Volume 18, Issue 37
Serving Durham, Middlefield and Rockfall
Friday, December 23, 2011
Jesus is born! The Middlefield Federated Church held its first Living Nativity last weekend. A “cast” of 25+, left, aged 4-70+, staged the first Christmas story inside and around the church building to help immerse visitors in the “reason for the season.” Participants included a cow, a sheep and two chickens. Over 125 people enjoyed the experience and donated a can of beans for Amazing Grace food pantry as the price of admission. Right, Ellie Nick, of Middlefield, took the part of a sheep at the annual Christmas pageant presented by the Middlefield Federated Church on Sunday, Dec. 18. This year, the pageant was authored and directed by Sierra Manning and Colin Plant (with lots of help from the Gospel of Luke). Photos by Sue VanDerzee
Crocs for Haiti
Special meeting approves fund transfers for vehicles, Deefield farm and emergency operations center By Trish Dynia Special to Town Times
French Honor Society with advisor Donna Cashore. By Elisabeth Kennedy Special to Town Times Molly Dudko and her mom, Cloe Poisson, traveled to Haiti in August 2010. Although the poverty and devastation in Haiti post-earthquake can be difficult to bear, Molly and her mom came home not overwhelmed but committed to make a difference. What a difference they have made — Cloe writing a powerful story published in the Hartford Courant,
Molly writing for The Devil’s Advocate and both choosing to change the life of a young boy through sponsorship. Both Molly and Cloe will return to Haiti at the end of the month, sacrificing holiday time with family and friends to continue to make a difference. Molly asked how she could help and embraced the chore of collecting crocs for all of the children of HELO (Home Education Love Opportunity, an orphanage in
Photo by Elisabeth Kennedy
Haiti). A member of the French Honor Society at Coginchaug, Molly approached the group with the challenge: 49 pair of crocs for the children of HELO. The French Honor Society (FHS) has its own history of making a difference in Haiti, being one of HELO’s first sponsors and supporting one of the girls at HELO since 2008. Students raise funds to pay See Crocs, page 6
About 25 residents attended a special town meeting on Monday, Dec. 19, to review and approve several fund transfers. First on the agenda was a proposal to approve the transfer of $52,971 for the down payment and/or first lease payment on a new Freightliner dump truck and $116,538 for the purchase of a new F350, a used F350, sanders for the F350 trucks, and another vehicle to be determined for the sanitarian as recommended by the Board of Finance. First Selectman Laura Francis noted that the proposal is in line with the
town’s Public Works Fleet Replacement Schedule and “falls within the purpose of the funds.” In response to several questions from the public, Francis and other town officials provided the following information: The town’s equipment took a beating last year, and the sanitarian’s vehicle is unfit for safe service and will be replaced with a fourwheel drive Jeep to be used primarily by sanitarian Bill Milardo. This vehicle will cost $18,000 or less. One F350 is coming off the road and will not be replaced, and the Freightliner dump truck is similar to the one purchased last year. The only difference See BOS, page 22
Town Times Community Briefs
2
RSD13 kindergarten visitations and registration
Parents of children living in Durham and Middlefield who will be five years old on or before Jan. 1, 2013, must register their children to attend kindergarten in September 2012 or apply for a waiver of attendance. In Regional District 13 (RSD13), children may attend kindergarten in either the Contemporary program or the Integrated Day program. Parents need to choose the appropriate program for their
child prior to kindergarten registration. School visits and information available at the schools will assist parents in making their choice. The Contemporary program serves children in grades K-4 and is housed at Brewster School for grades K-2 and at Korn School for grades 3 and 4. The Integrated Day program serves students in grades K-4 at John Lyman School. While the two programs share many similarities, they also have some distinctive differences that must be considered when deciding which program is best for each child. The best way to understand the differences is to
Submission reminder The Town Times welcomes submissions regarding upcoming events happening in the community (e-mail news@towntimes.com by Mondays at noon). We do our best to run submissions at least one time. However, due to space constraints, we cannot guarantee a submission will be published on a specific date. To ensure your submission runs exactly as you would like it to, contact our sales representative, Joy Boone, at 860-349-8026 or e-mail advertising@towntimes.com for a paid ad. Thank you.
Index of Advertisers To advertise in the Town Times, call Joy Boone at 860-349-8026 IANNIELLO PLUMBING . . . . . . . .28 JAY LANDSCAPING . . . . . . . . . .26 LINO’S MARKET . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 MASONICARE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22 MICHELI UNISEX STYLING SALON L 12 MICKEY FINN’S . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23 MIDDLEFIELD REMODELING . . .29 MIDDLESEX COMMUNITY COLLEGE 11 MIDDLESEX HEALTH CARE . . . . .5 MIMS OIL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21 MOVADO FARM . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27 NEIL JONES HOME IMPROVEMENTS27 NEW ENGLAND DENTAL HEALTH . . . .25 PAINT SPOT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7 PERK ON MAIN . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32 PROFESSIONAL SECURITY SYS 28 RANEY, JASON, DMD . . . . . . . . . .5 REALTY ASSOCIATES . . . . . . . . .31 REDWOOD COUNTRY FLEA MARKET 6 RLI ELECTRIC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26 ROBLEE PLUMBING . . . . . . . . . .30 ROCKFALL CO . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30 RSDL HOME IMPROVEMENTS . .30 SISTERS CLEANING SERVICE . .26 SOUL SPACE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 T-N-T HOME & LAWNCARE . . . .27 TAIL WAGGING . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26 THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE & BODYWORK 29 TILE RENOVATORS . . . . . . . . . . .26 VMB CUSTOM BUILDERS . . . . . .29 WHITEHOUSE CONSTRUCTION 27 WILDWOOD LAWN CARE . . . . . .28 WINDOWS PLUS . . . . . . . . . . . . .21
Parents may visit the schools from Jan. 5-31 to observe classes and to discuss any specific questions or concerns. Visits, which are designed for adults, should be scheduled ahead of time to allow for optimum opportunities to observe the programs. Appointments to visit can be made by calling the individual schools. Parents may call Lyman School at 860-349-7240 to visit the Integrated Day program. To visit the Contemporary program, call Brewster School at 860349-7227 and Korn School at 860-349-7210. Once parents have visited both programs, they will need to make a decision about the program for which they will be registering their child. According to the RSD13 Board of Education policy, this decision must be made by Feb. 1. Any child not registered in a specific program by that date may not be able to attend the program chosen by his/her parent(s). Scheduling an appointment for kindergarten registration confirms pro-
gram choice. Kindergarten registration for the 2012-13 school year will take place Wednesday, Feb. 1-3, 2012, and Monday, Feb. 6. Appointments will be available between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. daily with hours extended to 6 p.m. on one evening. See phone numbers above to call to register your child. Once the registration appointment has been made, the school will send a registration information packet. This information will include a residency form and questionnaire, student information/emergency form, school entry health questionnaire and parent questionnaire, which should be completed and brought to registration along with a copy of the child’s birth certificate. Please make sure that the residency form is completed in its entirety and notarized. If the family has a child already in district, the residency form is not required. Your child should attend the registration appointment with you. Any parent of an eligible kindergarten child who wishes to hold his/her child out of school for another year must sign a form at the Office of the Superintendent of Schools. Submitted by Darlene Allen
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visit both programs. We urge prospective parents to visit all three schools and view at least one classroom at every grade level. Only by visiting can you get the true flavor of the three schools and the two instructional programs.
Friday, December 23, 2011
Web Update This week, we asked our online readers, “Have you ever/would you ever give an alternative gift?” By press time, 14 people responded. Here are the results: Yes: monetary donation for food, shelter, school, etc. in another part of the world: 29% Yes: bought a goat or something else in someone's name: 43% Yes: other: 21% No: sticking with traditional gifts: 7% Answer our next poll question at www.towntimes.com.
Corrections We strive to bring you the most accurate information available each week, but if you see something in Town Times that isn’t quite right, give us a call at 860-349-8000, and we’ll do our best to make things right.
Creative Arts! Last chance to submit your creative arts. We will accept submissions through Dec. 29. We’re looking for poems, photographs and essays!
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Friday, December 23, 2011
3
Town Times
FEMA will reimburse 75 percent of Durham’s Irene expenses By Trish Dynia Special to the Town Times At its Dec. 19 meeting, the Durham Board of Selectmen (BOS) filled several vacancies on town boards. William Ward and Lucy Meigs were appointed to the Conservation Commission; Ona McLaughlin, Cliff Colwell and Alana Simlick were re-appointed to the Economic Development Commission and Carmela Lockwood was appointed as a new member; Rob MacDuff, Bob
Czarnecki, Gene Riotte and Frank DeFelice were re-appointed to the Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Agency; and Tim Larkin was re-appointed as Tree Warden. The board also accepted “with gratitude and thanks” the resignations of Renee Edwards (Board of Finance, BOF) and Maureen Dooley (Ethics Commission). The board accepted the final report from the DMIAAB Task Force. Members did express concerns regarding a recommendation that DMI-
AAB continue to have an equal number of representatives from each town despite the fact that Durham finances a larger percentage of the budget due to its higher population. DMIAAB chairman Dom DelVecchio, who is also a member of the task force, stated, “We spent a lot of time on this particular issue, and Middlefield wants to maintain equal representation.” Selectman Steve Levy noted that he, too, has concerns but felt that additional protections are in place through the BOF
Toys For Tots collection A big thank you goes out to our community from Core Club! With the help of clients and many families, the Core Club surpassed its goal and collected over 200 toys! With both your generosity and Toys for Tots, we have all put a smile on a child’s face this holiday season. Have a happy holiday and a wonderful new year from the Core Club staff; we are looking forward to seeing all of you in 2012!
In other business, the board conducted its annual review of the Town Procurement Policy and continued to review a draft of the proposed Activity Center Policy and Use Application.
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proved a resolution granting the first selectman permission to enter into an agreement with the state of Connecticut relative to the Hazardous Mitigation Plan and approved a resolution allowing the first selectman to sign a five-year agreement with ACS Government Systems for application hosting and technology support services. Durham Volunteer Ambulance Corp treasurer Nate Ravid noted that this plan will allow the town’s emergency services to track all activity and generate billing reports.
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and budget process. DelVecchio agreed and further noted that, on the rare occasion when DMIAAB votes have fallen along town lines, acceptable compromises were reached. Also, there is a provision in the revised agreement that allows for changes. The board reviewed and accepted the November fiscal analysis presented by First Selectman Laura Francis, who noted that both expenses and receipts are on target for the fiscal year (49 percent each) and FEMA has agreed to reimburse the town’s Tropical Storm Irene expenses at 75 percent. Additional paperwork has been submitted to FEMA for Winter Storm Alfred. Before adjourning for a special town meeting, the selectmen also reviewed and ap-
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Town Times FRIDAY
December 23
Amato’s Toy and Hobby Bring the family to see the annual Holiday Operating Model Train display at Amato’s Toy and Hobby on Main Street in Middletown. The Amato elves have created a wonderland of operating model trains and antique toys in their Middletown store’s lower level. The Model Train Display is open today from 5:30 to 7:30 and tomorrow from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. For details, call Amato’s 860347-1893 or visit AmatosToyandHobby.com.
SATURDAY
December 24
Transfer Station Hours The transfer station will be open today and Dec. 31 from 8 a.m. to noon. Holiday Gathering Come and celebrate a beautiful and spiritual Christmas Eve at 7:30 p.m. at the Little Church in the Wilderness. There will be carol singing, accompanied by organ, violin and violoncello, followed by a candlelight service at 8 p.m. Located at Emmanuel Episcopal Church (50 Emanuel Church Rd. in Killingworth). For info or directions, call 860-663-1109 or visit www.churchinthewilderness.org. Menorah Lighting The Chabad Jewish Center will host a free, open-to-all community Chanukah celebration at Union Park in Middletown (corner of Main and Pleasant streets, across from Rite Aid) at 7 p.m. In addition to the kindling of a giant, nine-foot Menorah candelabra, hot cider and warm potato “latkes” (pancakes) will be served. There will also be festive music and free raffles. Children and adults are welcome to this special celebration, free of charge! For more info, please call 860-659-2422, e-mail Rabbi@ChabadER.com or visit www.ChabadER.com.
SUNDAY
December 25 Christmas Brunch Please be our guest at a
free fellowship brunch at the Middlefield Federated Church (402 Main St.) at 11:30 a.m., following the worship of carols and prayers at 11 a.m. Bring the family or come alone, maybe even call a friend and pick them up on the way. For more info or to donate to the brunch, please call 860-349-9981.
Friday, December 23, 2011
Drunk driving is 100 percent preventable
Community Dinner Have Christmas dinner from noon to 2 p.m. at First Church of Christ (190 Court St. in Middletown) and celebrate the joy, food and fellowship of the season. For a ride to the church or to arrange delivery of your meal (or to Above, Strong School eighth graders learn about substance abuse. Photo below, volunteer) please contact Lauren Iannucci talks to the students on Monday. Photo by Stephanie Wilcox First Church at 860-346-6657 ext 15. This is a free commuout of a situation where number increased to 121, acBy Stephanie Wilcox nity event. drinking is involved are cording to Iannucci’s statisTown Times urged to “just say no” or tics. While 2011 is almost beMONDAY True of false: the majority blame their parents for be- hind us, and we only hope of middle school and high ing really strict and follow that the number decreased school students are drink- the Four Fs (be FAST in this year, let’s spread the your answer, be FRIENDLY message for 2012 that subing? about it, be FIRM with your stance abuse is dangerous, Durham Senior Lunches False, according to LauEvery Monday and ren Iannucci, the youth co- response and be FINAL in drinking and driving risks Wednesday, hot lunches are ordinator for MADD (Moth- your decision). other people’s futures, and it It’s worth noting that is 100 percent preventable. available for seniors over 60 ers Against Drunk Driving) and their spouses at the who gave a presentation young people aren’t the only Note: EDGE (Excellent DeciDurham Activity Center (350 about the dangers of sub- ones abusing substances sions Guiding Everyday) was Main St.). Following the stance abuse to eighth and driving drunk. The man part of the Katie’s Gift presenlunches on Mondays is game graders at Strong School on who killed Katie was 33 time which includes bil- Dec. 19. Iannucci’s presenta- years old and had been at a tation, encouraging fellow stuliards, Wii and cards. For tion is called Katie’s Gift be- bar on his way to the next dents to be part of Strong pricing info and to make a cause her best friend Katie one. His blood alcohol con- School EDGE. The Strong reservation, call Amanda As- was killed by a drunk driver tent was .179 — two times EDGE group is a collaborative tarita, senior café manager, when they were both in the the legal limit. It was only group with Strong and at 860-349-3153. eighth grade — a drunk driv- 7:30 at night, but he was go- DMYFS (Durham-Middlefield Middlefield Senior Lunches er whose drinking habits ing 86 mph when he took Youth & Family Services). supposedly started when he away a young girl’s life and Kirsten Beers (Strong health The Middlefield Senior was in middle school. If stu- her dreams of being a pedia- teacher) and Jane Moen (proCafé is serving lunch three dents think they must drink trician. The message for gram director of DMYFS) cotimes a week, on Mondays, and do other drugs because youth might be that abusing advise the group and attend all Wednesdays and Fridays. other kids are doing it, Ian- substances is deliberately meetings. The presentation Reservations are required 24 nucci’s message should dis- risking your future, but will be followed by a small hours prior, and their monthdrinking and driving is also group workshop led by the pel that notion. ly menu can be picked up at High School But it’s not as easy as that. single-handedly taking oth- Coginchaug the center, Town Hall, or on er people’s — innocent peotheir website: www.middle- Some young people will still ple’s — lives into your own EDGE Team role models. use substances, and because fieldct.org. the presentation was mostly hands, thus risking their fuabout the effects of alcohol ture as well. WEDNESDAY Recently, a Durham abuse, students were shown a video of how a 15-year-old woman was killed while brain acts on alcohol and crossing Route 17. The learned about the conse- Durham man driving the veDurham Senior Lunches quences: embarrassing hicle was 57 years old and Every Monday and yourself, getting suspended was subsequently charged Wednesday, hot lunches are from school and sports and, with driving under the influavailable for seniors over 60 “most importantly, risking ence. The accident happened and their spouses at the your future,” said Iannucci. around 4 in the afternoon. Durham Activity Center (350 “Kids risk losing all their During the presentation, Main St.). Bingo starts at 1 dreams by their decision to Iannucci told youth that p.m. on Wednesdays. For drink.” (www.alot2lose.com drinking and driving is 100 pricing info and to make a has video clips of the conse- percent preventable. Sadly, reservation, call Amanda As- quences of drinking under- in 2008, there were 86 deaths tarita, senior café manager, age.) in Connecticut related to at 860-349-3153. Students who want to get drunk driving. In 2010, that
December 26
December 28
Friday, December 23, 2011
5
Town Times
Teacher of the Year, students and others recognized by BOE By Mark Dionne Special to the Town Times
Sue Viccaro presents Marissa Puchalski with the Superintendent’s Award at the Dec. 14 Board of Education meeting. Photos by Mark Dionne
awards for their support of education in the district. Viccaro praised their advocacy and dedication. At the end of the meeting, Hope Lintz made the motion to adjourn in recognition of her husband. Superintendent’s report Viccaro reported to the board that, following parental concerns, she had been investigating the issue of concussions among student athletes. Noting a spike in reported concussions, Viccaro said that the district could consider adopting what’s known in sports medicine as baseline inforSee Teacher, page 27
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During the Dec. 14 meeting at John Lyman Elementary School, the Board of Education (BOE) recognized art teacher Jan Wenzel as the district’s Teacher of the Year. Superintendent of Schools Sue Viccaro praised Wenzel, who teaches art at Coginchaug Regional High School (CRHS), for her dedication, talent and belief in nurturing the abilities of all students. “It’s been amazing to watch the school transformed as new artwork has been displayed. Some of the work seems to spring up overnight, filling a hallway,” said Viccaro. Wenzel also co-advises the WISE program of independent study and hosts the annual student art show at the Durham Public Library. “Her most important contribution,” said Viccaro as she presented the award, “is that she really and truly believes in and nurtures the potential in every single student.” Two CRHS students, Marissa Puchalski and Tyler Davis, were recognized with the Superintendent’s Award for their academic, extracurricular and civic accomplishments. Puchalski earned praise for her work with Durham and Middlefield Youth and Family Services (DMYFS) and her contributions to the varsity soccer team. She also works as a soccer referee in Durham and Wallingford and is considering a career in education. Davis, like Puchalski, was recognized for successfully shouldering a challenging course load. Davis is also the captain of CRHS’s football team. Viccaro also praised Davis’ volunteer work with the elderly and at the Special Olympics. Several other individuals were recognized with Friends of Education awards. Jane Moen was given a Friends of Education award for her work as program director at DMYFS. Moen’s programs at DMYFS are aimed at students and
adults, including substance abuse prevention and the new Homework Hangout. This program uses DMYFS staff and high school students to help support Strong School students academically. Heather Kannam and Rhonda Riggott-Stevens were recognized for running last year’s successful John Lyman Parents Association production of Willy Wonka, Jr. This year, Kannam and Riggott-Stevens are working on another musical for students in grades 1-8, Aristocats Kids. Hope and the late Bill Lintz were also honored with Friends of Education
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Friday, December 23, 2011
Town Times
Crocs (Continued from page 1) the yearly support and thrill all of HELO’s children with notes and cards that they write in French. Molly has offered a bridge to those stu-
dents, a peer who has made Oslunde, their sponsored girl, not just a child they read about but a real child with needs and joys. When Molly presented the challenge of collecting crocs for her trip, there was no hesitation; all embraced the task, and word spread.
Snacks for Haiti” throughout the school year, with profits being donated to improve the lives of Haiti’s children. Students enjoy selling the snacks. Madison Fiore explained, “I want to help the children of Haiti who have lost their families.” Kyle Ge added, “I feel like I am changing
In lieu of gifts from his students, Mr. Moriarty has requested students bring in underwear, socks, arts and craft material and soccer balls for HELO. Mrs. Francis has also requested soccer balls be donated in lieu of gifts. These items will be collected and brought to Haiti on Dec. 26. Submitted photo
John Lyman students Conner Byrne and Liam Houchin helping the French Honor Society at Coginchaug High School by putting boxes at local libraries and John Lyman School to collect used and new crocs for an upcoming trip to Haiti in December. Photos by Susan Francis
Dr. William Boylin, Ph.D. Family Therapist
FHS advisor Donna Cashore soon learned the power of love and the inspiration of a child reaching out to help another child. Two students from John Lyman School learned of the crocs collection and handwrote a letter asking permission to help. When asked why they wanted to help, Liam Houchin and Conner Byrne explained, “We want-
ed to do a good thing for Haiti because they don’t have money to get possessions, and they have lots of needs.” They got permission to put collection boxes at the libraries and at their school. John Lyman School has also supported Haiti and HELO for many years. For years, Susan Francis’ third and fourth grade class has been selling “Healthy
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Molly with Evens, her sponsored child, during her 2010 visit to Haiti. Photos by Elisabeth Kennedy
Haiti, and whenever I sell one snack, I feel a child in Haiti smile.” It is my belief that our children are our future, here and in Haiti. With caring and compassionate children such as these, I know the world will be a brighter place. I am so grateful for the generosity and compassion of this wonderful community! May your Christmas be filled with the blessings of comfort and joy! Go to www.HeloHaiti.org for more information.
Notice is hereby given to the taxpayers of Durham that the second half of Real Estate and Personal Property taxes and the total Supplemental Motor Vehicle tax on the Grand List of 2010 are due and payable to the Town of Durham on January 1, 2012.
Town Times
No bill is sent for the 2nd installment of Real Estate.
Published weekly by Record-Journal Publishing Co. at 11 Crown St., Meriden, CT 06450
If not paid by February 1, 2012 these taxes will be considered delinquent and interest will be charged at the rate of 1.5% per month from the due date, with a minimum interest charge of $2.00. Note: Feb. 2nd payment will be charged a 3% penalty. (Jan. & Feb.)
(860) 349-8000
Payments may be mailed to:
Periodicals postage paid at Middlefield, CT, and at additional mailing offices.
Town of Durham, P.O. Box 428, Durham, CT 06422. Hours for the Tax Collector’s office are Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday 8:30-4:30 pm, Tuesday 8:30-7:00 pm and Friday 8:30-3:00 pm. Additional hours for this collection period will be Saturday January 28, 2012; from 10:00 am-12:00 pm. 1228617
1227299
Martin French, CCMC Tax Collector - Town of Durham, CT
POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Town TImes, P.O. Box 265, Middlefield, CT 06455.
Friday, December 23, 2011
7
Town Times
RSD13 adult ed director moving on after 17 years on the job
Instructors Rick and Penni Madley, with Babara Brooks and Denise Funaro, chop vegetables.
Barbara Brooks and Denise Funaro listen to Rick Madley.
Photos submitted by Susan Nardine
Adult Ed director for 17 years, Susan Nardine, in the Holiday Centerpiece class. they had some classes in lar. “The cooking classes at- Madley, the former chef at By Stephanie Wilcox Town Times
The program has changed over the years and yet remained the same. One of the biggest changes Nardine brought on was the addition of computer classes. “It happened to be the right time — that’s when the computer and software field just took off,” she explained. Though
place, like Lotus 1-2-3 (Intro to Spreadsheets) and WordPerfect, by the next spring, people were enrolling in Microsoft Office and Internet courses “like crazy,” and it took an eight-page brochure to feature all the new courses. This wave lasted from 1995 to about 2003. In 2004, cooking classes took over as the next wave and continue to be very popu-
tract a lot of people,” she said. These classes are held at the high school and at restaurants in the area. One very popular adult ed cooking instructor was Rick
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First & Last Tavern in Middletown who has since gone to the First & Last Tavern in Hartford. He offered 15 Italian cooking classes between See Adult Ed, page 28
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Anyone who has taken an adult education class through Regional School District (RSD13) in the last 17 years no doubt knows the name Susan Nardine. This Middlefield resident has been the program’s director since 1995, organizing 34 new programs, helping serve the community through higher education and often participating in the classes herself. Nardine is resigning from her post at the end of the year to focus on other commitments. Nardine got the job as director of adult education after answering an ad she saw posted in the Middletown Press. Rob Gourley, assistant to then-Superintendent Bill Breck, interviewed Nadine. It was probably because she had a master’s in education and experience with event planning and organizing training programs and eight years of business experience that she was offered the job on the spot. “I was absolutely thrilled,” said Nardine. “I loved it!” Nardine was not working full-time then (she now works as a teacher in Waterbury), and she had the time to devote to the parttime job, which worked well because “it was a lot of work.” When she started in 1995, RSD13 had a small but solid adult ed program in place. They offered classes in pottery, bread-making, pasta-
making, a few cooking classes, etc.
635-1111 635-1111 860-635-1111 34-36 Shunpike Rd., Cromwell (Behind KFC)
Town Times Opinions
8
Friday, December 23, 2011
Local helps collect Christmas presents for those in need
Town Times 488 Main St., P.O. Box 265, Middlefield, CT 06455 http://www.towntimes.com News Advertising Fax Marketplace
(860) (860) (860) (877)
349-8000 349-8026 349-8027 238-1953
news@towntimes.com advertising@towntimes.com (toll-free)
Town Times is published every Friday by the Record-Journal Publishing Co. and delivered to all homes and businesses in Durham, Middlefield and Rockfall. Stephanie Wilcox, Editor Kimberley E. Boath, Advertising Manager Joy Boone, Advertising Sales Michelle P. Carter, Office Manager Contributors: Diana Carr, Trish Dynia, Elisabeth Kennedy, Karen Kean, Judy Moeckel, Mark Dionne and Sue VanDerzee.
Dear towns of Middlefield, Rockfall and Durham
I am writing on behalf of the Lions Club of Middlefield to say thank you for your generosity of spirit over the years. Many of you have donated to our Campaign Sight First II. This year, we completed the $13,200 pledge that we made four years ago. (These monies go to control and eliminate preventable blindness in our world.) We did this solely through our fundraising efforts, including selling many sausage and pepper grinders, organizing yearly tag sales, hosting yearly holiday shopping sprees and sending a letter requesting your support. We did this; we are proud we completed our pledge before our five year limit, and mostly we are honored to be in partnership with you helping many, many people around the world. Thank you for your contributions...everything you have given/bought/paid for has made this difference! Do you know that every dollar you spend on any event associated with any Lions Club is donated to service? Clubs are contractually committed to giving back 100 percent of the money raised in a
The Rivier College community has spread the joy of the Christmas season by collecting and wrapping gifts for children in need. This year, the drive collected more than 100 toys. On Dec. 8, students gathered to wrap the presents following a Lighting the World with Hope prayer service, where they shared their hopes for the future and prayed for those in need, including the children who would be receiving these Christmas presents. Pictured here, Rivier College junior Devon Reilly (of Durham) wraps presents for children served by Marguerite’s Place in Nashua, NH, with Student Success program coordinator Elizabeth Bonin and seniors Becky Towle and Paige Benedict. Submitted by Jim Lockwood
Letters to the Editor community. No money can be kept for administration costs or club expenses. We wish you happy and healthy holidays and look forward to a meaningful, wonderful 2012 in partnership with you. Right around the corner is our new community event: “Skate with Your Mate” to be held at Middlefield’s Lucy Strickland skating area in February, around Valentine’s Day. Hope to see you there. It will be fun! N. Summer Lerch, president, Middlefield Lions
Kindergarten survey is insulting Anyone who received the “survey” regarding going from half-day to a full-day of kindergarten hopefully recognized what they did was give everyone a simple YesSet. This technique is used in psychology and often used in sales. Basically, you get the person to agree with a series of questions and then slip in the “real” question at the end and hope they are still in the affirmative mindset when answering that final question. I’m not sure who would disagree with the questions that were posed, such as “Kindergarten will improve the child’s preparedness for the first grade” or “It will give
teachers more time to get to know and work with students.” Of course it will. The survey makes sure that the parent agrees with all of the statements and then, at the end, asks if we should move to full-day kindergarten. They are obviously hoping that the recipient agrees to all questions, including going to fullday kindergarten. There were no questions that said, “Some studies show that five-year-olds do not have the attention span or emotional preparedness for a full-day of kindergarten, and this could have a negative effect on learning.” a. Agree b. Disagree c. I’m not sure I don’t mind having the discussion — it’s a good one to have with pros and cons for each side — but this “survey” was a manipulative way of gaining a bunch of yeses. Frankly, I want to know my daughter better than her kindergarten teacher. I want to spend the majority of the day with her, not her teacher. I can do all of that while still getting her ready for first grade. You want to help my preschool daughter right now? Start by removing that stack of branches in my front yard from Irene and Alfred so she doesn’t fall into it again and scratch up her face when
she’s playing outside with me, which is what four- and five-year-olds should be doing. Yes, I said “playing.” Perish the thought. Lynn Eddy, Durham
Local business does wonders for self-esteem I want to discuss a good personal decision and express my appreciation to Chris and Bobbi Holloway, owners of Evolution Martial Arts, for their enthusiasm, dedication and support. Evolution Martial Arts has provided a very positive experience, first to my son, then my family, and lastly to me. My son Adam, who is now 13, has been a student at Evolution for the past three years, and my niece has been one for longer. Adam has learned a new level of discipline and responsibility as well as grown in his athletic ability and confidence. I am extremely grateful to Chris and Bobbi because, as we all know, adolescence is a difficult time, and kids can use all the confidence, positive role models and support they can get. Chris and Bobbi provide this and more. Evolution is a small, family-owned business on Main Street in Durham. Chris and Bobbi’s three children, ages
18, 16 and 6, are all involved, either through teaching classes or taking lessons. The members of Evolution Martial Arts are like a family, and we all embrace, encourage and support one another and each other’s children. Like anything else, sometimes we don’t want to go; we would rather be lazy, but Chris and Bobbi have a terrific way of motivating and pulling out the best of their students. I should know because now I, too, am a student. I am newlyretired, a former police sergeant. After 22 years of high octane policing, my body has its share of aches, but I am finding that the training is extremely beneficial to mind, body and spirit. In an era of texting, video games, lack of physical activity and instant gratification, Evolution Martial Arts has provided another place for physical activity, confidence building, demonstrated work ethic, support and positive role modeling. My family’s involvement in martial arts has been extremely rewarding. Yes, we made a good decision getting involved with Evolution Martial Arts, but I am really grateful that Chris and Bobbi provided us with the opportunity. John Magoveny, Middlefield More letters on page 26
Town Times Columns
Friday, December 23, 2011
9
Happy New Year!
The meaning of the season
will help with the goal The new year of stated above. We all 2012 is just days away, have a responsibility which means it is to be fit for duty, mentime to make those tally and physically. New Year’s resoluLike so many of you, I tions. “The survey readily schedule in says” that 40 to 45 permeetings and other cent of Americans professional duties at make resolutions the expense of family each year but less dinners, personal comthan half that number mitments and somewill maintain their times sleep. resolve past the first Although this six months. Research Laura Francis, Durham sounds counterintualso shows that the itive, I also want to do people who are exmore community outplicit and share their reach. After the New resolutions are 10 Year, I will announce a times more likely to schedule of “office attain their goals hours” in alternate lothan those who keep to themselves. So, in an effort to in- cations that may be in other town crease my odds of success, I am going buildings or local establishments, to share and be explicit about a few and I will schedule in those family resolutions or goals I have for the nights as well! Finding balance in one’s life is a challenge but a goal New Year and my next term of office. At the Exchange Club candidate fo- worth pursuing. You have heard me tout the value rum, I was asked what I would do differently in my second term. In an at- of technology over and over again, tempt to get a cheap laugh, I said, “Eat and I honestly believe that our comless and exercise more.” Well, the munication has improved with the truth of the matter is, that is exactly many tools at our disposal. However, what I need to do. The first-term 30 I must confess, the volume of e-mails has to come off! Fortunately, I will coming through is daunting. In any have some help. The health insurance given week, there are hundreds and carrier that the towns of Durham and hundreds of e-mails coming in Middlefield and RSD13 share, through Outlook or Facebook. My adCIGNA, has awarded us a grant to run ministrative assistant and I are rea wellness campaign. The program searching some organizational tools will address diet, exercise and other to help us streamline my inbox. I sinprevention measures. As the old say- cerely want to address your concerns ing goes, an ounce of prevention is in a timely fashion and resolve to worth a pound of cure. If we are suc- make this project a priority. I’ve hedged my bets and shared cessful in changing some bad habits and create a healthier pool of insured, some of my resolutions. I know some we can drastically reduce health care of you are struggling with these same costs. Stay tuned for an announce- issues and know that some of you ment from our wellness committee; have “figured” it out. So, encouragemaybe we can get the whole town in- ment and suggestions are welcomed. I wish you health, happiness and prosvolved! I also resolve to create more bal- perity in the New Year. Thank you for ance in my schedule, which I believe your support and friendship.
cent home will brightMy fight to lower en someone’s spirit. your taxes and to The gesture can take eliminate wasteful the form of a handgovernment spending shake, smile or reasgoes on, but as this suring pat on the busy 2011 comes to a back. close and we look to If we take a minute 2012, I just wanted to and see what we can take a step back and do for those less fortureflect on the meannate during this holiing of the season. day season, we emMany of you may body the true meanknow someone who State Senator Len Suzio ing of the season. might be alone for the Some of my most holidays. You may meaningful and memknow someone who is orable days as your in the hospital, for exstate senator this ample, or you may year have been the have a neighbor whose relatives live far away and days where I helped out at a Foodwon’t be around to visit. You may share distribution, served food at a also know of someone who has few local soup kitchen or collected toys for needy area children. When you friends or no family. Think of those individuals during donate your time to a worthy cause, the next several days. Being alone you know you are making a positive feels even lonelier now than at any and lasting difference. You benefit other time of the year. Is there any- from the experience. For me, I bething you can do to show kindness to lieve it makes me a better senator to someone who would otherwise be give back as much as possible to this great community. lonely at this time of the year? No matter whether we are from Of course there is. A simple phone call to a lonely per- Middlefield, Rockfall, Middletown or son during the Christmas season to anywhere else, we really are one let them know that you are thinking community. (We all saw that firstabout them means more than you hand after the October snowstorm, know. An invite to have coffee or tea didn’t we?) We get stronger as indialso means so much. A visit to a hospital room, soup kitchen or convalesSee Suzio, page 24
From The Desk Of The First Selectman
Sobriety checkpoints Connecticut State Police Troop F, Westbrook, will be conducting a DUI/Sobriety checkpoint during the evening of Thursday, Dec. 22, on Route 66 in Middlefield. State troopers will be conducting this checkpoint in an effort to ensure the highest posisble degree of safety for motorists during the holiday period. Lieutenant Edward Bednarz, commanding officer of Troop F, would also like to advise motorists that, in addition to checking for motorists who are operating their vehicles un-
der the influence, state troopers will be strictly enforcing Connecticut’s seat belt law and other motor vehicle laws during the checkpoint operation. Excessive speed, intoxicated drivers and the lack of seat belt usage needlessly claim the lives of motorists on Connecticut roadways every year. We will continue to utilize all of the resources at our disposal to identify those operators who violate these laws and will take strict enforcement action against them.
Trooper Talk
From The Sate Capitol
Paws Place: Laverne Hi, my name is Laverne. I turned one year old in June, and I am not sure why I have not been adopted yet. I am very affectionate and love to be petted, held and cuddled once I know you. I even like to sit on your lap. I love to be carried around in your arms, and, when I am very content, I sometimes drool in happiness. It may take me a little while to get used to a new home, but once I know you, I will be very cuddly! I also love to play! I have a sister named Velvet. She is very, very shy and does not really like to be touched. We do not have to stay together, though, and understand if it’s not possible. I have been waiting a year for my forever home, and I hope you will consider adopting me. Maybe you could make my holiday wish come true? If you are interested in adopting this cat, please call Catales, Inc. at 860-344-9043 or e-mail info@catales.org. Submitted by Troop F, Westbrook Durham Resident State Trooper Pete DiGioia would like to remind residents that as weather gets colder, be cautious before you step onto what appears to be a frozen lake or pond. It will take many cold days to
sufficiently freeze water to ice skate or ice fish. Also, make sure to clean snow off your car thoroughly, including the roof, to avoid dangerous situations of snow coming down while driving.
Durham Town Briefs
10
Residents are encouraged to test for radon
The Connecticut Public Health Department, in conjunction with the United States Environmental Protection Agency, has proclaimed January as “Radon Action Month” and urges all Connecticut residents to test their homes for radon and, if necessary, to mitigate high concentrations.
Radon is naturally-occurring colorless and odorless radioactive gas that is often found in soil and bedrock. Since radon is a gas, it moves easily through rock and soil and into the air. Outdoors, radon levels are low, but, in an enclosed space, like a house, radon can increase to a high level. Radon can enter a home through a dirt cellar floor, cracks in the foundation, joints between a concrete floor and walls, through sump pump drains
and other openings. Also, it can be released into the home by running water from showers, faucets and washing machines. The source of the water can be groundwater within a rock formation that contains a high concentration of radon. Long-term exposure to high levels can increase one’s risk of developing lung cancer. Public health officials have determined that radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United
Friday, December 23, 2011
Durham Government Calendar (Unless otherwise indicated, all meetings are held in the Durham Library. Check the town website at www.townofdurhamct.org for updates.) Friday, December 23 Town Hall closes at noon Monday, December 26 Town Hall is closed Tuesday, December 27 7 p.m. — Ethics Committee 7 p.m. — Economic Development Commission States. When exposure to radon
is
combined
with
Community Round-Up Food Drive
Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! We collected ... $14,028 non-perishable items $2,476.00 in cash and gift cards 1227846
Sponsored by: District #13 and the Durham/Middlefield Local Wellness and Preservation Council
smoking or inhaling secondhand smoke, the risk may increase dramatically. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency estimates that radon causes 20,000 lung cancer deaths per year in this country. The only way to know if your home has a high radon level is to test for it. Radon levels tend to be higher during the winter months when homes are closed to the outside air and when the heating systems that require combustion of fuel are used. The combustion sometimes creates a negative pressure within the basement and results in the infiltration of outside air through the openings previously mentioned. The operation of bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans and the use of clothes dryers contribute to the negative pressure. Testing for radon during the months of January and February is recommended. The town of Durham Health Department has a supply of radon test kits that were obtained through a promotion by the Connecticut Department of Public Health Radon Program (www.dph.state.ct.us). If you are a Durham resident and would like to test your home for radon, please contact Bill Milardo at 860-349-8253 or wmilardo@townofdurhamct.org to obtain a free kit. If a kit is unavailable, you may purchase test kits from the American Lung Association (ALA), which offers radon test kits for $12. The price includes the sampling device, instructions, laboratory analysis, tax, postage and handling. To purchase a test kit from the ALA, you may call 1-800-LUNG-USA (5864872) or visit the ALA website at www.lungct.org. Submitted Milardo
by
William
Middlefield Town Briefs
Friday, December 23, 2011
Planning and Zoning
Discussion ensued as to whether it should read day spa or massage therapy, with Jim Malcolm strongly protesting, stating he had voted for massage therapy for medical patients, not a spa. Kevin Boyle also objected, stating regulations require the name of the proprietor or business be on the sign, and requested that Termini consider something more subtle so as to not offend neighbors. Johnson asked if Termini had a name for the business that he could put on the sign. Termini replied that the name of the business will be Lake Side Day Spa, but the sign is too small for the entire name and the website. When asked if he would change the name to Lake Side Massage Therapy, Termini declined as he does not want to limit the services offered (massage therapy, aromatherapy and meditation). Boyle felt the sign would be more subtle with Lake Side Day Spa as the font would be smaller. Malcolm continued to object to the term day spa, but the Lake Side Day Spa sign was approved by majority vote.
Due to the number of residents in attendance, Boyle asked if testimony could be heard and the hearing reopened at a later date after notification to abutting land owners. Bill Waff felt that abutting land owners should have the opportunity to hear all comments, and Johnson insisted that the commission follow regulations to avoid an appeal. Johnson read the regulation to the public and apologized to residents in attendance that the hearing
Middlefield Government Calendar (Unless otherwise indicated, all meetings are held in the Community Center.) Friday, December 23 Town Hall will close at noon Monday, December 26 Town Hall is closed Tuesday, December 27 7 p.m. — Zoning Board of Appeals Wednesday, December 28 Public Hearing on Milardo Realty request would have to be rescheduled. Marianne Corona asked why the town’s staff person did not review the application and checklist to
make sure all conditions were met and expressed hope that members learn from this situation and find a way to
See P&Z, page 24
Middlesex Community College Classes start January 20th How to register:
1. Apply for admission New students must first apply for admission to the college. You can apply online at www.mxcc.commnet.edu. Under “Quick Links,” on the homepage, select “Registration 2012” and then click on the link for “Registration Information for New Students.” You can also apply in person at the Admissions Office, room 153 Founders Hall on the main campus in Middletown. Submit application with: • $20 Application Fee • Copy of your high school transcript, diploma, or GED. • Proof of Measles/Mumps/Rubella and Varicella (Chicken Pox) immunity CT law requires all full-time and part-time matriculated students attending Connecticut college, and born after 12/31/56, to provide proof of immunization against measles/mumps, rubella, and varicella (chicken pox). Some exemptions may apply; call Admissions Office for additional information 860-343-5719.
2. Take the free basic skills assessment Call the College Learning Center on the Middletown campus for an appointment at 860-343-5770, or call the Meriden Center at 203-238-6202. Exemptions may apply.
3. Register for your courses Come to campus and register for your courses on one the following dates at these convenient locations. • • • •
Monday, January 3 from 1-6pm, Main Campus at 100 Training Hill Road, Middletown Thursday, January 5 from 1-6pm, Meriden Center at 55 West Main Street, Meriden Monday, January 9 from 1-6pm, Main Campus at 100 Training Hill Road, Middletown Wednesday, January 11 from 1-6pm, Meriden Center at 55 West Main Street, Meriden
Broadcast-Cinema Gain hands-on experience in broadcasting, film, animation, and emerging media.
Pay at the time of registration by cash, check, Payment Plan, or VISA/MC., Discover.
Questions? New students should call the Admissions Office at 860-343-5719.
Visit us on the web @ www.mxcc.commnet.edu MxCC does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin, religion, age, sex, marital status, sexual orientation, physical disability, mental disability (or history thereof) or criminal record in its educational and employment practices.
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The regular meeting was recessed for a public hearing on Milardo Realty’s request for a special permit for an antique and classic auto service and restoration business with upper level storage and office space at 31 Orchard
receipts must be turned in to prove notification before the public hearing could be opened.
Broadcast-Cinema
The Dec. 14 meeting of the Middlefield Planning and Zoning Commission (P&Z) was well-attended, but there was no public comment on non-agenda items. Members’ attention turned again to Raymond Termini’s home occupation permit, this time for approval of a sign for his massage therapy business. Termini provided the commission with photos of the sign post, indicating that a representative from the state of Connecticut had assisted him in the placement to ensure it was not on the state right of way. Termini did not, however, have a photo or drawing of the sign itself but indicated that it would simply read “Day Spa” with the website underneath.
Lane. Applicant Brian Chaffee was not present due to illness; his wife appeared for him. Johnson asked if the sign was placed and abutting landowners notified per regulations. Town planner Geoff Colegrove confirmed that the sign had been up, but Mrs. Chaffee could not confirm that neighbors had been notified other than the petition signed earlier in the process. Mario Milardo indicated he did not think letters went out as he did not know it was a requirement despite numerous trips to Town Hall on the application. Boyle explained that certified mail
11
12
Town Times
Friday, December 23, 2011
Gov. Malloy tells Middlesex County that great years are “within our grasp” By Stephanie Wilcox Town Times
“What a year we’ve had,” Governor Dannel P. Malloy bellowed into the microphone to a packed room at the Middlesex Chamber of Commerce breakfast meeting on Dec. 16. This month marks the last month of his first year as Connecticut’s governor, and he had a few things to tell the business people, legislators, municipal and education leaders and media in attendance.
The governor took office last January, just before the worst snow in Connecticut’s
history, and in a year that would see two more “unbelievable storms.” “But we weathered it,” Gov. Malloy said, and these storms are ultimately leading to changes in various areas. “For anybody in my position, it’s an inspiration to watch how your citizenry rises to challenges,” Malloy said. The remainder of his speech was a testament to the citizens’ ability to handle tough times, what he has done to overcome the state’s deficit and where he sees growth potential in our economy. Budget The state deficit was over
1219553
William J. Witkowski, D.M.D. 360 D Main Street, Durham Allan A. Witkowski, D.M.D. (860) 349-1123 We will submit claims to all insurances
$3.5 billion at the end of 2010. Gov. Malloy said about the deficit: “I didn’t touch it, I didn’t break it, but I was hired to fix it.” At Friday’s breakfast, he discussed the ways in which he tried, noting that he was willing to go down roads “not being traveled by other states.” The deficit was so big, he said, that it was “too big to cut our way out of it or tax our way out of it,” so Gov. Malloy has done a combination of the two. Job creation Gov. Malloy commented, that when he took office, the state had failed to create net new jobs in 20 years. He issued a bipartisan jobs agenda and made more than 80 stops across the state to ask Connecticut’s people what it will take to get the economy going again. The governor said he would go all over — to Asia and Europe, even — to get jobs here... “and it would be great to have some of those jobs homegrown,” he said, adding, “this little state is a precision manufacturing giant.” Manufacturing aside, Gov. Malloy believes Connecticut can be a major insurance state again, so long as higher education is available to its citizens to become actuaries and the like. Education
This state has a rapidly growing workforce, and Gov. Malloy would like to see teachers receiving better, proper training first and foremost. If that happens, every young person in the state, if given quality education that covered the “abilities we want them to be taught,” can be employed here in the state. “We can’t compete with other states if we fail to (do this).
There are lots of issues, but none more important than education.”
The governor concluded by saying he is willing to try anything to get the economy going again. “I will work with you, go to your meetings...my final message: we’re still standing. As we get it right, with a little help...we could have great years within our grasp.”
Craft and cookie party
Ted Jeffries of the Middlefield Ukulele Club assist two of the attendees, Chuck and Michelle Dugan, at Middlefield Park & Recreation’s holiday craft and cookie party on Saturday, Dec. 17. Photos submitted by Cynthia Di Lauro
Give the Gift of Serenity
SEASON’S GREETINGS TO OUR VALUED CUSTOMERS, NEIGHBORS AND FRIENDS Wishing you and yours a happy holiday season filled with good times, good friends and good memories.
FREE $10 GIFT CARD TO ANTHONY JACKS/BONTERRA RESTAURANTS WITH EVERY $25 GIFT CARD PURCHASED ... just one yoga class can make all the difference ...
We thank you for your support this past year. 1227675
You’ve delivered us nothing but kindness, and we hope we’ve done the same for you.
Micheli’s Unisex Salon
Shop 860-349-3389 • Salon 860-349-8220 193 Strickland Road, Middlefield Senior Citizen Discount Wed. & Fri. Gift Certificates Available • Walk-ins Welcome
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Middlefield Barber Shop
26-28 West Main Street Downtown Plantsville 860-426-1601 • www .yogasouthington.com
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Every year the senior class of CRHS embarks on a four-day journey to Washington, D.C. to experience our nation’s capital. After a brief stop in Philadelphia, the trip includes visits to national landmarks such as the White House, Capitol building, Arlington memorial cemetery and the many war memorials scattered across D.C. More often than not both students and staff receive the trip very well, and this year was no exception. History teacher Anthony Pulino has gone on the trip four times now. “My favorite thing is to observe our students and their reactions to the things they see,” he said. “The strongest impression I think is the laying of the wreath, and the fact that representatives of our school are laying the wreath, it’s a very solemn occasion.” The students themselves also enjoyed the trip and had a similar opinion of their experiences. “The ceremony at the Arlington Memorial Cemetery was the most impressive part of the trip for me,” agrees senior Mark Edwards. “I couldn’t choose one part of the trip in particular as a favorite because everything we did I found very interesting due to the historical significance,” he added. “My favorite part of the D.C. trip was going to see the play,” said senior Niko Halligan, “It was a good ending to the trip after seeing all of the more serious memorials. Seeing them was overwhelming, they really show just how much some people have given for this country.” “This is the best high school group I’ve ever seen,” said one hotel employee.
To see more D.C trip coverage and photos, see page 8 or go to durham.patch.com and search “D.C. trip.”
Senior Stephanie White sorts out the collected cans at the Community Round-Up. Read more on page 3. Photo by Zak Callan
+',&%-.!/, #!0$) 1.$ !2 The people of Durham and Middlefield used CRHS as a shelter in which people could take a shower, eat a hot meal, and sleep in a warm environment. The school reopened November 4. “From my perspective the day went smoothly and there appeared to be no disruption of student learning,” said assistant principal Brian Bodner. By the time the school reopened the power outages of District 13 were down to seven percent of Durham and twenty percent of Middlefield. The custodial officials and lunchroom staff worked throughout the week in order to keep Coginchaug clean
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and feed all of the people who came. Some of the major tasks that had to be assessed for the opening of the school were locating the P.E. classes, opening the restrooms next to the auditorium for student use, and securing a shelter use only area and a student use only area. Two security officials were posted at the shelter student border at all times throughout the school day to ensure the security of the students. At the height of the storm approximately 4000 meals were served and 1100 people used the school; however, even with this number of people the shelter was not at its maximum holding capacity.
“The superintendent would still open the school even if five out of six of the schools had power,” said first selectman Laura Francis. The members of the emergency management department assessed the damages in Durham. These members worked closely with superintendant Susan Viccaro in order to determine the day in which they would reopen the school. In total 25 crews from CL&P worked in Durham to get power back to the citizens which is “More fortunate for Durham than many other towns in our area,” said Laura Francis.
2
Friday, December 23, 2011
The Devils’ Advocate
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6!"!%7$%& )*. 68""9$%& 683&.) ! #+,- .)/%01 %2$ 3)++42 )!+42 Editors-in-Chief: Adam Twombly and Kaitlin Mckernan Editorial board: Kevin Onofreo, Collin Boylin, Alex Kovacs, and Mike McShane Contributors and Production staff: Ross McCain, Martin Malek, Adam Twombly, Michael O’Sullivan, Alex Kovacs, Collin Boylin, Audrey Biesak, Sarah Brady, Christopher Crandall, Meggie Andrulis, Jen Siena, Emily Tuttle, Melanie Defilippo, James Berardino, Rachel Kowalski,Sean Cavanaugh, Dena Branciforte, and John Mormile Advisors: Mr. Nate Fisher, Ms. Stephanie Wilcox The Devil’s Advocate is the Coginchaug High School newspaper. Does anyone know why my iPod keeps playing the same song over and over? Come on people, we’re dying here!
!"#$%& ($)* (+,-"./0 1*.2. 3$3 *!%#/&$4$%& &+5 ! #$%& '()&*+! Another Thanksgiving has come and gone. Frankly, I barely noticed. Amidst all the hype over Halloween, Black Friday, and Christmas, it seems Thanksgiving was, once again, virtually ignored. Early in October, the Halloween spirit was in full swing. Costume stores were open for their seasonal business and television channels were dominated by commercials featuring candy, monsters, and the traditional orange and black which signify the holiday. Soon, all the focus turned to Black Friday and Christmas. The only things on television were advertisements for
the greatest Black Friday deals, commercials inundated with Christmas carols, and frantic news stories about pepperspraying shoppers. But wait... something is missing. Where did Thanksgiving go? You know, that holiday we’re supposed to spend with our families and friends while considering just how privileged we are? Between all the Christmas trees, big screen TVs, reindeer, huge sales, and everything else, there was hardly a single mention of Thanksgiving, or the honor that is supposed to accompany it. There is a time for the Christmas spirit. This is it. Not the middle of November.
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For a town as small as Durham, which contains an approximate total of 7,266 residents, you would think the majority of citizens would get out to the polls. There have been many times I can remember attending an in-town event, whether it be prior to an election or a vote on the budget, when I would return back to my car to see a “Please Vote!” reminder sitting on the windshield of our car. The few times this has happened, I remember finding these friendly reminders annoying, simplistic, and dumb. I always assumed that the people of age to vote would exercise their right, without having to be greeted by a flyer on their car windshields, but perhaps not. Maybe they were helpful reminders for the people to take time out of their busy work days to vote. The fact is the number of voters heading out to polls had a significant drop this
voting season. Since the 2007 elections, fewer and fewer people are hitting the polls come Election Day. In 2007, 2,699 registered voters out of 4,745, 56.8 percent overall, voted in Durham. In the recent 2011 election only 2,229, about 46.9 percent, of registered voters took the time to vote. This is almost a ten percent decrease since the elections of 2007. So what could be the cause in this decrease of voters? What can we as students do to join in and help our parents get to the polls? Perhaps a full size poster on the windshield instead of a flyer. I don’t have the answers here, but I do know if I was of age to vote in my town, to actually have the privilege to elect the officials who are going to be calling the shots and making decisions, I would certainly make it a top priority to vote. Come on people, VOTE!
Senior Andrea Braga gets a new perspective on her studies. Photo by Meggie Andrulis.
Technology and bullying go hand in hand nowadays. One of the effects of the growing popularity of the Internet is that bullying grows right along with it. Governor Daniel Malloy signed Public Act 11-232, supported by Durham’s own State Senator Edward Meyer, on July 13. The act concerns the strengthening of school bullying laws in Connecticut. After the suicide and trial of Phoebe Prince, a girl who was bullied as a teenager both in school and over the Internet, the Massachusetts State Legislature passed an anti-bullying law. New York and Connecticut shortly followed Massachusetts’s lead and passed structurally similar laws. Connecticut’s law strengthens antibullying campaigns through several new provisions such as defining bullying by expanding it to include the term “cyber-bullying,” establishing one school day per year as “Safe School Awareness Day,” and giving school employees civil immunity for their good faith actions in reporting and responding to bullying. According to a notice from the Connecticut Association of Schools and the Connecticut State Department of Education, the law also includes mandates that every school employee must receive training in regards to preventing bullying, each school must appoint a “Safe School Climate Specialist” and a “Safe School Climate Committee,” and that all school employees must report bullying the same day they witness it. There are two different ways to look at this law. On one hand, Phoebe Prince’s suicide was tragic, and the drama of that event helped revitalize the anti-bullying movement that in turn attracted the eyes and ears of politicians willing to take action in the name of “Phoebe’s Law.” Additionally, the law raises awareness
about contemporary bullying by defining “cyber-bullying,” and it also forces schools to act immediately and decisively. On the other hand, the law poses some problems. The implementation of 11-232 requires that schools strain their budgets to be in accordance with the state’s wishes. CRHS and other schools in the district will have to set aside a specific day to address bullying, pay for the education of its faculty members on the subject of bullying, appoint and pay for a “Safe School Climate Specialist,” and a “Safe School Climate Committee.” In times when the board is struggling with the budget, CRHS is going to be forced to change its policies to match the mentioned requirements and pay the extra cost. In our experience as students, we have witnessed our administration deal with incidents of bullying proactively and responsibly. “I feel like when bullying is reported to us our administration does a good job dealing with,” said school social worker Mrs. Kathy Bottini. Yes, bullying may be less of a problem in a small school like CRHS, where students may be under closer supervision, as opposed to schools with larger student bodies that are more difficult for teachers to manage. So does a school that is already effectively dealing with bullying need another unfunded mandate to solve a problem that may not need fixing? Maybe not, but it’s better to be safe than sorry. 11-232 is a positive step towards reconciling bullying. While the law sadly did not pass in time to spare many teenage victims of merciless torture from their classmates, hopefully it will prevent any further tragedies. Although potentially hurting school budgets, it is the primary goal for institutions to ensure the safety and security of its students above all else.
3
The Devils’ Advocate
Friday, December 23, 2011
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Coginchaug hosted its sixth annual Community Round-Up, a community service event that students, teachers, and the community of all ages participated in on December 3, 2011. In scavenger hunt form, students traveled in teams of three or four following assigned routes to collect non-perishable items, gift cards, canned goods, and cash, which will be given to the needy. The food first gets offered to the two organizations Youth and Family Services of Durham and Middlefield. They get to take as much as they need and the rest goes to the Amazing Grace Food Bank in Middletown. The other donations of gift cards and money are split between the two towns of Durham and Middlefield. “Through the years I have enjoyed Community Round-Up with my friends because it’s a great cause, and knowing that you’re helping other people around the holidays is a great feeling,” said senior Kasey Crompton. “It’s nice to know that someone less fortunate is going to be able to enjoy their holiday season,” said senior Alec Corazzini. Mrs. Beth Galligan, director of the CRHS guidance department, is the founder of the Community Round-Up. “The Community Round-Up brings
the entire community together to help people in need,” said Mrs. Galligan. In the year 1991 Mrs. Galligan was a middle school teacher. She would try to collect food cans in her classroom, but no one seemed to participate in the fundraiser. It never seemed to be successful. “There’s got to be a fun way to collect food for less fortunate people,” said Mrs. Galligan. This is when she came up with the idea to collect in a scavenger hunt form. “Back when it was Coginchaug’s second annual Community Round up, I was standing in the cafe and a lady came up to me and said, ‘I want you to know why me and my family are here. We’re here because last year my husband was laid off from work and I was out on a disability. The money we had, had to go to either our food or heat. Last year we ended up going to the Amazing Grace Food Bank. So this year we wanted to give back to the community and help others that were in the same situation we were.’ It Brought tears to my eyes.” said Mrs. Galligan. This community service opportunity not only helps out the needy but it also gives students of CRHS a chance to get their community service hours.
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In these recent 2011 elections, the people of Durham elected social studies teacher Mr. Mathew Thompson to the board of assessment appeals on Tuesday, November 8th. Mr. Thompson will be taking on the responsibilities of hearing appeals of the assessments of people’s motor vehicles, property, houses, and commercial affairs. The price at which these values are estimated can greatly influence the rise and fall of someone’s taxes. “I wanted to do something to get
involved around town, and meet people I wouldn’t have known otherwise,” said Mr. Thompson in response to why he decided to run for a town official position on top of his teaching job here at Coginchaug. Mr. Thompson will carry out his term through the next four years. Math teacher Mr. Craig Bradanini ran for the town of Durham treasurer position this year but was unsuccessful. He has not ruled out running again next term.
Senior Jimmy Malcolm gives the CRU two thumbs up. (Below left) Junior Jessica Solomon sorts cans with her younger brother Ryan. Photos by Zak Callan
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There are about eighty trillion cells in the human body, and about 2,880 trillion cells from Coginchaug went to Southington High School for Dr. Sam Rhine’s Genetics Update Conference. Sophomores and freshmen from Mrs. Dunn’s biology class went with seniors from Mrs. Siedlecki’s AP biology class. On November 15 the students boarded the bus and left for the seventh annual trip to the genetics conference. The trip began as a grant program for Mrs. Nancy Siedlecki in 2005. The purpose of the grant was to teach teachers about genetics, and Mrs. Siedlecki brought a few students to Dr. Rhine’s conference. After seven years, Mrs. Siedlecki continues to attend the lecture with the biology classes. Because the conference is an update conference, the information is new every time, and Mrs. Siedlecki is astounded every year. “I am always amazed by his discussion of stem cells,” said science teacher Mrs. Nancy Siedlecki. Mrs. Colleen Dunn also attended the conference. Although this was Mrs. Dunn’s first year at the conference, information at the conference was amazing to her. Her favorite part of the conference was the recent timing of the discoveries. The possibility that death from cancer could be eradicated was the most resonating part of the lecture to Mrs. Dunn. The crew of biology students and science teachers left at the end of first period, but they were running a little slow. Since the group arrived late to the lecture, they missed the beginning of the presentation, but they were able to pick up the thread of conversation fairly
quickly. Wielding pens and pencils, the biology students furiously scribbled notes into their notebooks while trying to absorb the rapid barrage of information. After two hours of continuous conjectures about DNA and gene mutations, Dr. Rhine allowed everyone a ten minutes stretch break. There was a rush on the bathroom, and people gathered in clusters to discuss their reactions so far. Although students were dreading the idea of a four-hour lecture before the trip, the subject matter proved more stimulating than the title let on. “It wasn’t as boring as I was expecting because there were some interesting things like the cute baby pictures,” said sophomore Emily Tuttle. “It was really interesting to learn how technology is developing, but I’m really glad to be eating my sandwich,” said sophomore Abby Eisner. When the chewing slowed, people began reflecting about the field trip. Some people enjoyed it while other people found it a waste of their time. “I liked the conference; I liked the pig pancreas and found it really interesting,” said sophomore Nathan Graichen. “I found it inspirational how they could grow a human pancreas in a pig and use it to cure diabetes,” said freshman Alek Marczuk. All in all, the consensus was that the conference was good. The biology teachers’ hope that some students have been enticed to become geneticists may have been achieved, and one of the biology students could make the next great scientific discovery.
4
The Devils’ Advocate
Friday, December 23, 2011
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Friday, December 23, 2011
5
The Devilsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Advocate
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goal-oriented person. When he was in school he was a hard worker even though he was balancing school with work.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Dan always had a positive attitude even during set backs, he always took full responsibility, and he learned from it and moved on, said previous math teacher Mrs. Diane Walsh. Dan has such a big heart and really cared for other people.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;It was always nice to see Dan,â&#x20AC;? said former gym teacher Mr. Robert Nemphos. â&#x20AC;&#x153;He always had something nice to say a funny comment, and an interesting perspective on life.â&#x20AC;? A benefit Dan mentioned about owning his own business is that he gets to work with his friends. Two of Danâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s friends that he worked with are former Coginchaug students Sean McKernan and Jake Forline. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Danâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s one of the hardest working people I know,â&#x20AC;? said Sean. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The guy works everyday from light to dark. Danâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a good guy and a hard worker.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Dan is a hard worker and always does a fantastic job,â&#x20AC;? said Jake. Dan has been successful with his life after graduating and has a lot of advice for high school kids who donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t quite know what they want to do after they graduate whether they want to go to college or go straight to work. â&#x20AC;&#x153;If you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know what you want to do, donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t spend money on school,â&#x20AC;? said Dan. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Go in the trades and find a job in the trades. Get a job there until you figure out what you want to do. Make money instead of spending it. College is pressured on kids in high school, but you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t need it. Go into trades, you get paid to learn. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s my advice to kids.â&#x20AC;?
One of the best universities in New England â&#x20AC;&#x201C;
Central Connecticut State University WEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;RE HERE FOR YOU! Â&#x2021; &KRVHQ E\ 3ULQFHWRQ 5HYLHZ DV RQH RI WKH Best Northeastern Colleges DQG D Best Value College Â&#x2021; 6HOHFWHG DV D â&#x20AC;&#x153;Great College for the Real Worldâ&#x20AC;? Â&#x2021; +RQRUHG DV D â&#x20AC;&#x153;Leadership Institutionâ&#x20AC;? E\ WKH $VVRFLDWLRQ RI $PHULFDQ &ROOHJHV 8QLYHUVLWLHV Â&#x2021; 2YHU H[FHOOHQW DFDGHPLF SURJUDPV Â&#x2021; ([FLWLQJ 'LYLVLRQ , DWKOHWLFV Â&#x2021; )XOO RU SDUW WLPH VWXG\ â&#x20AC;&#x153;I was attracted to CCSU because of the beautiful atmosphere, perfect size of the campus, variety of majors, and convenient location. The faculty are very approachable and extremely helpful. A Central education will prepare you for the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;real world.â&#x20AC;&#x2122;â&#x20AC;? Kayla Callahan
www.CCSU.edu 860.832.2278 www.ccsu.edu/Facebook
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CRHS graduate and owner of Jacobsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Quality Contracting, Dan Jacobs works on a job site. Photo Courtesy of Dan Jacobs
Start with a dream. Finish with a future!
After graduating in 2010, Dan Jacobs has been hard at work. While in high school, Dan was working for his father as a contractor, but shortly after he graduated he started doing machining at Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machining at Tom Ed Tom (TET) Manufacturing in Middlefield. While he was working at the manufacturing company, he took classes in blueprinting at Middlesex Community College. After time at TET, he returned back to his roots as a contractor because of the lack of work available in machining. Last September, Dan received his license to own his new business, Jacobsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Quality Contracting. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I get to make my own hours and I get to work when I want,â&#x20AC;? said Dan. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s more money and I can take a vacation when I need it and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a lot more freedom then working with somebody. Plus I get to work with my friends.â&#x20AC;? Teachers that had Dan in their classes werenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t surprised when they heard of his success. Teachers and staff remembered him as a strong and independent young man. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I thought Dan was a great kid who really seemed to give things a lot of thought,â&#x20AC;? said his former guidance counselor Mrs. Beth Galligan. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I think heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be successful with whatever he does. Heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s very mature and very focused on developing a plan with his life.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Dan is very personable and full of optimism and he is a well rounded person,â&#x20AC;? said previous English teacher Mrs. Michelle McClintick. When I last saw him at a grocery store he seemed to be doing great, he was out on his own supporting himself and he still has great goals. He has always been a
6
The Devils’ Advocate
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December 23, 2011
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The thing about Christmas presents t is i that sometimes you get exactly what you wanted and sometimes you don’t. When you’re faced with the task of pretending that the priceless gift of socks from your grandma just keeps getting better year after year, think of how much worse it could be. For instance, what if you were Kanye West and you received a book on etiquette. Awkward, right? This list of terrible gift ideas might make you feel a little better about that, adorable sweater your aunt just bought you.
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T 10 Terrible Gif Top Gift Ideas: 10. For Ellen DeGeneres – Joke book 9. For Oprah – Cash or gift certifica to…anywhere 8. For Taylor Swift – Permanent tattoo her latest boyfriend 7. For Charlie Sheen – Two and a Half Men DVD set 6. For Jacob Black – Fur coat 5. For Edward Cullen – Sun screen 4. For Vin Diesel – Hair dryer 3. For Voldemort – Nose ring 2. For Former Senator Weiner – Camer phone 1. For Michael Vick – Adorable new puppy
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The Devilsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Advocate
Friday, December 23,
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During this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s senior trip to Washington, senior journalism students experimented with a new way of keeping their friends and parents at home up to date: Twitter. Students on the senior trip submitted regular updates and comments on their experiences to Twitter through their phones. Durhamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Patch website picked up their tweets and posted them live on the site. The use of Twitter replaced an older, more burdensome way of keeping in touch. â&#x20AC;&#x153;In the past, journalism covered the trip using blogs,â&#x20AC;? said journalism teacher Mr. Nathan Fisher. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We found this was rather tedious. The students were staying up late at the hotel updating the website after a long day of site seeing. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Also, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve noticed over the last couple of years that most professional journalists are now using Twitter to cover events as they happen. Most importantly, I wanted to familiarize the class with what most journalists in the field are doing today and make sure that our practices are up-to-date.â&#x20AC;? The feedback from parents, teachers, and other students was positive. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I thought It was a great idea,â&#x20AC;? said parent and CRHS custodian Mr. Jeff Siena. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We all knew where you were and what you were seeing and learning about. I was impressed by how the
students commented on what they were doing. Even friends who didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t go on the trip could follow them.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;[The feedback] has been very positive,â&#x20AC;? said Mr. Fisher. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve heard from a number of students and parents who told me that this was a convenient way to keep the community informed on what we were learning as it was happening.â&#x20AC;? Students within the journalism class were given assigned time periods to tweet so all parts of the trip would be covered. As soon as the busses left on Wednesday morning, the tweeting began. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s likely that the system will be used for future senior trips, but will probably expand to cover other field trips as they happen. One example of this occurred in mid-November, when underclassmen members of the journalism class and The Devilsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Advocate went the annual journalism conference at Southern Connecticut State University. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I liked it,â&#x20AC;? said sophomore Sarah Brady. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I thought it was a little tough getting [the assigned] five Tweets in, but I felt it was almost a diary where I was telling people what was going on.â&#x20AC;? Devilsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Advocate reporter Adam Twombly is co-editor-in-chief of The Devilsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Advocate and a member of Mr. Fisherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s senior journalism class.
Seniors in D.C.! Seniors Mark Edwards and Calvin Alderete pose with statues in at the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia. Photo by Ross McCain Sam Kaika, Amberleigh MacIntyre, and Ana Raquel Villela meet with Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro. Photo by Mr. William Kurtz
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The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins is a fictional tale about the tyrannical futuristic world in which readers find main character Katniss Everdeen surviving. In this riveting novel you will find suspense, love, strife, and action packed plot twists. In this time, members of communities called Districts, from ages 12-18 are randomly selected to be put in a gladiator-style fight to the death. This battle is meant to be a display from the government of their complete control over the lives of these people. Katniss lives in a small home, much like all other members of her District and her
Mom and sister are barely making it by. They mostly hunt illegally and trade, and she finds a few friends between her hunting ally Gale and life savior Peeta. When Katniss, 16, discovers her younger sister of twelve has been selected to co represent her District in the Hunger Games, she knows it is a death sentence and volunteers herself to save the life of her helpless sister. Peeta and Katniss become the tributes to be sent to the Hunger Games from which only one in twenty four will survive. This thriller of a novel is coming into theaters in March of 2012 so be sure to get a good read in before you buy your movie ticket!
,V 7KHUH /LIH%\ 2XWVLGH RI 6FKRRO" 6HDQ &DYDQDXJK Teachers have lives outside of school that many of the students may not know about. Some teachers do very interesting things. I talked to three teachers about what they do outside of school, and this is what I found out. The first teacher I talked to was Mr. Craig Bradanini. After teaching math for the day, Mr. Bradanini volunteers for the Durham Fire Department and helps out a lot with his kidsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; sports. Every Tuesday night he has either meetings or drills for the fire department. Mr. Bradanini has been volunteering his time for 21 years. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I have been a volunteer firefighter for 21 years now,â&#x20AC;? said Mr. Bradanini. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It is a big part of my life.â&#x20AC;? Mr. Bradanini is typically called to the fire department every other day. In addition to volunteering, he helps out with his childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sports. His oldest son plays football, and his youngest son has been playing soccer. His two-year-old daughter has already started swimming. Mrs. Wilda Castro is a paraprofessional in the special education department.
She likes to spend her free time with her grandchildren and her new great granddaughter. Mrs. Castro also spends a large amount of her time volunteering. She is on the board for the Durham/ Middlefield Youth and Family Services. Her favorite volunteer job is organizing the dances at the community center for the fifth and sixth graders. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We get a DJ and we have about 150 fifth and sixth graders that attend it,â&#x20AC;? said Mrs. Castro. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s loud, and everyone has fun.â&#x20AC;? Health teacher Mr. Robert Bajoros participates in several different sports during the week. Thursday is mountain biking day, Friday is hockey day, and Sunday he goes road bike riding with a few other teachers. In addition he is a lacrosse coach at Notre Dame High School in West Haven. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I played both hockey and lacrosse in college,â&#x20AC;? said Mr. Bajoros. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Those are my team sports.â&#x20AC;? Road and mountain biking are
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The Devils’ Advocate
8
Friday, December 23, 2011
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Going into the 2011 season, the Girls’ soccer team came in with high expectations and wanted to succeed as a team. You may ask, what was part of the motive for the soccer team, to win it all this year? “Part of the motivation was there were no soccer banners in the gym,” said Girls’ Soccer Coach Megan Kavanaugh. “We wanted to be the first ones up there.” This 2011 team was very special; accomplishing what no other Girls’ Soccer team has ever done in Coginchaug history. It was a big advantage having twelve seniors to help lead this team and be successful in the shoreline conference tournament. The lady Devils defeated Old Saybrook to get into the championship game against arch rivals, North Branford. To prepare for the championship game, Coginchaug took its loss earlier in the season to North Branford as a lesson. “We had lost to North Branford in double overtime early in the season,” said Coach Kavanaugh. “We had a little bit of a chip on our shoulders to prove that we were supposed to be in the championship game.” “Being a senior, I watched our team
grow tremendously from our freshmen year,” said senior Marissa Puchalski. “There were twelve seniors all who had grown up playing together. We knew we could achieve anything.” Ninety minutes of great quality soccer and the Blue Devils earned themselves the first ever Shoreline Championship title in school history for Girls’ soccer. They defeated North Branford 2-0. “It was really intense all the way until the end of the game,” said sophomore Kim Romanoff. “North Branford is one of our rivals, but if there was a point where we knew we were going to win, it would have to be when Lauren Esposito scored in the last few minutes to give us a 2-0 lead.” “It was an indescribable feeling winning the Shoreline Championship,” said junior Ali Doolittle. “I think that Kara Levine did an amazing job in goal.” The team certainly deserved this banner and everyone can recognize it when they enter the gymnasium at Coginchaug. The Shoreline Conference title illustrated how much chemistry this team had and how well they could play as a team.
With her game face on, Laruen Trombetta charged towards the goal line. Photo by Katie Hamilton.
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Health teacher Mr. Rob Bajoros at Grand Targhee Resort in Wyoming during a mountain biking Festival that he attended. Photo courtesy of Robert Bajoros.
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both very important to him. He tries to go snowboarding out west once a year. He likes going snowboarding out west because the mountains are bigger, and the snow is more powdery.
From mountain biking sports and volunteering, teachers do some very interesting things outside of school that many of the students don’t realize.
The seniors started off the sixth annual Powderpuff football game on the Wednesday before Thanksgiving break on the new turf. Powderpuff football is flag football played by junior and senior girls. “This year’s game was one of the best we have held,” said Principal Mr. Andre Hauser. “The new field makes it a much safer game. It’s not as slippery as grass in bad weather, and everyone seemed to have a good time despite the drizzle.” To prepare for the Powderpuff game, the senior and junior girls participated in practice every other day with some football players who taught them helpful tactics. “It went a lot better than last year,” said senior Nick Agramonte, who helped the girls train for the game. The girls picked up the game quickly, and they enjoyed having the bonding time with the other members of their class.
“It gives the girls a chance to play football and work with guys in their grade,” said junior Kelly Donovan. “It’s fun, you get to have bonding time with your class,” said junior Sydney Altschuler. “It wasn’t that hard to learn,” said senior Stacey Backstrom. “I picked it up quickly.” The turnout was good, considering the chilly temperatures the seniors and juniors had to play in. The shivering fans in the stands watched diligently and excitedly. “It was fun and really cold,” said senior Myrna Crompton “Warmer weather would have been nice.” “Every year it’s an interesting game,” said the referee for the game Mrs. Kate Germond. “Both the seniors and juniors had fun participating in the school spirit.” Although the juniors tried to make up the points they lost in the first half, the seniors were victorious, winning 36 to 12.
Friday, December 23, 2011
21
Town Times
Christmas in Mexico from a localâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s perspective By Diana Carr Special to the Town Times
Above, the season kicks off with parades called calendas. Right, Ashley Horn and a picture of the Virgin of Guadalupe. scenes and then displayed in the central square. There is a competition, and the winner gets a cash prize.
Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a big procession around the town square on Christmas Eve. All the churches in each
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People sell balloons in the parks, and children write what they want on a slip of paper that they tie to the balloon. They then send the balloon off to carry their wishes to the Three Kings. The night of Jan. 5, the children put out their shoes, and sometimes carrots or hay for the animals of the Three Kings. The next morning, which is Three Kings Day, if theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been good, they will wake up to presents in those shoes left by the Three Kings.
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Before Durham native Ashley Horn moved to Boston to teach middle school Spanish, she lived in Oaxaca, MX, for four years where she taught English in middle school and high school and was the department coordinator of the English department and assistant director of the Spanish language school (where nonnatives learn Spanish). Here she tells us about Christmas south of the border. The season kicks off, Horn says, in the beginning of December with parades and processions through the streets called â&#x20AC;&#x153;calendas.â&#x20AC;? Some people walk with candles while others climb into costumes that are big dolls with huge frames and dance around to the accompaniment of a band. The middle of December sees the Saintâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day of the Virgin of Guadalupe, with a calenda for this patron saint of Mexico. In Oaxaca thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a carnival, and children dress in the traditional clothing of Juan Diego. Juan was a poor indigenous man to whom the Virgin (who is like the Virgin Mary but darkskinned) appeared and upon whose shawl can be seen her apparition. (The shawl is at the Chapel of the Virgin of Guadalupe in Mexico City.) The children have their pictures taken as they sit on a donkey with some kind of Mexican scene, like a cactus, in the background. In the second half of December, there are the â&#x20AC;&#x153;posadas,â&#x20AC;? which are another kind of procession. Theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re a re-enactment of Joseph and Mary trying to find room in the inn. People go in groups from door to door, singing, and, when they knock, they are refused admittance. Finally, they get to the house of the person who will accept them (this person is chosen beforehand), and they are invited in for refreshments. In Oaxaca, just before Christmas, thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the Night of the Radishes. Big radishes, grown just for the occasion, are carved into various
town have their own calenda, and now these are all combined for one big procession. There are candles and sparklers that Horn says are 10 times the size of what we have. And there are the doll costumes. Most people in Mexico are Catholic and go to church on Christmas Eve. Christmas Eve is also when they have their big dinner. O n Christmas Day, they
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Friday, December 23, 2011
Town Times
BOS
(From page 1)
is that the new one will comply with emissions standards put into effect by the federal government in 2011. The $52,971 transfer will be used for a down payment on the dump truck or the initial lease payment, “depending on which ends up being the better way to go,” said Francis. In response to a question from town resident Roger Kleeman regarding why the town is not purchasing two used F350s, Francis explained that only one was
available. Kleeman replied, “I can find you one tomorrow.” The motion to approve these fund transfers passed unanimously. The second proposal was to transfer $1,200 from the Conservation Barn Maintenance Reserve Fund in order to complete repairs to the town-owned barn at Deerfield Farm on the corner of Parmelee Hill and Pent roads. Conservation Commission co-chairman Bob Melvin explained that he and building inspector Dick Mc-
Manus inspected the barn in October and found that there were several carpentry issues regarding the doors, windows and soffit that needed to be addressed as soon as possible. In response to a question, Melvin noted that the state requires that the tenant’s rent be placed in an account to cover these maintenance issues. The motion to approve this transfer passed unanimously. The final item on the agenda was the transfer of $12,784 from the town’s Reserve Fund and $6,951 from the
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Emergency Management director Francis Willett noted that the need for this relocation project became clear when the Town Hall was out of power for a total of 14 days during Tropical Storm Irene and Winter Storm Alfred. After discussing the plan with the Durham Cemetery Company, Durham Historical Society and the Historic District Commission, it was decided to move the emergency services generator to a location on the south side of the Sabbath Day House. The Historic District Commission approved this action with the proviso that an appropriately historic fence be
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placed in front of the generator. A new propane tank will be purchased and buried in this area and electric lines will be connected at the rear of Town Hall. In addition, all emergency equipment will be transferred to the third floor meeting room but will be out of sight during meetings. Willett stated, “I had mixed feelings about this transfer because my father played a significant role in creating the emergency center, but I think the government being down for 14 days is unacceptable, and that should be unacceptable to all of us.”
Selectman Steve Levy agreed, stating, “Continuity of government during emergencies is essential.” Francis added, “This is something every town government should have,” and she thanked the Durham Fair Association for allowing the town to use the building for so many years.
Resident Elmer Clark asked why town officials could not move government operations to the existing emergency center. Willett explained that space is very limited as it is; town officials would not be able to access physical files and the building does not have enough phone lines to accommodate
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Friday, December 23, 2011
23
Town Times
Local 4-H Club helps with Deerfield Farm open house Deerfield Farm and Jolly Rancher’s 4-H Club held an open house on Dec. 3. The Jolly Ranchers sold hot and cold apple cider and cider donuts for their club treasury. The club members also sold hair feathers and jewelry. Members had a blast showing off their activities and skills and sharing information about the club and the cows with visitors. The farm was also open for visitors to see the animals and products that are sold at the farm. Club members from left to right: Garret, Eli, Aliza, Logan, Bailey, Gabby, Sam, Reba, Kristen and Audra. (Gabby and Reba are the two little ones.)
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emergency services and town services during a major event. Resident Roger Kleeman stated, “The process you describe goes totally against the procurement process you discussed during the Board of Selectmen’s meeting tonight.” Willett noted that two local electricians had submitted similarly-priced bids for the job, and one had been chosen over the other due to the fact that this company had installed the electrical panel during the Town Hall renovation. First Selectman Francis asked Kleeman, “Do you want us to go out to bid?” Kleeman replied, “Yes.” Willett added, “Okay, I’ll do that.” After further discussion, the motion to transfer these funds was passed by the majority present, with a few nays interspersed. During the meeting and in a subsequent interview, Kleeman noted that if the town does not go out to bid for the truck, propane tank, electrical contractor and propane delivery service, they will not be following their own procurement policy. During a follow-up interview, First Selectman Laura Francis stated, “Now that the funding is approved, we will follow all provisions of the policy. The budget for this project was for proposal purposes only. Now that we have funding to procure the various components, we will follow the policy.”
24
Friday, December 23, 2011
Town Times
mano addressed the commis(From page 11) sion requesting a one-year extension of the temporary use help applicants through the permit for a day spa at One special permit process. John- Lorraine Terrace. Crescison indicated that is not the mano explained that the protown’s responsibility to do the posed renovation at Middlechecklist — it is up to the appli- field Commons has been decant —but stated that perhaps layed, and therefore an extena copy of the regulation could sion is being requested to conbe provided to applicants. The tinue to operate the business in the current building until public hearing will be reschedthat construction is completuled to Dec. 28. ed. Colegrove explained that The regular meeting recon- the permit had expired; disvened, and Matthew Cresci- cussion ensued on whether
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site plan was approved if the previous one would become void. Colegrove felt it worth finding out as he’d never come across the situation before and recommended getting an opinion from legal counsel. Johnson agreed, adding that no enforcement action would be pursued until the opinion is received, and the item was tabled to the next meeting. There was a brief discussion on zoning regulations. Colegrove again requested members review Middlefield and Middletown use tables to determine which uses members would like to include as permitted uses in industrial zones. Signs were again discussed, members deciding to start with “Welcome to Middlefield” then tacking all signs. Colegrove proposed a regulation requiring such signs comply with state requirements for signs in its right of way. He will draft a regulation to be voted on at the next meeting. Discussion on all other sign regulations was tabled to January. Meeting dates for 2012 were discussed and approved; any second monthly meetings will be used for Planned Conservation and Development. Under zoning enforcement, Jimmy DiCaprio, owner of Jimmy D's Antiques. was brought up as Malcolm had wanted Dicaprio to be invited to a meeting to discuss being noncompliant before involv-
ing attorneys. Johnson reported on the Nov. 15 special meeting with the first selectman, attorney Matt Willis, Colegrove and other commission members. The town’s options were discussed, and all felt the best option is to return to court. Johnson indicated that, if so voted, Willis will let DiCaprio’s attorney know of the town’s intention to return to court to enforce the stipulation. Malcolm expressed concern that DiCaprio has not been invited to address the commission, stating that they had not extended the same courtesy extended to others. Waff assured Malcolm that DiCaprio had come before the commission many times. Malcolm felt strongly that he should be invited to come before the commission before involving lawyers. Colegrove suggested that it will take time to get into court, and they could invite DiCaprio to the next meeting. Johnson argued that the commission has already bent over backwards, that other businesses are annoyed, residents are upset and the commission needs to take action. In his town planner report, Colegrove shared that the 2010 census data is now available online. He will be reviewing housing and population statistics and start work on conservation and development. Members were encouraged to look over the census data, and Johnson proposed each member take a section to make the work easier and faster. (Elisabeth Kennedy/In attendance)
Suzio
(From page 9)
viduals when we leave our comfort zones and show charity toward our neighbors. May we all try to keep Christmas in our hearts all year round. From the Suzio family to yours, merry Christmas, happy holidays and happy new year! P.S. I am gearing up for the 2012 legislative session, so please e-mail me your thoughts and ideas at Len.Suzio@cga.ct.gov or call 800-842-1421. Visit my website at www.senatorsuzio.com to sign up for my e-alerts and to sign my petitions to cap the gas tax and the tax on your Social Security.
Friday, December 23, 2011
Mexico (From page 21)
artificial trees, which are imported; a real tree would be even more expensive. But it’s not traditional. They’ve been watching television about Christmas in America.”
Kids get in the holiday spirit The Middlefield Children’s Center has been busy this winter. They have sold Christmas wreaths, adopted a family and put together a gift-wrapping fundraiser. The kids had fun learning about all the winter holidays. Pictured here: Ali Corona, Joey Kalinowski, Dylan Abely and Bromley Corona dance to Christmas music and wear Rudolph noses! Submitted by Becky Kalinowsk
Mexico has the same temperate climate all year round, and she likes the change in seasons here, the smells of this time of year and a white Christmas. But most of all, “I like Christmas morning here, with the tree and opening presents and breakfast with the family.”
Just before Christmas in Mexico is the Night of the Radishes. Photos submitted
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Everyone cuts it and takes a piece, and whoever gets one of the plastic dolls that are hidden inside (they represent baby Jesus, and there are between one and three of them, depending on the size of the rosca) must bring food to the last celebration, which is in February. “Nobody wants to get the doll,” says Horn, “because they don’t want to buy the food. I got it once, but it was just my boyfriend, his mother and me, so I didn’t have to buy a lot.” Throughout the Christmas season, there is Feria Del Bunuelo. After eating what is akin to fried dough, which is served on cheap plates made for the occasion, people throw the plate behind their heads onto the wall of the fountain that is put up for this. If they are successful in breaking the plate, the smashed pieces fall into the fountain, and they will get their wish. Back for a year and a half now, Horn recalls trying to make the Mexican Christmases feel a little more like home. “The first year I was there, I made red, white and green paper chains to hang around the apartment. To me, those are Christmas colors. But my boyfriend asked me why I was decorating for Mexican Independence Day, which is in September. Those are the colors for their Independence Day. “The second year I was there, I got a little potted tree from the supermarket, and I had one of my students make ornaments for it. I bought shiny gold and silver paper, and she had a folding technique that made them look 3D. It made it feel more like Christmas.” There are things Horn appreciates about both a Mexican and an American Christmas. “I like that Christmas there is not so commercial. It’s not over the top. It’s not about the presents. And I like that there are small things happening during the month of December.” And what she likes about our Christmas? “I like having a Christmas tree. In Mexico, the wealthier people get
25
Town Times
In Our Libraries
26 do, a Nutmeg Book, by Emily Roddo, Saturday, Jan. 21, 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. Bring your lunch and we’ll provide dessert; grades 4-6, no registration required. Scrapbooking: Tuesday, Jan. 10 at 7 p.m. Young adults ages 10-18. Bring a few photos and learn about scrapbooking. Supplies provided; you only bring your photos! Please register. Spaghetti Bridge Friendly Competition: Saturday, Jan. 21 at 2 p.m. Young adults ages 10-18. Register in teams of two to compete to build the best bridge made out of spaghetti. Wii Wednesdays: Every school day Wednesday from 3 to 4 p.m. Come to the library after school to play on the library’s Wii! Snacks provided. Teen Advisory Group: Every month, teens who are interested in helping improve the library meet to discuss ideas. Next meeting is
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. The library will be closed for the holidays on Friday, Dec. 23 and Dec. 30, and Monday, Dec. 26 and Jan. 2. Visit www.durhamlibrary.org to search the catalog, review your account, register for a program or renew your materials online. For info, or to register for a program by phone, call 860-349-9544. Teen Blog: Get the latest on new books, graphic novels, programs, and more! Www.durhamteen.blogspot. com. Large Print: Visit our expanded Large Print section. We add new titles weekly, with current bestsellers available as soon as regular print. Lunch Bunch Discussion Group: The Key to Ron-
Jan. 7 at 3 p.m. Book Lovers’ Circle: Wednesday, Jan. 4, at 7:30 p.m. Luncheon of the Boating Party by Susan Vreeland. Copies of the book are available at the library. Mystery Book Discussion: Tuesday, Jan. 17, at 7:30 p.m. Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie by Alan Bradley. Copies of the book are available at the library.
Levi Coe Library Hours: The library is open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturdays and closed Fridays. The library will maintain regular hours for the holiday except for Mondays, Dec. 26 and Jan. 2, when it will be closed. 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
Friday, December 23, 2011 check your library record on the website. Wish List Books: Donate one or both of the following wish list books to our library: Down the Darkest Road by Tami Hoag and/or Locked On by Tom Clancy. If you choose to donate a book, you will get to be the first one to check it out! We will also add a bookplate to acknowledge your kind donation. Call or stop by the library for further details.
Russell Library Russell Library, 123 Broad Street, in Middletown will be closed on Monday, Jan. 2, for the New Years Day holiday and Monday, Jan. 16, for Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. Regular hours for the library are 9 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Fridays, and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturdays.
Town Times Service Directory
Letters continued from page 8
Good Samaritan My wife and I were getting gas at the Durham Valero when our old truck died on the spot. A man pumping gas offered some help but we couldn’t get the truck started. After waiting an hour for the truck to cool, it finally started, only to stall in The Whole Enchilada parking lot. Frustrated, we started walking home to Northford. We made it half a mile past the Timeout Tavern when a car pulled over; it was the same gentleman we met at Valero station. He gave us a ride all the way to our home, refusing to take any money for gas. It is nice to know there are still people who offer help in time of need. To the nice man from Durham in the Camry, our sincere thanks. Frank and Joan tacroce, Northford
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Zumba event a success On Friday, Dec. 2, the Brewster Korn Parent Teacher Association and Durham Fitness held a Zumba® event to benefit the Durham and Middlefield Giving Trees. We would like to thank all the women, men and children who participated. A special thank you to Kristen Springer, Elaine Guidone Laydon and Sharond Lind for leading everyone with such energy, Kenny for DJing and supplying the music, Jennifer Schulten for photos and all the special elves who donated toys but could not make it to the fundraiser. The evening was a memorable and successful one, collecting 68 toys and $40 for local families. A local child will have a smile on his or her face this holiday season. Thank you, and happy holidays! BKPTA and Durham Fitness staff
Friday, December 23, 2011
27
Town Times
‘Tis the season to have a leg lamp in the window
(Continued from page 5)
Above, the pre-k and kindergarten Winter Celebration at Brewster School was held on Thursday, Dec. 15, under the direction of Tiger Robison, Brewster School’s music teacher. Submitted by Patti Checko
Town Times Service Directory
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mation to diagnose concussions. More information is planned for the January BOE meeting, including potential costs. Citing work of the Connecticut Association of Public School Superintendents (CAPSS) as well as the new governor and new state commissioner of education, Viccaro predicted a new push for universal preschool and all-day kindergarten. Viccaro, who serves on the Board of Directors of CAPSS, repeated a point she has made several times at BOE meetings: “I can’t emphasize enough...universal preschool and all-day kindergarten should be available to all children.” Construction issues The BOE decided to wait to approve replacing the oil tanks at Brewster and Memorial until they receive more detailed information from the committee responsible for the project. Several board members questioned whether the Building Committee formed specifically for this renovation had presented enough information and whether that committee should include more BOE representation. Although they have no control over it, the BOE also learned that planned construction on Route 147 could cause two years worth of busing difficulties. The next BOE meeting will take place on Wednesday, Jan. 11, at 7:30 p.m. at Korn School.
Holiday concert
N
Teacher
Gerry and Nancy Turner, of Clementel Drive in Durham, are big fans of the movie A Christmas Story. Set in the 1940s, the movie reminds them of the era in which they grew up. Their love for the movie explains why they have a leg lamp with fishnet stockings in their front window — the infamous leg lamp from the classic movie. Every year, it gets put in their front window for the holiday season, “but we have our tree and our manger too, so there’s a balance,” says Nancy. The leg was sent to the Turners by their niece who, George and Nancy say, probably didn’t expect them to keep it. “It’s kind of a family joke; we always talk about the movie.” The Turners say passersby often comment on the leg in the window, usually to say they love it, or it simply sparks a conversation about the movie. “I don’t think anyone has one of those in town,” says George. Nancy’s response: “Who else would be strange enough to put that in a window? That’s because my husband is crazy...” Does anyone else have one of these? Photo by Stephanie Wilcox
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Friday, December 23, 2011
Town Times
Adult Ed
Making gingerbread houses
(Continued from page 7)
Sue Cumm i n g s taught kids how to make gingerbread houses using pretzels on Dec. 17 at the Durham Activity Center. The kids had a great time. Shannon and Shane Meiselman ( r i g h t ) stand with with Sue’s daughter, Kaitlin, and Caris from Haddam-Killingworth. Shannon, Shane and Kaitlin are all from Durham.
the restaurant and high school, and all were a hit. “I take all the cooking classes,” Nardine said, noting that cooking is her personal interest. Over the years, all the RSD13 adult ed instructors have been local business owners, residents and RSD13 teachers: Lyman Orchards, Lino’s Market, Sharon McCormick Designs and First & Last in Middletown are just a few of the businesses. Zumba, Spinning and Tai Chi are offered at Durham Fitness and wine tastings at Time Out Tavern. Spanish, crocheting, pottery and computer classes are offered by RSD13 teachers. “I have been very fortunate to find people in our community who would like to teach adult ed classes; who
Submitted by Patricia Meiselman
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are willing to take that chance,” said Nardine. “Our program has a small-town, local feel with a great variety of classes.” In addition to computers and cooking classes, craft, home & gardening and exercise and yoga classes are always featured in the brochures. Bus trips to NYC were popular, but the state of the economy has affected these and other courses. There was also a push for senior classes over the years, and they are now being offered and she would like to see continue. Nardine also held a summer program for kids some years. Part of what Nardine appreciated about the program is that the local school system supports the program and encourages people to come to the schools to see the facilities. Coginchaug High School, Memorial School and John Lyman School are all used for classes. “We’re very proud of our schools and want people to know,” said Nardine. Though she is happy to be leaving the position to spend more time with her daughter, fundraise for her daughter’s school programs and to focus on graduate-level courses for her own teaching career, Nadine plans to continue taking adult ed classes to learn new things. “It’s bittersweet,” she said. “My two girls (Maggie Busey, ninth grader at Coginchaug, and Annelise Busey, junior at UConn) helped me with the adult ed program all these years, including counting brochures for the post office routes, delivering brochures to schools and answering the phones; and my husband of three years, Stephen Nardine, has been my sounding board and partner in cooking classes! I’m going to really miss setting up the classes and taking the ones that I’m most interested in. Continuing education is important for everybody, no matter how old you are. I would like to see the program have new variety and be expanded in a different direction.” RSD13 adult education offers fall and spring programs, not limited to residents of Durham, Middlefield and Rockfall.
Town Times Obituaries
Friday, December 23, 2011
Remembers Jane Churchill Memorial service for Community On Saturday, Dec. 17, the Peter Tobey Heyl Durham community and the
Herbert N. Malmberg
Peter Tobey Heyl, 84, of Durham, loving husband of Etzie (Scott) Heyl for 59 years, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family, on Oct. 30. Born in New Rochelle, NY, he was the son of the late Arthur Fisher Heyl, MD and Caro (Combs) Heyl. There will be a memorial service for Peter on Friday, Dec. 30, at noon at the United Churches of Durham (228 Main St.). Immediately following the church service there will be a celebration of his life at the Lyman Homestead (Route 157 in Middlefield). The burial will be a private gathering at Mica Hill Cemetery. There will be no calling hours. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Peter’s memory to Middlesex Hospital Cancer Center, c/o Middlesex Hospital, 28 Crescent St., Middletown, CT 06457. The Doolittle Funeral Home (14 Old Church St. in Middletown) is handling the arrangements. Messages of condolence can be sent to the family at www.doolittlefuneralservice.com.
Churchill family celebrated the life of librarian Jane Churchill. Jane had worked at the library for 29 years prior to her passing on Oct. 17. Library colleagues remembered her dedication, humility and caring for patrons of all ages and walks of life. Director Valerie Kilmartin, assistant director Cyndi Shirshac, board chair Jane Eriksen and library assistant Carol Herzig all offered remembrances. Bruce Churchill, of Boston, MA, son of Family members recounted her early life in California and Mexi- Jane Churchill, speaks at his mother’s co, her early career as a writer memorial and photographer, her supportive parenting in Durham and her enthusiastic appreciation of the beauty of life and all the people she met and served through her library work. Her sister Mary Anne, nephew Chris, ex-husband Bill, and sons Andy, Ian, Bruce and Matt were all present to make remarks. The Durham Board of Selectmen and State Representative Matthew Lesser read proclamations in her honor. Daughters-in-law Jackie Churchill and Suzanne Churchill read poems. Local viola player Leah Gastler provided music. “I think Jane was my biggest fan,” Ms. Gastler said. Submitted by Andy Churchill
Town Times Service Directory
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Herbert Newton Malmberg, 78, of Portland and formerly of Durham, beloved husband of Mary (Calcagni) Malmberg, passed away on Sunday, Dec. 18, at Middlesex Hospital. Born in Hartford, he was the son of the late Herbert Nils Malmberg and Evelyn Lavina (Rand) Malmberg. Herbert lived most of his life in Connecticut, later retiring to Vermont, and was a member of Church of the Epiphany in Durham. He was a veteran of the Korean Conflict serving in the U. S. Army. He spent his life as a builder and was very instrumental in constructing buildings at Yale University, especially the A and A Building, the Atomic Accelerator, as well as Rosemary Hall in Wallingford and several area churches in Connecticut. Herbert was a lifelong Red Sox fan, followed UConn sports and most of all loved spending time with his family. Along with his wife, he is survived by two sons, Richard H. Malmberg and Robert W. Malmberg, both of Durham; his daughter Lee Ann Palladino and her husband Michael of Madison; his brother Fredrick Malmberg of Southington; six grandchildren, Erica LaFrance, Matthew Dowden, Michael G. Palladino, Deborah Palladino, Britany Malmberg and Brent Malmberg; and four great-granddaughters, Gabrielle, Brooke, Emily and Caitlynn. Funeral services and burial will be private. There will be no calling hours, and, in lieu of flowers, friends may make donations in Herbert’s memory to American Heart Association, 5 Brookside Drive, Wallingford, CT 06492 or Wounded Warriors Project, P.O. Box 758517, Topeka, KS 66675-8517. Messages of condolence may be sent to the family at www.doolittlefuneralservice.com. The Doolittle Funeral Home (14 Old Church Street in Middletown) is handling the arrangements.
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Town Times Sports
30
Lady Devils top Old Saybrook By Alan Pease Special to the Town Times
On Tuesday, Dec. 13, the Coginchaug girls hosted the Lady Rams from Old Saybrook. The Rams managed a quick score to start the game, but Coginchaug rallied with 11 straight points in four minutes, with Sam Mancinelli opening the scoring, Kim Romanoff stealing the ball, then assisting an Audrey Biesak bucket, then Mancinelli scoring again, plus hitting the free throw for the old-fashioned threepoint play. A Mancinelli steal led to a Biesak basket, assisted by Lauren Esposito, and a Biesak steal led to another Esposito assist, this time on a Romanoff bucket. The Rams finally broke the seal on the basket to make the score 11-4, but Esposito scored three straight buckets
to increase the separation. Over the final two minutes of the period, the visitors dropped in a couple from the line, but Morgan Kuehnle closed the period out on an assist from Mancinelli to make the first period lead 196. The second period was more of the same. Old Saybrook did manage to hit on a couple of long-range shots, plus two from inside the arc, but Mancinelli scored seven, Biesak five, Romanoff four and Esposito two to make the half-time score 37-16. Coach Rett Mancinelli left the starters in for the first four minutes of the second half, and six points from Mancinelli, a three from Biesak and another two from Esposito extended the lead to as much as 48-20, with the count being 48-23 when the starters left. Then some of
the less-seasoned players had a chance to play with starters Romanoff and Jessica Solomon and held their own as Romanoff and Olivia Corazinni each scored to bring the score to 52-29 entering the final period. Coach Mancinelli tried some different combinations in the second period, and while the defense did not falter, scoring did, as no baskets were made by either team in the first four minutes. The Rams finally broke the scoring drought at the fourminute mark with two from the line. The visitors did hit on three buckets toward the end, but a free throw from Andrea Braga, another basket from Esposito and a bucket from Solomon closed out the scoring for the 59-37 win. Coginchaug
was
much
See Lady Devils, next page
Friday, December 23, 2011
Blue Devils hang on against defending champs By Alan Pease Special to the Town Times On Wednesday, Dec. 14, the Coginchaug boys traveled to Deep River to play the defending state champs from class S, the Warriors from Valley Regional. It has not been a hospitable venue for the boys as they lost by 21 last year and by three the year before. Having lost only to class LL powerhouse Glastonbury during last year’s regular season, even with the loss of several seniors, Valley looked to be a stern test for the Blue Devils. Coginchaug started fairly well, creeping out to an 11-8 lead after one period on the strength of five points from Erikson Wasyl, four from Brock Hoyt and two from Alec Corazzini. The second period was
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much the same, with six points from Wasyl, four from Hoyt and two each from Ethan Donecker and Sam Baker, bringing the half-time score to 25-19 in favor of the Devils. Donecker did the heavy lifting in the third period, scoring six while Jake Tietlebaum and Wasyl each had three, Kevin Gawron two and Corazzini one, making for a solid 40-29 lead entering the last period — things looked to be progressing well. The final period started well for the Devils. They surrendered the first basket to make the score 40-31, then ripped off the next eight points. Donecker and Hoyt showed off some nice interior passing as each assisted the other for easy inside buckets, then Hoyt scored the next four on two from the charity stripe, then a rebound put-back. That made the score 48-31. Unfortunately, at that point, the Warriors went into an extremely active trapping defense where they consistently swarmed two or more defenders to the ball, and the Devils could not keep their composure. Over a four-minute period, they missed a three-pointer, the front end of a one-and-one twice and took not a single additional shot as they turned the ball over five times, allowing the home team to rattle off 15 straight points and make the score 48-46 with the Devils still, unbelievably, on top. They turned the ball over on full court passes that overshot everything; they turned the ball over by getting themselves in the air with no clear idea on what they were doing with the ball; they turned the ball over in almost every way that you could imagine. Finally, Brock Hoyt broke the drought on a nice assist from Wasyl to extend the lead to four with a minute left. Valley brought the ball down the court and scored easily to make it two again at 50-48. Wasyl hit on one of two from the line, and, after a crucial rebound by just about the smallest player on the floor, Jake Tietlebaum, Brock hit one of two to make the score 52-48. The final uncontested layup from Valley as the clock ran See Devils, page 32
Friday, December 23, 2011
Town Times Sports
31
Impressive players and achievements on 2011 Blue Devil football team By John Bozzi Special to the Town Times
Lady Devils (Continued from page 30)
bounds, three assists and two steals, and Biesak tacking on two rebounds, an assist and a steal. Kim Romanoff had a nice stat line with 10 points, and five each of rebounds, assists and steals. Jessica Solomon had three rebounds, two points, a steal and an assist. Off the bench, Morgan Kuehnle had eight big rebounds, three steals, three assists, two points and a block. Andrea Braga had three rebounds, a point and a steal. Olivia Corazinni had two points and a steal, while Mikayla Wyskiel grabbed two rebounds. As of this game, Cogin-
chaug is 2-0, with both wins in Shoreline Conference play. They have played at Hyde, for which I do not as of yet have a score, and, after playing North Branford early this week, will travel to East Hampton tonight, Friday, Dec. 23, and will host log-time class S powerhouse Thomaston on Tuesday, Dec. 27.
engineering Honor’s Program at UConn, where he will study mechanical engineering. The Honors Program seeks highly motivated and talented students who have demonstrated superior achievement in a broad range of academic and extracurricular activities. Students admitted to the Honors Program typically graduate in the top five percent of their high school class and score an average of 1400/1600 on the SAT. Donecker has also been awarded a UConn “Academic Excellence Scholarship,” which is awarded to the top ap-
plicants based on high school class rank, GPA and SAT scores. Augur started the entire season for the Blue Devils at both offensive center and defensive tackle. He anchored an offensive line that enabled Coginchaug running backs to average better than six yards per carry. In 2010, Augur earned a varsity letter as a sophomore when he got significant playing time on both sides of the ball and made spot starts at center and defensive tackle.
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quicker than Old Saybrook as they had 22 steals to the Rams nine, and they passed the ball well, assisting on 17 of 27 baskets, and I’m betting that I missed more than a couple. Sam Mancinelli led the Devils in every way possible with 18 points, 10 rebounds and eight steals, just missing the triple-double. She also had four assists. Lauren Esposito and Audrey Biesak each scored 12 points, with Esposito adding three re-
were all First Team selections. Davis, who served as one of the team’s captains, was one of the most versatile players on the Coginchaug squad. He started for the Blue Devils the past two years at defensive back and split end. He was also a fixture on the Blue Devils’ special teams where he could be found both returning and covering kicks. As a split-end, Davis had eight receptions on the year for 159 yards and two touchdowns. Donecker, who was also named to the All-Pequot team in 2010, had 24 receptions for 471 yards and 10 touchdowns. He also started at safety for the Blue Devils where he made three interceptions, returning one for a touchdown. Donecker has been accepted into the
1190717
Coginchaug senior Alec Corazzini was selected for the Connecticut High School Coaches Association Class S All-State Football Team in recognition of his outstanding play at linebacker during the 2011 season. The team, which is determined by a vote of the state’s high school football coaches, honors the 26 best high school football players from Connecticut’s 37 Class S schools. Corazzini was also voted to the All-Pequot League team as a First Team linebacker. This is the second year in a row that Coginchaug has placed a player on the Class S All-State team. David Wheeler
was selected to the 2010 team as a First Team defensive tackle. Corazzini, a four-year varsity letter winner, led the Blue Devil defense with 68 tackles. He also led the team in rushing with 826 yards on 100 carries. His nine touchdowns and 60 points scored were both second best on the team. Corazzini has drawn the attention of numerous college coaches and is being recruited by Brown University, Johns Hopkins, Holy Cross and several NESCAC schools, including Amherst and Tufts. Three other Coginchaug players joined Corazzini on the All-Pequot team. Senior Tyler Davis (defensive back), Ethan Donecker (receiver) and junior Ian Augur (center)
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Friday, December 23, 2011
Town Times
Pack 33 celebrates the November holidays Durham man charged
By Paul Miarecki Pack 33 Cub Master
What an exciting pack meeting the Middlefield/Durham Cub Scouts had in November. On that Tuesday night, we discussed all three of the special days in November with our special guests. One of our den leaders, Hollis Kelly, also a chief in the US Navy, came in his Navy uniform along with his friend and co-worker, Sergeant First Class Sean Miller of the US Army. Together they discussed the importance of Election Day, Veterans Day and Thanksgiving. Sergeant Miller discussed the origins of Thanksgiving, including the Pilgrims and Indians (or Native Americans), the conditions of the first few years, the guidance and help the Indians provided to help the Pilgrims through the winter and the respect and thanks we showed to the Indians and God. Chief Kelly discussed
what Veterans Day means: a day to honor those who served in war. He also mentioned the difference between Veterans Day and Memorial Day and why Memorial Day represents the highest honor, as it is for those soldiers who were killed in battle. Both are a day to remember them and their courage, to thank them for their duty, and to realize the freedoms we live
with every day for which they fought. We ended the night with Chief Kelly and Sergeant Miller presenting the Bobcat badge to the new scouts who earned them. The Bobcat is the first badge that can be received, and it is earned by learning the ideals the Cub Scouts stand for, through the Cub Scout Promise and the Laws of the Pack.
Stephen M. Tyrseck, 36, of Durham, along with Jedidiah Roesler, 22, of Meriden, have been charged with manslaughter and DUI after a crash that killed a 20year-old Meriden man. On July 24, Tyrseckâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 2008 Ford350 pickup collided with a car on South Main Street. Martinez was ejected from the 2002 Honda Civic driven by Roesler and pronounced dead at the scene. Tyrseck, who was a Middletown firefighter at the time of the crash, was charged with second-degree manslaughter with a motor vehicle, misconduct with a motor vehicle, negligent homicide with a motor vehicle, reckless driving, driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol and speeding. Roesler was also charged. Both were held on a $100,000 bond and are free on bond. They are scheduled to be arraigned Dec. 28 at Middletown Superior Court. (Stephanie Wilcox)
Devils (Continued from page 30)
out made the final score 52-50, with the Devils hanging on for the victory.
Brock Hoyt led the Devils with 17 points, eight rebounds and two assists. Erikson Wasyl was close behind with 15 points, four assists, three steals and three rebounds. Ethan Donecker was the leading board man for the Devils with nine, adding 10 points, two steals and two assists. Alec Corazzini was the leading assist man with five, also contributing three points and three rebounds. Jake Tietlebaum had three points and a steal.
Off the bench, Sam Baker and Kevin Gawron each had two points and a steal. Mike Bongiorno and Luke Bogdanski also played. Coginchaug is 1-0.
By the time you read this, the boys will have hosted Old Saybrook on Monday and Enfield on Thursday. They will play at Hyde on Tuesday, Dec. 27.
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