Volume 17, Issue 44
Serving Durham, Middlefield and Rockfall
Durham revaluation leads to seven percent drop in grand list By Sue VanDerzee Town Times While area towns are rejoicing with gains in their grand lists of less than one percent, you would think that Durham assessor John Philip would be concerned that Durham’s grand list dropped almost seven percent due to the 2010 revaluation. Not so, however. Philip is quite philosophical, explaining that the burst housing bubble, plus the still-depressed economy in general, make such a drop almost inevitable during current revaluations. For folks who might not understand those last two sentences, here’s a tiny primer on Connecticut’s local tax system. Grand lists are produced annually by local assessors and are lists of all the taxable property in a town or city. This taxable property is in the form of real estate (including homes, buildings and land), personal property (largely manufacturing equipment and inventory) and motor vehicles. Towns use the totals of taxable property in their towns when setting tax rates. Thus, the more taxable property there is in a town, the lower the tax rate can be to support town expenditures at a particular level. Towns such as Durham and Middlefield also worry about the balance in the grand list and how much of the wealth of the town is in residential real estate as opposed to business and commercial wealth. Revaluations, or redoing the list completely, are mandated by state statute to occur every five years. Durham’s took place in 2010, and thus the grand list of Oct. 1, 2010, on which taxes will be based
for the next five years, is based on this revaluation. The reason to have these revaluations, which are costly and involve extra work for town officials, is to have a “fair” tax rate. The theory is that if you have more taxable property, in the form of a larger home or multiple vehicles, then you can afford to pay more in local taxes. Given changes that occur over time – construction of a shopping center next to your neighborhood, changes in the general economy, etc. – the value of your property can increase or decrease. Thus revaluations keep the system as equitable as possible. Property owners in Durham were mailed revaluation information in mid2010. According to Philip, 84 property owners applied to speak with revaluation company representatives, 80 showed up at their appointments and 40 valuations were changed. The grand list just released includes these changes. Now that the revaluation is complete, property owners have another chance to challenge their assessments and that is through the local Board of Assessment Appeals. An application must be filed with the local group by Feb. 20 (just over a week from now). Applications are on the town website at www.townofdurhamct.org under municipal government and then assessor or by picking one up at the Building and Health Office on the second floor of Town Hall. 2010 grand list The total net assessment of all the taxable property in Durham based on the Oct. 1, 2010 grand list is $727,632,930, a 6.8 percent decline from the
Friday, Februar y 11, 2011
Enthusiasm for reading!
Above, the “Outrageous Oreganos” team participated in the Nutmeg at Night reading event at the Durham Library where teams competed in a game show format with questions from the Nutmeg book award list. By Cheri Kelley 2009 grand list total of $780,772,117. The current mill rate based on the 2009 grand list is 26.81. What that means to taxpayers is that for every $1,000 of property they own on the grand list, they pay $26.81 to support the current (2009-10) town and school budgets. Even if both town and school budget proposals for next year remain at current levels (not likely), the mill rate will go up in order to pay for it. That does not mean, however, that an individual’s taxes will go up. According to Philip, if your assessment dropped more than 6.8 percent, then your share of the town’s expenses will go down. If your assessment did not drop 6.8 percent or perhaps See Grand list, page 25
In this issue ... Calendar............................4 Durham Briefs................14 Election questions .......12-13 Inquiring Photographer....21 Libraries.........................15 Middlefield Briefs...........14 Obituary..........................23 Sports ..........................25-27
Middlefield grand list grows 0.55 percent By Cheri Kelley Town Times The updated grand list for Middlefield has recently been released, and the growth for Middlefield was 0.55 percent. The grand list is a listing of all taxable property in the town as of Oct. 1, 2010. This list is the starting point for towns when budget time rolls around. Steve Hodgetts, Middlefield’s assessor, said, “It appears that the minimal growth in Middlefield’s grand list is pretty comparative with many other towns, as long as there is no real estate revaluation.” There was a drop in personal property of 1.78 percent and motor vehicle rose by 3.59 percent. The new 2010 total taxable amount on the grand list is $464,948,950. “The increase amounts to about $42,900 in additional tax revenue if the mill rate stays the same. However,
there are many unknowns at this point – namely the town budget; Region 13 budget; and the state budget. Will the state reimburse all of the mandated programs, and at what level? We can only wait and see, “ said Hodgetts. The overall top 10 taxpayers, which includes real estate, personal property and motor vehicles, include Zygo Corp., Connecticut Light and Power, Lyman Farm Inc., Rogers Manufacturing and TET Manufacturing/SMCC, which are in the same top five positions as last year. United Holdings/United Cleaning is in the sixth position and Cooper Atkins is in the seventh; they switched positions from last year. Ramar Hall Inc./KVF Realty is position eight from 10th last year. Xenelis Construction is ninth again, and Meadowview Farm/Magee/Magner is in the 10th spot from eighth last year.
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Garden discussion at CFPA in Rockfall Adam Wheeler, propagation and plant development manager at Broken Arrow Nursery in Hamden, will talk about 30 favorite trees and shrubs at an open meeting of the Middletown Garden Club Thursday, Feb. 17, at 1 p.m. at the Connecticut Forest & Park Association headquarters, 16 Meriden Rd. (Rte 66) in Rockfall. Broken Arrow Nursery is noted for its inventory of rare and unusual trees, shrubs and perennials. They were the supplier for the newly-landscaped Durham Public Library.
Town Times Community Briefs
Art demo at MFC The Middletown Art Guild will be having its next demo at the Middlefield Federated Church, 390 Main Street in Middlefield. It will feature award-winning watercolorist Lou Bonamarte. He was a former instructor and dean at Lyme Academy of Fine Arts and is listed in International Biographies’ Men of Achievement, Who’s Who in American Art and Who’s Who in the East. He was selected to receive the Herb Olson Award from the American Watercolor Society and membership to the Grand Central Art Galleries in New York City. Mr. Bonamarte has participated in numerous special exhibitions and has his work
in countless private and corporate collections. The meeting/demo will be held on Thursday, Feb. 10, at 7 p.m. Members are invited to bring a work for a painting of the month contest. The public is welcome, and refreshments will be served. A donation is suggested for non-Art Guild members.
The week that Middlefield was going to change the world For a blistering hot weekend at the end of July 1970, the eyes of the entire country were on the Powder Ridge ski area in Middlefield, where a group of New York promoters planned to stage a youth festival and rock concert that would cap-
Index of Advertisers 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 860349-8000, and we’ll do our best to make things right.
Your
sored by the Middlesex County Historical Society. All are invited, and those who were at Powder Ridge during that remarkable weekend are encouraged to join and share their firsthand accounts. The statute of limitations has passed, and no video or audio recordings will be made, so there will be a lively discussion of one of the most exciting weekends in the history of Middlesex County. Put on that tie-dyed shirt, pull those thinning gray hairs back into a ponytail and make the scene for some great vibes and a very groovy evening. The Hubbard Room is handicappedaccessible. For more information, call the Historical Society at 860-346-0746.
italize on the karma of the previous summer’s Woodstock Festival. Youth culture was one of the burning issues of society, and the divisions of America were symbolized in many ways by the massive gatherings that focused on music but promised to change the pattern of human interaction. Time magazine ran a feature article on the Powder Ridge event, while The New York Times and many other newspapers produced a series of lengthy stories on the gathering of nearly 30,000 young people that took place despite a court injunction that prohibited the 30 advertised artists, including some of the biggest names in the world of rock music, from attending. The only musician who appeared was Melanie Safka, who was smuggled on site in disguise and performed with a sound system jerryrigged from a generator on a Mister Softee truck. You can learn more about Melanie’s performance and many other unusual incidents at the Hubbard Room of the Russell Library, 123 Broad Street, Middletown, on March 10, at 7 p.m., when Bill Ryczek will make a presentation and lead a group discussion on the festival. The program, which is free and open to the public, is spon-
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Winterfest rescheduled The 39th annual Winterfest at Lyman Orchards in Middlefield has been rescheduled. Winterfest will be held Feb. 26 and 27, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Attractions include free samplings of great food, horse-drawn wagon rides, ice sculptures, plus fruit-tree pruning demonstrations and Siberian husky sled dog mushing demonstrations.
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To advertise in the Town Times, call Joy Boone at 860-349-8026 Michalowski Agency..................14 Ace Oil .........................................7 Allan’s Tree Service ..........3, 7, 23 Micheli Unisex Styling Salon.......5 APEC Electric............................24 Middlesex Community College ...16 Avenue Enterprises...................25 Middlesex Ob/Gyn.....................14 Batters Box..........................17, 19 Mim’s Oil....................................11 Berardino Company Realtors .....28 MLT Painting .............................26 Binge, Bruce..............................25 Movado Farm ............................22 Black Dog ..................................13 Bogen, Charles Jr., CPA...........23 Neil Jones Home Improvements.....22 Bonterra Italian Bistro................15 New England Dental Health......14 Book Bower...............................11 Northern Middlesex YMCA .......19 Bruenn, Thomas..........................7 Pathways To Balance ...............24 Cahill & Sons.............................26 Petruzelo Agency Insurance ..21, 24 Carlton Interior...........................11 Planeta Electric .........................26 Carmine’s Restaurant .................5 Prancing Pony...........................15 Centurion Exterminating............24 Charette, David .........................17 Raney, Jason, DMD..................12 Classic Wood Flooring ..............26 Realty Associates......................27 Conroy, John, DMD...................19 Rice, Davis, Daley & Kren.........17 Desjarlais, Marsha ....................27 RLI Electric ................................23 Durham Auto Center ...................2 Roblee Plumbing.......................23 Durham Dental ............................5 Rockfall Co ................................22 Durham Kitchen...........................3 Durham Market............................3 RSDL Home Improvements......25 Durham Wine & Spirits..............13 Sharon McCormick Design .........5 Family Tree Care ......................26 Silver Mill Tours.........................16 Fine Work Home Improvement.....3, 24 Singles Alternative.....................11 Fosdick, Gordon, MD ................12 Snow Services...........................11 Fuel & Service .............................6 Sweet Surrounding....................23 Glazer Dental Associates..........11 T-N-T Home & Lawncare..........22 Golschneider Painting...............22 Gossip .......................................11 Tile Renovators .........................25 Grace Lutheran Preschool ..........3 Time Out Tavern .........................6 Hansen Contracting ..................24 Torrison Stone & Garden ..........23 Huscher, Debbie .......................27 Uncle Bob’s Flower & Garden......6 Ianniello Plumbing.....................26 VMB Custom Builders...............25 Independent Day School...........12 Whitehouse Construction..........25 Kim’s Cottage Confections..........7 Lino’s Market ...............................5 Windows Plus............................18
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Town Times
Powder Ridge financing and snow removal from Community Center roof in question at Middlefield Board of Selectmen’s meeting “We have a right to know.”
By Chuck Corley Special to Town Times
This failed to appease individuals such as Laura Williams, who asked, “Do we have an ethics committee?” in response to Brayshaw’s conduct, before going on to say, “It really bothers me that this isn’t in the public domain.”
CT Reg. #00558904
The
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replied that the roof doesn’t have a history of holding three feet of snow, and he felt it was necessary to remove it as soon as possible. Social Services Director Antoinette Astle spoke in favor of Brayshaw’s decision, stating, “I was here that day. I was afraid to come to work.” Astle also informed the board that she received 19
Selectman
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Brayshaw also came under fire for hiring Contracting Unlimited to remove snow from the community center’s roof, as the town didn’t go out to bid and the company is run by Planning and Zoning member Jerry Russ. “It’s a conflict of interest for a sitting board member to contract services out to the town,” said Mary Johnson.
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Other criticisms were also levied against the town’s financing plan, with Williams
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First Selectman Jon Brayshaw was met with considerable criticism during the Board of Selectmen’s meeting on Feb. 7. Fellow board member Mary Johnson revealed that TD Bank will not go forward with nine-month financing for debts related to Powder Ridge. Instead, TD Bank only approved short-term financing over a period of 90 days, meaning that the town will owe another $20,000 payment come April — $20,000 that currently isn’t planned for in the 2010-2011 budget. “You should have said this at the town meeting,” Johnson stated, with members of both the public and other boards joining in agreement. “It’s very critical that this information be given to the Board of Selectmen and Board of Finance,” added finance board member Lucy Petrella, who also noted that,
When pressed, Brayshaw explained that, “I left the discussion between Joe and TD Bank.” He cited Finance Director Joe Geruch’s absence for vacation as the reason for not coming forward with TD Bank’s decision.
saying that, “If we’ve been managing our money like a short-term check managing operation, I don’t think it bodes well.” She noted that if the town’s current three percent interest rate goes up to 18 percent, people will wonder why Middlefield didn’t go with a 7-8 percent interest long-term bond. However, Brayshaw said he wasn’t opposed to a permanent financing plan.
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Town Times & Places
4 FRIDAY
MONDAY
February 11 February 14 Tot Time
ST. VALENTINE’S DAY
The MOMS Club of Durham and Middlefield sponsors a weekly Tot Time at the Middlefield Community Center. It is held every Friday from 10:30 a.m. to noon. This open-age playgroup is available for all residents and their children of Durham, Middlefield and Rockfall. For more info on the MOMS Club, please contact Ann at momsdurhammiddlefield@yahoo.com.
Coginchaug Family Night CRHS boys’ basketball presents Family Night at the Coginchaug gymnasium. The Blue Devils will take on the Thunder Birds of North Branford; J.V. game starts at 6 p.m.; varsity game at 7:30 p.m. The pep band will perform at half time, with free prizes given out, and one student from each school in the district will win an official Blue Devil prize.
SATURDAY
February 12 Russell Writers Write a story, fact or fiction, incorporating the following: “I was only seven/six/five/four when my mother/father/sister/brother/neighbor told me…” All writers, beginners to experienced, are welcome to attend this Russell Library event at 9:30 a.m., 123 Broad St. in Middletown. Women’s Hike Women of the Woods (WomenoftheWoods.org) will have a free one-two hour hike (walk or snow shoeing) at Wadsworth Falls State Park starting at 10 a.m. Contact Lucy for details at lucy@everyoneoutside.org or 860-395-7771.
THURSDAY
February 17 Science Night Brewster School science night begins at 6 p.m.
FRIDAY
February 18
Valentine’s Dance The Durham Cogin-Chuggers will hold their Valentine Dance at Brewster School on Tuttle Road in Durham, from 8 to 10:30 p.m. Bill Mager will be the caller and Sue Lucibello the cuer. For more info, please call 860-349-8084 or 203-235-1604.
349-9558 or Bonnie at 860-3499433.
Durham 60+ Durham 60+ will have a Valentine’s Day Potluck Luncheon today at noon. It will be held in the United Churches fellowship hall located at the corner of Rt. 68 and Main Street. Members are asked to bring a favorite dish. Newcomers are welcome and doors will open at 11:45 a.m.
TUESDAY
February 15 POPS Nite Parents of Performers (POPS) will have their annual POPS Nite at CRHS at 7:30 p.m. The band and chorus will be performing.
WEDNESDAY
February 16 Knit Club Come knit or crochet at the Durham Activity Center Wednesdays from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Healing Eucharist Come to the Church of the Epiphany, Main Street in Durham, at 9 a.m. for the weekly Holy Eucharist with healing. Chocolate Sensations If you love chocolate and cooking or would like to learn to make some elegant desserts and chocolates, join Maria Poirier Brandriff from 1 to 3 p.m. in the Hubbard Room at the Russell Library, 123 Broad St. in Middletown. TOPS Join the TOPS meetings every Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. in the Durham Town Hall third floor meeting room. For info, call Naomi at 860-
Tot Time The MOMS Club of Durham and Middlefield sponsors a weekly Tot Time at the Middlefield Community Center. It is held every Friday from 10:30 a.m. to noon. This open-age playgroup is available for all residents and their children of Durham, Middlefield and Rockfall. For more info on the MOMS Club, please contact Ann at momsdurhammiddlefield@yahoo.com.
Friday, February 11, 2011
Durham/Middlefield Youth & Family Services What: Love is Not Violent Forum: Keeping Teen Relationships Safe Sponsored by Durham Middlefield Youth and Family Services (DMYFS) Who: for parents, teens and members of the community Texting can be abusive — some teens report receiving up to 300 texts per day from their dating partner Why: Up to 40 percent of teens nationwide report experiencing dating violence Panelists include: dating violence experts, counselors, DMYFS staff, teens and Resident State Trooper When: Wednesday, March 2, 2011 at CRHS Media Center 6:30 - 7:30 p.m. Panel Presentation 7:30 – 8 p.m. Q/A Snacks will be provided. The event is FREE.
SATURDAY
February 19 Ukulele Club “Jam” The Middlefield–CT Uke Club, sponsored by the Middlefield Park and Recreation Dept., will be meeting from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. at the Middlefield Community Center, 405 Main St. If you play or even have an interest in playing, stop by at 9 a.m. Bring your uke and a music stand. Contact Cindy Di Lauro at lucyr1953@yahoo.com for questions. Shrimp Dinner The K-Club, 168 Main St. in Rockfall, is hosting a baked stuffed shrimp dinner from 5 to 7 p.m. Call 860-3479521 for more info and to make reservations.
Choose respect
SUNDAY
February 20 Pastor’s Aide Anniversary Service Join the Pastor’s Aide Anniversary special service with guest preacher Rev. Arthur Green from Phillips Metropolitan CME Church, along with choir and congregation, at the Cross Street A.M.E. Zion Church, 440 West St. in Middletown, at 4 p.m. For info., call 860-3449527.
Above, the Love is Not Violent Team that has worked to spread the word about teen dating violence and how it can be prevented. A community forum, listed above, will be the culmination of their training and educating efforts. Submitted by Jane Moen
Friday, February 11, 2011
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Town Times
Local student club supports Roses for Autism By Judy Moeckel Special to Town Times Aside from candy hearts, almost nothing is more closely linked with Valentine’s Day than roses. This year, members of the Best Buds club at Strong Memorial School sold 115 roses for $2.50 each to raise money for their activities. The flowers will be distributed this Friday by members of the club who have special needs, fostering interaction among students who usually would not have much contact. Best Buds has a total of 50 members at Strong and Coginchaug High School (CRHS). Members include both students with and without disabilities. The club’s goal is clear-cut: to build partnerships among its members.
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Ethel Bonie, of East Haven, with a dried rose heart at Roses for Autism at Pinchbeck’s Rose Farm in Guilford.
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ship. Members have parties, do board games and gym activities, go bowling and take field trips to Lyman Orchards and Rock Cats games. Due to all the snow days recently, the rose fundraiser planned by the Coginchaug club had to be canceled, but members are enthusiastic about Best Buds and look forward to selling Roses for Autism in the spring. Jenny Ochterski of Middlefield, a senior at CRHS, has been a member of Best Buds since the end of her sophomore year. Ochterski, who is coordinator of special education events for her chapter of the National Honor Society, remembers how Best Buds began as a “peer mentoring” program for special needs students.
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There is a story behind the “Buds’ buds.” It has to do with Roses for Autism, a program that employs persons with autism at Pinchbeck’s Rose Farm in Guilford. Elizabeth Choudy, Vocational Job and Life Skills Coach for Coginchaug and Strong schools, says Best Buds, which has clubs at both schools, had been looking for a fundraiser to help underwrite its activities. “We’d heard about Roses for Autism, and we wanted to support it,” she said. Kathy Bottini, a social worker for Strong and Coginchaug and an advisor to the Best Buds clubs at the two schools, says Best Buds started about five years ago as a mentoring program for students with special needs. It has grown into a program that promotes fun and friend-
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Friday, February 11, 2011
Town Times
Rockfall resident celebrates 100th birthday By Wadsworth Glen Staff Mabel (Bisson) Sabourin turned 100 years old on January 25 and celebrated her special day at Wadsworth Glen Health Care and Rehabilitation Center, where she
has resided for the past three and a half years. She was born in a small town in Quebec and was one of 14 children. As a young adult, Mabel followed one of her sisters to Newport, R.I.
to pursue employment opportunities. She learned English from one of her employers and met and married her husband, Roland Sabourin, while in Rhode Island. Roland was a widower
Big Thaw Coming February 14th! Mark that date - it’s Valentine’s Day, and things are sure to warm up! Wintry woes are forgotten while you spend a cozy evening at Time Out Taverne with your special someone (kids optional). Early love-birds enjoy Valentine Dinner Specials beginning Friday the 11th. The champagne is cold, the oysters are chilled (or Rockefeller)... Your table is waiting!
raising two sons when Mabel came into his life. They moved to Middletown so that her husband could be involved in the construction of the Arrigoni Bridge. They eventually moved to Rockfall where they settled and raised their four sons: Marcel, Roger, Roland and Gilbert. Mabel was a stay-at-home mom and, according to her son Marcel, she was always there for her family and friends. Known as a sweet
person with a lot of friends, Mabel enjoyed being active in the Ladies Guild at St. Coleman’s church in Middlefield. Mabel has six grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. At her birthday party, which was held on Sunday, Jan. 30, Mabel had an enjoyable time, surrounded by her devoted friends and family, including four of her grandchildren and one great-grandchild.
Juice Jam for youth Grace Worship Band hosts a special hour for kids ages 111 called Eternal Perks “Juice Jam” at 4 p.m. on March 12. This event will be held at Grace Evangelical Lutheran Church Fellowship Hall, 1055 Randolph Rd. in Middletown. Come for an afternoon of music, movement and merriment, singing old favorites and learning new songs too. A potluck dinner will follow at 5 p.m. Bring a dish, snack, dessert or drink to share. For more info, call 860-346-2641. 1190217
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Friday, February 11, 2011
7
Town Times
Durham native helps create social networking app and website By Cheri Kelley Town Times
For example, Moldavsky’s background is from owning his own computer repair and service business while Tocco’s experience is working for large corporations such as Aetna and IBM as an executive and project manager. The other individuals involved have similar skills related to their roles. “For example, I myself am overseeing the technologies being utilized for the website and application, and my background is over 19 years working in IT,� said
But the real difference is the interactive uses of the iPhone app. Coe explained the app in detail: “We have developed something that nobody else has created to date. We have what’s known as a Close in Proximity Detection feature. What that means is that if you are within 75 feet of another phone with matching criteria, if the feature is turned on in the application, then both phones will notify the respective users. At that point they can decide if they want to hold their phones in the air and thereby ‘break the
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What does it take to create an app, one might ask? And how much computer knowledge and technical information are needed? Coe replied, “Of the six primary people involved, most of them have varying degrees of computer knowledge and experience.�
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Ever think with all of the technology out there your idea for a cool widget could really me made into something that others would use? Well, Kevin Coe, a Durham native, along with a group of colleagues, did just that. They created a website and an app for smart phones called ConnectQuest. The founders of the ConnectQuest project are Dave Moldavsky of Simsbury and Joseph Tocco of Canton. These three men, with an additional three others, created the project. The ConnectQuest smart phone app and website make up a social networking tool that brings together people for various reasons. It could be to buy or sell an item, like antiques, or to meet new people, among many other scenarios. “ConnectQuest was designed to connect people with other people and resources they do not yet know exist by utilizing a much directed, qualified
ice’ and make a face to face contact.� So for example, if one person is looking to purchase a first edition novel and another is looking to sell that particular book, this would be matching criteria, and both parties would be notified that they are near one another.
search to achieve a specific goal within the social, collaborative or e-commerce spaces,� Coe explained. The user can search by categories including education, sports, dating, friendship, collaboration, buying, selling, property and general services. It was designed to be efficient and easy-to-use. An interesting part of the app is the Proprietary MatchO-Meter™ indicators, which provide instant feedback of search results, and notify users in real time of matches as they occur.
See ConnectQuest, page 11
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Town Times Opinion
8
Friday, February 11, 2011
What a romantic community we have Town Times 488 Main St., P.O. Box 265, Middlefield, CT 06455 http://www.towntimes.com News Advertising Fax Marketplace
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Contributors: Chuck Corley, Diana Carr, Trish Dynia, Elisabeth Kennedy, Karen Kean, Judy Moeckel, Kathy Meyering, Tori Piscatelli and Sue VanDerzee.
We enjoyed the responses to this week’s Inquiring Photographer question for couples about Valentine’s Day (page 21) that asked, “What was the most romantic thing that you did for one another or that you were surprised by?” It looks like we have a lot of lovebirds in our community! This got the editorial department at Town Times thinking about how we would respond to the same question... Stephanie: “My boyfriend and I met in college, and he knew where I parked my car on campus. One day, I discovered an orange parking ticket on my windshield. My first thought was I had to pay a fine, and I was fuming. But when I opened it up, I was shocked to read that it was actually a love letter from my soon-to-be boyfriend, asking me out on our first date. I went from having a minor heart attack (I couldn’t afford to pay another ticket) to a very happy heart.” Cheri: “The night that my husband and I met I was wearing a pewter Celtic knot pendent; it was something I cherished and wore all the time and was also the ice breaker for our conversation. He wanted to know if I actually knew
the real meaning of the symbol or just wore it for looks. I said yes, it means “True Love” and he smiled and revealed a tattoo on his arm with the same exact knot pattern entwined on a shamrock. Fast forward two and a half years later—we decided to travel to Ireland on our honeymoon to see the magical land that brought us together.” Dee: “Life and love are not always about flowers and hearts...at least not in my relationship. For four years now, my boyfriened has worked 50+ hours a week to provide for our ever-growing family. He collaborates with me on dreams for our future. We sing and laugh with each other daily. We are best friends and encourage one another to fulfill our unique destinies. He makes me feel special every day, and that alone is romantic to me.” On a smiliar note, our online poll this week asked, “Do you do anything to celebrate Valentine’s Day?” Seventeen people responded by press time; 53 percent said “Yes” and 47 percent said “No.” Answer our next poll question at www.towntimes.com.
Letters to the Editor Thank you to Middlefield Fire Department On Thursday, Feb. 3, I got a call that my horse had gotten out and that he was in big trouble. As I rushed to get to the barn, I figured that what my father had meant by “getting out” was that I would find him running up Jackson Hill. When I arrived, what I found was not anything I had expected to see: my horse stuck in the snow without being able to get out or even stand up. In my 32 years of owning horses, I have never seen anything like this. At
that moment I began to panic. I got a shovel and started to dig the waist deep snow to try and get him a spot to stand. He was tired and not doing too well after lying in the snow for at least an hour or more. We called for help. There were five wonderful firemen who came to our aid, and with their help we had him dug out and up and in the barn in about 30-40 minutes. I do believe that without their help he would not have made it. He was tired and very cold. He was in distress for well over an hour. So I just want to take a brief moment and say a big thank you to the Middlefield firemen who came to my (and my horse’s) aid; you definite-
Letters policy The Town Times intends to present a forum for the lively exchange of ideas and issues. To facilitate the publication of your contributions, several guidelines should be followed. Letters to the editor must be signed, with a phone number included. The writer will be called to confirm authorship. No anonymous letters will be printed. Contributions by any individual or group will not be published more frequently than once a month. Every effort will be made to print all letters received. However, the selection and date of publication will be at the discretion of the editor. Finally, the opinions expressed by our letterwriters are not necessarily those of this newspaper. Deadline: Tuesday noon for Friday publication.
ly went beyond the call on this one. Again, thank you! The Keathley’s, Middlefield
Thank you for clearing snow A huge thank you to everyone who has been out clearing the roads and school roofs, day after day, storm after storm, night after night. As I drove my daughter to meet the bus to go to her Shorelines track meet on the morning of yet another storm, I really appreciated that I could drive safely to CRHS on clear, nearly dry roads after how many storms this season? It’s a thankless job, a backbreaking job, and I would like to thank each and every one of you who has made it possible for us to get to work, to get kids safely to school and to all the other destinations of everyday life despite this unusual season of unprecedented massive snow events with the exhausting variety of snow/ice challenges. So to everyone who moved snow by shovel or plow or handful, we thank you. A special thank you to Brian who stepped up to the
plate to clear our driveway, a small part-time job that is rapidly becoming a full-time job! Here’s to an early spring so the snow can melt so the kids can finally practice on that track sitting under massive drifts at CRHS and so our dependable snowmovers can get a rest! Beth Manley, Middlefield
Seeking your support To the Editor: My name is Bill Mercuri. You may know me as the deli help at Lyman Orchards who likes to talk your ear off about anything, but especially exercise and fitness. This April 30, I’m putting my passion for exercise to use for a good cause. I’ll be running the Country Music Half Marathon in Nashville, TN as part of Team in Training, a comprehensive endurance training program for runners, walkers, cyclists and triathletes which benefits the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society (LLS). Since 1986, Team in Training has raised over $800 million for LLS to help fund research into cures and treatments for Leukemia, Lym-
phoma, Myeloma and Hodgkin’s Disease. Some of the important research being funded is being done right here in Connecticut by researchers at Yale University. LLS also provides funds for much needed services to improve the lives of those living with these diseases. My goal is to raise $5,000 by March 15, and I am asking for your help to achieve it. Please support my campaign by making a tax-deductible gift today. Donations of all sizes will be greatly appreciated. To make a gift, you may make a check payable to LLS and mail it to: Bill Mercuri 39 Corrigan Avenue Meriden, CT 06451 or you can use a credit card on my secure web site: pages.teamintraining.org/ct /cmc11/wmercuri Corporate sponsorships are also available. Please contact me at 203-237-4305 or bill.mercuri@att.net for more information or questions about how you can help. Thank you in advance for your generous support of my event and the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. Bill Mercuri, Meriden
Town Times Columns
Friday, February 11, 2011
Snowstorm safety tips is missing protective Snowblower safety guards. It’s peak season for Durham Public Safety Never consume alsnowstorms, and Committee cohol prior to or while snowblowers are operating a snowworking overtime. blower. The Durham Public Do not leave a Safety Committee wants to remind residents that each snowblower unattended while it is year, thousands of people suffer running. Do not leave a snowblower runmaiming or amputations of their fingers or hands as they attempt to re- ning in an enclosed area. If you have an electric snowblowmove packed snow from their snower, be aware of where the power cord blowers. Many homeowners do not realize is at all times. that the impeller of their machine is Removing snow from roofs: The weight of just two feet of snow located just a few inches below the opening of the discharge chute. An on even the sturdiest roof can cause impeller that has become jammed structural or leakage problems, espewith packed snow stores potential en- cially if ice damming occurs. While it ergy and can begin rotating immedi- is important to remove large accumuately once it has been freed. Older lations of snow from your roof, it is snowblowers, which are still in serv- more important that you do the job ice, may not be equipped with safety safely. The safest way to remove accumuinterlocks, cut-out switches and protective guards. These older snow- lated snow is to hire a professional, blowers require additional caution especially if your roof is steep or located high above ground level. when operated. If your snowblower should become Search the Internet for “Snow Rejammed with snow, the following moval Companies” located in your steps will help prevent hand injuries: area. Many homeowners choose to reFirst, turn the machine off. Never attempt to un-jam a running snow- move the snow from their roofs themselves, using a roof rake. Roof rakes blower. allow the homeowner to pull the Allow the blades to stop rotating. Remove packed snow with a stick snow off the roof while standing safeor broom handle. Never put your ly on the ground. But remember that hands in the discharge chute or roof rakes are constructed of electrically-conductive metal; so be safe, around the blades. and avoid working in the area of the Additional snowblower tips: Do not operate a snowblower that roof where the electric utility wires has inoperative safety interlocks or connect to the home.
Guest Column
How will you cover basic expenses in retirement? A retirement plan has two fundamental Peter P. parts: accumulation and distribution. All the years of saving (accumulation) are meant to fund all the years you live without working (distribution). Both are equally important and deserve careful consideration. Creating an asset distribution plan can help frame your strategy of how to convert qualified and nonqualified savings into retirement income, including how much to access and when in order to ensure your money lasts as long as possible. Every retiree hopes to maintain his or her standard of living. Depending on individual needs and goals, a well-structured distribution plan can even include components that
guarantee income for life. Cascini Look for stability Imagine you are a 65-year-old man about to retire. You have saved $1 million in various accounts and funds. You want to be sure you can meet your basic living expenses as well as continue the lifestyle you enjoy, which includes golfing trips, visiting your grandkids and keeping your season tickets for favorite sports team. Your savings are well diversified, but stock market swings have you feeling uneasy. You wonder if there’s a more stable place to put your money that will help meet your needs.
Finance 101
See Retirement, page 11
9
Where were you ... during the winter of 2011? central Connecticut. This year’s weathThe topic at the gather will go down in the ering was peace. “Where were you With tax season, when” history book massive snow — like the ’55 flood, storms and cabin the ‘38 hurricane and fever, it was a chal“Where were you lenge in my 10when Kennedy was minute dissertation shot?” The assortto accurately dement of snow storms scribe the concept of has tested my sense peace in Middlefield. of humor except for a It was nice to meet report of a plump our neighbors. skunk walking in the Speaking of tax snowstorm in the Jon Brayshaw, Middlefield season, I just remiddle of West Street ceived the “manageflanked on each side ment” preview of by monumental our yearly audit. snow walls. When For the year ending last seen, he (I asJune 30, 2010, we sume) was heading once again spent south looking for food and a warm home, which is less than was budgeted, which is a where I’m heading if this snow foreign concept to our legislators in Hartford. Other good news is that keeps up. It bears repeating that we as a our grand list grew by half a pertown are concerned with your safe- cent, which is a lot! Seems many ty. At times it may not seem so, but new cars were bought. Keep it up, it is. Our highway crew, Emer- friends. If we all bought new cars, gency Management director, po- our house taxes would not go up. If lice, fire department, Senior Ser- you are into numbers, a summary vice director and administration of the audit is available at the Town stand ready to help where needed. Hall. And finally, soon our transfer Except we don’t plow the same road seven times a day; we don’t clear station will be accepting e-waste. I around mailboxes (we did hit at guess “e” stands for electronic. least one), and we don’t measure Christmas usually brings that speand compare how much snow we cial iPod Wii-powered laptop wide pushed in front of your driveway screen HDVD digital Samsung MPvs. your neighbors’. We are all over 3 player. No wonder they all end up town meeting needs, not wants. in the dump. What’s wrong with These somewhat dangerous snow smoke signals and a victrola? The Registrars of Voters are storms stand as a reminder that we, as individuals and as a town, need looking into moving the polls to to have our “act together” in every Memorial School. I don’t really situation. Truly the last few weeks care where we vote. There are reahave been a game-changer. Thanks sons, I am told. The main issue has for your understanding, and thank to do with who and what can take you to all the kind people who place on the main floor (besides vothelped remove snow from their ing) on voting day. Which means employees are forced to take a perneighbors’ rooves. Moving along, after months sonal or vacation day off and citi(seems like years) of back-and- zens wanting services are turned forth, we finally reached common away. My question is, “Do we reground on an agreement to sell quire that the office staff at MemorPowder Ridge. Last week it was vot- ial School take the day off as well so ed on by the Board of Selectmen. All as not to disturb the voters?” And finally I would be remiss if I I can say is that we are getting closer. Stay tuned. In a couple of did not pass on the town’s condomonths, if all goes well, we will be lences publicly on the passing of having a public hearing followed Mary Hooper’s daughter Barbara. by a town meeting to vote on the For those new to town, Mary is our town treasurer and a long time sale. On Sunday, Jan. 16, I was among friend to many. Barbara was sister several guests at the Jafaria Com- to Mary Johnson who serves on the munity Center on Rt. 66. The facili- Board of Selectmen. Keep your chin up; I saw a frozen ty acts as a worship and activity center for Muslims from around robin...
From The Desk Of The First Selectman
10
Town Times — Friday, February 11, 2011
1191142
Ben & Addie
HAPPY
HAPPY
HAPPY
VALENTINE’S DAY
VALENTINE’S DAY
VALENTINE’S DAY
You are My Valentines I Love You
Nana
KIM
HAPPY VALENTINE TO MY KIDS Amy-Brendan-Brenna & Tori
Happy Birthday Valentine
Luv Mom & G-Ma
Luv Mom
Charley Rose Samantha Kailey Thank You for being such beautiful Grandchildren I Love You Happy Valentine’s Day Grandma
Mom, Our hero, our best friend We love you so much! Happy Valentine’s Day
Lauren & Sharon
Zak Fox Zisa
Brian Happy Valentine’s Day We Love You
Grandpa & Grandma
Happy Valentine’s Day Landyn Nadeau We love you very much. Love, Mommy and Daddy XOXO
Taylor & Kyle Happy Valentine’s Day to the Loves of Our Lives! We Love You Very Much Love Mommy & Daddy
CHRISTY & JAYDEN Happy Valentine’s Day To Our Granddaughter & Great Grandson Love Grandparents & Great Grandparents Kevin & Sandy
Happy 4th Birthday! You are the Best Valentine ever!! Love You So Much! Daddy, Mommy, Grammie, Grampa, Aunt Lisa, Katie & James
Rich aka “Danish Boy”
Happy Valentine’s Day
To My Honey I Love You Today Like I did 17 years ago We’ve shared joys & shortcomings With one daughter We live as one heart All my Love, Your Bunny
Maxine & Cameron We Love you THIS MUCH! Love
Mommy and Daddy
To A Great Man & Father Happy Valentine’s Day Love always Jesse, Macro & Vanessa
To our little Valentines Abbi, Haley Elli Zito-Keegan, Rowen Ferretti Love
Nana & Pop
Happy Valentine’s Day Izzy & Taylor Taryn, Breslin & Harlowe You stole my heart the first time I looked in your eyes & continue to make me smile every day. I live for your big hugs and sweet smoochies Thank you for making me the happiest mommy ever! Happy Valentine's Day, my little angels! XOXO, Mommy
Happy Valentine’s Day! We Love You! Love, Mom & Dad
Hayden & Gavin We Love You! Love, Mom & Dad
TO MY LOVE ONES This August will be 40yrs of bliss together with three fantastic sons who blessed our lifes for you all, may I say this Valentine’s Day may my love grow stronger in everyway LOVE DAD
Jayden, Skylar & Leif You are always our Valentines! We love you lots Nona & Papa
Abby, I Love playing with you. You are the BEST cousin!
JIMMY To my husband, my soulmate, My best friend for life, Happy Valentine’s Day I Love You Baby!!! Love, forever you girl Gina Lynn
Love, Alexa
Isabella We love you super duper lot! You are our favorite sweet heart pumpkin
Mommy & Daddy
Jake, You always make me laugh. You rock cousin!
Garrett
Friday, February 11, 2011
11
Town Times
Retirement
(Continued from page 9)
$AVE NOW!
(The hypothetical example is for illustration purposes only and is based on a Lifetime Income Annuity, LifeOnly policy for a male 65
This educational article is being provided as a courtesy by Peter Pierino Cascini, agent for New York Life Insurance Company. Finance 101 is a financial column for the purpose of educating readers; if you have a specific or personal question, email to my attention at news@towntimes.com.
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Coe. “Our graphic artist who designed the look and feel of the ConnectQuest website currently works for a company that produces websites. The same can be said for our web developer who is connecting the site with the programming code ‘in the cloud.’” Unlike other social networks, ConnectQuest is for local people and can be used for various things, not just networking. Interested folks can look for more information on the ConnectQuest website,
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Use guaranteed sources Using $316,046 from your savings, you can purchase a Lifetime Income Annuity* that provides $29,000 per year of guaranteed income for as long as you live. This, coupled with your pension and Social Security, ensures your basic living expenses of $65,000 per year will always be met through guaranteed sources. If inflation is a concern, you
Stock market fluctuations no longer make you as anxious now that you know your basic living expenses will always be covered. After all, retirement is a time to enjoy the fruits of your labor. An income annuity can help you prudently distribute the money you have saved along the way so you can enjoy a guaranteed income and peace of mind for the rest of your life.
years old. Rates are subject to change and payout will vary depending on premium amounts, age, gender, and number of lives — one or two — and payment option. Other payment options are also available. Inflation protection option must be elected at time of purchase and policy owner must be at least 59 1/2 years old at the time of the first payment.)
1190761
may choose an option within the annuity to increase your annual payout every year. The remaining $683,954 of your savings can be used to supplement your other retirement goals, such as the trips and activities you enjoy.
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When you sit down with your budget, you determine you need an annual income of $90,000 to maintain your desired lifestyle. The majority of that amount ($65,000) will be spent to cover your basic expenses (food, housing, utilities, medical expenses, etc.). The remaining $25,000 is money to spend at your discretion. Your income sources include a pension of $12,000 per year and Social Security of $24,000, which adds up to $36,000 of your income coming from guaranteed sources. You need $29,000 more to meet your basic annual expenses, which you planned to draw from your $1 million of savings. But, after speaking with a financial professional, you learn that an immediate fixed annuity might be appropriate for your situation.
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Friday, February 11, 2011
Town Times
The 13th District Special Election to fill seat vacated by Tom Gaffey, Tuesday, Feb. 22 (Middlefield, Meriden, part of Middletown)... We asked the candidates to respond to this question, in hopes that it will help your decision at the polls: Federal stimulus money for education is slated to run out this year. How would you handle the shortfall? Given a blank slate, what would be your favored way of funding K-12 public education in the state?
Thomas Bruenn (D) 1189551
AFTERCARE Post surgical care is critical for anyone who has had foot surgery. Proper aftercare helps ensure fewer complications and a more rapid recovery. Discuss with your podiatrist the regimen he or she suggests for your recovery. If you are prescribed a surgical shoe, put it on whenever you walk. Do not allow your foot to dangle, and try to keep your foot elevated to reduce pressure. If a walker or cane is recommended, don’t be shy about using one. Ice the area for the first few days post surgery. Doing so will help decrease swelling and bruising. Bandages should be kept clean and dry. If anything seems “off” about your recovery, be sure to alert your podiatrist. If surgery is called for in your case, we’re sure you’ll be happy to hear that today’s procedures make the process easier and smoother, usually with less recover time. And, as always, good post-operative results require proper foot care and support to prevent future problems. At AFFILIATED FOOT CARE CENTER, LLC, we follow all surgeries with complete instructions for home care. For our patients’ convenience, we offer onsite X-rays and diagnostic and therapeutic ultrasound. If your feet are bothering you, we suggest a call to one of our offices. Office hours in Middlefield are Mon. 9-5, Wed. 3-7, and Fri. 9-5; Tues. & Thurs 9-5 in Wallingford.
L a s t year the state of Connecticut used the federal stimulus money to flat fund the ECS money that is given to cities and towns to help pay for the cost of education. These funds are no longer available. The Connecticut Constitution says that education is a state function. In order to fulfill this promise made to students across Connecticut, the state needs to step up to the plate and increase ECS grants to the cities and towns. Education is the most important function of any state and community. The foundation for any economic growth that will put Connecticut on the road to recovery is a well-educated workforce.
Continuing to rely on local property taxes as the primary method of funding many local education costs in the 13th Senate District places too high a tax burden on the people of this district. Connecticut must accept its responsibility to our students and find a method to increase its share of the costs. One suggestion I have is to consolidate administrative positions, which have increased two-fold over the last few years. Savings can be found throughout government departments and put toward an increase in the state ECS funding. Furthermore, we should investigate the current tax structure to ensure that no one is paying more than his/her fair share, which currently is not the case. Finally, some of the cost for local education must continue to be funded through local property taxes so that municipalities maintain local control so as to tailor the educational experience toward the specific needs of the local stu-
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dents. About Tom I was born in Meriden and have lived in town for all my many years. I am a graduate of the local public school system and earned a B.S. in mathematics from Central CT State College (now CCSU), as well as a M.S. from CCSC and a sixth year in supervision from CCSC. I taught mathematics for 37 years at Platt High School in Meriden and also taught statistics and calculus parttime for years at CCSU and New Haven Tech (now Gateway). In the 1987-88 school year, I was chosen as Meriden’s Teacher of the Year. I retired from teaching in 1998 but kept active in education by continuing to serve as Meriden Federation of Teachers’ president, as well as with teacher organizations on the state and national level. Four years ago I ran for, and won, a seat on the Meriden Board of Education. I currently serve as the chair of the board’s Finance Committee. Community service has been a passion of mine since I was a young man. In my community, I served on the Anti-Poverty Council and Community Vision for a Better Meriden. I helped create Project Excel, Inc., a scholarship program that has raised over $700,000 since 1984 and given out over a thousand awards and scholarships. I served as a member of the United Way’s Board of Directors for many years. I was previously active in several social clubs. I am running for the State Senate because I believe we must create good paying jobs in CT so that our young men and women will stay in CT
rather than seek positions elsewhere. To do this we must partner with small businesses by creating methods to create those jobs. We must lower the cost of doing business in CT by reducing the cost of health insurance and drugs by creating a method to allow businesses to have the same power of negotiating with insurance companies that the state has. Allowing small businesses, non-profit organizations and municipalities to purchase health insurance and drugs for their employees by using the state’s power will reduce costs. Likewise, we must reduce electricity costs for businesses and individuals. Connecticut businesses and citizens pay higher rates than in any of the states surrounding CT, and this must change. My passion is education, and I want to serve as the State Senator from District 13 to guarantee that the communities in the district receive their fair share of ECS funding and combat an increase in property taxes. I want to ensure that our state continues to create new jobs and stays on the road to recovery. In summary, as State Senator, I will concentrate on educational issues, job creation issues, and health care costs. Obviously, I would be voting on many other issues vital to our communities and will promise to seek advice on these issues from the citizens in the 13th District.
Len Suzio (R) As a member of the Meriden Board of Education for 14 years (and vice president See more next page...
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Friday, February 11, 2011 Continued from page 12 my last two years), I learned that local autonomy has largely been stolen from us by the folks in Hartford. There are more than 200 state mandates imposed on public schools. These mandates prevent our schools from responding to the unique character of our communities and the needs of our children. Our schools are hamstrung by insensitive and arbitrary bureaucratic regulations that inflate the cost of education, taking money out of the classroom and putting it into administration. I strongly support relief from these oppressive and costly mandates, freeing school districts to direct funding where it belongs, to the classroom. The federal stimulus money that has been used to supplement the state Education-
13
Town Times al Cost Sharing (ECS) grants amounts to about $350 million per year for the last two years. This constitutes about 18 percent of the state ECS annual budget. This parallels the projected 20 percent shortfall in the overall state budget. Preserving ECS funding will require us to reexamine the state’s spending priorities. While the state deficit has ballooned over the past two years, state spending has increased in non-education areas. These spending increases should be reconsidered in light of the plight of our public schools, with the potential to re-prioritize the spending increases of the last several years and re-direct those funds to public schools. About Len I am the fourth generation of my family to live in the area. My great grandfather, Leonardo Suzio, founded L. Suzio Companies, one of the largest companies in Central Connecticut. I was the oldest of six children raised by my father Leonard and my mother Jean. After graduating from the University of
Pennsylvania, I pursued a successful career in banking during which I was recognized as the number one banker for small businesses in Connecticut. In 1994 I started my own company, GeoDataVision, a bank consulting company. The Suzio family has developed a tradition of giving back to the community. I served 14 years on the Meriden Board of Education (VP, 2007-2009). As a banker I worked with hundreds of entrepreneurs, helping them start and grow their businesses. I was invited to testify as an expert in front of the United States Senate Subcommittee on Small business Finance. Small businesses are the key to reinvigorating the job market. I have proposed a unique plan to finance small businesses in Connecticut. The plan involves working with Connecticut banks to extend SBA-guaranteed loans. The state can use up to $1.5 billion of pension funds to purchase the guaranteed portion of those loans. This will provide banks with the funds they need to lend to
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small businesses. Concomitantly, the purchase of the guaranteed loans will be a safe and secure investment for our pension funds at no cost to taxpayers. I am running for the State Senate because the Democ-
rat-controlled legislature has pursued out-of-control spending that has brought our state to the verge of bankruptcy. We need a return to the common sense budgeting that every small business must practice.
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The special election to fill the 13th District senate seat will be held on Tuesday, Feb. 22. The polls are open 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the Community Center on the upper level. Absentee ballots are available at the Middlefield Town Hall. The last day for hand-delivered or post-marked applications was Feb. 8. Those people who turn 18 or become a citizen or move into the town after Feb. 8 may go to the Town Clerk’s office. They may also go to the Registrar’s office on Tuesday evenings from 5 to 7 p.m. or Thursdays from 1 to 4 p.m. until Feb. 18. The registrars are holding a limited voter registration session at their office at the community center on Feb. 18, 9 a.m. to noon. Anyone who needs an absentee ballot can get one at the Town Clerk’s office.
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Town Briefs
14
Friday, February 11, 2011
five calves were placed at a friend’s farm in Wallingford. Melissa Greenbacker said, “The calves are all doing really well. We received a ton of offers for help and we are all set for now.” (Cheri Kelley)
Durham contractor on probation Above, the roof of the Durham Public Works facility partially collapsed after the recent storm. Equipment and stock in the building will need a temporary place before the building can be demolished. They will be operating out of the state DOT garage in Middletown. Submitted by Kurt Bober
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Residents of the house at 15 Belmont Avenue, Laura Sussan and her family, were homeless for 10 months because of Esparo. If Esparo violates the probation, he may have to spend three years behind bars. Esparo is required to pay $34,173 in restitution. $22,000 will be covered by his insurance and $12,173 will be paid from the state Home Improvement Guaranty Fund. The lesser portion must be repaid by Esparo. According to Superior Court Judge Burton
Kaplan, the defendant will be held personally liable if any of the money isn’t paid. Esparo had nothing to say for himself in court. As of Tuesday, Feb. 1, Sussan had not received any restitution money. She paid around $60,000 for the project, and she feels that the amount of the restitution money due to her and her family versus what they paid isn’t a lot.
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(All meetings will be held at the Durham Library unless otherwise noted. Check the town website at www.townofdurhamct.org for updates.) Monday, February 14 7 p.m. — Board of Selectmen 7:30 p.m. — Inland Wetlands Tuesday, February 15 7 p.m. — Agriculture Commission on the third floor meeting room at Town Hall Wednesday, February 16 3 p.m. — Board of Selectmen (budget meeting) at Town Hall 7:30 p.m. — Planning and Zoning Commission Thursday, February 17 7 p.m. — DMIAAB
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There are many homes and buildings that have suffered damage from this winter’s weather. The following list depicts collapses and damage that occurred on noteworthy facilities in our towns due to the recent storms that Town Times was alerted to by press time Durham: Greenbacker Farm barn; Town of Durham’s Salt Shed; Durham Fairground building damage. Middlefield: Cow Barn on Jackson Hill Road owned by Andy Anastasio; Victory Christian Church sagging beam. (Cheri Kelley)
Bryant Esparo, 47, of 36 Bailey Road in Durham is the owner of Cheshire Construction Services of Durham; he is the contractor who was charged with taking money to complete a project on a Shelton house and then walked away from the work. The house was left open to the elements, which caused an enormous amount of damage. He received three years of probation on Monday, Jan. 31, after pleading no contest to fourthdegree larceny.
(Unless otherwise indicated, all meetings are held in the Community Center.) Tuesday, February 15 7 p.m. — Conservation Commission Wednesday, February 16 7-10 p.m. — Inland Wetlands & Watercourses Agency 7 p.m. — Metacomet Regional Windfarm Committee Thursday, February 17 7 p.m. — Board of Finance 7 p.m. — DMIAAB
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They had to stay in a hotel and were homeless for 10 months, which is worth more than what is to be paid, but she believes it will help to pay some of the bills. Esparo began work on the home without the required permits, and when the city of Shelton issued a stop work order, Esparo walked off, leaving the house exposed to the weather. Water caused severe damage and mold. A warrant was out for Esparo for taking money and not finishing the job and leaving the home structurally unsound and unsafe for people to live. The mold caused the family to be ill and ruined most of their things. Sussan said she was “grateful to everyone who helped them through it.” (Cheri Kelley)
Middlefield man charged with unsafe backing On Jan. 23, Robert Timbro, 40, of 1 Dwight Drive in Middlefield, was charged with evading responsibility and unsafe backing of his vehicle. He was scheduled to appear on Feb. 8 in Middletown Superior Court.
In Our Libraries
Friday, February 11, 2011
Durham Library Hours: Regular library hours are 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. Visit www.durhamlibrary.org to search the catalog, review your account, register for a program or renew your materials online. For information or to register for a program by phone, call 860-3499544. Facebook: Receive daily updates on library news and events by becoming a fan on Facebook. Click on the Facebook link on the library’s website. Korean Spirit and Culture: Please join us, Saturday, Feb. 12, at 11 a.m. for an introduction to Korea’s rich history and culture. There will be a film, presenters in native costume and a sampling of Korean cuisine. Informative and fun for the family, ages five and up. Registration is required, please call 860 3499544. Storytime 2011 Registration: All Winter/Spring Storytimes end April 13. The
Storytimes are: Mother Goose (18-30 months), Mondays at 10:15 or 11 a.m., Time for Tots (2.5-3.5 years), Wednesdays at 10:15 or 11 a.m. and Preschool (3.5-5 years), Tuesdays at 10:15 or 11 a.m. To register for Storytime, call 860-349-9544 or visit the library. Book Lovers’ Circle: Come to the library on Wednesday, March 2, at 7:30 p.m. for a discussion of Zeitoun by Dave Eggers. All are welcome. Copies of the book are available at the library. Mystery Book Discussion: The mystery book club will meet on Tuesday, Feb. 15, at 7:30, when Dog on It by Spencer Quinn will be discussed. Copies of the book are available at the library.
renew, reserve and check your library record on the website. Holiday Hours: The library will be closed Monday, Feb. 21 for Presidents’ Day. Facebook.com: Please check out the Levi E. Coe Library’s Facebook page for events and news. Children’s Programs: Sign up for February programs by calling the Children’s Room at 860-349-3857 ext. 2.
15 Valentine Card: Come create a special valentine on Saturday, Feb. 12, from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Kitchen Herbs: Come to the Lucia K. Ginter Children’s Room to plant your own kitchen garden on Tuesday, Feb. 22, at 2 p.m. We will provide pots, soil and seeds. Watch your plants grow and then spice up your recipes! Storytime Picnic: While you are enjoying an indoor picnic, listen to
Miss Vicki read some of her favorite picture books, on Wednesday, Feb. 23, at 11:30 a.m. Cooking Contest: Cooking and baking are great family bonding and learning activities. Choose a recipe from a library cookbook, cook and then see what the judges have to say on Thursday, Feb. 24, at 2 p.m. For a full list of rules, stop by or call the library.
Levi Coe Library Hours: The library is open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturdays. Visit www.leviecoe.com or call the library at 860-349-3857 for information or to register for any program. You can also
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Friday, February 11, 2011
Town Times
Students help classmate with ‘Coins for Cancer’ campaign By Cheri Kelley Town Times Sixth graders at Memorial Middle School have been banding together to fight cancer. Martha Swanson, a teacher at Memorial School, shared more about how the kids started the campaign. “The idea of doing something to help three-year-old Brenna Zettergren, who is fighting leukemia, was con-
ceived in early September by her neighbor and close friend, Melissa Grenier,� she explained. During the fall Melissa and fellow sixth grader and friend Rowen O’Connell went to Swanson and asked if there was something that they could do at school to help Brenna. Swanson thought that it would be beneficial to not only do something in her classroom but
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also to reach out to the school community. She thought the logical channel would be through the Student Senate. The girls were advised by Swanson to meet with Mr. Bruenn, the sixth grade Senate adviser, after which they shared their idea with the Senate. Swanson stated, “The idea was well received and embraced by the school community, as students were eager to purchase handmade bracelets, laces, and necklaces before and after school, all for ‘Coins for Cancer.’� The items for sale to benefit “Coins for Cancer� were made by members of the Senate as
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well as other students who just wanted to help. Swanson said the kids “worked furiously making items to sell.� The proceeds from Memorial School’s first Movie Madness of the year were donated to the cause; this was a decision that Melissa Grenier, Brenna Zettergren was voted on by and Rowen O’Connell. the Student SenPhoto taken by Jennifer Zettergren ate. couple of businesses in town. In late November with the help of Melissa’s parents, Currently there are jars at Jeff and Christine, ‘Coins for See Coins, page 23 Cancer’ jars were placed in a
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Friday, February 11, 2011
17
Town Times
A night of indulgence benefits the Durham Library By Mark Dionne Special to the Town Times
party, you occasionally needed a well-placed elbow to get where you wanted. Faced with snow-choked streets and a potential Mad Max-style competition for parking spaces, organizers arranged for a shuttle bus to ferry people from the Strong School parking lot. The idea of a food-oriented party to benefit the library is smart; scheduling this night of indulgence the night before Super Bowl Sunday is genius. Our New Year’s resolutions are over a month past, and the whole weekend is already shot from a healthy living perspective. Also, Saturday is a better night for a party than Sunday. On Monday, the li-
Above, Kim Salley, of Durham, samples wine from Little Rooster Liquors. Photos at left, clockwise from top: Brenda Eddy from Brenda’s Main St. Feed provided the evening’s doggie bags, treats that went home for pets; cupcakes from Kim’s Cottage Confections; volunteers: Selectman James McLaughlin and State Rep. Matt Lesser. brary became a library again, and we can all use it to look up the new federal dietary
guidelines to see how many were ignored — for a good cause.
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The federal government released its updated dietary guidelines earlier this week, just in time for me to completely ignore them at the 15th annual Taste of Durham. One of the main recommendations from the guidelines was for average Americans to eat less than, say, average cattle. I searched the guidelines for an exemption for good causes, but found none. The Taste of Durham is a Public Association of Library Supporters (PALS) fundraiser for the Durham Library, so it masterfully combines the vice of gluttony with the virtue of charity. PALS offers 350 tickets for its fundraiser, and the event usually sells out. This year was no different with a high turnout, mostly of people from Durham. Laurie Stevens, president of PALS, noted, “So many people said they just wanted to get out.” Local chefs represented Durham well with Time Out Tavern, Lyman Orchards, Cozy Corner, Whole Enchilada and the new Durham Kitchen. Katie Hughes from Perk on Main made fresh crepes faster than I could eat them, which is pretty fast. Kim Terrill of Kim’s Cottage Confections brought an assortment of mini-cupcakes. Of the red velvet cupcake, one attendee stated, “These are so good I could hit somebody!” That exclamation made perfect sense at the time. Delicious food brought out odd reactions in people. Some laughed after a first bite. Pretty much everyone overate. The crowd passed tips back and forth with whispers and quick glances like insider traders. The pumpkin ravioli in cream sauce from Lino’s Market was so good I wanted to climb into the chafing dish and roll around, an activity that would no doubt be frowned upon by both the dietary guidelines and the Department of Health, not to mention my wife and Lino’s. Still, I wanted to. The organizers from PALS cast their net beyond Durham for the event. Haveli India from Middletown brought chana masala and another en-
tree, plus gulab jamun as a dessert, earning a fork-wielding crowd. Japanese food from Osaka, sweets from Tschudin Chocolates, baked treats from Sweet Harmony, Brew Bakers and Cold Stone Creamery and lighter fare from It’s Only Natural arrived from Middletown. Taste of Durham isn’t only about eating; it’s also about drinking. Little Rooster Liquors provided a table full of wine for tasting, and a beer bar waited at the other side of a crowd in the downstairs room. Organizers wisely limit each attendee to three drink tickets. The organizers, volunteers and chefs once again did a great job putting on what Laurie Stevens called “a community p a r t y . ” Turnout was again high. As at any good
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Friday, February 11, 2011
Town Times
Winter scenes around our towns
Above, Ashleigh Rioux and Taylor Christiana had fun sledding Jan. 29 at Coginchaug. Submitted photo
Above, a mystery cat making her daily visit to this bird feeder in search of a free meal. Photo taken by Trish Dynia
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Reading in Town Times
Friday, February 11, 2011
Strong School Reads
19
Nutmeg at Night Durham Library hosted the annual Nutmeg at Night on Tuesday, Feb. 8. There was great attendance, with the highest turnout in three years. At right, the student competetors for this fun, mock game show. At right, the winning team, called the Fabulous Fennels, included (from left) Mary Grace Fiondella, Julia Davis and Jenna Isleib.
Above, another spice team, the Peppy Paprikas.
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Creating Beautiful Smiles! • Children and adults • Cutting edge technology • Invisalign available • Lingual braces now available • No charge for first visit 282 Main Street Extension at Sanseer Mill, Middletown (near Stop & Shop) (860) 347-4618
CONNECTICUT BOMBERS 2011 8-12 YEAR OLD TRYOUTS
Be Part of the Northeast’s #1 Travel Baseball Program Tryout/Clinics Begin on 2/6 for 6-21⁄2 Hour Sessions
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Bottom photo, some of the attendees at Strong School’s annual book discussion night.
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Strong School Reads was held Tuesday, Feb. 8, in the school’s library. This event brought together students, parents and various community members who met in a discussion group. The invited community members acted as facilitators for the group, which resulted in a lively exchange of thoughts and opinions regarding the book.
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Scouts in Town Times
Friday, February 11, 2011
Girl Scouts create Fun Fitness Fridays Girl Scout Troop 62200 Three freshmen girls, Alice Ochterski, Caryn Sibiskie and Maddy Wooding, recently completed their Girl Scout Silver Award by creating a program called Fun Fitness Fridays for first through fourth graders. They spent countless hours in meetings with each other and their advisor Bonnie Arcari; they all put in a lot of effort to try to help younger children fight childhood obesity without
them knowing it. For the four weeks that Fun Fitness Fridays was held, the girls ran games that had the kids moving around and burning calories. Each week’s theme was a part of the body. The girls ran stations that made certain parts of their body work and let the kids know more about their bodies. The girls also gave the kids a healthy snack of fruit. The kids were encouraged to try new and different kinds of
food, and most of them liked the fruit. “Overall it was fun and satisfying to know that we were helping people while earning our Silver Award,” says Ochterski. “It was a pleasure working with all of the kids,” says Sibiskie. “They were so fun and energetic that they made us exercise also!” “The kids loved the program and wish it could happen every day of the year,” says Wooding.
Fun Fitness Friday staff in back row from left to right: Caitlyn, Saige, Alice, Caryn, Maddy, Jayda, Ashley. Fun Fitness participants in front row. Photo submitted by Carole Sibiskie, Girl Scout Troop 62200
Let’s lose the littering in our community Girl Scout Troop 62200
1185120
Litter is affecting our Earth. We in Troop 62200 have picked up trash before, so we know that there is tons of it. You wouldn’t believe what we have found in our little town of Middlefield; it was disgusting: shredded underwear. Imagine what would be in the city! One way it can affect the
Earth is the animals might think it is food and eat it. This makes them choke or get stomachaches. It also affects people because it gets on their lawns, and it is very irresponsible, disrespectful and unkind. This causes more work for the people, and it doesn’t look nice.
people throw trash out their car windows. The easiest way to solve this is to have a small shopping bag in your car to put trash in. Then when you get to a trash can, throw it away. Now you have learned how littering can affect our planet.
One solution is to recycle or put it in a garbage can! Littering also happens when
By Colleen Coogan, Ashley Schuetz and Jayda Avery, Girl Scout Troop 62200
INDUSTRIAL SPACE FOR LEASE Tax and Moving Incentives! security camera on site. Centrally located in downtown Meriden, CT. Convenient access to major highways and railroad/bus terminal. (Rt. 5, I-91, Rt. 15, Rt. 66 are within a mile of location.)
Total Space Available: 7,500 SF Rental Rate: $5.50 /SF/Year Min. Divisible: 3,600 SF Property Type: Industrial Property Sub-type: Warehouse Zoning Description: Enterprise zone
Call: 203-317-2330 for more information or search our listing on LoopNet.com (11 Crown Street, Meriden, CT)
1187720
Located in Meriden, CT on property zoned c-1, Enterprise Zone with potential tax incentives & moving expense incentives. This 3,600 sq. ft space is expandable into adjacent space for a total of 7,500 sq ft of space. Some of the features are covered loading docks, 24 hour tractor trailer access, up to 20’ ceilings, high voltage available, office / bathroom /
Friday, February 11, 2011
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Town Times
In honor of Valentine’s Day, the inquiring photographer asked, “What was the most romantic thing that you did for one another or you were surprised by?” By Karen Kean Lisa and John Biesak: John planned a lovely, wonderful, romantic week at Vieques Island, Puerto Rico.
Nancy and Chris Romanoff: Chris likes to surprise Nancy by taking her to her favorite restaurant, Tre-Scalini. While it won’t be a surprise this year, it is very romantic.
SPECIAL ELECTION COVERAGE
Tom Bruenn
Len Suzio
Interactive Timeline • Video Interviews • News Archives A special election on Tuesday Feb. 22 will determine the next state senator from the 13th District. Learn all about the candidates at:
/d13
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Sue and Joe Iannello: Sue surprised Joe with a trip to Atlantis, at Paradise Island, Bahamas. Joe was shocked and thrilled.
13th District covers Meriden, Middlefield, parts of Cheshire and Middletown.
Aggie and Gary Solomon: Gary says after 23 wonderful years of marriage and six children, their romance is still blossoming.
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Kim and Pete Donecker: Pete: “Kim made me a video called “Our Love Story” with photos from our first date through our 25th anniversary. I loved it!” Kim: “One winter morning when I looked out the window, Pete had carved I love you in the snow. Pete is always doing little things that mean a lot.”
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Friday, February 11, 2011
Town Times
Durham resident volunteers abroad Durham resident Lili Kinsman has been volunteering as an English teacher to novice Buddhist monks and village children in the province of Luang Prabang, Laos since early December.
“This is the defining moment of my life so far. I’ve never felt such gratitude. If you want to change your perspective on life, travel 13,000 miles from home, alone, to a country where you don’t
Durham co-op nursery school registration
speak the language and participate in a project like this.”
The Durham Cooperative Nursery school will hold registration dates for the 2011-2012 school year. Current, active member registration will be held Tuesday, Feb. 15, from 6:30 to 7 p.m. Alumni registration will be held on Tuesday, Feb. 15, from 7 to 7:30 p.m. Open public registration will held on Thursday, March 3, from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Registration will take place at the Durham Co-Op Nursery School located in the Durham Village, 16 Main St., Suite 307 (lower level). The three-year-old program meets Tuesday and Thursday mornings from 8:45 a.m. to 12 p.m. The four-year-old program meets Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 8:30 to 11:45 a.m. The Durham Co-Op Nursery School is non-discriminatory. Enrollment is on a first come, first served basis. If you are interested in enrolling your child, have any questions about enrollment fees that are due at registration, or would like to set up an appointment to visit the school, please call Margaret Dattilo at 860-349-6800.
“Satisfy and ignite the passions that are hidden deep inside of you.” Kinsman is volunteering for Global Visions International, an NGO based in the United Kingdom. (Submitted by Lili Kinsman)
Lili Kinsman with children in Laos, where she teaches English.
Caption This:
Town Times Service Directory 1185952
On our Town Times Facebook page, we posted this picture of Brewster students up close and personal with a bear at the Peabody Museum. We asked residents to write clever captions, and here’s our pick of the best responses:
Residential
Commercial 1184365
GOLSCHNEIDER PAINTING 30 Years Experience Interior Painting Wallpapering Andy Golschneider • (860) 349-3549 CT Lic. #HIC 606826 Durham, CT
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YOUR REMODELING SPECIALISTS > Kitchens > Bathrooms > Roofing > Siding > Window Replacement > Decks > Additions > Gutters/Leaf Guard Fully Licensed and Insured
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Call today for a FREE estimate. 860.349.1758 Ask for Tray CELL 860.790.6290
L J O NE I E
349-8771
’s l l u B
Route 17, Durham, CT www.movadofarm.com
Eye 1185406
Roofing Systems • Vinyl Siding • Replacement Windows Storm Doors/Windows • Prime/Patio Doors Skylights • Porch Enclosures FREE Estimates Reg. #517277 No Obligation Fully Insured neiljoneshomeimprovements.com
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Home Improvements LLC
Heated Indoor Arena Target Your Market with Inserts!
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Riding Lessons
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Mark
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Ron Nagy Sales Representative
Chris Snowmen: “You HAVE all had your rabies shots, haven’t you?” Clif Colwell: “Bear in mind, this is only for show, or a bear in the hand is better than a hand in the bear.” Sherri Curren Ahern: “When was the last time you brushed...yuck!!??”
Friday, February 11, 2011
Obituary Edward A. G. Poirier, Jr.
“All in all, $506.50 has been raised so far. We’re proud of our kind and caring school community,” said Swanson. Melissa and Rowan are hoping that other businesses in Durham and Middlefield will welcome the “Coins for Cancer” jars to raise money to provide activities for the kids like Brenna, who must endure long hours of chemotherapy at the cancer center. What an amazing project to be started by children in our schools. Often times kids aren’t given the credit for being the creative, empowering individuals that they are. This act of love and friendship proves that children are motivated and capable of creating change, if only society took the time to hear what they have to say more often. It is their future country after all, they should have a say in how to help it along, one person at a time.
Mfld. BOS
(Continued from page 3)
days’ notice that she may not be in her office due to a special election. She said she should have received earlier notice from the Registrars. She also reminded the board of a prior discussion on moving the voting location. While the upcoming election can’t be moved on such short notice, Brayshaw said he’d look into moving the location to the first floor of the community center, or possibly blocking off part of the second floor so both town employees and election officials can work at the same time. The budget also briefly came up for discussion, with Brayshaw reporting that the grand list should grow again this year due to new housing. He also noted that, based on the current audit, “We are in very good shape.” While revenues are down $46,000, the town is $257,000 under budget for expenditures. Further-
Community Development. The town is also in the process of creating an illicit discharge ordinance, based on finding E. coli and other contaminants in the town’s stormwater discharge. While the town is using Durham’s ordinances as a baseline, Inland Wetlands Commission member Marianne Corona recommended that the town consult with town engineer Brian Curtis to avoid any parts of Durham’s ordinance that don’t apply to Middlefield. While the board initially planned on appointing resident Scott Wheeler as an alternate on the Planning and Zoning Commission, they chose to hold off on it due to board member Ed Bailey’s absence that evening. Additionally, resident Laura Williams asked that she be considered for the alternate position.
Town Times Service Directory 860-349-0467
Specializing in Service & Repairs of Plumbing Systems
Snowplowing
• Kitchen & Bathroom Remodels • Toilets, Faucets & Piping Repairs • Water Heater Replacements • Submersible Well Pumps, Jet Pumps • Pressure Tanks • Water Main Repairs • Well Repairs
860-349-0119
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Licensed & Insured Lic #PL204680
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Allan’s Tree Service
It’s Tax Time!
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(From page 16)
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Lic. & Ins. EI 183930
Sweet Surroundings Custom Decorating Services Sue Deane 860-349-3580 Middlefield, CT
Custom Window Treatments and Slipcovers www.suedeane.com
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Residential Wiring Specialist Landscape Lighting Design • Install • Service
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40 Main Street Durham, CT 06422
• Pruning • Cabling • Tree & Stump Removal • Spraying & Disease Control • Bucket Truck Ct.LIC#61798
Charles R. Bogen, Jr., CPA Michelli’s and Uncle Bob’s. Jen Zettergren, Brenna’s mother, believes there is no money allocated for these types of things at Smilow Cancer Center at Yale, even though those are the activities that help to distract children from the discomfort of long hours of chemotherapy. Zettergren stated, “They rely 100 percent on donations.” After speaking with Zettergren, Melissa knew the money should be spent to pur-
more, the fund balance is slightly over $1,000,000 thanks to a $150,000 increase. Due to Officer Tom Topulos’ departure from the town, the board is also looking into hiring another police officer. Brayshaw said he’s discussed sharing an officer with Durham and the Regional School District 13, though he emphasized that he’s only looking into it thus far, and no decisions have been made. Powder Ridge was another matter brought up. For one, Brayshaw reported that it’s “now like playing tennis” as things progress with Alpine. For now, the town is waiting on the company to sign a $25,000 check and sign an agreement to begin the 90 day due diligence period. On a related note, the board also passed a resolution to accept a $500,000 grant from the Department of Economic and
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Coins
chase crafts, games, toys and videos for the children receiving chemotherapy at Smilow.
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Edward Arthur George Poirier Jr. 61, of Danbury, died Friday, Feb. 4, 2011 at Connecticut Hospice, Branford. He was born on January 20, 1950 in Fall River, Massachusetts, the son of the late Edward A.G. Poirier Sr., and Marie Dorianna (Larivee) Poirier. He was employed as a healthcare worker, for the Stonegate School in Durham and Elmcrest in Portland. He loved working with children, and it was his passion throughout his career. He was an avid Red Sox and UConn basketball fan and spent his leisure time fishing, listening to music, and spending time with his family. He is survived by two sisters, Carol D. Folsom and her husband Gordon of Middletown, and Nancy E. Melien and her husband Jeffrey of Cromwell; his nieces and nephews, Andrew Melien, John Melien, Timothy Melien, Justin Folsom and Emily Rose Folsom. A Memorial Mass will be held on Saturday, February 12, 2011 at 10A.M. at St. Pius X Church, 310 Westfield Street, Middletown. Burial will be in the springtime. Ed’s family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff and residents of Ability Beyond Disability for their caring, kindness and friendship extended to Ed for the past several years. Donations in Edward’s name may be made to the American Cancer Society, 825 Brook Street, I-91 Tech Center, Rocky Hill, CT 06067.
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Town Times
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Friday, February 11, 2011
Town Times
Roses (Continued from page 5) “It’s a great group,” she says. “The main thing I love is being with the other kids, people I usually wouldn’t get to interact with. It’s a close-
ly-knit group. We just have fun!” Emily Spence of Durham, another senior, joined Best Buds at the beginning of her junior year. She also is a member of the National Honor Society. “I’d heard about Best Buds (through NHS), so I
went to a meeting, and it was fun,” she says. “I wanted to get to know these students. At first, I didn’t think I’d have that much in common with them, but I found out I did. It’s a diverse group, and we have a lot of fun.” Spence wrote her college application essay about Best
Left, at Pinchbeck’s Rose Farm in Guilford, Brandon Wyzykowski of Higganum learns from co-worker Steve Barrows of Branford. Below, Pinchbeck’s beautiful roses. Submitted by Judy Moeckel
Buds. Erin Holden of Durham, another senior who is active in the National Honor Society, says the group will definitely do a Roses for Autism sale for Mother’s Day. Rose For Autism (RFA) is located at the Pinchbeck Rose Farm on Route 1 in Guilford. Using 50,000 square feet of greenhouse space (heated by woodchips, by the way), the program’s 20 employees, assisted by volunteers, grow and sell roses to the public. “It’s a retail operation that provides real life jobs for autism spectrum clients,” says Lori Gregan, retail operations manager at RFA. “We employ them, and they get a real working experience.” According to the website of the National Institute of
Town Times Service Directory Ceramic Tile Installation
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All 1185948
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Joseph W. Fontanella
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Residential Roof ing Specialist 1186038
Dan Jacobs Owner Dependable & Reasonable CT Lic. #00558904
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Child Health and Human Development, autism is a developmental disability (that is, it appears as a child develops) that causes problems with social interaction and communication. Since different people with autism can have very different symptoms, the term “autism spectrum disorders” is often used to describe the various manifestations of autism. Roses for Autism reflects the dream of its founder, Jim Lyman, who wanted to improve the quality of life for his son Eli, through meaningful work and opportunities to grow as an individual. With his farming background, when he heard that Pinchbeck’s was closing in 2008, he saw an opportunity to pursue that dream. With support from the Connecticut Autism Spectrum Resource Center (an advocacy group) and Ability Beyond Disability (an agency serving the needs of persons with disabilities), the program he envisioned opened in May 2009. RFA grows 16 varieties of roses in their greenhouses. Part of the appeal of their roses is the fact that they are grown on site; as the program’s mission states, they also help “grow independence in the business world” for the employees. Besides selling roses at their on-site store and at retail outlets and farmers’ markets, much of Roses for Autism’s business comes from providing flowers for fundraising programs. In a win-win partnership, RFA provides roses for other nonprofit organizations (such as Rotary clubs), schools, and businesses to sell, to raise money for their programs. In 2010 Roses for Autism sold more than one million roses to individuals and groups around the state and beyond. Look for Best Bud and National Honor Society members to be selling Roses For Autism this spring and, if you are down in Guilford, drop by the greenhouses. It’s truly uplifting (and you can get a badly-needed whiff of spring!).
Town Times Sports
Friday, February 11, 2011
Snowservices loses to Torrison in men’s b-ball By Scott Strang Special to Town Times
75, Snowservices 34 Pete Lynch and Adam Poturnicki had a field day in the paint, scoring 18 a piece as Torrison (3-0) easily defeated Snowservices. Mark Pfister also had a superb game with 16 points, including 4-4 from the charity stripe. Ryan Cove scored 20 for Snowservices (03) but struggled early, and the game was well out of hand before he began to connect on several NBA length threepoint shots. With under one minute left, and the game well in hand, Poturnicki drained a three-pointer from well beyond half court, his second three of the night, following a 2010 season where the league MVP did not make a single three point shot. For full box scores, stats and standings, become a friend of Durham Men’s League on Facebook.
All-State soccer winner
rose, then your share of the town’s expenses will go up. Whether your actual taxes go up or down will depend on the budgets adopted by the town and school in May. A revaluation is “a snapshot in time,” explained Philip. “It takes into account that submarkets move differently, such as residential real estate losing more value than commercial real estate in the current economy.” Another aspect that folks who read the town statistics might notice is a major shift in the number of accounts in various classifications. This is due to the fact, said Philip, that there were programming errors in classifying open land before the revaluation. On the 2009 grand list, there were 363 “vacant land” accounts listed. That has been changed to 120 vacant land accounts, while “use assessment” accounts rose from 28
Samantha Mancinelli, of Coginchaug, won AllStates for soccer. In the picture are athletic director Ted Lombardo, Samantha Mancinelli and girls’ soccer coach Megan Kavanaugh. Photo submitted by Karen Kean
to 579 accounts. “Before the reval,” said Philip, “most open space, farm and forestry parcels were listed under vacant land when they should appear under use assessment because they are assessed based on
their use, rather than on 70 percent of fair market value, as homes are assessed.” To recap the 2010 grand list categories, regular real estate fell from $686.9 million to $631 See Grand list, page 26
Town Times Service Directory Home Improvement & Repairs Specializing in Bathroom Remodeling Specializing in Custom Installations Repair & Maintenance Ceramic • Natural Stone • Glass
Gary Chabot (860) 349-2152
CT Lic. 0612088
Fully Insured CT Lic. #0575361
Robert Trombetta 860-798-5374 Middlefield, CT
V.M.B. Custom Builders 1186032
“No jobs too big or small” Mike Gerchy OWNER/BUILDER
INSTALLATION & REPAIR Randy Whitehouse CT Lic. #554559 Durham, CT
“Complete Jobs From First Stud To Last Touch Of Paint” Fully Insured & Licensed HIC #614488
Contractor 1186035
• New Homes • Additions • Kitchens • Garages • Decks HIC #0606486
Call after 5 pm (860)
347-1445
Fully Insured
Lawn Care Weekly Mowing Snow/Ice Management Plowing, Sanding, Walkways
Custom Building & Remodeling
All Types of Remodeling & Renovations
(860) 349-1904
Property Maintenance For Home and Office
1187151
Bruce Binge
WHITEHOUSE
SEPTIC
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Specializing in Historic Renovations and Custom Cabinets, Additions, Decks & Roofs 35 Maiden Lane Durham, CT 06422 (860) 398-0785 VMBCustombuilders@live.com
• Painting/Dry Wall • Tile Flooring • Basements/Skylights • Decks/Patios/Sheds • Odd Projects • No Job Too Small
1189485
RSDL
Quality Workmanship Done With Pride
Found Dog German Shepherd found in Lake Beseck area of Middlefield in mid-January. Please call 860-3490544 to claim.
(From page 1)
1188811
LasEngS and Allstate return from layoff to pull off upset wins Laser Engraving Services 70, Around the Clock Heating & Cooling 49 After another slow start, a parade of three pointers and exceptional zone defense lifted LasEngS (1-2) to their first win of the season, as Durham Mens League basketball finally returned after three weeks of canceled games. LasEngS trailed by 10 midway through the first half when Tim Egan and Eric Teitelbaum led a barrage of 15 threes that continued through the last 30 minutes of play. Newcomer Tim D’Aquila led LasEngS with 16, with Egan and Teitelbaum each scored 14. LasEngS had only scored 84 points in the first two games this year, but became the first team to hit 70 in a game this year. Around the Clock (1-2) was led by Pete Donecker and Dave Blair, who scored 16 and 12 respectively. Allstate Fire Equipment 53, Young Gunz 47 Dave DeRosa scored 14 of his 19 points in the second half to lead Allstate to a come-from-behind upset win against the Young Gunz. Mike and Brian Baranoski provided the early offense for the Gunz (2-1), who led 24-19 at halftime. Despite a solid defensive performance, Allstate (2-1) had trouble scoring early, but Mark Sutterlin and DeRosa got hot late, and Todd Manjuck was scrappy under the boards at both ends. Normally the Gunz’s leading scorer, Alex Schade had an awful night for the Gunz, finishing with just two points on foul shots. Brian Baranoski finished with 14 and Mike had 13 for the Young Gunz while Manjuck scored 10 and Sutterlin finished with eight for Allstate. Torrison Stone & Garden
Grand list
25
Property Maintenance Begins Here HIC #0628655
Dependable Facilities Maintenance Services Carpentry/HVAC/Plumbing/Electrical Taking New Accounts
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Town Times Sports
26
Friday, February 11, 2011
Coginchaug girls’ basketball takes on Morgan and North Branford By Alan Pease Special to Town Times Payback at Morgan Back on Jan. 17, the Coginchaug girls lost a tightly contested game to the Lady Huskies of Morgan 54-56, so when they traveled to Clinton on Monday, Jan. 31, they were looking for some payback to avenge one of their two losses in the Shoreline conference. I’d like to tell you that it was an exciting, hotly contested game that hung in the balance until the final seconds, but that just was not the case. The Devils scored the first basket, and led wire to-wire in a 57-36 win. They led 13-9 after one, 30-19 at the half, and 38-22 after three periods, giving up only a single basket plus a free throw in the entire third quarter. Audrey Biesak led the Devils with 22 points and did a great job of anticipating the
Huskies’ passes all night with five steals, adding two rebounds and two assists. It was a bit of a coming out event for freshman Kim Romanoff, who has cracked the starting lineup early in her career, and not only scored 14 points but also played a solid floor game on both defense and offense with four steals and three assists. Lauren Esposito scored 13 points, was solid on the boards with six rebounds, adding three assists and two steals. Sam Mancinelli led the team in rebounds, with nine, assists, with seven, and steals with six, as well as scoring four points. Amanda Boyle stole the ball three times and scored two points. Off the bench, Morgan Kuehnle had three rebounds, a block, a steal and an assist. Olivia Corazinni scored two points and grabbed a rebound, and Andrea Braga collected two rebounds and a
steal. Devils dominate On Thursday, Feb. 3, the Coginchaug girls hosted the Thunderbirds of North Branford. Again the Devils scored first, and, while North Branford may have taken a brief lead at 4-3, Coginchaug went ahead 20-8 after one, 33-18 at the half, 49-20 after the third period, and ending with a dominant 65-36 win. The Devils surrendered only a single two point basket in the entire third period. Audrey Biesak led the team in points with 21, and in steals, with six, and filled up the stat sheet with four assists, three rebounds and a block. Sam Mancinelli scored 12 points, led the team in assists with eight and also had eight rebounds and five steals. Lauren Esposito grabbed eight rebounds, scored eight points and also had two steals and an assist.
Kim Romanoff had six points, three steals, a rebound and an assist. Amanda Boyle grabbed eight rebounds, and also had four points and an assist. Off the bench, Morgan Kuehnle had an outstanding game, leading the team in both rebounding, with eleven, and blocks, with four. Morgan also scored eight and had a steal and an assist. Katelyn Williams scored two, had two steals and also had a rebound and an assist. Andrea Braga had two points, two rebounds and an assist. Olivia Corazinni scored two and had a rebound, and Alison Luther pulled down a rebound. As I write this, the girls are 14-3, 13-2 in the Shoreline conference, putting them solidly in second place in the conference. Weather permitting, they should be playing games on Monday and Thursday and should finish the regular sea-
Town Times Service Directory
Did Ice damming cause you to have a nightmare? 1180114
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Cahill Septic Service • Sanding • Staining • Installation • Refinishing • Repairs Specializing in Custom Designs & Quality Workmanship
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The Connecticut Eliminators girls’ fastpitch travel softball program has openings at the 10U, 12U and 14U age levels. Learn more about the CT Eliminator program at www.cteliminators.com. Arrange a tryout by email at cteliminators@aol.com. Please provide player’s name, date of birth, softball experience, positions played and contact info.
(Continued from page 25)
Let MLT Painting LLC take the worries away
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Grand list
Relax! Don’t get nervous
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son at Valley Regional on Valentine’s Day, Monday, Feb. 14. They are already qualified for both the Shoreline conference tournament and the state Class S tournament, so there should still be some opportunity to get out and root on the Lady Devils to victory in important games.
million; elderly homeowners increased from $11.6 million to $12.5 million; motor vehicles increased from $53.8 million to $57.6 million; and personal property decreased from $28.5 million to $26.5 million. Top 10 taxpayers Despite the change in numbers, the list of the top 10 taxpayers remained very stable. On the 2009 grand list, the top 10 were Connecticut Light and Power Co., Durham Manufacturing Co. (in two separate accounts), Stonegate Springs LLC, Tilcon Inc., Diana and Theodore Lynch, Dinatale Rentals LLC, Perma Treat Corp., The Signature Gordon LLC and Aesthetic Structures LLC. On the 2010 list, the top 10 were Connecticut Light and Power Co., Durham Manufacturing Co. (still in two accounts, though Philip plans to correct them into one account), Stonegate Springs LLC, Tilcon Inc., Dinatale Rentals LLC, Diana and Theodore Lynch, Hobson + Motzer Realty LLC, The Signature Gordon LLC, Perma Treat Corp. and Aesthetic Structures LLC.
Town Times Sports
Friday, February 11, 2011
27
Boys’ hoops
MDC dancers awarded
By Alan Pease Special to the Town Times
Dancers from the Middlesex Dance Center in Middlefield presented the American Academy of Ballet Performance Awards on Jan. 14. The group collected food for the local food pantry and local animal shelters through admission donations. Mignon Furman, director of the American Academy of Ballet in Manhattan and creator of the Performance Awards, honored the group by adjudicating the dancers herself. Each dancer had to perform a port de bras, allegro, adage and solo dance. The group earned 13 gold medals, three silver medals with double distinction, five silver medals with distinction and three silver medals. Photo by Tony’s Photography & Video
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Panthers control Devils On Friday, Feb. 4, the Coginchaug boys hosted the Panthers of Cromwell. Back on Jan. 22, the Devils had visited the Panthers and came away with a 47-39 victory and were hoping to repeat that successful performance. Cromwell scored first and jumped out to a 17-12 lead after the first quarter. Though Coginchaug did manage to narrow the gap to 26-25 at the half, they never could manage to take a lead, even briefly. A successful foul shot by Ethan Donecker at the beginning of the second half evened the score at 26, but a Cromwell trey put the visitors on top for good. Twice more the Devils drew within one point, once on a Tommy Ryan assisted basket by Donecker, and later on a Ryan two-point basket, but each time the Panthers were able to answer with a score, and ended the third quarter with a 40-34 lead. In the final period the Devils never got closer than four points, and an 11-4 run over a two-minute period late in the game sealed the win for Cromwell, who came away with a 61-50 win. Erikson Wasyl led Coginchaug with 17 points, adding five rebounds and an assist. Tommy Ryan scored 12 points, adding five assists and four rebounds. Ethan Donecker scored nine, and also had six rebounds and two steals. Andrew Markoski grabbed six rebounds, scored five points and had a steal. EJ Luther had a steal, an assist and a point. Off the bench, Brock Hoyt had five rebounds, four points and a block, and Roby Graenger scored two points. The boys are 8-3 overall, and 8-2 and in third place in the Shoreline conference. The weather has kept them off the court for almost 10 days, since the win at Morgan back on the 25th of January. They still have three makeup games to play from prior postponements, but in the near term, are scheduled to host North Branford tonight, Friday, Feb. 11, at 7:30 p.m. Come on out to Coginchaug and support the Devils!
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