1.75 liter . . . . . . . . . . .$29.99
1.75 liter . . . . . . . . . . .$46.99
Ten High
1.75 liter . . . . . . . . . . .$14.99
1.75 liter . . . . . . . . . . .$25.99
GIN
Three Olives 1.75 liter . . . . . . . . . . .$24.99
Tanqueray
Skyy
1.75 liter . . . . . . . . . . .$29.99
Beefeater 1.75 liter . . . . . . . . . . .$29.99
Chateau St. Jean Chardonnay 750ml . . . . .$12.99
Pinot Grigio 750ml . . . . .$11.99
Bombay Sapphire
Smirnoff
Gordons
1.75 liter . . . . . . . . . . .$39.99
1.75 liter . . . . . . . . . . . 22.99
1.75 liter . . . . . . . . . . .$18.99
Chardonnay 750ml . . . . .$9.99
Pinnacle
Gilbeys
1.75 liter . . . . . . . . . . .$19.99
1.75 liter . . . . . . . . . . .$17.99
Rosemount
Sobieski
Burnetts
Shiraz 750ml . . . . .$9.99
Monte Antico
McManis
1.75 liter . . . . . . . . . . . 22.99 $
Clos du Bois
Cabernet 750ml . . . . .$10.99
$
1.75 liter . . . . . . . . . . .$15.99
1.75 liter . . . . . . . . . . .$19.99
SCOTCH
Vikingfjord
Dewars
1.75 liter . . . . . . . . . . .$19.99
$
Cabernet 750ml . . . . .$9.99
750ml . . . . . 9.99
Blackstone
Chardonnay 750ml . . . . .$11.99
J Lohr
All types 750ml . . . . .$8.99 Private Selection All types 750ml . . . . .$8.99
Johnnie Walker Red 1.75 liter . . . . . . . . . . .$34.99
1.75 liter . . . . . . . . . . . 19.99
WHISKEY
J&B
Canadian Club
Chardonnay 750ml . . . . .$15.99
Robert Mondavi
1.75 liter . . . . . . . . . . .$34.99
Fris $
Simi
1.75 liter . . . . . . . . . . .$34.99
1.75 liter . . . . . . . . . . .$18.99
Chivas Regal
Seagrams VO
1.75 liter . . . . . . . . . . .$49.99
1.75 liter . . . . . . . . . . . 20.99 $
Louis Jadot
Beaujolais Village 750ml . . . . .$9.99
Ravenswood
Kris
Vinters Blend All types 750ml . . . . .$8.99
Johnnie Walker Black 1.75 liter . . . . . . . . . . .$59.99
Crown Royal 1.75 liter . . . . . . . . . . . 39.99
Clan MacGregor
Seagrams 7
1.75 liter . . . . . . . . . . .$17.99
$
1.75 liter . . . . . . . . . . .$17.99
Vat 69
Black Velvet
Famous Grouse
1.75 liter . . . . . . . . . . .$29.99
1.75 liter . . . . . . . . . . . 14.99 $
Champagne Korbel Brut, extra dry, chardonnay
Domaine Ste. Michelle
Freixenet Cordon Negro
1.75 liter . . . . . . . . . . .$35.99
Domaine Mumm
Cuvee Napa brut 750 ml . . . . . . . . . .$19.99
750 ml . . . . . . . . . . 11.99
Brut, extra dry, blanc noir 750 ml . . . . . . . . . .$11.99
750 ml . . . . . . . . . .$10.99
Martini & Rossi Asti
Mionetto
Brut, blanc noir, rose 750 ml . . . . . . . . . .$14.99
Gruet Brut
Roederer
Vueve Clicquot
$
750 ml . . . . . . . . . .$11.99
Prosecco Villa Jolanda 750 ml . . . . . . . . . . .$9.99
12 pack bottles . . . .$13.99
12 pack bottles . . . .$13.99
Absolut
Holiday Wines
Estancia
Warsteiner
Newcastle
Svedka
Chardonnay 750ml . . . . .$12.99
12 pack bottles . . . .$13.99
Regular or Light 12 pack bottles . . . .$13.99
18 pack bottles . . . .$8.99
1.75 liter . . . . . . . . . . .$24.99
Kendall Jackson
Magic Hat #9
Heineken
Miller High Life
12 pack bottles . . . .$9.99
All types 1.5 liter . . .$19.99
Red or White 1.5 liter . . .$13.99
Reg or light 30 pack cans . . . . .$14.99
Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, Merlot, Cab 1.5 liter . . .$15.99
Blackstone
La Vielle Ferme
12 pack bottles . . . .$13.99
Sierra Nevada
Luna di Luna
Chardonnay 1.5 liter . . .$23.99 Cabernet 1.5 liter . . .$29.99
All types 1.5 liter . . .$9.99
12 pack bottles . . . .$14.99
Busch
All types 1.5 liter . . .$11.99
J Lohr
Stone Cellars
30 pack cans . . . . .19.99
Coors Light
Zinfandel 1.5 liter . . .$16.99
Chardonnay 1.5 liter . . .$19.99
Bass Ale
All types 1.5 liter . . .$9.99
Bolla
Concha Y Toro Frontera
Meridian
II Prosecco 750 ml . . . . . . . . . . .$9.99
Mionetto
Prosecco Brut 750 ml . . . . . . . . . .$11.99
Chandon
Estate brut 750 ml . . . . . . . . . .$17.99
Domaine Carneros Brut
$
750 ml . . . . . . . . . . 19.99
750 ml . . . . . . . . . .$14.99 750 ml . . . . . . . . . .$39.99
Moet & Chandon
Perrier Jouet Grand brut 750 ml . . . . . . . . . .$39.99
Piper Heidsieck Brut
750 ml . . . . . . . . . .$34.99
Taittinger
Brut La Francaise Personal checks Imperial $ 750 ml . . . . . . . . .also .$29.99accepted750 ml . . . . . . . . . . 37.99
We Match Any Legal Connecticut Advertised Prices on Liquor, Cordials, Beer, & Wine. Customer must bring in the advertisement. 1184351
78 Marlborough St., Portland (860) 342-4940 12 Curtis St., Meriden (203) 237-7546
Beringer Founders
Mark West 1181634
ALL EARS
All types 1.5 liter . . .$11.99
Stella
All types 1.5 liter . . .$10.99
Two Vines All Types 1.5 liter . . .$12.99
Yellow Tail
Miller Lite
Twisted
Columbia Crest
All types 1.5 liter . . .$12.99
Sutter Home
New Britain Wallingford Newington Middletown RT. 71, 615 Hartford Rd. 1070 North Colony Rd. 3127 Berlin Tpke. RT 5 & 15 955 Washington St 860-225-1444 203-265-1474 860-667-1339 860-347-1624 Items & prices featured are the choice of Middletown CT Beverage Mart and are available at this store. Middletown CT Beverage Mart is independently owned and operated. The above CT Beverage Mart stores indivdually determine their own featured products and prices. Not responsible for typographical errors.
Sale Starts 12-15-10 Sale Ends 12-26-10
CT BEVERAGE MART
Personal checks also accepted
In Our Libraries
18
Durham Library Hours: Regular library hours are 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. Visit www.durhamlibrary.org to search the catalog, review your account, register for a program or renew your materials online. For information or to register for a program by phone, call 860-3499544. Facebook: Receive daily updates on library news and events by becoming a fan Facebook. Click on the Facebook link on the library’s website. JobNow! On demand access to expert career coaches
is yours with a click on the JobNow! icon on the library website. Destination Durham: The first two Destination Durham Cable Shows are on DVD and are available to borrow from the library. Show #1: Durham farmers’ market and Go Far program; Show #2: CRHS mock crash and internet safety. Storytime 2011 Registration: The Winter/Spring Storytime registrations are Dec. 17 for non-residents. All Storytimes begin Jan. 3 and end April 13. The Storytimes are: Mother Goose (18-30 months), Mondays at 10:15 or 11 a.m., Time for Tots (2.5-3.5 years), Wednesdays at 10:15 or 11 a.m. and Preschool (3.5-
Silver Mill Tours
5 years), Tuesdays at 10:15 or 11 a.m. To register for Storytime call 860-349-9544 or visit the library. Book Lover’s Circle: Come to the library on Wednesday, Jan. 5, at 7:30 p.m. for a discussion of Aztec by Gary Jennings. All are welcome to participate in an evening of stimulating conversation. Copies of the book are available at the library. Mystery Book Discussion: The mystery book club will meet on Tuesday, Jan. 18, at 7:30 when Mistress of the Art of Death by Ariana Franklin will be discussed. All are welcome. Copies of the book are available at the library. There will be no book discussion in December.
Levi Coe Library
HOLIDAY GIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE FOR ALL TOURS Dec. 27-28 or...Atlantic City Holiday at the TROP................................$123 w/breakfast, dinner & rebates Dec. 29-30 Dec. 19.........Women in the Maggie Dixon Classic.............................$59 At MSG vs Ohio State
Hours: The library is open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
UCONN Basketball
Friday, December 17, 2010 Monday through Thursday and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturdays. 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. Holiday Hours: The library will be closed Saturday, Dec. 25, and Saturday, Jan. 1, for the holidays. Facebook.com: Please check out the Levi E. Coe Library’s Facebook page for events and news. Children’s Room Storytime: Storytime will resume Wednesday, Jan. 5, at 10:30 a.m. To register, please call the Children’s Room at 860349-3857 ext.2. A cup of coffee and a good book: Come to the library and warm up this fall and winter with a nice cup of coffee and a good read. The li-
ORTHODONTICS
Feb. 12.........Women vs Providence....................................................$59 Feb. 5...........Men vs Seton Hall ..........................................................$59 Feb. 26-27....Women vs Georgetown................................................$199 1-night Westin, breakfast, sightseeing & GAME TICKET
Dr. John Conroy
Looking forward to 2011 Baseball
www.conroyortho.com
18 vs Toronto ........................... $109 Red Sox Baseball April May 1 vs Seattle................................$109 (box seats in 94 & 95) May 8 vs Minnesota..........................$119
Creating Beautiful Smiles! • Children and adults • Cutting edge technology • Invisalign available • Lingual braces now available • No charge for first visit 282 Main Street Extension at Sanseer Mill, Middletown (near Stop & Shop) (860) 347-4618
SOX AWAY GAMES June 24-26.........................SOX vs Pittsburgh...................................$469 2-nights Marriott, 2-breakfasts & 2-Game Tickets
NYY AWAY GAMES July 15-17.............................NYY vs Toronto.....................................$429 2-nights hotel, 2-breakfasts & 2-Game Tickets August 27-28........................NYY vs Orioles.....................................$299 1-night hotel, 1-breakfast & 2-Game Tickets
BATTERS BOX INC. The States Most Successful Training Center for over 21 years by Virtue of our Players Successes Featuring the State’s Top Instructors in all aspects of the Game Beginning December 11th - 12 Week Advanced Hitting Classes In January, 10 Week Advanced Pitching and Catching Classes and Fundamental Classes Private Lessons, Group Clinics Available All Programs @ www.battersboxonline.net Read the MYTHS AND TRUTHS OF TRAVEL BASEBALL
1185093
Jan. 21-23 .........Atlantic City Weekend at the Hilton ($40 rebates)....$159 Jan. 29...............Old Sturbridge Village (child 17 & under $37)...........$45 Feb. 3-6............. Quebec Winter Carnival 3Br & 1D New Tour!...........$559 Feb. 12...............Newport Winter Festival...............................................$45 Feb. 19-21 ......... Montreal President’s Day Weekend..........................$299 Mar. 17 or 19.....Boston Flower Show & Quincy Market.......................$59 Apr. 1-3 or 8-10.Washington, DC “Cherry Blossoms” 2Br & 1D.......$379 Apr. 9 Brooklyn Noshing Tour (includes food) $87 Apr. 16 Statue of Liberty (child 17 & under $49) $59 Apr. 24 Easter Parade in NYC & Dinner at Carmine’s $79 Apr. 30 Intrepid & Ground Zero Tour w/light lunch $79 May 7 NYC Food & Markets Tour $45 May 14 Madame Tussauds & Carmines’ $99 May 14-15 NYC Weekend at the Sheraton $279 May 14-15 NASCAR Racing at Dover Downs (2-races) $359 May 28-30..........Gettysburg & Lancaster 2Br 2D & 1 Show (Memorial Day W/E) ..$359 July 3-8 ............. Virginia Beach Holiday (child w/2-adults--$369) ..... $859 Over-night rates are per person double occupancy. Office is open 7-days for reservations.
For Information & Reservations
SILVER MILL TOURS Meriden, CT 06450 888-229-2668
1184919
Box 2325 203-235-2668
1183614
May 22.......................................Chicago Cubs.....................................$139 June 19 ..................................... Milwaukee...........................................$109 July 10.......................................Baltimore............................................ $109 Sept. 4.......................................Texas...................................................$119 Sept. 17.....................................Tampa Bay.......................................... $129
21 MARNE ST. HAMDEN, CT 06514 203-248-2398
brary is selling cups of coffee at $1 a cup and biscotti $1 each to raise money for the purchase of museum passes. Support your library, support your community and get a cup of coffee and biscotti. New Titles: Busy Body by M.C. Beaton, Christmas Odyssey by Anne Perry, Cross Fire by James Patterson and Hell’s Corner by David Baldacci, Lightkeeper’s Bride by Colleen Coble, Port Mortuary by Patricia Cornwell and Unbroken by Laura Hillenbrand. New DVDs: A-Team, Despicable Me, Easy A, Legend of the Gaurdian: The Owls of Ga’Hoole, Salt, Twilight Saga: Eclipse and more. To view anticipated arrival dates for new titles, visit our webpage and click on Activities and Events and then click Monthly Calendars.
Winter vacation at Levi E Coe Library Storytime Picnic: Monday, Dec. 27, 11:30 a.m.; Bring your blanket and your lunch to the Lucia K. Ginter Children’s Room and listen to Miss Vicki read her favorite Giving Tree Books. We Scrap:, Tuesday, Dec. 28, 2 p.m.; Create your holiday scrapbook pages. Bring your holiday photos and your scrapbooking supplies (or use ours). Legend of the Guardians: The Owls of Ga’Hoole Movie Matinee: Wednesday, Dec. 29, 2 p.m.; Watch this new DVD with your friends. Popcorn provided. Lego Day: Thursday, Dec. 30, 2 p.m.; Legos, legos, legos. . . Duplos in the Lucia K. Ginter Children’s Room and legos in the Children’s Annex.
Local news Local events Local issues Every week in the
Town Times
Town Times
Friday, December 17, 2010
19
Spaghetti benefit dinner for Griffin family of Durham
The spaghetti dinner to benefit Mary Jo Griffin on Saturday, Dec. 11, was a huge success. The event raised well over $1,000 for the Griffin Family! Photos submitted by Judy Moeckel
Left, Nicolas Morin of Durham. Top left, Betty Long of Durham. Above, Jean Chittenden, Mabel Bailey and Valerie Bailey, all of Durham. Top right, Carissa Connell of Durham with her daughters Taylor (in red) and Kaelyn Connell.
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Scouts in Town Times
20
Friday, December 17, 2010
Above, Junior/Daisy Troop 62127 made and delivered cookies for the Durham Thanksgiving baskets in November. Picture front from left: Hannah Wright, Grayson Dykas, Julia Slight and Jan Muraca, director of Human Services in Durham; back row from left: Hailey Byrne, Victoria Slight, Avery Millo, Kaitlin Gossart, Maddie Montz, Mary Mitchard and Alyssa Lecza.
Above, on Saturday Dec. 11, Cub Scout Pack 27 hosted a breakfast with Santa. Pictured are some of our cub scouts with Santa. Back row from left: Shawn Backstrom and Santa; second row from left: Joey Venables, Dominic Pascarelli, Andrew Bengston, Mike Pellegrino, Christopher Sokol; front row from left: Shawn Grady, Alex Infeld, Jake Amendola
Photo submitted by Sheryl Slight
Photo submitted by Deborah Sokol
Center, Last weekend Troop 27 went on a 10-mile hike on the Appalachian Trail to our campsite in Kent. The trail was hard and exhausting. It was a beautiful day to hike, and we ran into other hikers on the trail. When we arrived at camp we had to put up our tents and collect firewood to keep warm. It was a cold night at about 25 degrees, but we all managed to stay warm. It was cold enough to get our polar bear badge. Photo and caption submitted by Nancy Beckert and Tavish Clark
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Friday, December 17, 2010
Business in Town Times
21
Professional custom decorating services out of Middlefield By Cheri Kelley Town Times Those with the need for custom window treatments or “slipcovers that fool the eye and fit like a glove,” should seek out Sue Deane, the owner of Sweet Surroundings in Middlefield. Her business will provide those custom decorating services. Deane works out of a professional drapery workroom at her home in Middlefield. She has resided in Middlefield for 21 years, and it was when she moved into her home that she discovered the need for custom window treatments. She decided to make them herself and was told by others that she should do this for a living, and so Sweet Surroundings was born. Deane is a member of Window Coverings Association of America and has been sewing professionally for about six months. Her slipcovers are custom made for each individual piece of furniture and are discretely lined in the back with hook and loop fastening, so they can be easily removed and dry cleaned. Deane is available anytime; she said, “I have a unique decorating service — I offer the consultation and also deliver the custom fabricated home decorations, for a complete room transformation or just one piece.” Sweet Surroundings also provides decorative painting services, murals, stenciling and free-hand work. Another
option Deane offers is a room remix where she uses the client’s own possessions and rearranges and repurposes the furnishings to enhance their spaces. Deane says, “I work quickly, and therefore have a fast turnaround time and can deliver items promptly, in order for clients to enjoy their pieces right away.” Deane is available by telephone (860-349-3580) and more information and a portfolio can be seen on her website: www.suedeane.com.
Sue Deane in her home in Middlefield where she does professional window treatments, tailored slipcovers, cushions and pillows, decorative painting, etc. Photo by Cheri Kelley
Independent Living at Masonicare Health Center
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njoy Affordability and Peace-of-Mind
If you’re tired of shoveling snow, mowing the lawn and keeping up with home repairs, consider independent living on the Masonicare Health Center campus in Wallingford.
“Being from the area, we didn’t have to leave old friends, yet we’ve made many new friends here. And we truly enjoy the worry-free lifestyle.“ ~ George and Anna Geer
To advertise your business, call the
Town Times 860-349-8000
With access to a host of activities, volunteering, spiritual services and amenities, it’s the perfect setting to enjoy a more relaxed lifestyle. Our over-55 apartment options vary in size and features, but all have: r One monthly rent that includes extended basic cable and all utilities except telephone r A 12-month lease contract r 24-hour emergency response and security services r 0QUJPOBM IPVTFLFFQJOH services, meal plan and online access
r On-site laundry room r 4BGF DPOWFOJFOU QBSLJOH r .BTPOJDBSF .FEJDBM Office Building just steps away with physicians and laboratory services r 4IPVME ZPV OFFE JU QSJPSJUZ access to Masonicare Health Center, its hospital unit and rehab therapy units
This lifestyle is popular, so plan ahead by getting your application in now. For more information, call The Masonicare HelpLine at 888-679-9997.
Town Times
1180795
Delivered to your home or business every Friday
The independent living apartments at Masonicare Health Center include the Hawkins, Johnson and Wells Apartments.
22
Town Times
Friday, December 17, 2010
DAR essay contest
Wreaths Across America for our veterans This photo is from the Wreaths Across America Ceremony at the Veterans’ Cemetery in Middletown last Saturday, Dec. 11. They show Katy Forline and her stepfather, John Long, both of Durham, placing a wreath on the grave of a veteran. The Wadsworth Chapter of the Connecticut Daughters of the American Revolution has actively supported Wreaths Across America for several years, helping to raise funds to place wreaths on the graves of veterans in Middletown and Rocky Hill. Photo taken by Ellen Halstedt
The Wadsworth Chapter of Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR), is sponsoring an historical essay contest. The contest question for fifth through eighth graders is: In celebration of 2010 being the 275th anniversary of the birth of Paul Revere, pretend you are Paul Revere writing your memoirs. Relate various accomplishments for which you wish to be remembered in the annals of American history. The contest question for ninth through twelfth gradersis: What lessons from Christopher Columbus’ life can we draw on today to bring clarity to our decisions in the face of an uncertain future? The deadline is Jan. 11. Please call 617-538-9129 for more info.
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Christmas Ser vices in Town Times
Friday, December 17, 2010
CHRISTMAS EVE SERVICES Notre Dame Church, 272 Main St. in Durham. There will be a special Christmas Concert directed by Harriet Duval at 3:30 p.m., a Mass at 4 p.m., another Mass at 6 p.m., a special Christmas Concert directed by Ron Soja at 9:30 p.m. and the last Mass at 10 p.m. Call 860-349-3058 for info.
CHRISTMAS DAY SERVICES
United Churches of Durham, 228 Main St. in Durham. There will be a Service of Carols and Candles for families at 7 p.m. There will also be a Service of Carols and Candles with the Sacrament of Holy Communion at 10 p.m. for their pre-midnight Service. Call 860-349-3683 for info.
St. Colman Roman Catholic Church, 145 Hubbard St. in Middlefield. There will be a Childrens Mass with Posada at 4 p.m. There will be a Musical Church Concert at 9:30 p.m. that leads into the premidnight Mass at 10 p.m. Call 860349-3868 for info.
Notre Dame Church, 272 Main St. in Durham, will have a special Mass for Christmas day at 9 a.m. Call 860-349-3058 for info.
Church of the Epiphany, Episcopal, 196 Main St. in Durham. There will be a Christmas Pagent and Holy Eucharist at 5:30 p.m. There will also be a Candlelight Holy Eucharist at 10 p.m. Call 860-349-9644 for info.
Middlefield Federated Church, 402 Main St. in Middlefield, will have two special Christmas Services, 7 p.m. and 11 p.m. Call 860-349-9889 for info.
Church of the Epiphany, Episcopal, 196 Main St. in Durham, will have a special Christmas Mass with Holy Eucharist at 10 a.m. Call 860349-9644 for info.
Save the date: community Martin Luther King Jr. event
St. Colman Roman Catholic Church, 145 Hubbard St. in Middlefield, will have one special Christmas Mass at 9 a.m. (No 4 p.m. Vigil Mass today.) Call 860-3493868 for info.
L J O NE I E
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Cahill Septic Service
www.marbleandgranitecounters.com • www.marcojette.com Countertops • Vanities • Fireplaces Bath Surrounds • Quartz • Jetté Stone • Memorials
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phone: 860-398-5452 fax: 860-398-5453
270 Main St., Middlefield 860-349-8551
Movado Farm Inc. 1172332
860-349-3033 Snow Plowing Insured
Riding Lessons
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Bruce Binge Custom Building & Remodeling Contractor
203-457-9652
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On Thursday, Jan. 13, 2011 at 6:30 p.m. the Durham and Middlefield community is invited to a gathering in celebration of Martin Luther King Jr. Day at Coginchaug High School. The John Lyman Parents Association is organizing this event, which will include a wonderful interactive musical performance by Victoria Christgau (at 7 p.m.), funded by the Coginchaug Valley Education Foundation. We invite you to join in preparing for this event by assisting with the creation of a chain of kindness. In the coming weeks you will likely come across collection boxes around Durham and Middlefield where you can write an act of kindness that someone has done for you, you have done or you have witnessed onto a piece of paper that will become one link in the chain. Volunteers hope to display loops upon loops of paper chains made by the community at this event. We hope to have interviews with people who have memories from the 1960s. We are still looking for people with interesting memories to share. There will also be artwork on display representing the themes of kindness, respect and peace. If you or a community or volunteer group you are part of would like to take part in this event, either by making your own paper chain, being interviewed, or displaying artwork reflecting those themes, contact JLPA president Mark Dionne at m.dionne@rsd13.org or 349-3783.
23
• New Homes • Additions • Kitchens • Garages • Decks All Types of Remodeling & Renovations HIC #0606486
Call after 5 pm (860)
347-1445
Town Times
24
Friday, December 17, 2010
Youth leaders designed to foster a sense of value among students and adults in the community as well as a stronger feeling of unity. “It was truly amazing to watch these 11 teens come together to create their ‘Gratitude Day’ project, which will be held in late spring,” said Jane Moen, DMYFS program director. “Gratitude Day will give all students and the adults who are active in their
(Continued from page 1) lives the opportunity to express their appreciation for the part they play in lifting each other up, bringing out the best in each other and making their world a more meaningful, happy and safe place to live. In other words, together our community’s teens and adults will have the opportunity to say you matter to me and build the very core assets needed for our kids to be successful and healthy.”
Betsy Dean, DMYFS executive director, added, “One very important message the team of students came away with was that great leaders don’t just do great things, they pull together with others and always give credit to the others as opposed to themselves. That in itself reinforced the importance of looking beyond yourself to building on the collective gifts of your community and becoming the
change you wish to see in the world. The trainer said over and over again that youth are not just the leaders of tomorrow, they are leaders today - that is a critical message for those of us wishing to empower our youth.” Watch for more details and the results of this important project coming to this Durham/Middlefield through the efforts of our rising youth leaders.
Town Times Service Directory 1182116
Property Maintenance For Home and Office Lawn Care Weekly Mowing Snow/Ice Management Plowing, Sanding, Walkways
Residential Wiring Specialist Landscape Lighting Design • Install • Service 1156941
Property Maintenance Begins Here
Lic. & Ins. EI 183930
Dependable Facilities Maintenance Services Carpentry/HVAC/Plumbing/Electrical Taking New Accounts
HIC #0628655
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Allan’s Tree Service
It’s the business tool you can’t afford to be without!
~ professional care at its best ~ • Pruning • Cabling • Tree & Stump Removal • Spraying & Disease Control • Bucket Truck
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Allan Poole, Licensed Arborist Phone 349-8029
(860) 349-7000
Established 1976 • Fully Insured • Work Guaranteed in Writing
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(860) 349-1168
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Personal Training and Performance Enhancement CT Fitness Coach LLC 16 Commerce Circle Unit C Durham, CT 06422 (860) 349-2202 (877) 510-2202 Toll Free
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CENTURION EXTERMINATING LLC LLC Business PEST CONTROL SERVICE Connecticut License #B-2045
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Family Owned & Operated Joe Simmons, Sr. License #S-2712
Mention this ad and receive $10 off any pest control service
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Residential Roof ing Specialist 1173216
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Dan Jacobs Owner Dependable & Reasonable
Insured & Licensed
CT Lic. #00558904
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Free Estimates
Council (Continued from page 7) a member of the MCSC, explains, “When the council offers financial assistance to residents, only two members of the council are aware of the family’s identity. The remainder of the council receives a report, but the recipient’s identity is protected. Additionally, when checks are used, they are issued directly to the service providers. This ensures both the resident’s privacy and that that he or she receives the help they require.” This procedure has served the council well over the years. Just like the original Thanksgiving basket run 25 years ago, all funding for the Middlefield Community Services Council comes from local organizations and private citizens. With so many donations and volunteer hours logged over the years, current chairperson Rev. Dale Azevedo, from the Federated Church states, “We would like to thank everyone from the surrounding community who has supported us over the years. For past members who founded and faithfully served on the council, for those who donated funds, food, and supplies to our programs, we say a resounding ‘thank you.’ Our community would not be as strong as it is today if it were not for your contributions.” In addition to Azevedo and Astle, the council is currently comprised of Deacon Peter Gill from St. Colman’s, First Selectman Jon Brayshaw, Delores Augeri, Connie Drega and Roberta Steele. If you would like to support MCSC, donations can be sent to Middlefield Community Services Council, 405 Main St., Middlefield, CT, 06455. For more information on the council’s activities or inquiries for assistance, people are invited to contact any of the current council members or call Astle at 860-349-7121.
Town Times Sports
Friday, December 17, 2010
25
Time Out Taverne holiday softball wrap-up By Bob Dynia Special to Town Times
tions when needed. TOT’s MVP (if a 1-12 team can actually have an MVP), however, had to be George Miller. Miller pretty much did it all – he filled in at every position except first base during the season, kept score when on the bench and was a base coach when needed. In addition, he ran fielding drills at pre-season practices in May. All of this was done as the team elder, being just a bit over 50 (right, George?).
Rowe led the over-the-hill gang with a .667 average in 18 at bats, with King at .600 in 10 ab’s, Grodzicki .593 (27 ab’s), Dynia .542 (24 ab’s), Evers .538 (39 ab’s), Mills .536 (28 ab’s) and Daryl Edwards .528 (36 ab’s) also batting over .500. Evers’ 21 hits was tops for TOT followed by Daryl Edwards (19), Grodzicki (16) and Mills (15). Only two batters hit double digits in rbi’s – Mills with 11 and Dynia with 10. The same was
true with runs scored – Judson crossed the plate 16 times and Evers 11. The gray wonders hit only four home runs in 2010; Judson had 2, with Dynia and Mills getting the others. As the 2011 season approaches, questions arise for the team. Mainly, will Dynia be brought back as manager? Grumblings from some players suggest that his See TOT, page 28
Town Times Service Directory V.M.B. Custom Builders “No jobs too big or small” Mike Gerchy OWNER/BUILDER
1183597
Specializing in Historic Renovations and Custom Cabinets, Additions, Decks & Roofs 35 Maiden Lane Durham, CT 06422 (860) 398-0785 VMBCustombuilders@live.com
1165528
“Complete Jobs From First Stud To Last Touch Of Paint” Fully Insured & Licensed HIC #614488
YOUR REMODELING SPECIALISTS
Sue Deane 860-349-3580 Middlefield, CT
Custom Window Treatments and Slipcovers www.suedeane.com
> Kitchens > Bathrooms > Roofing > Siding > Window Replacement > Decks > Additions > Gutters/Leaf Guard Fully Licensed and Insured
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Sweet Surroundings Custom Decorating Services 1184492
CT License #559832 HIC Locally owned and operated
Call today for a FREE estimate. 860.349.1758 Ask for Tray CELL 860.790.6290
Rebecca Parker
Private Guitar Teacher
1176902
Ages 6-18, all styles Teach out of Joe Riffs Music, 440 Main Street, Middletown
Phone: 860-810-5150 email: rebeccaguitar@gmail.com 1185123
Residential
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Snowplowing
860-349-0119
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Interior Painting Wallpapering Andy Golschneider • (860) 349-3549 CT Lic. #HIC 606826 Durham, CT
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Mid-December. Time to finally digest the Thanksgiving turkey and ready ourselves for the Hanukkah/Christmas/New Year’s holiday season. It’s also time to start a new tradition — Let’s Talk Softball. The Time Out Taverne (TOT) men’s 40 and over softball team completed a disappointing (that’s one way to put it) 1 – 12 season with a 32 – 2 drubbing by Café 66 in the first round of the Middlesex County League playoffs on Sept. 26. A two-run first-inning advantage was erased by the second-seeded Portland squad, who made quick work of the last place TOT. The gray wonders’ runs were scored by Wills Evers and Ken Judson, driven in by Kevin Rowe and Gary Grodzicki. Rookie coach Bob Dynia came into the season with high hopes for at least a competitive year. An off-season recruiting campaign resulted in several new players joining the team in 2010. Judson filled a hole at third base, batted third much of the season and provided some much-needed youth on an aging team. Grodzicki did a fantastic job at shortstop and provided a potent bat for much of the season. Tom King began the year as the starting second-baseman; he was an offensive and defensive force until injuries ended his year in game 5. “Boston Mike” Mills gave the team more offensive punch in the middle of the line-up as a designated hitter and occasional fielding fillin. Scott Vertucci alternated third base and DH, bringing another potent bat to the lineup. Bill Lema did a yeoman’s job at second and short when called upon. Scot Burns also did a great job in limited time at first base. The newbies blended in well with the returning veterans. Wayne Hubbard (20.75 earned run average) and Bob Edwards (28.32 ERA) did the majority of pitching duties this year. Bruce Bisson did another great job behind the plate.
Jack Carr flirted with .500 with his bat while manning first base. Evers, Charlie Mather, Daryl Edwards, Rob Cole and Dynia rotated in the outfield. Kevin Rowe came back as DH and outfield replacement. Utility man Steve Ackerman provided quality backup at catcher, first base and outfield. The team was also graced with special limited appearances by Steve Green and Ken Hall; both filled in at outfield posi-
Town Times Sports
26
Friday, December 17, 2010
Coginchaug girls’ basketball team dominates Valley By Alan Pease Special to Town Times
Entering the season, Coginchaug had a solid core of two seniors and four juniors, but only one sophomore, Jessica Solomon, on the roster. This resulted in having nine freshmen on the roster, and with the unfortunate loss of senior co-captain Cassidie Cade to an ACL injury during the soccer season, some of those freshmen will need to step up and contribute this year.
On Wednesday, Dec. 8, the Coginchaug girls hosted the Lady Warriors of Valley Regional, dominating in the first half, and coasting home to a 51–27 victory. The first half defense completely stymied Valley, as they could score only four points in each of the first two periods, shooting only one for nine from the floor.
It was nice to see Cassidie
still fulfilling her captain’s duties, meeting with the referees along with senior cocaptain Amanda Boyle before the game, and cheering her teammates on from the bench during the game – that’s dedication to be admired! Audrey Biesak led the charge in the first period, scoring six points and grabbing three steals. Samantha Mancinelli added four points, and Amanda Boyle
and Jessica Solomon each added four rebounds and two points. Two points from Olivia Corazinni and one from Sidney Trusty resulted in a 17–4 lead after one period. Lauren Esposito led the charge in the second period, scoring eight points on fourfor-four shooting and stealing the ball twice. Mancinelli was a significant contributor with five assists and two points, and freshman Mor-
Town Times Service Directory Home Improvement & Repairs Specializing in Bathroom Remodeling
RSDL 1183611
CT Lic. 0612088
Robert Trombetta 860-798-5374 Middlefield, CT 1182065
Take Control of Your Life! SOLUTIONS BY HYPNOSIS 860-349-7039
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Marty Rochette
860-349-8486 Cell - 860-662-0728 Lic. #005694
Office Hours By Appointment
Now Accepting New Customers
Gift Certificates Available
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Michael Haglund
SERVICES
Residential - Commercial & Solar Systems Providing courteous, responsible, and
Skilled Electrical Services Since 1994
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Connecticut Clean Energy Fund (CCEF)Approved Installer
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877-723-9052 Bruce Angeloszek Master Electrician
1185308
• Painting/Dry Wall • Tile Flooring • Basements/Skylights • Decks/Patios/Sheds • Odd Projects • No Job Too Small
LAWN CARE
CT Lic. #606458 E-mail: bruce@ctelectrical.com
1142760
1173943
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FAX (203) 630-2932 CT 1-800-228-6915, Ext. 2270
Ron Nagy Sales Representative
gan Kuehnle showed good things for the future with four rebounds and two points. Biesak added four points, while Andrea Braga, Kim Romanoff, Kuehnle, Corazinni and Katelyn Williams each chipped in with two points for a 43–8 lead at the half. Early in the second half, and Amanda Boyle pushed the lead up to 49–8 with a free throw, then to 51–10 after Valley finally broke into double digits almost three minutes into the second half by knocking down two more from the charity stripe. Mancinelli converted a rebound put-back and Biesak hit on a trey leading up to the Boyle free throws. Over the remainder of the period, Coach Rett Mancinelli sat his starters, allowing Valley to outscore 9–2, with only Kim Romanoff hitting the scoring column for the Blue Devils, resulting in a 53–19 lead for Coginchaug. In the final period, with the starters seeing only a couple of minutes of playing time at the start, only Esposito and Caryn Sibiski dented the scoring column with two apiece, but the defense was still pretty steady, allowing only eight points, resulting in the final score of 57–27, with the Lady Devils coming out well on top. Audrey Biesak led the Devils with 13 points, adding five steals, three rebounds and two assists. Lauren Esposito scored 10 points, grabbed four steals and two rebounds, and had an assist. Samantha Mancinelli had eight points, five assists, three rebounds and two steals. Amanda Boyle scored seven and had five rebounds and two assists. Jessica Solomon was the leading rebounder with nine, and added two points, two steals and a block. Off the bench, Andrea Braga grabbed four rebounds, scored two points, and had a steal and an assist. Kim Romanoff scored four and had a rebound, a steal and an assist. Morgan Kuehnle pulled down seven big rebounds, and had three steals, two as-
See Girls’ basketball, page 27
Town Times Sports
Friday, December 17, 2010
27
Coginchaug High School Football Banquet Pictured in the group photo at left, left to right, are Roy Graham, John Faugher, Zach Faiella, David Wheeler, Ryan Scherer, Roby Granger, Above, Zach Faiella and David Wheeler, who are the captains. Below, Bill Currlin, center, EJ Luther and with Roby Granger and Frank Posca, who won Joe Danczuk. the Bonnie Currlin Award.
(Continued from page 26) sists and two points. Olivia Corazinni had four points, four rebounds and a steal. Sidney Trusty had a point and a rebound, Katelyn Williams had three rebounds and two points, and Caryn Sibiski recorded two points and a rebound.
MIDDLEFIELD
Girls’ basketball
Experience makes the difference.
EN pm OP. 12-2 N SU
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These uncertain times remind us that happiness comes not from the things we accumulate but from our family and friends and the memories we share. I wish you all a season of joy and wonderful moments. I hope the New Year is filled with promise and thankfulness.
The Coginchaug roster is rounded out by Alison Luther, Kasi Whitaker, Victoria Buonanni, and last but by no means least, Cassidie Cade, who will not play, but will still be a big part of any success that the Lady Devils experience this season. 1184964
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Coginchaug is 1–0. By the time you read this, they will have played at Old Saybrook, and tonight, Friday the 17th, they host the girls of Hyde Leadership. Come on down to Coginchaug and cheer the Lady Blue Devils on – it could be an interest7 ing season.
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Photos submitted by Karen Kean.
1185309
Above, Joe Danczuk, who won the Blue Devil Award, which is a new award this year that recognizes scholarship, citizenship and leadership.
Left, Ian Augur and Bryan Paxton, who won Rookies of the Year.
Town Times Sports
28
Friday, December 17, 2010
TOT
(Continued from page 25)
reign will be a short one. “Can’t Devaux (previous manager Dave) come back? I can’t believe the owners of this team would give this hack another chance,” said an anonymous 6’5” first baseman. “At least he and his wife throw great team parties,” another player was overheard to say, “because he
can’t coach worth (expletive deleted).” Some ex-players who attended one of the teams numerous losses offered their opinions. Team icon Al Miller, as always, took a philosophical approach. “Hey, we’ve had rotten teams in the past – so what?” John Wade had a differing view; “He stinks! Re-
place him,” Jim Dowling just shook his head and did not comment. On a side note, congratulations to Middletown’s Mad Murphy’s team, who captured their second straight league championship, defeating regular season champ Essex Vets in the final game. The team, as always,
thanks Time Out Taverne owners Gary Carmichael and Jack and Karen Castiglione for their support this past season. Personally, I want to thank my wife Trish for putting up with me while not making it to as many games as in past years (due to other commitments). She provided psychological services for my
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rants as losses mounted and helped find ways to write about them. I also need to mention the rest of my family for their support - my daughter Lauren (carrying grandchild-to-be Benjamin Robert) and fiancée Kenny Morello, my step-daughter Samantha and fiancée Lee Sawyer, with daughters Sadie (my biggest fan) and two-month-old Natalie, and my step-son David. I look forward to a huge rooting section next year. Finally, I wish to express my gratitude to the Town Times and all the readers of this column. I hope you all had fun perusing the articles as much as I did bringing them to you. Merry Christmas and Happy 2011 to all.
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