12-4-2009TownTimes by Town Times Newspaper

A season of candlelight....

Volume 16, Issue 34

Serving Durham, Middlefield and Rockfall

Friday, December 4, 2009

Appeals cause delays November’s smiling faces In response to an emergency plea from CATALES in Middletown, dancers at the Midand frustration over dlesex Dance Center in Middlefield collected 17 dozen cans of Friskies cat food in just three weeks. Pictured right are Savannah Ngo and Rachel Arreguin with the doathletic facility upgrades nations before they were delivered. By Stephanie Wilcox Town Times

The District 13 Board of Education and Building Committee members were hoping to take advantage of low prices this fall when they planned to go out to bid for athletic facility upgrades on the Coginchaug campus. Now they’re hoping, with the delay caused by two appeals against the plans, that prices will be good down the road. Unfortunately, no one is sure how far down the road it will be. According to Building Committee chair Bill Currlin, The project to upgrade the track and field and tennis courts was approved by the public and the Planning & Zoning Commission, and the money set aside cannot be used for anything else. Yet in the last two months, Attorney John Corona, on behalf of Guire Road resident Karen Cheyney, has filed two appeals against the site plan and the special permit to build 80foot light towers. “The vote was passed, the money has been appropriated and yet we’re stopped again,” said Superintendent Susan Viccaro. “It’s so frustrating because we can’t even predict when we can get started.” Currlin anticipates at least a seven-month delay before the project can be started. He expects the judge will look for procedural things, such as if motions and minutes were done correctly and if the special exceptions were approved. He is confident that the project will happen, but the timeline is now thrown way off. “It is not an option to stop the project,” Currlin explains. “It won’t and it can’t change the results. These are just stall tactics.”

Currlin and Viccaro point out that the project is no different than what was brought before the voters, and items that are supposedly of concern are items that were addressed in the hearings. “People want to know why someone would do this, and we don’t have the answer,” said Currlin. What they do know is that the attorney fees, already in the tens of thousands, are taking away from any additional items, such as scoreboards and bleachers, that may have come in time. Regardless of scoreboards and bleachers, the track has been unusable for meets for the last four years, and all “home” games have been held at Platt High School. The tennis teams have also not had home games in four years, though they were at least able to use Memorial School for home matches at the very end of the last season. The Coginchaug portion of the VinalCoginchaug football team, which finished the regular season with a record of 9-2, is splitting next year due to the number of Coginchaug players. They will need a home field. Viccaro explained that the district will have to find a place for these teams to practice and play on, but there will probably be additional costs to this, and she said busing kids is a huge cost. Not to

Anyone interested in donating to CATALES or adopting one of the 100 available cats should call 860-3449043. Through Dec. 17, MDC will accept donations of dog and cat food, blankets and cleaning supplies for the Animal Haven shelter in North Haven. Donations may be brought to the studio at 500 Main Street in Middlefield, Monday through Thursday from 4:30 to 8 p.m. Submitted by Toni-Lynn Miles

Above, Dot and Erv Barker enjoy themselves after the Middlefield Senior Center’s Thanksgiving dinner. Right center, Korn School third graders took a field trip to Bushy Hill Nature Center to learn about the cultural activities of the Woodland Indians.

See Appeals, page 19

In this issue ... Calendar .........................4-5 Columns .........................7-9 Letters .................10-11 & 21 Obituaries .......................20 Sports.......................16 & 18 Town Briefs ................12-14

Above, Tucker Fowler, Tatiana Perez, Josh Fazzino and Cade Buckheit show off the screen they assembled for a John Lyman School mural. Left, parents Jen Huddleston and Lucy Meigs are two of the community members who helped with the project. Photos by Stephanie Wilcox and submitted photos. For more photos go to www.towntimes.com

Town Times Community Briefs

Probate holiday gift drive

Probate court for the district of Middletown is holding its 15th annual holiday gift drive. The event is sponsored and coordinated by Judge Joseph D. Marino and the clerks of the Middletown District Probate Court. The court will once again collect gifts for residents of four area health care facilities. Gift wish-lists are provided to the court by the staff of the facilities for the residents who do not have any family.

Anyone can stop by the court between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. at 94 Court Street in Middletown to pick up a wish list or call the court at 860-347-7424. The holiday gift drive will run through Thursday, Dec. 17.

CRHS Christmas concert The annual candlelight Christmas concert, featuring holiday music by the Heart in Hand Bell Choir, the Celebration Singers, and the First Church Senior Choir, will be

Index of Advertisers To advertise in the Town Times, call Joy Boone at 860-349-8026.

Ianniello Plumbing.....................20 Independent Day School.............5 J. Randolph Kitchens ................18 Ken Marino Sales & Service .......4 Kim’s Cottage Confections..........3 Lino’s Market .............................13 Lyman Orchards..........................3 Masonicare................................15 Middlesex Chamber ....................3 Middlesex Comm. College ..........7 Middletown Plate Glass.............20 Miller Tree Farm..........................5 Mims Oil.....................................22 Morasutti Plumbing & Heating ..20 Movado Farm ............................19 Neil Jones Home Imp................21 New Haven Country Dancers .....9 Orthodontic Specialist .................6 Peaceful Healing .........................3 Pet Stop.....................................18 Petruzelo Agency Ins. ...............22 Planeta Electric .........................21 Prete Chiropractic Center............4 Raintree Landscaping ...............21 Realty Associates......................23 RLI Electric ................................20 Roblee Plumbing.......................14 Rockfall Co. ...............................20 RSDL Home Imp.......................20 Saldibar Construction................19 Sea Breeze Hauling ..................19 Seagrave, James ........................6 Sharon McCormick Design .........5 Sit & Stay Dog Grooming............6 Skincare Studio .........................10 T-N-T Home & Lawncare..........18 Torrison Stone & Garden....10, 20 Town of Durham........................17 Tynan, Jim.................................23 Uncle Bob’s Flower & Garden.....6 Valentina’s Home Designs........11 VMB Custom Builders...............18 Wesleyan Potters ........................9 Whitehouse Construction..........19 Whitney Ridge Stables..............18 Wildwood Lawn Care ................20 Windows Plus..............................9

Coginchuggers The Durham Cogin-Chuggers Square Dance Club will hold their Holly-Jolly December dance on Friday, Dec. 13 at Brewster School in Durham from 8 to 10:30 p.m. Jim Denigris will be the caller and Sue Lucibello the cuer. Donation is $6 per person. For more information, call 203-235-1604, 860-349-8084

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Durham 60+ Club On Monday, Dec. 14, the Durham 60+ Club will meet at 1 p.m. in the United Churches Fellowship Hall at the corner of Rt. 68 and Main St. in Durham to fill cookie baskets for Twin Maple Nursing Home residents. Members are asked to bring in two dozen small cookies to help fill the baskets.

Village at South Farms to host holiday program The public is invited to an

old-fashioned Christmas at 5:30 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 13, at The Village at South Farms senior living community. The Village at South Farms is located at 645 Saybrook Rd. in Middletown. Guests will enjoy an oldfashioned Christmas and help bring the joy of the holiday to the children at Middlesex Hospital. Donate an unwrapped toy, pair of mittens, hat or scarf, place it under our tree and sing along with the Lymes’ Village Voices. Traditional holiday sweets and old-fashioned hot cocoa and eggnog will be served. This event is free and open to the public. Please RSVP to The Village at South Farms at 860-344-8788.

Durham/Middlefield Youth & Family Services Events take place at the Youth Center in the Middlefield Community Center. New office hours: 3:30-5:30 Tuesdays-Fridays; phone 860-349-0258; email nmilardo.dmyfs@comcast.net. Photo Contest Photo Contest still going on. Bring in your photos by Dec. 7 to be displayed for the Art Show on Friday, Dec. 11. The contest is open to all ages with a $5 entry fee for up to three 4”x6” and/or 5”x7” photos. Cash prizes of $25, $10 and $5 for first second and third place. Showing Dec. 11 from 7-9 p.m. at the Middlefield Community Center. Prizes awarded and refreshments served. For further info, contact Nicole at 860-349-0258. Holiday Shopping DMYFS will watch your children for only $6 per hour while you shop till you drop on Saturday, Dec. 12, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Call the center after 3:30 p.m. for more info. Family Bingo Night Relax and spend some time with family and friends on Friday, Dec. 18, from 6:45-9 p.m. Fee $4 per person. Prizes. Snacks. Call Nicole at 860-349-0258 to reserve your spot. Keep your eyes open for clubs coming your way in 2010. There will be homework club, free to be club, game club, kids’ yoga and dance club.

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Addy & Sons..............................19 Allan’s Tree Service ..................19 Amato’s Toy & Hobby ...............11 Anthony Jacks.............................8 APEC Electric............................21 Assisted Living of Meriden ........22 B & R Construction....................23 Barillaro, Michael.......................10 Batters Box..................................3 Behling Builders ........................20 Berardino Company Realtor .3, 23 Binge Bruce, contractor.............19 Black Dog ....................................6 Brownstein, Jeffrey, attorney.......8 Cahill & Sons.............................18 Carlton Interiors...........................8 Carmela Marie Catering............10 Carmine’s Restaurant ...............14 Carolyn Adams Country Barn .....7 Classic Wood Flooring ..............21 Coginchaug Valley Education Foundation ..................................9 Conroy, John, D.M.D.................14 Cromwell Diner............................6 CV Enterprises ..........................18 Daricek Landscaping.................19 Dumas Christmas Tree Farm......4 Durham Auto Center .............4, 16 Durham Dental ............................4 Durham Healthmart Pharmacy .24 Durham Wine & Spirits..............14 Exclusive Furs .............................5 Executive Offices.......................21 Family Tree Care ......................21 Ferguson & McGuire Ins. ..........13 Fine Work Home Imp. ...............21 Fuel & Service...........................11 Fugge, David M.........................21 Glazer Dental Associates............8 Golschneider Painting...............20 Gossip .........................................2 Groomin N Roomin Kennels .......5 Grosolar.....................................12 Handy Man................................15 Herzig Family Tree Farm ............7 Home Works..............................21 Hunters Pool And Spas...............8

held at 4 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 13, at the First Church of Christ, 190 Court St. in Middletown. There will also be holiday readings and the singing of carols. The event is free, but donations are accepted. For more information, call 860-346-6657.

Friday, December 4, 2009

Entrees Choose one each:

Turkey Melt with French Fries Veggie Melt with French Fries 6 oz. Cheeseburger with French Fries Veggie Burger served with Cole Slaw or Applesauce Chicken or Tuna Salad Meatloaf Dinner & 2 Sides Country Fried Steak Grilled Chicken & 2 Sides Pot Roast & 2 Sides

Ham Steak Spaghetti with Meatballs Liver & Onions with 2 Sides Fish & Chips Chicken Parmesan Clam Strips & 2 Sides or share a 14” Pizza with 1 Topping for different selection from the regular or the special menus, please ask server for up-charge.

Desserts Choose one: Hot Fudge Sundae or Carrot Cake

Friday, December 4, 2009

Town Times

Durham selectmen talk roads, signs and a Middlefield barn fire Senior/Community Center committee caused by hot cord By Stephanie Wilcox Town Times The few members of the public at the Nov. 30 Durham Selectmen’s meeting were Ivy Way residents, therefore the major discussion of the meeting was centered around their concerns about maintenance of this private road. First Selectman Laura Francis stated there are serious obstacles to plowing and maintaining the portion of Ivy Way past the town-owned part. She explained that it could be done, but with physical challenges. A letter from Attorney Vincent Marino said there would be significant legal work in order to negotiate maintenance as there is no neighborhood association. At the same time, there is no guarantee negotiations

can be made because it would still need to be budgeted for. Ivy Way resident Joy Woolley confirmed that there is no interest among residents to form a neighborhood association since doing so would not even guarantee the road would be plowed. Her biggest concern was logistics: there is a doctor, a member of the fire department and “people who aren’t able to work home in a snow storm” living on Ivy Way who will need to access the road, and there are issues if a small truck can’t get to it in time. She said the neighbors are currently in the process of agreeing on a contractor who will plow their portion of the road at 7:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. The residents addressed other related issues with the selectmen and road foreman

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than an hour. It took more than two hours to completely extinguish the blaze. Milking resumed within a Middlefield fire marshal Stan Atwell has determined week after the fire, and the that a barn fire at Triangle A barn is in the progress of beRanch in October was caused ing rebuilt, workers said. by a hot extension cord. Because it was the second Atwell told reporters that a fire at the barn in two years, 100-foot extension cord left foul play was initially suspectcoiled in the Jackson Hill ed. However, Atwell said nothbarn got hot and melted, caus- ing suspicious was found during the fire that consumed the ing the investigation. upper level of the barn. The cause of the first fire in Approximately 100 cows August 2007 was never deterwere moved to safety, and mined, but the barn was comfirefighters were able to get pletely rebuilt by owner Anlym_SS54_11_30_TT:Layout 11/30/09 PM in Page under2:58 control less1 drew Anastasio Jr. See BOS, page 13 1 flames

Kurt Bober, and the discussion ended with Francis urging the residents to call her if there are problems. There was also a lengthy discussion on a sign inventory and management program. Bober explained that there is a new federal mandate to replace signs to their specification in 2012, 2016 and 2018. The town will be responsible for maintaining and replacing them when they lose their reflectivity. He displayed actual signs to compare the existing

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Town Times & Places

4 SATURDAY

December 5 Round-Up Community Round-Up to collect food for area food banks takes place throughout our communities from 9 a.m. to noon. Tree Lighting The Durham Christmas tree lighting ceremony will be held at 4 p.m. on the town green. Hot chocolate and cookies will be served and Santa will stop by. Holiday Shopping

Soul Star Healing’s annual holiday shopping spree will be held from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Curves Studio, 16 Main St. in Durham. There will be vendors, hand-made jewelry, scarves, gifts, food, massage, angel card readings and more. The event is free, but everyone is asked to bring a non-perishable food item for the local food bank. For more information, contact April at 860-985-0211. Wadsworth Holiday Bazaar The Wadsworth Mansion is holding a holiday bazaar from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 421 Wadsworth

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St. in Middletown. Children are free but a $2 donation for adults would be appreciated. Vendors from the August open air market will sell their handmade products, including jewelry, hats goat milk soaps and lotions, photographs and paintings, fine wood products, Amaryllis plants and the Wadsworth Mansion 24k gold-plated Christmas ornament. For info, call 860-3471064 or visit www.wadsworthmansion.com. Breakfast with Santa Treat yourself and the youngsters to an all-you-can-eat breakfast with Santa at the Third Congregational Church, 94 Miner St. in Middletown, from 8 to 10:30 a.m. Tickets are $4 for adults and $2.50 for kids under 10. For a nominal fee, have your photo taken with Santa. Opera The Greater Middletown Concert association will present L’Exir d’Amore at the performing arts center at Middletown High School, on DeRosa Lane in Middletown. Call 860-

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Vocal Chords The Middlesex Hospital Vocal Chords will perform “The Spirit of the Season” concert at Portland High School at 2 p.m. Tickets are $18 for adults and $15 for seniors, available at the door or call 860-342-3120. Fashion Show Luncheon Christ Lutheran Church will sponsor a fashion show and luncheon at 1 p.m. at the Dress Barn on Washington St. in Middletown to benefit the church. The show will feature formal, career and casual wear. Call Sue Giuffrida at 860346-0724 or Helen Pennington at 860-346-1234 for tickets. Swearing-In The Durham swearing-in ceremony will take place at 1 p.m. at the library. Refreshments will be served. Craft Fair Country Flower Farms, on Route 147 in Middlefield, will hold a holiday craft fair from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. featuring over 30 vendors, a raffle to benefit the Humane Society and Rudolf the Reindeer. Call 860-349-3690 for information.

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Country Christmas United Churches of Durham will hold a Country Christmas fair featuring crafts, ornaments, greenery, wreaths, baked goods, jams and jellies, gift baskets, quilts, a silent auction and more, in the fellowship hall from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Lunch will be available.

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347-4887 or 860-346-3369 for tickets and information. Book Signing Local author John Herbert will autograph and read from his book Rules Get Broken, a Love Story, at the Book Bower on Main Street in Middletown, downstairs in the Clock Tower Shops at 4 p.m. Holly Fair First Church of Christ, Congregational, in Middletown holds its annual Holly Fair from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. This event features Christmas greens, jewelry, vintage linens, antiques and collectibles, ladies’ scarves, baked goods and holiday cookies, handcrafts, and much more. A gourmet luncheon of homemade soups, breads and pies will also be available. First Church of Christ is located at 190 Court Street in Middletown. The Holly Fair is handicapped accessible. For more information, call John Hall or Lorel Czajka at 860-3466657.

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Town Times & Places

Friday, December 4, 2009 Middlefield Tree Lighting The annual tree lighting begins at 5 p.m. in front of the firehouse. Enjoy carol singing, Santa and Mrs. Claus, tattoos, face painting, food and hot chocolate for all. Holiday Bazaar An arts and crafts holiday bazaar, featuring handmade items, will be held at Congregation Beth Shalom Rodfe Zedek, 55 E. Kingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Highway in Chester, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. There is no admission fee. For info, call 860-526-8920.

MONDAY

December 7

December 8

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

THURSDAY

December 10 Free Concert The Korn Winter Concert will be held at 6:30 at Coginchaug High School. Tom Ridge After 9/11, Tom Ridge was given the task of protecting America from terrorist attacks, a task outlined in his book, The Test of Our Times: America Under Siege and How We Can Be Safe Again. Ridge will talk at Congregation Beth Shalom Rodfe Zedek, 55 East Kings Highway in Chester, at 7:30 p.m. in a free program. RSVP at 860-526-8920. Wreath Stroll and Auction Everyone is invited to the Village at South Farms, 645 Saybrook Rd. in Middletown, from 5 to 7 p.m. to bid on decorated wreaths to benefit St. Lukeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Eldercare Solutions. There will be refreshments,

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

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P O S T M A S T E R: Send address changes to Town Times, P.O. Box 265, Middlefield, CT 06455.

Allied Member, ASID (860) 349-1349 40 Main Street, Suite 201 Durham, Connecticut

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Artist Reception Artist Fred Antonio, formerly of Durham, will be exhibiting his watercolor works at the Durham Library through the end of January, and there will be a reception today from 2 to 4. Hanukah The holiday of Hanukah begins at sundown.

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Business Networking The local chapter of BNI will meet at the United Methodist Church, 24 Old Church St. in Middletown, at 7:30 a.m. Contact Kirk Hagert at 860-349-5626

FURS, FASHIONS & ACCESSORIES

SATURDAY

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Chorus Concert John Lyman School chorus concert at 2:15 and 6:30 p.m. Business Seminar Middlesex Chamber of Commerce monthly business seminar will be held at 393

December 9

for more information. Christmas Music Eternal Perks Coffee House will host an evening of Christmas music and sing-a-longs at 7 p.m. at Grace Evangelical Lutheran Church, 1055 Randolph Rd. in Middletown. For information, call 860-346-2641. Holiday Fair Wadsworth Glen Health Care & Rehabilitation Center, 30 Boston Rd. in Middletown, will be holding a holiday fair from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Call 860346-9299.

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TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

entertainment, Santa and Mrs. Claus, Mrs. Connecticut 2008 and Mrs. Vermont 2009. RSVP to 860-344-8788. Boy Scouts Durham Boy Scout Troop 27 is holding an open house recruitment night for boys 10 and up in the fellowship hall of United Churches of Durham at 7 p.m. For info, call 860-595-4084 or 860-349-9418 or e-mail to BSAtroop27@comcast.net.

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Stroke Club Middletown Stroke Club will meet at 1 p.m. at Sugarloaf Terrace in Middlefield. For info, call Ida at 860-344-9984 or Ray at 860-349-9226. Gov. Rell Gov. Rell will speak at the Middlesex Chamber of Commerce breakfast meeting from 7:45 to 9 a.m. at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Cromwell. To register, call 860-347-6924 or send e-mail to info@middlesexchamber.com.

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Friday, December 4, 2009

Town Times

For the Beauty of the Earth: Roseann Berluti, painter in oil By Judy Moeckel For Roseann Berluti, her artistic inspiration comes from one source: God. “God created it all, and I just paint the beauty that I see,” she says, with a humility that belies her enormous talent at interpreting nature on canvas. Her deep faith is evident when she references Psalm 8 in her resume:

“…When I consider your heavens, the work of your fingers…the moon and the stars, which you have set in place, what is man that you care for him?” Her oil paintings radiate an appreciation for nature and the godly power that created it. A number of her works grace the large, airy home she shares with her husband Mike and sons

Adam, 12, and Ben, 9, in Durham. “I always enjoyed being outdoors and observing nature,” she says. Growing up in Rocky Hill, which at the time had many farms and woodland spaces, she began drawing at a young age. In high school, she was inducted into the National Art Honor Society. While she studied art in college, she decided to ma-

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Town Times Column

Our students rise to sad occasion with help of values the past year and a half. The most recent loss occurred just over two weeks ago and the first was in June of 2008. During those periods of emotional turmoil, our students repeatedly demonstrated their adherence to our Core Ethical Values. Few districts could make that statement. I am proud to be able to say that those values helped us get through some very trying times. Let me explain. The Monday morning after we first learned of Michelle DiVicino’s death, I asked for students who did not know Michelle to help those of us who did get through a troubling time. Not one student failed in that request. All stu-

Dr. Steve Wysowski, CRHS Principal

A View From District 13 dents were respectful of those who were more closely affected, friends and classmates, and yes, even teachers. There were many of us who needed each other’s support. I am honored to report that every student remembered a fallen classmate by wearing a purple ribbon, Michelle’s favorite color. Every student respected the process of grieving by helping and being kind and respectful of the tragedy that

had taken place. Teachers, who were experiencing tremendous grief, demonstrated courage by facing their classes and celebrating the life of their fallen student. Students realizing the

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Given the fact that Coginchaug is the last stop in District 13 for all of our students, it seems fitting that a reflection on how well our students follow the Core Ethical Values is appropriate. The idea came to mind after the tragic events that shocked all of us at Coginchaug and Region 13 over the past few weeks, and really over the past year and a half. I have been impressed how well our students abide by the Core Ethical values of Honesty, Respect, Responsibility, Kindness and Courage. In the wake of experiencing these tragedies, I feel compelled to tell the public just how well our students are doing. We lost two classmates in

difficulty that they and their teachers were having offered phrases of consolation and support just as some adults were for students. It is sad to See Wysowksi, page 8

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Town Times Column

8 Wysowski

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say that this same support occurred just 18 months ago when we lost another classmate, Ally Palmisano. Ms. Mattei, a teacher in the English Department, described the situation here at Coginchaug as that of a family. We all grouped together, supported each other and then forced each other in a gentle way to move on with our lives. In life, there is a time to grieve, and then we must move on and car-

ry out our mission; students and staff demonstrated great courage in that undertaking. This school district has the characteristics of a family; it has become most evident during these times of crisis. I state that the district has those characteristics, and while Coginchaug was directly affected, it has been the collective effort of this school district that has instilled the Core Ethical Values into our current high school students. Parents, teachers, staff and administrators at all levels in

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this district have been responsible for teaching our students those values. These tragedies confirmed that these professionals have been successful. I was most impressed with the courage and responsibility of our athletes during this difficult time. Students continued participating in athletics and yet never forgot the memory of their fallen classmate. They even honored her after a tournament victory by openly declaring that victory in her name. Students at Coginchaug understand their responsibilities and so they have moved on beyond the tragedy, not forgetting their classmate yet understanding that life continues. They are still creat-

Friday, December 4, 2009

ing, still producing unbelievable products. One group of Michelle’s closest friends is looking into creating a special awareness program that they will oversee regarding safe driving. Our AP Government class is seeking new ways to deal with a student advisory program. They conducted surveys, and are polling and presenting results to the faculty. They are actively participating in the decision-making process. Another group of students is currently being trained to teach other students, as well as their parents, about the dangers that exist on the internet. Other students are planning and preparing programs to be put on later in the year. We have students who are doing

great things for this community and district, even through some of the most tragic events in the history of the school. Students at Coginchaug have demonstrated that they are well prepared to practice ethical living because they have also learned values that are far more important than academics. They have learned and practice the five Core Ethical Values of Respect, Kindness, Honesty, Courage and Responsibility that have established their reputation beyond Regional School District 13. On behalf of those students, I want to thank all of our parents and staff because we are indeed fortunate to be part of such a wonderful school district!

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Town Times Column

Friday, December 4, 2009

For the future: What Connecticut must do According to the Centerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s paper, the good news is that Connecticut has the nationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s third-highest educational attainment levels amongst young people in the 25-39 age brackets. New England as a whole has the highest concentration of human capital in the country. Massachusetts and Connecticut have historically led the nation in having concentrations of these young professionals who hold at least a bachelors degree. Therefore, Connecticut and the New England region enjoy a particularly skilled workforce. The challenge is in retaining these young profession-

From The State Capitol State Senator Tom Gaffey als. The Centerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s paper notes that international in-migration of young professionals in Connecticut, Massachusetts and Rhode Island has offset factors that would have resulted in declines in that population of skilled workers. The paper concludes with two warnings. First, a reliable supply of skilled labor depends on â&#x20AC;&#x153;boosting residentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; access to higher education

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and preparedness for it, continuing to welcome young people born abroad and working to attract and retain domestic talents.â&#x20AC;? Second, â&#x20AC;&#x153;these efforts will become even more important as opportunities for young professionals expand in some other regions of the United States and the world.â&#x20AC;?

should help guide economic policy in Connecticut and throughout New England since most young people that are highly educated cite employment as the number one reason they move. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Policies that connect young people attending New Englandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s colleges and universities â&#x20AC;&#x201C; especially from those outside the

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For 20 years Connecticut has experienced zero job growth. Numerous recent business stories confirm and quantify what is self-evident throughout Connecticut: economic recovery remains elusive and many residents are reeling after layoffs and laggardly job growth. New jobless claims continue to outpace new job creation. The fallout from this threatens stability in our cities and towns. The stateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s official unemployment rate has climbed to 8.8 percent, less than the 10.2 percent national average but distressing nevertheless. Delinquent mortgages and foreclosures in our state hover near seven percent, again less than the national average, but still the high water mark over the past 30 years. It is obviously time to do things differently. Those working on efforts to boost Connecticutâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s economy over the long-term should pay heed to information contained in recent discussion paper published by the New England Public Policy Center at the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston.

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Town Times Letters

Durham is lovely, but…

To the editor, Durham is a lovely place to live. I have been here for 37 years and never have I seen the conditions that I see here now. I see adults putting children in danger and letting them ride dangerous, unsafe vehicles. I have seen some adults riding around on quads with their children and no protective gear on any of

them. They also drive illegally on town roads and get away with it. I see young people walking around my block lighting off fireworks. They also have been seen throwing these fireworks at dogs and other animals, which, if I’m not mistaken, is cruelty to animals. I have also seen adults and teens speeding recklessly through my neighborhood. They are also on cell phones and not watching what they are doing. Its not safe to walk across the street anymore to

get my mail without being run over. There is never a cop when you really need one. In fact, I have never seen a cop in my area at all. I have noticed that if you have money, you can get away with anything. This includes having your own access road through wetlands so you won’t have to drive the extra quarter-mile or so to an access road that was put in when the house was built.

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One more thing I have to say is about District 13. When the chips were down for the town budget, District 13 school teachers and other staff refused to help by taking less in salaries, as if paying these non-performers more money was going to guarantee a better education. The real reason

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Friday, December 4, 2009

was they refused to help. Period. As for the $3 million sports complex, the district was asked to postpone work on this until the economy is better. We don’t need to wait. Instead we need to spend the money now. The town of Durham is full of rich people. I’m sure they can afford it. As for the complex, if the past is any indication of the future, just look at the outdoor facilities now. That is what the track, fields and tennis courts will look like in five to 10

years from now. I myself am not worried about any of this because, thanks to the town government, they are successfully running my family out of town, and there’s not one thing we can do about it. Every time it looks like things are getting better, they stab us in the back again. Nothing here is made up. These are all my facts and views. George Atkinson, Durham More letters, next page

Letters policy The Town Times encourages the lively exchange of ideas and issues. To facilitate publication, several guidelines should be followed. Letters to the editor must be signed, with a phone number included. The writer will be called to confirm authorship. No anonymous letters will be printed. Letters should be 250 words or less. Contributions by any individual or group will not be published more frequently than once a month. Every effort will be made to print all letters received. However, the selection and date of publication will be at the discretion of the editor. Finally, the opinions expressed by our letter writers are not necessarily those of this newspaper. Deadline: Tuesday noon for Friday publication.

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Town Times Letters

Friday, December 4, 2009

Wants or needs? To the Editor, I would like to put all my nieces and nephews through college; I would like to donate enough money to build the Durham volunteer ambulance corps the building their efforts and dedication deserve. Unfortunately a pesky thing called reality keeps me from doing those things. I cannot afford them. Last week’s editorial, with it’s images of old women eating cat food, (now it’s people losing their homes because a child broke her leg), references to communism and losing Medicare was a cynical, manipulative, political ploy to demonize people who disagree while focusing the health care debate on our hope and dreams rather than reality. Medicare is going broke, Social Security is going broke, the United States is going broke. We are trillions of dollars in debt; $38 thousand dollars each by some accounts. We cannot afford another massive government program. We cannot pay for

the ones we have now. It would be wonderful if all of our hopes and dreams were possible. No reasonable person wants another to suffer. Programs people need like Medicare and Social Security flounder because our cowardly elected officials refuse to make the hard choices, preferring instead to focus on the next election, the political equivalent of instant gratification. Paying the bills won’t get us votes, so we’ll ignore the fact that we can’t pay them, start a new program and say we are achieving everyone’s hopes and dreams. We, the people, need to tell our elected officials to do what we do. Pay our bills, tighten our belts, and defer our hopes and dreams until we can afford them. That is reality. Dave Foley, Durham

Clarification To the Editor: In the Nov. 20 edition of the Town Times there was a comment by Sue Viccaro regard-

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ing the magnet school in an article. She stated that Regional District 13 picks up the cost of sending the students to the Hartford Academy for the Arts and Sciences magnet school in Hartford. This is not true. There is cost sharing by the parents as well, and we pay two-thirds of the monthly expense directly to the school. The expense for riding the bus is underwritten by grants from the state of Connecticut. This is a wonderful opportunity for those students who might succeed in a curriculum that focuses on other disciplines. Additionally, the magnet school can work in concert with programs available at Coginchaug and is a nice continuum to the Integrated Day program available in our district. Jean Bingham, Durham Editor’s note: According to business manager Ron Melnik, full-time tuition at the Hartford Academy for the Arts and Sciences magnet school in Hartford is $4,447, and District 13 pays it all. Part-time tuition is $4,043, of which District 13 covers $1,233 and the

parents pay the remainder. Transportation is covered by a state grant and thus District 13 does not pay any part.

Another view of events Though I moved away three years, I still try to read the Town Times, where I found an interesting letter in the Nov. 27 issue by David Glueck of Rockfall, my former town. Mr. Glueck would have us believe that Malik Hasan, the accused Ft. Hood killer, was somehow emboldened by the Obama administration and an attitude that he labels “political correctness” in the Army. Glueck’s letter came in the same week that a U.S. Senate report found that the Bush administration allowed bin Laden and his Al Qaeda cohort to escape at Tora Bora in late 2001. That was just one of countless examples of monumental incompetence and corruption in a military establishment dominated to

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Editor’s note: We have one more long letter to the editor that can be found on the website at www.towntimes.com.

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Middlefield Town Briefs

Middlefield Government Calendar (Unless otherwise indicated, all meetings are held in the Community Center.) Monday, Dec. 7 7 p.m. — Annual town meeting followed by Board of Selectmen Wednesday, Dec. 9 6 p.m. — Planning and Zoning Commission 7 p.m. — Water Pollution Control Authority 7:30 p.m. — Board of Education at Memorial School Thursday, Dec. 10 7 p.m. — Park and Recreation Commission 7 p.m. — Board of Finance Tuesday, Dec. 15 7 p.m. — Conservation Commission Wednesday, Dec. 16 7 p.m. — Inland Wetlands Commission

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Middlefield Park and Rec Boot Campers dressed in patriotic garb and carried flags on Veterans Day.

The annual town meeting is on Monday, Dec. 7 at 7 p.m. at the Community Center. On the agenda is the approval of the 2008 annual report and to accept a $1,700 offer from the Department of Transportation for a property acquisition on Route 147 that was made necessary by construction of a new bridge.

Friday, December 4, 2009

Middlefield P&Z discusses new regulation, planning at Peckham Park By Chuck Corley Special to the Town Times The Planning and Zoning Commission held a public hearing on Wednesday, Nov. 24 to discuss a regulation amendment that would allow for the reconstruction of nonconforming residential buildings without going to ZBA. Specifically, the change would allow for lots with multiple residential buildings to be rebuilt. Such reconstruction would also require that the buildings meet the minimum yard requirements for the zone, that the number of dwellings not increase and, perhaps most importantly, that the number of bedrooms on the site will not increase. Town planner Geoff Colegrove explained the reason for the proposal, citing that it was meant to improve the look and value of certain properties throughout town without creating any addi-

tional impact. The change is also meant to bring nonconforming properties further into conformity. However, former zoning commission member Lucy Petrella questioned why a nonconforming site couldn’t go before ZBA. Colegrove replied that the Zoning Board of Appeals only gives a yes or no to whether a site may alter its site plan and doesn’t go into helping residents plan as the zoning commission does. He added that while the change is meant to improve the town, improving the town wouldn’t necessarily qualify as the hardship, which is the standard required for an approval by the ZBA. Another issue that Petrella had with the proposal was it mostly applied to the Fowler Development along Beseck Lake. Though Colegrove pointed out that it might apply to as many as six properties throughout town, Petrel-

la felt that the commission shouldn’t make regulation changes meant mostly for one property. Despite Petrella’s concerns, a number of residents came out in support of the proposal, among them Dwight Fowler. However, a scheduling conflict prevented some ZBA members from attending the hearing, prompting ZBA member Lars Selberg to request continuing the hearing so members of his board could hear the proposal and discuss it. The zoning commission agreed and will continue the hearing at their December meeting. Peckham Park plannning Park and Recreation Director Chris Hurlbert also met with the commission about building a skate park between the basketball court and playground at Peckham Park. Chairman Ken Hamilton’s See Mfld. P&Z, page 19

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Durham Town Briefs

Friday, December 4, 2009

The board approved the October 2009 fiscal analysis and reviewed the 2010 budget

meeting and Board of Education meeting schedules without approving them yet. Proclamation and resignations The board voted in favor of accepting an Eagle Scout Proclamation for Daniel Bergstrom. They accepted with regret resignations from Carl Montagano from Economic Development Commission and Joel LaBella from Inland Wetlands and Water Courses Commission.

Giving tree Each year, for many years, Durham Interchurch Assistance has a Christmas “Giving Tree” program. The Giving Tree is located on the first floor of Town Hall in the Human Services office. This year Brownies from Troop #62650 decorated the Giving Tree with their handmade ornaments assisted by their Troop Leader Lisa Szymaszek. Placed on the Giving Tree are tags that symbolize an item of need or a

Christmas dinner for a disadvantaged family. The tags contain information on each gift recipient, such as size, age and needs. Names are not listed or given to donors. Each family or individual is designated by a number or letter. The Giving Tree gives to all participants. Recipients receive a Christmas gift from a donor. Donors receive, in their hearts, the emotional gift given from sharing and know-

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ones with newer ones, and pointed out specific features and choices. Signs are required to be bigger and more reflective for safety, higher off the ground and on different posts to deter vandalism and theft. According to Bober, taxpayers pay over $5,000 a year replacing stolen signs. The selectmen voted to switch from green to blue signs as Durham’s first responders unanimously said blue is the best color for visibility and safety. Because the new signs will cost $45,000, the selectmen will be working on a three year fiscal plan to afford the signs. The third major discussion was in regard to a Senior Center/Community Center Committee. Francis said while now might not be the time to build, it is a good time to plan as senior centers are eligible for small cities money. However, Francis clearly stated she does not want to form another committee if there is no real support from the community. According to Francis, a committee was formed years ago to look for properties or land to purchase to put a building on, but it didn’t go through. She told Lainy Melvin, chair of the Senior Citizens Board, that it was viable to look into renting a spot, even if just for particular programs. Based on information from the owner last year, Francis would consider renting Lake Grove at the cost of utilities. If enough programs were run, this could be budget neutral, so Francis said she would look into it. Other business In old business, Francis briefly reported that most of the equipment purchased with the Jag grant has been received. The energy grant for lighting and insulation at the library has been submitted and repairs for the ambulance building will hopefully be started this week or next. In new business, Francis reported a break-in at DMIAAB where paychecks were stolen. It was reported immediately to the police and bank, and was an impetus for DMIAAB to activate the security system they had installed. Francis announced she was elected vice-chair of the Regional Emergency Planning

Team (REPT) for Region 2 Department of Homeland Security. She asked that people consider nominations for Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce Distinguished Citizen Award. The First Selectman mentioned both the Regional Energy Manager Grant resolution and a grant from Connecticut Fair Plan (Anti-Arson Committee) and made motions for both.

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Durham Town Briefs

14 Giving tree (Continued from page 13) ing the true spirit of Christmas. Residents, service organizations and businesses wishing to make a monetary donation or a gift, or a Christmas dinner gift card, may come in and pick a tag of their choice from the Giving Tree. After purchasing a gift, the donor returns the purchased item to the Giving Tree, wrapped, and

labeled with the tag removed from the tree. Gifts and Christmas dinners are distributed to individuals and families by volunteers. Monetary donations to the Giving Tree can be made payable to Durham Interchurch Assistance and can be either mailed c/o Town Hall, P.O. Box 428, Durham, CT 06422 or can be dropped off at the Human Services office in Town Hall from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. This year volunteers will gather at Town Hall on Friday, Dec. 18, from 9 a.m. to 1

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p.m. to prepare gifts and packages for distribution. Anyone wishing for additional information can contact Jan Muraca at 860-3493153 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.

D-13 Screening District 13 offers a playbased screening for children aged three and four. Children are observed by district professionals to ensure their development is progressing at an age-appropriate level. The next screenings are scheduled for Friday, Dec. 11, at 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. in the preschool room at Brewster Elementary School. For info, call Crystal at (860) 349-7210.

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by the Lyme Art Association (of which she is an associate member), working under the tutelage of painters Michael Graves and John C. Traynor. Over the years, her paintings have been shown in many juried exhibits; many are in private collections. In 1999, she participated in an outdoor show in Old Lyme, sponsored by the En Plein Air Art League, to celebrate the centennial anniversary of the founding of the summer art colony there and the town’s vibrant artistic community. Now, on the last Saturday of each July, the town holds its Midsummer Festival, where Berluti and her fellow artists display their works in a casual outdoor atmosphere on the grounds of the Old Lyme Inn. The show gets bigger each year. In 2008, her landscapes were displayed at the Connecticut River Artisans’ Art Gallery at the Mill House during the town of Chester’s “Winter Carnivale.” “When I’m painting, I don’t like distractions, but with my family at home (she homeschools Ben and Adam, and

her husband is self-employed as a farrier), it’s hard to find time to paint. But when I do, I paint straight for a few weeks,” she explains. Sometimes she paints from photographs; on occasion, she paints en plein air, setting up her easel outside. An avid runner, Berluti sees this as another way to soak in nature’s beauty. Berluti’s advice for artists who encounter the painterly equivalent of writer’s block: “Just do it, and things can happen. Sometimes it works out beautifully, sometimes it doesn’t. Stapleton Kearns said, ‘It takes 200 paintings before you’re kind of good.’” One way she has improved her skills is by studying the works of current Impressionist artists.

Herzig Farm. Her sons Ben and Adam are seen in the distance.

“I go to museums, and study their technique very carefully. Even [well-known] artists are better now than they were five years ago.” The same goes for her own work. “I think I’ve developed as an artist, but really I am a work in progress!” Now that she lives in Durham, she often paints scenes familiar to residents,

including the Herzig Farm, Strawberry Hill and farmland along Sand Hill Road. The whole Berluti family is deeply involved in Victory Christian Church in Middlefield. Along with other church members, they reach out to their community, including area nursing homes, where they lead sing-alongs for the residents.

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most of all, the beauty of the area’s light (Impressionists were especially intrigued by the effect of changing light on their subjects). Many of these artists came to live in the boarding house run by Florence Griswold, which became the center of what came to be known as the Lyme Art Colony. Griswold’s home is now a museum of American Impressionism. The Florence Griswold Museum has changing exhibitions, as well as activities for children and adults. (For more information, go to www.Florencegriswoldmuseum.org.) “We had a house in Hadlyme,” Berluti says, “but we didn’t have much money. I was going to buy prints to put on the walls, but then I realized, ‘I can decorate the walls myself!’” So, in the style of the artists who lived at Florence Griswold’s home, she painted scenes of the Connecticut River right on the walls. “It sold with the house,” she says. This experience reinforced her conviction that she could paint, and that art should be her vocation, not just her hobby. She began to take art courses, including two summers of painting at the Lyme Academy of Fine Arts. Her big break came when she was accepted into an alumni show juried by Jeff Cooley of the Cooley Gallery and Jack Becher of the Florence Griswold Museum. After this, she says, her confidence grew, and she became active in the lively art community in and around the town of Lyme. She also spent several summers in Rockport, Massachusetts, studying under Stapleton Kearns. More recently, she participated in workshops run

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Town Times Sports

Friday, December 4, 2009

Coginchaug U-12 girls’ travel team. Despite an uncertain start to the season, the girls really pulled together as a team and won their division. They are the Connecticut Youth Soccer Association (CYSA) South Central District Division D7 co-champions. They finished the season with a league record of 3-0-1 (undefeated), outscoring their opponents 13-3. Their overall record was 6-4-2. From left, in front, Alexandra Alsup, Hailey Starr, Elizabeth Whitaker, Alycia Tirado, Hannah Rea and Emily Smith. In back Gabriella Diaz, Saige Avery, Isabel Mastrangelo, Hannah Moore, Hayley McIntyre, Jenna Isleib, Lauren Fairchild and Coach Bob Francis. Not pictured: Kristy MacDougall and MacKenzie Rulnick. Photo submitted by Tim McIntyre

Softball players wanted The Connecticut Outlaws 16U Teal fastpitch softball travel team is looking for two players for the 2010 summer travel season. Outfielders with speed are preferred. Call team manager Chris Welles at 860-202-4195 for information.

C R H S & S t r on g Wi nt e r Sp or t s S c hed ul es Girls’ Basketball

Boys’ Basketball December 16 varsity @ North Branford 7:30 p.m. JV at 6 p.m. 19 varsity @Valley Regional at 7 p.m. at 5:30 p.m. 21 freshmen @ Old Saybrook at 7 p.m. 22 varsity vs. Morgan at 7:30 p.m. JV at 6 p.m. 26 freshmen vs. Hyde Leadership at noon 38 freshmen @ Westbrook High School at 6 p.m. January 2 varsity vs. East Hampton at 7:30 p.m. JV at 6 p.m. 2 freshmen @ Morgan High School at 9 a.m. 5 varsity vs. Enfield at 7:30 p.m. JV at 6 p.m. 6 freshmen @ East Hampton High School at 7 p.m. 9 varsity @ Old Saybrook at 7 p.m. JV at 5:30 p.m. non-league 9 freshmen @ H-K High School at 10:30 a.m. 11 varsity @ Hale Ray at 7 p.m. JV at 5:30 p.m. 13 freshmen vs. Old Saybrook at 6:30 p.m. 16 varsity @ H-K High School at 7 p.m. JV at 5:30 p.m. 16 freshmen @ Portland High School at 10:30 a.m. 19 varsity vs. Haddam-Killingworth at 7:30 p.m. JV at 6:30 p.m. 20 freshmen @ Hyde-Fair Haven at 4:30 p.m. 23 varsity vs. Old Lyme at 7:30 p.m. JV at 6 p.m. 23 freshmen @ Old Lyme at 10:30 a.m. 26 varsity @ Westbrook High School at 7:30 p.m. JV at 6 p.m. 29 varsity @ East Hampton at 7:30 p.m. JV at 6 p.m. 30 freshmen vs. Westbrook at noon February 1 freshmen vs. North Branford at 6:30 p.m. 2 varsity vs. Old Saybrook at 7:30 p.m. JV at 6 p.m. 3 freshmen vs. Morgan at 6:30 p.m. 5 varsity @ Morgan High School at 7 p.m. JV at 5:30 p.m. 6 freshmen vs. Portland at noon 9 varsity vs. Cromwell at 7:30 p.m. JV at 6 p.m. 10 freshmen vs. East Hampton at 6:30 p.m. 12 varsity @ Portland at 7 p.m. JV at 5:30 p.m. 13 freshmen @ Valley Regional at 10:30 a.m. 15 freshmen vs. Valley Regional at 6:30 p.m. 16 varsity @ Hyde at Fair Haven School 7:30 p.m. JV at 6 p.m. 17 freshmen vs. Haddam-Killingworth at 6:30 p.m. 19 varsity vs. Valley Regional at 7:30 p.m. JV at 6 p.m. 20 freshmen @ North Branford High School at 10:30 a.m.

Indoor Track December 10, Shoreline Dev Meet at New Haven Athletic Center at 4:30 p.m. January 6, Shoreline 1 at New Haven Athletic Center at 4:30 p.m. January 9, Shoreline Coaches Invitational at New Haven Athletic Center at 10 a.m. January 22, Shoreline 2 at New Haven Athletic Center at 4:30 p.m. February 6 Shoreline Championship at New Haven Athletic Center at 10 a.m.

December 9 varsity @ North Branford at 7:30 p.m. JV at 6 p.m. 12 varsity vs. Valley Regional at 7:30 p.m. JV at 6 p.m. 15 varsity vs. Morgan at 7:30 p.m. JV at 6 p.m. 18 varsity @ HK High School at 7 p.m. JV at 5:30 p.m. 21 varsity vs. East Hampton at 7:30 p.m. JV at 6 p.m. 23 varsity @ Canton at 7 p.m. JV at 5:30 p.m. 28 varsity vs Portland at 7:30 p.m. JV at 6 p.m. non-league January 4 varsity vs. SMSA at 7:30 p.m. JV at 6 p.m. 5 varsity @ Hale Ray at 7 p.m. JV at 5:30 p.m. 12 varsity vs. HK at 7:30 p.m. JV at 6 p.m. 15 varsity vs. Old Lyme at 7:30 p.m. JV at 6 p.m. 18 varsity @ Westbrook at 2:30 p.m. JV at 1 p.m. 21 varsity @ East Hampton at 5 p.m. JV at 3:30 p.m. 25 varsity vs. Old Saybrook at 7:30 p.m. JV at 6 p.m. 28 varsity @ Morgan at 7 p.m. JV at 5:30 p.m. February 1 varsity vs. Cromwell at 7:30 p.m. JV at 1 JV at 6 p.m. 4 varsity @ Portland at 7 p.m. JV at 5:30 p.m. league game 8 varsity @ Hyde at Truman School at 6:30 p.m. JV at 5 p.m. 11 varsity @ Valley Regional at 7 p.m. JV at 5:30 p.m. 15 varsity vs. North Branford at 7:30 p.m. JV at 6 p.m.

Strong School Basketball Coaches : Rett Mancinelli and Amy Schaefer for the girls, and Steve Anderson for the boys December 8 vs. Colchester girls away, boys at home 10 vs. East Hampton girls home, boys away 15 vs. Cromwell girls away, boys home 17 vs. Portland girls home, boys away January 5 vs. Rocky Hill girls away, boys home 7 vs. Berlin girls away, boys home 11 vs. Rham girls home, boys away 13 vs. Colchester girls home, boys away 19 vs. East Hampton girls away, boys home 20 vs. Cromwell girls home, boys away 22 vs. Portland girls away, boys home 26 vs. Rocky Hill girls home, boys away 28 vs. Berlin girls home, boys away February 1 vs. RHAM girls away, boys home 2 vs. TEMS girls home, boys away Varsity games generally start by 3:30 p.m. and JV games are played at the conclusion of the varsity games.

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Town Times

The Members of the 1st Annual Discover Durham Business Expo Committee Wishes to Give Special Thanks to our Sponsors: 1st Annual Discover Durham Business Expo Sponsors Glazer Dental Associates Gossip Family Restaurant Hobson & Motzer Co. Kevin Johnson Enterprise Larkin’s Run Laser Ingraving (LasEngs) Liberty Bank Lino’s Market Little Rooster Liquors Lori’s Main Street Grooming Kim’s Cottage Confections Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce New Horizon Travel Pampered Chef Printing Department, Inc. Realty Associates RLI Electric Sharon McCormick Designs Silpada Designs TD Bank Torrison Stone & Garden Town Times

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Eagle Scout S e n . Gaffey was in attendance at Tyler Sibley’s Eagle Ceremony on Nov. 29. Tyler says a huge “Thank You” to all that helped the dog park, his scout project, become a reality. Please visit our website at www.middlefielddogpark.com.

Mercy Honor Roll Sister Mary A. McCarthy, principal of Mercy High School in Middletown, has announced the names of the following students as honor roll students for the first marking period. From Durham, earning high honor were Megan Bogdanski, Jessica Nielsen, Elizabeth Rinder, Julia Kannam, Melissa Marks, Allison Pearson, Sarah Bower, Sarah Marran, Sara Rosborough, Catherine Kannam, Jennifer Kennedy, Kelsey Pietruska and Sara Richardson. Earning

first honors were Emily Bower, Haley Petruzelo, Rebecca Ludecke, Shannon McAuliffe, Margaret Bruno, Shannon Egan, Alexa Marks, Kerry Egan, Jane Landy, Madison Marone, Cassandra Santoro, Amanda Carrasco, Christina Sergi, Morgan McNulty and Ashley McLaughlin. From Middlefield, earning high honors were Victoria Piscatelli and Mary Wojtowicz. Earning first honors were Megan Freemantle, Genieva Hylton, Brigid Ernst, Sara Gmryek, Haylle Reidy, Bernadette Conroy, Kathryn Overturf, Jillian Chongruk, Delia Ernst and Mary Neidhardt.

Friday, December 4, 2009 From Rockfall, earning high honors was Alexia Mazzotta and earning second honors was Anastasia Griffin.

Xavier Honor Roll Headmaster Brother Brian Davis, C.F.X. has announced the Honor Roll for the first marking period. The criteria for a student to qualify for “high honors” are a grade point average of at least 3.5 and no grade lower than a B. To attain “honors” in a given marking period a student must have at least a 3.0 grade

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point average and no grade lower than a C. Earning high honors from Durham were freshman Tushar Vig; sophomores Gregory Brown, Geoffrey DeVille, Andrew Gonzalez, Michael Mastroianni, Akshay Vig and Victor Wu; juniors Geoffrey Bruno and Timothy Rhone; and seniors Tucker Landy and Mark Fusco. Earning honors from Durham were freshmen Mitchell Brown and Raymond Peach; sophomores Matthew DeKoeyer, Connor Landers and Jonathan Manacchio; juniors Andrew DeMarinis, Thomas Linden, Jacob Randazzo and Graham Stewart; and seniors Andrew Brown, Joseph Kask Jr., Kevin Landers and Kyle Pietruska. Earning high honors from Middlefield were sophomore Joel Williams and seniors Ryan Overturf, Tomas Virgadula and Andrew Williams. Earning honors from Middlefield were freshmen Tim Boyle and Trevor Root; juniors Mathew DiDato and Josh Etheridge and seniors Jonathan Geenty and Kyle Parrilla. Earning high honors from Rockfall was junior Tyler Sena, and earning honors were sophomore Nicholas Mazzotta and seniors Luigi Mazzotta, Christopher Scamporino and David Wolak.

Xavier Honor Society inductees Headmaster Brother Brian Davis, C.F.X. announced that the following students met the requirements of the National Honor Society and were inducted into the school’s local chapter on Nov. 22. Xavier students need a cumulative GPA of 3.2 or higher in order to be eligible for membership. Each member must complete 12 hours of service for NHS for each year of membership and reflect “a giving back” to the school community. Members of NHS work to provide a peer tutoring program for Xavier. Inducted from Durham were Jacob Randazzo, Gregory Brown, Matthew DeKoeyer, Geoffrey DeVille, Andrew Gonzalez, Connor Landers, Jonathan Manacchio, Michael Mastroianni, Michael Mischke, Akshay Vig, and Victor Wu. Nicholas Mazzotta, of Rockfall, was also inducted.

Friday, December 4, 2009

Mfld. P&Z (Continued from page 12)

(From page 1)

mention, the players themselves aren’t happy with an all-road schedule. Senior football co-captain Eddy Ruddy said his team expected a football field to be ready for his senior year, but that didn’t happen. Now they are told it might not even be ready for next year’s team. “We definitely want to play some home games,” he said. “Home field advantage is a great thing and there’s lots of pride in it.” Fellow senior teammate Jack Bascom agrees. “Every-

one from town goes to the games, and it’s all about school spirit,” he said. “A nice facility only boosts that.” Bascom said the team is trying not to dwell on the bad news because they made it to the playoffs and have that to focus on. He noted that Coginchaug is third on the list for renting out Palmer Field, and he feels Falcon Field, another option, “is too small even for the little kids.” Sam Frey, a senior on the track team, said he is frustrated because there seems to be so many people who are in support of the upgrades, yet they aren’t happening. Frey

and about 15 to 20 track team members attended several P&Z meetings to show their support. His teammate Garri Saganenko feels away games disrupt the academic schedule because players get home so late. Others, like cross country runners, cheerleaders and coaches, agree that the delay jeopardizes next year’s athletics. Tennis coach Karen Kean feels sorry for her players who are affected by the appeals simply because the lights and sound at the track, that are considered problematic, are all part of the package. “It’s all going to end up coming out the way we wanted

but taking much too long,” said Kean. “What happens is kids are the ones that will lose.” That’s exactly what Lynda DelVecchio, who says she is literally the closest resident to the school, said. “It’s about the kids,” she said. “Noone is going to be troubled, and for the amount of time this is going to take, it’s nothing but beneficial anyways.” Though Viccaro noted that part of a comprehensive high school is its athletics, she said the athletic facility is also a community venue for others in town, so everyone is affected by the delay.

Town Times Service Directory

1138714

1139170

Movado Farm Inc.

Riding Lessons

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Kitchens Bathrooms No job Decks too Storage Sheds small Power Washing Ceramic Tile Sheetrock & Taping House Painting/Interior & Exterior

860•349•1909

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Lic./Reg. #573161

349-8728 Heated Indoor Arena

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Addy & Sons Landscaping 349-1314 • 349-3297 1132798

Decorative Walkways, patios and Retaining Walls Backhoe and Loader Work • Planting • Trimming York Raking • Pruning • Weeding • Painting Insured • Free Estimates

860-349-3033 Fall Clean-ups Insured

CT Lic. # 579167

Snowplowing Free Estimates 1135693

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1137692

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1137699

Bruce Binge

WHITEHOUSE

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(860) 349-1904 Fully Insured

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Now Accepting New Customers

Custom Building & Remodeling Contractor 1137694

See Mfld. P&Z, page 23

Appeals

1136719

concern with the proposal was whether it would affect neighboring properties due to increased use and the need for additional parking. According to Hurlburt, skaters were already using other parts of the park to skate. Furthermore, the commission asked that Hurlbert bring a list of uses that the recreation commission wants to include on the new field at the park. Hurlbert explained that he wants to keep the field open for when something temporary needs to be set up, but Hamilton felt that a list of approved uses would make it clear what the recreation committee can do when a resident complains about activities on the site. The commission requested that Hurlbert return in January with a list of what he wants to do on the field site as well as to resume discussion on the skate park. Cease and Desist order and other business Colegrove also informed the commission that a Cease and Desist order has been issued to the owner of 653 Main Street for site plan violations involving an addition and grading. This led into a conversation between zoning commission member Kevin Boyle and Geoff Colegrove about whether or not the town should require a site plan put together by a professional engineer. While Colegrove admitted that the site plans issued to the town could be improved, he felt that requiring an additional $2,000-$3,000 cost to property owners was unnecessary due to the amount of building activity in town. He added that the commission shouldn’t “Alter the regs over one bad egg” and that the need for a Certificate of Occupancy should insure the problem is taken care of, anyway. A discussion was also held regarding the installation of a water tank at Lake Beseck. Assistant Fire Chief Jason Wickham explained that it’s a 12,000-gallon underground water tank that can be accessed via manhole. He said it is necessary due to the unreliable water levels of the lake. The commission’s only recommendation was that it be designed properly so as not

Town Times Jumps

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347-1445

Town Times Obituaries

Rebecca Kramer Rebecca Kramer, 61, a resident of Middletown and formerly of Durham, died peacefully after a long illness on

Sunday, Nov. 29, 2009, with her family by her side. Born in Hartford, she was the daughter of the late Julius and Anna (Fisher) Kramer. Rebecca attended West Hartford public schools and earned

her undergraduate and Masters degree in special education at Southern Connecticut State College. She was a free and kindred spirit, taking every opportunity that she could to see the world. She

Friday, December 4, 2009

started her teaching career in Long Beach, CA, where she made lifelong friends before returning to Connecticut. She taught at the Foundation School in Orange. Rebecca also taught in the Middletown

Town Times Service Directory

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CT Lic. 0612088

Fully Licensed and Insured

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and Fairfield public schools for many years and had a strong, positive influence in the lives of her students. She was a loving and devoted mother, sister and aunt. She is survived by her two loving and devoted sons, Peter Zirolli of San Diego, CA, and Ben Zirolli of Durham; her brother Barry Kramer and his wife Judy of Fairfield, her sister, Beatrice Richman and her husband I. Marc of Bloomfield, her former husband Leo Zirolli of Durham and many nieces and nephews. The funeral was held at the John Hay Memorial Park Cemetery in Hartford. The family wishes to thank the third floor nursing staff at Wadsworth Glen in Middletown and the hospice unit at Middlesex Hospital for their loving care. The family also wishes to give a special thank you to Alyce for her thoughtful care, compassion and attention shown to Rebecca over the years. In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be made to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Connecticut Chapter, P.O. Box 1748, Hartford, Ct. 06144-1748 or to the Hospice Unit at Middlesex Hospital, Middletown, CT. Funeral arrangements provided by Hebrew Funeral Association, Inc., 906 Farmington Ave., West Hartford.

License #578379 Office: 860-349-4567

Richard S. (Bud) Adams, 87, of Anchorage, AK, died peacefully in his daughter’s home in Durham, on Thursday, Nov. 26, 2009. Born in Grand Junction, CO, Oct. 20, 1922, the son of Waldo W. and Ethyl Burgess Adams, Bud was a WWII veteran, serving in the U.S. Army Cavalry and Infantry from 1941 through 1945. Because of his musical ability, he was appointed to the cavalry Division Band as a saxophonist and clarinetist. He toured the U.S., France, England and Germany entertaining civilians and troops. In Europe he entertained at official functions as well as jazz venues to celebrate the liberation of Europe from Nazi Germany. Upon his return, he attended the Univ. of Wyoming, receiving his B.S in Civil Engineering in 1948. There he met the love of his life, Margaret Gowdy, who sang with the Chauncenets group and played piano with the University Jazz Orchestra.

See Adams, next page

Town Times Obituaries

Friday, December 4, 2009

Adams

(From page 20)

Middlefield, and brother Paul Beaulieu of S. Windsor, CT. A memorial service in celebration of Vena’s life will be held on Monday, Dec. 7, at the United Churches of Durham at

11 a.m. Burial will be private. Her family is grateful for all of the loving care provided by Middlesex Hospice and would appreciate that in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to

Hospice and Palliative Care at Middlesex Hospital, Middletown. A world is grateful for a woman who embraced everyone and everything she ever encountered.

Town Times Service Directory

DAVID M. FUGGE Antique & Fine Furniture Refinishing & Restoration

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He was a 57-year resident and pioneer of Alaska, being a founding partner of Adams, Corthell, Lee, Wince & Assoc. and Alaska Test Lab. In 1987 Bud retired from professional life as a project manager with the U.S. Army. He was a member of Rotary International, the National Defense Executive Reserve and the Anchorage Symphony Board. He was a great lover of jazz and classical music and his home was always filled with the sound of the jazz masters. He was a performing member (clarinet) and past president of the Anchorage Symphony Orchestra. He was a loving, kind and compassionate father who always wanted the best for his family. Bud was preceded in death by his wife of 53 years, Margaret, Waldo “Sonny” Adams. He was the beloved father of and is survived by three children, Karen L. Adams of Keedysville, MD, Katie R. Burton of Durham, CT, Richard B. Adams of Anchorage, AK and two grandchildren, Maegan Burton of Wilmington, DE and Adam Burton of Durham, CT. A private service will be held in his honor in the future.

She was also the blessed grandmother of 15, and greatgrandmother of nine. Vena is loved and survived by her sisters Salina O’Clair of Ashland, ME; Mildred Sutherland of

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On Tuesday, Dec. 1, Vena Sutherland (82), of Durham, became an angel in heaven. Yet those blessed enough to know her, know the truth: she was a guardian angel to many long before leaving this world. She has been an inspiration to others for beating cancer 17 years ago and for supporting others in their fight by organizing and leading the Gaylord Cancer Survivor’s Support Group. Her vibrant attitude toward life infected others with joy and love. She encouraged the enjoyment of life, especially as the Queen Mother of the Daring Durham Divas chapter of the Red Hat Society. Most of all, she will be remembered as the amazing mother, grandmother, sister and friend that she was. Vena was predeceased by her husband Rodney E. Sutherland. She is survived by her sons Rodney and his wife Linda of Hudson, MA; Peter and his wife Adi of Ellington, CT; Martin of B.C.; and William of Glastonbury, CT; and her daughters, Tina Maccalous and her husband Michael of Torrington, CT; and Susan Gaudreau and her husband Philip of Haddam Neck, CT.

Town Times Column Con’t

Sunshine! On Veteran’s Day, a group of a dozen or so veterans who had attended the Middlefield ceremonies ate at the Athenian Diner for lunch. Before they were done, they had been informed that a costumer had anonymously paid for their meal.

Future

(From page 9)

policy in Connecticut and throughout New England since most young people who are highly educated cite employment as the number one reason they move. “Policies that connect young people attending New England’s colleges and universities – especially from outside the region, who may have fewer connections to it – with regional employers may help states retain young professionals.” Translation – the health of our state economy is dependent on having more young peo-

ENTERPRISE ZONE

ple prepared to succeed in college along with a business community and private entrepreneurs who are attached at all levels to higher education, both private and public. Two legislative committees recently convened an invitational forum on economic conditions and workforce development. After gauging current status, we must redouble efforts to position our state for an expeditious recovery and then maximize the number of new jobs created. If there was one area of agreement among panelists, it’s that Connecticut is enviably rich with potential in several areas primed to become economic growth engines. These include: 1) energy, be-

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Friday, December 4, 2009

cause the state is home to clean, renewable and versatile fuel cell technology, 2) finance, because Fairfield County has already capitalized on its proximity to New York with opportunity for expansion, and 3) healthcare and bio-technology, because this is home for several renowned universities and research hospitals. State policy must be driven by coupling more of the state’s universities with entrepreneurial activity in science and technology, such as the increasingly significant and growing cluster of bio-technology in New Haven around Yale University. UConn’s Center for Clean Energy Engineering conducts fuel cell research, education and product development so that Connecticut will be the primary global venue for the fuel cell industry. Central Connecticut State University’s Institute for Technology and Business Development has an incubator program that offers entrepreneurs the tools and the space

to create and develop their businesses. Eastern Connecticut State University’s Institute for Sustainable Energy works with businesses to benchmark energy efficiency and improve conservation. These and other examples of higher education working with the private sector serve as the model to capitalize on the strengths of our human capital to stimulate economic activity and grow jobs well into the future. Despite fallout from the current global economic upheaval and persistent uncertainty, Connecticut has the talent to emerge from this downturn strong and prosperous. Our state has a tradition of success, an historic commitment to education and the finest universities in the world, fledgling high-tech industries and easy access to global markets. All the pieces are in place, if they are assembled properly, and soon. That needs to be job one for Connecticut.

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Friday, December 4, 2009

(Continued from page 12)

1 BR - $725/mo. + Utilities 2 BR - $925/mo. Includes Heat & Hot Water No Dogs 2 Months Security Required

Call 860-982-3000

CONDO FOR SALE

1139166

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

A local church is trying to furnish a pastor’s study with next to no funds, so I thought I would put out an appeal to y’all to see if anyone has a loveseat and/or easy chair that could be donated. It doesn’t have to match as we have access to folks with re-covering skills. Please let Margo Chase-Wells know, at margochasewells@gmail.com, if you have something that we might be able to resurrect.

We’re on the Web: http://www.towntimes.com

Correction The telephone number for the Dress for Success program in the Nov. 27 issue on page 2 was incorrect. The law firm that is sponsoring the collection drive for gently used dress clothes suitable for office workers can be reached at 860-767-9044.

Scholastic Book Fair at Strong School The Scholastic Book Fair opens up at Strong School on Monday, Nov. 30, and runs through Friday, Dec. 11. in the media center. The fair is open from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. with special hours on Thursday, Dec. 3, from 6 to 9 p.m. Fill your holiday shopping needs, give the gift of reading and support the library at the same time. If you have any questions, contact Mr. Klimas at 860-3497222 ext. 231 or e-mail to mklimas@rsd13.org.

Pamela Sawicki-Beaudoin Broker/Owner

en 3 Opn. 1Su 40 Main St., Durham

349-0344

www.berardino.com

109 Meeting House Hill Rd, Durham Beautiful 3 bedroom Cape remodeled throughout! This home features a refurbished kitchen w/cherry cabinets, 2 updated baths, fresh paint, carpet, & refinished wood flrs. Spacious yard w/breathtaking views of Durham village in distance, & fenced in patio ready for a hot tub! Only $319,900. Call Berardino Realtors at 349-0344. Dir: Rt 17 or Rt 77 to Meeting House Hill Road

Lisa Golebiewski, ABR, GRI Broker/Owner

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1139521

1137760

MIDDLEFIELD APARTMENTS FOR RENT

Furniture needed

CRU (Community Round-Up) is coming tomorrow! Get ready to donate non-perishable foodstuffs for the hungry when a student knocks at your door between 9 a.m. and noon. Be generous!

1139418

to pop out of the ground. Otherwise, they gave the project their approval. In other business, the commission spoke with resident Tom Rogers, who wanted to know why a formal application had yet to be submitted for the Crescimano property in the Design District along Route 66. The commission has held a number of informal discussions so far, but that’s it. Colegrove informed Rogers that the informal discussions are meant to avoid an applicant coming in with 90 percent of their planning done, only to hear that the commission wants a building oriented a different way or has some other significant issue with the plans. He also noted that Crescimano is already in the process of receiving approval from Inland Wetlands on an application. Rogers also wanted a job description for the town planner. Colegrove said he could put one together for Rogers if he wanted, but that it basically came down to doing what he’s told by the Board of Selectmen and P&Z Commission. This involves going over applications, putting together legal notices, preparing the record for appeals and other similar matters. Commission

members noted that the lack of job descriptions is an issue for a number of jobs in town.

DURHAM

Mfld. P&Z

Town Times

Completely Remodeled!

Private, Park-Like Setting!

Deceivingly Spacious!

Durham - This 2342 sq. ft. Ranch style home has been completely gutted & remodeled with a huge new great room/master bedroom addition. Features 3 BRs, 2 full baths, granite counters, all new stainless steel appliances, beautiful HW & tile flooring. Also has vaulted ceiling w/skylites, 1 wood fplc. & 2 propane stoves, cair & 2 car garage. All set on nearly 1 acre. MUST SEE! Offered at $324,900.

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Durham - This charming 4 bedroom expanded, Cape-style home has nearly 3000 sq. ft. and features a unique floor plan that’s great for entertaining! Its galley kitchen is accessible to both the first floor family room and dining room areas. Other amenities include 3 full bathrooms, 2 fplcs., c-air, Corian & granite counters, new roof, fully finished LL and an office/computer center with its own separate entrance with new pergo floors. All set on .69 acres with a heated inground pool. Must See! Not a drive-by. Offered at $438,950. Call Pam Beaudoin for your private showing at 860-349-5300.

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Town Times

Health Mart

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Friday, December 4, 2009

December SALE!

Sale ends 12/30/09

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