3-11-2011TownTimes by Town Times Newspaper

Volume 17, Issue 48

Serving Durham, Middlefield and Rockfall

Local and very talented art students

Friday, March 11, 2011

Superfund site clean-up to begin in April By Cheri Kelley Town Times

Coginchaug students whose artwork was selected for exhibition in the Shoreline Arts Exhibit “Future Choices” are Korinne Stockdale, Michelle Geary, Carleen Doyle, Tyler Berry and Sarah Oppelt. Tyler Berry’s piece “Eiffel” was chosen to be the cover of the Exhibition catalog. Michelle Geary is the recipient of the Guilford Art Center Award and Sarah Oppelt is the recipient of the RJ Julia award. The art showcase is selected from hundreds of entries and gives young artists the opportunity to exhibit. The exhibit runs until March 15 at the Sill House Gallery, Lyme Academy College of Fine Arts, 84 Lyme St. in Old Lyme. Gallery hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Closed Sundays. Photo submitted by Jan Wenzel

Controlling expenses can’t stop school budget increase By Mark Dionne Special To Town Times District 13 Superintendent Sue Viccaro presented the proposed 2011/12 school budget to the Board of Education (BOE) at their March 2 meeting. Although projected expenses increase only 1.74 percent, the final figure of $33,905,896 is 6.25 percent higher than the current school year, due largely to a depletion of the district’s

fund balance. Expenses in the proposed budget total $35,295,141, compared to the current school year’s $34,693,143. The net figures, however, are farther apart. The current school year’s budget subtracts $2,782,863 in revenue; next year’s revenue is anticipated to drop to $1,389,245, because of the lower projected fund balance. In recent years the BOE, under pressure from citi-

Pooled solvents in the cracks in the bedrock at the Merriam Manufacturing Company (MMC) site are providing ongoing sources of contamination, and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is not expecting to see quick improvement to the ground water after the soil excavation project begins in April. On March 8, there was a well-attended public hearing on the MMC study area, also known as Durham Meadows. EPA project manager Anni Loughlin presented the information clearly about the approximately 38 residential homes that have contaminated private wells and are on carbon filter systems and the finalized clean-up design for the area. The Durham Mead-

ows sites consists of two residential parcels at 281 and 275 Main Street, the MMC site, as well as the Durham Manufacturing Co. study area. The public meeting concentrated on the MMC study area only. The recommendation for the permanent fix for drinking water is to have a water line from Middletown come to the Main Street Durham Area. Durham is hosting another public meeting on March 23 at 7 p.m. at the Durham Public Library to discuss the waterline study. See Superfund, page 29

In this issue ... Calendar...........................4 Durham Briefs ...............12 Middlefield Briefs..........11 Sports .........................29-31

Can I come out now?

zens, the Boards of Finance and defeated budgets, used the district’s fund balance to offset expenses. For example, according to figures in the budget proposal, the 2010/11 budget uses $1.79 million from the fund balance and anticipated carryover. The 2011/12 school year is projected to have a fund balance of less than $490,000, a difference of over See BOE, page 28

Web update Our poll question asked, “What do you think of the D13 Board of Education’s proposed net budget increase of 6.25 percent?” By press time, 64 people responded: 78 percent said “Too much of an increase — our towns can't afford it”; 14 percent said “The proposed budget sounds fine as is” and eight percent said “Not enough of an increase — our community underspends on education.” If you would like to communicate your thoughts to the Board of Ed, there are budget workshops every Wednesday in March in the Strong School library at 7:30 pm.

This robin was found outside the Middlefield Community Center at the end of January, eager to come out of this long, cold winter. This week, our feathered friends give us hope ... Could spring be far behind? Submitted by Lisa Larsen

Town Times Community Briefs Chairman Mike Cheney, along with 70+ volunteers, have pledged that no one will wait more than 10 minutes for all the spaghetti and meatballs you can eat, along with salad, drinks and

Corrections We strive to bring you the most accurate information available each week, but if you see something in Town Times that isn’t quite right, give us a call at 860-349-8000, and we’ll do our best to make things right. In last week’s issue, the Director of Curriculum and Professional Development for District 13’s name was misspelled. The correct spelling is Carol Luckenbach. The Kindergarten Sneak Peek was listed for last Sunday at Brewster & Lyman Schools, but it won’t be until the spring. Last week’s headline on page 1 read “Durham selectmen propose town budget with 4.28 percent increase,” however the article did not mention that selectman John Szewczyk did not support the budget and voted against it . Szewczyk also offered over $227,000 worth of savings to bring the budget spending even from last year at the BOS/BOF meeting on 03/01/2011.

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

The Young People’s Center for Creative Arts (YPCCA) has begun enrollment for their one-week summer theatre camp to take place at Coginchaug Regional High School. The camp will meet daily from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., Aug. 1 through 5 for students in grades six through 12. Students enrolled at the Young People’s Center for Creative Arts get to choose from a variety of workshops, including show choir, acting, Broadway chorus and voice. Mornings at the camp will be spent in these workshops, and afternoons will be devoted to rehearsing selected scenes and songs from the musical Grease! The performance on Friday evening will feature all of the campers performing pieces from both the workshops and Grease! Visit www.ypcca.org or call 860-267-2911.

Eye clinic Middlesex Community College in Middletown is having a complimentary eye

glass clinic on March 21 and 23 from 12:30 to 5 p.m. in the lower level of Chapman Hall. No transportation will be provided. The free eye exam and glasses will be provided to people who are unemployed or those with no insurance. For more info, contact Jan Muraca of Durham Human Services at 860-349-3153.

Notre Dame class registration Registration for Faith Formation classes will be held in the church hall this year. There will be four registration sessions: Sundays, March 20 and 27, after the 8 and 10:30 a.m. Masses; Monday, March 28 from 6 to 8 p.m. and Tuesday, April 5 from 6 to 8 p.m. Registrations will only be accepted by registering in person at one of these sessions or in the parish office. Those registering children for first grade or who are new to the parish must present a baptism certificate at the time of registration if their child was not baptized at Notre Dame Church.

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dessert. Last year over 875 dinners were served. There will be entertainment from the high school Dixieland and Jazz bands, directed by Dean Coutsouridis. The Exchange Club would like to express its appreciation for the considerable time and effort put into this event by Ted Lombardo, Dean Coutsouridis and the CRHS Athletic and Music departments. The Durham/Middlefield Exchange Club is a group of your neighbors who volunteer their time to support the prevention of child abuse, promote youth development and respond to community needs. Our fundraising efforts last year provided $36,000 which goes back into the communities. The club put this to good use in many ways, including helping young single mothers via the Family Advocacy Program at Middlesex Hospital, supporting local child abuse centers and providing scholarships to Durham and Middlefield students. For dinner prices, call Mike Cheney at 860-301-8992 or email ihavegum6@sbcglobal.net.

The Durham/Middlefield Exchange Club will be hosting the 14th annual Spaghetti Dinner on Sunday, March

20 at the CRHS café/gym between 3:30 p.m. and 7 p.m.

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Friday, March 11, 2011

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Friday, March 11, 2011

Town Times

The uses, costs and benefits of open space in our towns By Mark Dionne Special to Town Times

MIDDLESEX OB & GYN ASSOCIATES A Division of Women's Health CT

Celebrate Johnny Appleseed Days! March 10-16 Apples, Cider, Apple Desserts, Free Recipes, & More! elcome Busses W

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Event Sponsored by the Durham/Middlefield Exchange Club Tickets may be purchased at the door OR from an Exchange Club member. Proceeds from this event benefit CRHS Athletics and the Prevention of Child Abuse.

CRHS musical groups will provide continuous entertainment.

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tion Commission receives many applicants in the summer for the hunting slots, which cover the parcels north of Dunn Hill Road, off of Pent Road and between David and Saw Mill roads. Combined with state-regulated hunting on Durham Meadows, these areas mean that much of western Durham is huntable land in the fall. Middlefield First Selectman Jon Brayshaw said he and his office coordinate with hunters for safety, trying to prevent too many hunters on one area and hunting in too small a parcel. Middlefield conducts a lottery each year for bow hunting on the Coe Hill Sanctuary. Brayshaw said he would like “a hunter’s guide to Middlefield,” preferably done by the Middlefield Conservation Commission to answer questions of safety, hunting laws, parking and land boundaries. A sign at the entrance to Durham Meadows reminds hunters to wear fluorescent orange for safety, something

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In a region with much open space, the white signs dot our landscape, reading “All Uses to be in Accordance with Open Space Regulations.” As the snow slowly melts into the ground, more residents will be tempted to explore local woods and fields, but what are the rules of using open space? The phrase often used with open spaces is “passive recreation,” meaning members of the public can pursue activities that don’t harm the environment. This includes hiking, walking dogs, bird watching and crosscountry skiing. Model rockets can be launched from Durham open space with permission from the town Conservation Commission. In Durham, non-profit groups can receive permission from the Conservation Commission to camp overnight in tents. Otherwise open space areas are closed one hour after sunset with the exception of the skating pond off of Route 68. The skating pond is open until midnight in season. Motorized vehicles are prohibited. Fires are also prohibited, again with the

exception of the skating pond facilities. “Intoxication is prohibited,” according to regulations from Durham’s website. Although not specifically addressed in Durham’s online open space regulations, White’s Farm is also popular for sledding in winter and off-leash exercising of dogs. Not all open space is the same. Some properties, such as the Durham Meadows, are owned by the state. Others, such as the adjacent White’s Farm, is town-owned. Open space property can include private land whose owner has sold or donated the development rights to the town or a land trust. Hunting represents the most complicated and regulated use of open space. According to Durham Conservation Commission co-chair Robert Melvin, because Durham has used state and federal money to purchase the three permissible hunting areas, the town abides by Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection limits on the number of hunters. Using DEP’s numbers, the Conservation Commission administers a lottery each year to limit the number of hunters. The Durham Conserva-

Town Times & Places

4 FRIDAY

March 11 Renaissance Feast The Chamber Choir Renaissance Feast begins at 6 p.m. at Coginchaug High School. Strong Social The Strong School student social evening begins at 7 p.m. Cogin-Chuggers The Durham Cogin-Chuggers will hold their next dance at Brewster School, on Tuttle Road in Durham, from 8 to 10:30 p.m. Ken Ritucci will be the caller and Sue Lucibello the cuer. For more info, please call 860349-8084 or 203-235-1604 Plea for Costumes and Props The Oddfellows Playhouse, a Middletown theatre that lost its store of props and costumes in the Feb. 2 collapse of a Main Street building, will collect donated items and hold a tag sale to raise money. The biggest needs are for costumes: men’s and women’s dress clothes, shoes of all types and colors, hangers and storage bins; and props: suitcases, travel accessories, lamps, housewares, crates, boxes, eyeglasses, fake food and vintage items. The playhouse will keep all of the donated items it can use, and sell the rest at a tag sale on April 16. Donations may be brought to the playhouse, 128 Washington St. in Middletown from 2 to 4 p.m. Monetary donations can be made by calling 860-347-6143 or visiting oddfellows.org.

SATURDAY

March 12 Preschool Open House Grace Lutheran Preschool will hold an Open House from 10 a.m. to noon. Juice Jam Grace Worship Band hosts a special hour for kids ages 1 through 11 called Eternal Perks “Juice Jam” at 4 p.m. This event will be held at Grace Evangelical Lutheran Church Fellowship Hall, 1055 Randolph Rd. in Middletown. Join us for an afternoon of music, movement and merriment. We’ll be singing old favorites and learning new songs too. The

kids will love learning motions to the songs and percussion instruments will be used too! Potluck dinner to follow at 5 p.m. Bring a dish, snack, dessert or drink to share. For more info call 860346-2641. DAR contest winners Daughters of the American Revolution Wadsworth Chapter will celebrate the American Revolution during the March meeting and will honor American History essay contest winners for their essays on Paul Revere, including Natalie Charette of Strong School in Durham. The meeting will take place at the Portland Public Library at 10:15 a.m. Dance party fundraiser Celebrate spring with a dance party fundraiser at 7:30 p.m. at 8 Broad St. in Middletown. This event is for adults only. Bring a nonperishable food item for Amazing Grace Food Pantry, and admission at the door will go toward Half The Sky Foundation, an organization improving the lives of orphans in China. For more information and ticket prices, call 860-344-1568. Live band, food and silent auction. **DAYLIGHT SAVINGS** Turn clocks ahead 1 hour before you go to bed

SUNDAY

March 13 Durham 60+ Durham 60+ will meet at the United Churches Fellowship Hall at the corner of Main and Rt. 68. The hall will open early for the blood pressure clinic, and at 1 p.m. the meeting will begin. Resident Brian Russell will entertain the membership with singing and playing Irish music to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day. A social hour will follow. The public is welcome. Irish Performances St. Patty’s Day will be celebrated at the Meriden Turners, 800 Old Colony Rd., (Rt. 71) in Meriden. A traditional corned beef dinner served at 1 p.m. and will be followed by the music of Joe O’Ungers Band until 6 p.m. Irish Step Dancers will be featured during the afternoon. For reservations

contact Leo, 203-440-0028 or call the Clubhouse on Thursday evenings, 203440-9624.

TUESDAY

March 15 POPs Night Parents of Performers (POPs) Night will be tonight at 7:30 p.m. at Coginchaug. The CRHS Band and Chorus will perform. Meet Your Greens Lucy Meigs will informally present information about Everyone Outside, including Women of the Woods, at the Rockfall Foundation, 27 Washington St. in Middlefield, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. For more info call 860-347-0340. Destination Durham Every Tuesday at 7 p.m., on Comcast channel 19, Destination Durham will be aired for those living in Durham. DVDs are also available at the Durham and Levi libraries; call for availability.

Friday, March 11, 2011

a dinner “to go” by calling 860-358-5802. Please place your to go orders by 4:30 p.m. and let them know your expected pick-up time. Knit Club Come knit or crochet at the Durham Activity Center every Wednesday 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. TOPS Join the TOPS meetings every Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. at the Durham Town Hall third floor meeting room. For more info, call Naomi at 860-349-9558 or Bonnie at 860-349-9433.

THURSDAY

March 17

WEDNESDAY

March 16 Durham 60+ Durham 60+ Travel will attend a St. Patrick’s Day celebration at John J. Sullivan’s in Ansonia. The meal will be a choice of corned beef and cabbage, chicken florentine, or new york strip steak served with salad, pasta, Irish soda bread, potato, vegetable and a specialty dessert and beverage. We will be entertained by Danny Quinn singing all of your favorite Irish songs and telling stories. We will depart the United Churches Parking Lot at 10:15 a.m. and return at 4:30 p.m. Call Ellie at 860-3493329 or Karen at 860-349-3468 for info about reservations. Benefit Dinner There will be a pasta dinner fundraiser for Megan Sherman-Baumann of Middlefield, who has been chosen to participate in the People to People Student Ambassador Program, and will travel internationally this summer for 18 days to represent the USA. In support of Megan’s participation, One MacDonough Place in Middletown will be holding a fundraiser from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Drop by the Café for a wonderful meal. If you prefer, you can order

Girls Outside The Girls Outside program will be held at Wadsworth Mansion and Snow School from 2 to 4 p.m. Volunteers are needed. Call Lucy at 860-395-7771 for more info or to volunteer.

SATURDAY

March 19 Scholarship Ball The annual Coginchaug High School Scholarship Ball is tonight from 7 p.m. to midnight at the Marriot in Rocky Hill. Highlights include a two-hour open bar and buffet dinner, dancing to the sounds of prelude, silent auction and dessert and coffee bar. Call Kim Donecker at 860-349-9840 to reserve your spot. American Legion meeting There will be a meeting of the American Legion at 10 a.m. in the Durham Library. For more information, call Bob Francis at 349-0881

SUNDAY *Happy St. Patrick’s Day* New England Music Festival The New England Music Festival starts today at CRHS and goes through Saturday. Call the school at 860349-7215 for details. Irish Musical Tour A musical tour of Ireland presented by Denise Stankovics. For ages 50+, at the Middlesex Institution for Lifelong Education, 100 Training Hill Rd. in Middletown, at 1 p.m.

FRIDAY

March 18 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. No RSVP is required, just feel free to come on down and join the fun. For more info on the MOMS Club please contact Ann at momsdurhammiddlefield@yahoo.com.

March 20 Spaghetti Dinner The Exchange Club Spaghetti Dinner and Jazz Ensemble is at CRHS from 3 to 7 p.m. Tea Time The 11th annual Tea at the Mansion will be 2 to 4 p.m. at the Wadsworth Mansion at Long Hill Estate. The doors will open at 1 p.m. A threecourse tea menu from Kim’s Cottage Confections of Durham will be served with an estate tea from The Green Room. Area hostesses set the tables for the event with china, linens and silver befitting the elegant setting. A boutique of selected vendors adds an opportunity for shopping. Admission is required and seating is limited and first come, first served. Call 860-349-9521 for more info. Women’s History Month Meet the Wild Women of Middletown’s Past presented by the Middlesex County Historical Society. This walking history tour starts at 1 p.m. at the General Mansfield House, 151 Main St. in Middletown. Call 860346-0746 for more info.

Friday, March 11, 2011

Town Times

The ‘missing link’ in retirement planning By Sue VanDerzee Town Times So, you’re in the 40-60 age range, sending kids off to higher education and/or watching them graduate and launch and worrying about helping out, but you’re still carefully socking something away in retirement accounts. You’ve got it all figured out. Not so fast there, baby boomer. Have you figured in the cost of paying for possible nursing home care? Many boomers mistakenly assume that nursing home expenses are covered by Medicare, but that’s not true. Medicare covers, at the most, 100 days of nursing home care following at least three days of approved hospitalization. After that, you’re on your own, at least until all of your resources are used up, after which you may be eligible for Medicaid.

to talk,” she explains, “because people need fair and factual information to make up their own minds. Pantano will just lay the groundwork for individual exploration of options.” As a recently retired person myself, I am just becoming acquainted with the “senior safety net,” and believe me, it’s not so easy. All the info that you can gather will only help you make sensible and tailored decisions before you find yourself in a crisis situation. Those decisions may or may not include purchasing long term care insurance. As with life insurance, however, the earlier that decision is made, the more inexpensive the actual purchase will be. To register for this free seminar, call Astle at 860-3497121 or email a_astle@middlefield-ct.com. Light refreshments will be served.

CRHS scholarship applications The Coginchaug Regional High School (CRHS) Scholarship Fund announces that applications for 2011 scholarships are available online at www.rsd13ct.org. CRHS Seniors may also access the application from the high school website through the guidance tab. CRHS graduating seniors who will be attending a twoor four-year college/university or trade school are eligible. Incomplete applications will not be considered. All applications must be emailed by March 31, 2011, by 11:59 p.m. No applications will be accepted after March 31.

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Many people, however, envision being able to pass on at least a small financial legacy to heirs or causes in which they believe in. That’s where the question of long-term care insurance comes in, and that’s where Antoinette Astle of the Middlefield Senior Center hopes to be helpful as you look down the road. On Tuesday, March 22, from 6-8 p.m. she has arranged for a speaker from the Connecticut Partnership for Long Term Care to visit the Community Center and speak about long term care insurance, what it provides, what it costs and how it might fit into your retirement strategy. Aldo Pantano will talk about these subjects, as well as answer questions from attendees. Astle stresses that Pantano is not an insurance salesman. “I won’t sponsor salespeople

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

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Friday, March 11, 2011

Town Times

What you need to know about dating violence and your teen By Cheri Kelley Town Times In such a close-knit community, many might think that teen dating violence is not an issue; it couldn’t happen in our town, not to our kids, we would know about it.

Well that is not the case; teen dating violence happens all the time, and for those who feel it is a problem that has no bearing on teens in Durham and Middlefield, take a brief moment to hear the story of a young girl named Melanie Smith. Melanie shared her story at the Love Is Not Violent Forum put on by Durham Midd l e f i e l d Youth and Family Ser-

Panelists at the Love Is Not Violent Forum. Jane Moen

vices (DMYFS) on March 2 at Coginchaug High School. Melanie grew up with a supportive, close family. Her parents were still married, and she was an only child. Melanie did well in school, had great friends, was pretty and well-liked. Melanie was a typical teenager growing up in a mostly white, middleclass neighborhood. She was in eighth grade in 1999 when she began dating a boy. At first everything was great, but slowly it began to change. He didn’t like her friends, and he began accusing her of cheating with no reasoning behind it. He was trying to show his control over her.

“ he Hearth has gone so far beyond T my expectations for my mother that

I want to share my story with others.”

“Caring for someone with dementia can be more than any one person, or even a family, can do. After extensive research, I chose The Hearth.

became angry and took her on a drive going 100 miles per hour on winding back roads. After coming out of the woods he was stopped by police for a traffic violation, she jumped out of the car and told the police that he was trying to kill her. He was arrested, and because he was 19 and they had a prior domestic violence case he served one year in prison. That’s when it ended. Melanie is currently a Program Counselor for Vista Vocation Life Skills in Madison, CT. As a survivor of teen dating violence, she shares her story at forums like the one put on by DMYFS to bring awareness and support services to teens and adults. Melanie was one of the powerful speakers at the forum who shared knowledge about the topic of teen dating violence. See Teen violence, page 24

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Town Times Opinion

Friday, March 11, 2011

Bold and imaginative – Women’s History Month

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Contributors: Chuck Corley, Diana Carr, Trish Dynia, Elisabeth Kennedy, Karen Kean, Judy Moeckel, Tori Piscatelli, Michelle P. Carter and Sue VanDerzee.

Years and years ago, I was browsing through old books at an antique shop when Women of Courage by Dorothy Nathan jumped out at me. A bright yellow hardcover book with the image of five women, all of whom I’d heard of before – this book was old, and I liked that about it. It felt like I was holding a treasure, and I purchased it for less than a dollar to add to my bedroom library. I was into The Baby-Sitters Club books, Nancy Drew and the like, but I was fascinated by the stories of real women who were leaders of their time. Women of Courage profiles five remarkable women: Susan B. Anthony, Jane Addams, Mary McLeod Bethune, Amelia Earhart and Margaret Mead. Remembering that this book is still in my collection, I pulled it out recently and flipped through the pages. It reads… “Susan B. Anthony fought down the line for woman’s right to have rights…Jane Addams walked out of her comfortable private parlor to make Chicago’s slums her home…Mary McLeod

Bethune, like a conscience, drilled away at prejudices which kept Negro children from growing up to share the good things in American life…Amelia Earhart flew airplanes, proving that women as well as men have spirit to dare and do…Margaret Mead traveled to the corners of the world in her search for the secrets of human nature.” As the book says, there are countless extraordinary American women “whose lives are woven into the bright pattern of our country. These five stand out for their boldness and imagination.” Great women are everywhere, and their accomplishments often go unheard. Here’s to all of you, and to all whose names make the headlines. Either way, what an accomplishment it is to stand out for being bold and imaginative. I think, in honor of Women’s History Month (March), I will pick this book up again and read it. The inspiration I felt that day many years ago holding that book in my hands is alive inside me again, and I’m in the mood to be inspired. Stephanie Wilcox, editor

Letters to the Editor Weight of snow and ice impacts structural integrity I would like to commend Middlefield First Selectman Jon Brayshaw for the prompt action taken to preserve public safety during the deluge of recent snowstorms in January and February. After the last storm, Brayshaw received notification from Emergency Management Director Terry Parmelee that creaking noises had been heard on the roof of the Middlefield Community Center. Brayshaw immediately recognized that this

might be a sign of impending collapse and arranged for a local contractor to remove all the snow from the community center roof. This action prompted other town officials to later question why this task was not “put out to bid.” I am a licensed property/casualty agent for Nationwide Insurance in Durham. During the past two months I personally filed many claim calls from homeowners who were experiencing ice dams on their roofs and all sorts of interior leakage. We heard of one instance in which a customer’s life was saved because she called a restoration company to describe the noises she was hearing from the roof of

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

her home. The company told her to immediately vacate the premises. Half an hour later, the home came down in total collapse. We are fortunate in Middlefield to have a first selectman who has the ability to recognize an imminent danger to public safety and has the conviction to make an appropriate and timely response. Mary Ann Zieminski, Rockfall

Climate change — only a debate among non-scientists In response to Mr. Glueck’s letter from the previous week, I must respectfully disagree with the assertion that the science surrounding anthropogenic climate change is simply a political or financial smokescreen. As it happens, the debate as to whether humans are altering the planet’s climate rages mostly amongst non-scientists. There is a broad consensus in the scientific community on this matter, as there is on other “controversial” concepts like evolution. As with evolution, the debate among sci-

entists is not whether or not the broad concept fits the observed data well, but rather the mechanisms at work within the theory. Writing in an essay entitled “The Scientific Consensus on Climate Change” in the journal Science (Dec. 04), Naomi Oreskes reveals her analysis of 928 abstracts published in journals obtained with a search using the keyword “climate change.” The following quote shows what she found: “Of all the papers, 75 percent fell into the first three categories, either explicitly or implicitly accepting the consensus view; 25 percent dealt with methods or paleoclimate, taking no position on current anthropogenic climate change. Remarkably, none of the papers disagreed with the consensus position.” The practice of science is a fluid, changing process. Science does not tell one what to think, but rather is a system of inquiry. It teaches how to observe, question and test. I can state without equivocation that any scientist would be more than happy to identify a striking result, even if it is out of step with the prevailing wisdom. A good hypothesis will bring grant money, not to worry. Without question, the pre-

vailing details of the subject of climate change will be refined, as they should be. It is doubtful, though that the concept as a whole will be discredited. That is unfortunate as we all wish this wasn’t so. I can say though, that a clear understanding of how we are changing our planet is crucial to the responsible actions we should take in the future. The error of Al Gore and many others is to sell the problem of climate change as an investment opportunity. Outside of politics, few would believe that cap and trade schemes or “sustainable development” are any kind of productive response. These do harm to the science and lead many to throw the baby out with the bathwater. We simply cannot afford to do so. In questions of science, we should pursue the discipline of science. In questions of theology, the many “holy” books can claim authority. Most of us would not consult scripture to diagnose or treat an illness, particularly in the western world. It would be nothing less than irresponsible to turn a blind eye to how we are impacting the world we live in, all while we benefit from the advances of science. By all See Climate, page 27

Town Times Columns

Friday, March 11, 2011

The evolution of a state budget over the next two Governor Malloy years. Concessions of has proposed a state that size are unrealisbudget for the next tic, realizing that our two years, and it is public employees now the responsibiligave back $800 million ty of the state legislajust last year. Far ture to respond and more preferable hopefully improve on would be the selective his proposals. I have downsizing of our informed the Senate state government, president that, as the which I believe would budget proposal now make it more effective stands, I will be a and efficient. Our “no” vote. Let me exstate agencies are conplain. sumed by a multitude The governor’s proState Senator Ed Meyer of managers doing duposal seeks additional plicate work. A recent state taxes of about study demonstrated $1.5 billion targeted that we have one manexcessively, in my ager for every six opinion, on the middle class. For example, he proposes a state employees while other states 10 percent increase in the state in- and the private sector average one come tax for taxpayers earning be- manager for every 10 employees. tween $50,000 and $100,000, but he From six years of working with our proposes only a three percent in- state agencies, I am persuaded that crease for taxpayers earning over $1 selective downsizing of these agenmillion. His proposed increase in the cies will actually make them more efsales tax and the expansion of that fective. State budgets are works in tax to include clothes and a variety of services again primarily hit the mid- progress, and I am making my views dle class. All economic advisers, lib- known through the Senate caucus. eral or conservative, tell us that we While critical of some of the goverwill need some tax increases to bal- nor’s budget proposals, I am greatly ance a budget with such a huge impressed by his energy, commitdeficit, but I believe that the targets ment to the job and his taking his proposals on a statewide tour of 17 towns are misplaced. Secondly, the governor proposes to and cities. That communication will get $2 billion of wage and benefit con- ultimately produce a reasonable and cessions from our public employees fair (though painful) state budget.

From The State Capitol

Parenting: The elephant or the doctor question The innocence and ability to see endless Cheri opportunities for your future are things that most four-yearolds have in common. My husband took our oldest son to the Yale University Peabody Museum of Natural History in New Haven; our son loves all things dinosaur and was totally into the fossils and exhibits at the museum. They went along talking about the different dinosaurs, which he knows more about than the average adult, myself included. My husband is a science teacher and uses more scientific vocabulary when speaking about things of this nature than most would with young kids, but our son just soaks it all up. For example, one day when he was three, while driving around, he said, “Hey Mama, your car is a quadruped because it has four wheels!” I responded with, “Well, yes it is, sort

of,” and continued down the road, discussing other things that have four feet. That is just the way he is, full of enthusiasm for learning new things. Well, the day at the museum was no different; he came home, busted through the back door and all the sights that he and Daddy saw that day started to spill out of him like someone opened the floodgates. The enormous mammoth fossils and the fact that Apatosaurus is the real name for Brontosaurus, among many other things. And then he announced that he was going to be a paleontologist and work at Yale. And of course he will be in a rock band on the weekends, after he plays with his own kids, he said. “Okay, cool,” I thought, at least he will be close to

Kelley

Guest Editorial

See Parenting, next page

How would you balance the state budget? A few weeks ago I listened to Governor Malloy deliver his first budget address to the legislature. I have some real concerns about the proposed taxes — new taxes on the middle class are awfully hard to support. I do, however, appreciate the governor’s boldness in seeking real reforms and am encouraged State Rep. by his focus on creating jobs, protecting education and improving transportation. I did want to outline the major points of the governor’s budget, but I want you — my constituents — to let me know what you think. One important point: for the first time in at least 20 years, the governor’s budget is actually balanced. It has no borrowing or any of the kind of budget gimmicks that previous governors have used to make phony budgets seem balanced. Also, state aid to our towns is generally protected, which will help towns hold the line on property taxes. As someone who is committed to reorganizing state government, I am

pleased that the Governor has proposed slashing the number of state agencies by one-third. While a good starting point, I believe there is even more we can do to cut costs and streamline state government. For example, I am pushing legislation to limit the size of the state’s bloated middle management, and I am behind a comMatt Lesser prehensive effort to save taxpayers’ money by reducing energy use in drafty state office buildings. I also appreciate that Governor Malloy is focused on out-of-the-box ideas to create jobs. His budget introduces an interesting “First Five” program to direct tax incentives to the first five businesses that commit to creating at least 200 jobs. The budget also supports capital investments in the state’s transportation infrastructure and funding for statewide tourism marketing. With the Durham Fair, Lyman Orchards and hopefully soon Powder Ridge, Durham and Middlefield are sure to benefit from tourism funding.

From The State Capitol

See State budget, next page

Frances Perez — Movie Junky Town Times would like to introduce a new column that you will find regularly on our website, Frances Perez — Movie Junky. Log on to www.towntimes.com every Friday to see what movie is being talked about this week, and then go rent it at your local library for something fun to do with the family. Though this review will only be published on our website, here’s a snippet of what you’ll find Frances Perez — Movie Junky: “It’s so cold over here! I’m from Califorina, a very warm place. I wish I can say I moved to Middlefield for a vacation or to visit family. Not my story. I came here because of heartbreak. I’m making my life a movie without thinking about it. I went across the United States for four days on a train. But I didn’t leave Cali alone; I brought my movie knowledge with me. I can tell you anything about any movie. They bring so much in one hour or two. In that time we find friends, action, passion and adventure coming together or being pulled apart. It takes a great movie to have you feel the pain or love for someone. I know great movies, from comedies like Dumb and Dumber to, in my opinion, a perfect movie like Jaws. Connecticut to me is very lowkey. I have been spending a lot of my time going to the library, and I realized something...lot of people rent movies here — a lot of people! I guess it’s because of the weather, and you don’t want to leave the house. That’s why I’m willing to help with your rental choices so your staying at home is more than being snowed in with nothing to do. I will be adding entertaining movies for everyone, not just the adults and parents. Since I spoke of Jaws, that’s were I should start my movie reviews... See the movie review on www.towntimes.com this Friday.

Friday, March 11, 2011

Town Times

State budget (Continued from page 9) I am concerned that seniors and the middle class may be disproportionately affected by Governor Malloy’s budget. He is proposing eliminating the middle class property tax credit and increasing sales and income taxes on all of us. The governor is also proposing an earned income tax credit to help lower income families. There is no easy way to plug a $3.3 billion deficit, and any budget will invariably involve sacrifices. However, I will fight to reduce the impact on the middle class. Governor Malloy is asking 1192130

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state employees to make sacrifices as well. In his budget, he asks for $1 billion of cuts to their pay and benefits in each of the next two years. I have to assume that the governor has cause to believe he can achieve this level of savings through negotiations with state employees. I am looking forward to learning more about his plans in this area. Crafting the final state budget is a serious and deliberative process that we will be focusing on over the next few months. Many difficult choices will have to be made, and I want your input. Would you change the tax proposals? If so, how? Do you want more cuts? If so, to where? I have already heard from many of you about the budget, but I would like to hear

from more of you. Please email me at Matthew.Lesser@cga.ct.gov or call me at home at 860-344-1230 to share your thoughts and suggestions.

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Parenting (Continued from page 9) home. He changes his mind all the time about what he wants to be when he is older, which, of course, is natural. A while back he said, “When I grow up, I either want to be a doctor or an elephant!” Well, I’m thinking that he will have better luck with the medical route, but I couldn’t bear to tell him that. He was so sure of himself, and who am I to burst his bubble? Maybe, he will be a doctor for elephants; only time will tell. I love watching him experience new things and explore the world around him. The amazing part is how he just decides that this is what he will do in life and how he believes it with his whole heart. It’s so matter-of-fact when he speaks about it — there are no obstacles too

The Middlefield seniors recently had their Annual Snowflake BBQ at the Senior Center. Hot sizzling burgers off the grill with all the toppings were served, followed by bingo. Pictured are Jim Dowling, Ruth Kowalski Connie Drega and Melissa Zorn, director of Admissions and Marketing from Wadsworth Glenn. Wadsworth Glen donated the cake for the event that was created by Food Services Director Jay Dalo and Chef Mike LaMalfa. Photo submitted by Antionette Astle large. This is what I want, and so I must make it happen. So many adults, myself included at times, get knocked around by doubt and the uncertainty of the unknown and let our childish enthusiasms flutter away. All one needs to do is

look into the wide eyes of a young child and see the world and all its possibilities. Maybe there should be more scientists who moonlight as rock stars out there, and the world would be a better place.

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Middlefield street lights The town would like to publicize this list of street lights that are proposed to be turned off. Anyone having questions or comments can call Jeremy Renninghoff at 860-349-6989. This will be the last opportunity to make comments before the disconnect orders are submitted. Kickapoo Rd pole 513 Lakeview Pl pole 126 Main St pole 389 Derby Rd pole 251 Ross Rd pole 714 Powder Hill Rd pole 666 Stowe St pole 774 Esther Dr pole 913 Woodland Hts pole 607 Sioux Rd pole 497

March Senior Center events Free income tax assis-

Middlefield Town Briefs tance will be available every Tuesday until April 12. This income tax preparation service is provided by AARP. The IRS-trained counselor will help those 60 years and older with low or moderate income by appointment only. Please call the senior center once you have received all your documents and paperwork for filing.

meal on Thursday, March 17 at noon. We will be serving up corned beef, parslied boiled potatoes, cabbage, whole baby carrots, rye bread and a special dessert. Prizes will be awarded for best dressed (in the Irish). Reservations must be made by March 15. The cost of the luncheon is a suggested donation of $2.

Movie Madness on Wednesdays in March will be comedies The Back-Up Plan (March 9), Failure to Launch (March 16), As Good as it Gets (March 23) and Tortilla Soup (March 30). Movies start at 1 p.m. and popcorn and hot cocoa will be served. Movie descriptions and starring roles are posted at the Center. No reservation is necessary, no fee for the movies or refreshments.

Hearing screenings will be held, by appointment only, on Wednesday, March 30, by Richard Lastrina, BS, BC-HIS, ACA, from Beltone New England. He will also be available for cleaning hearing aides.

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Foot care is available every third Wednesday of each month at the Center. The foot care nurse from Connecticut Visiting Nurse will soak, assess, massage and clip toe nails. The cost is $30. Appointments are required and fill up fast. The

Middlefield Government Calendar (Unless otherwise indicated, all meetings are held in the Community Center.) Tuesday, March 15 7 p.m. — Conservation Commission Wednesday, March 16 7:30 p.m. — Board of Education at Strong School 7-10 p.m. — Inland Wetlands & Watercourses Agency 7 p.m. — Metacomet Regional Windfarm Committee 7 p.m. — DMIAAB at Town Hall Thursday, March 17 7 p.m. — Board of Finance Tuesday, March 22 7 p.m. — Zoning Board of Appeals 7 p.m. — Board of Selectmen Wednesday, March 23 7:30 p.m. — Board of Education at Strong School 6:30 p.m. — Planning and Zoning

next clinic will be held on March 16. To sign up for any programs or to have lunch in Café on Mondays, Wednesdays or Fridays, call Antoinette Astle at 860-349-7121.

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Durham Fitness and Durham Women’s Club have teamed up to help raise money with their first annual Zumba® For A Cure. This event will take place at Brewster Elementary School, 126 Tuttle Rd. in Durham, on Tuesday, March 22. Registration begins at 5:30 p.m. Zumba® is from 6 to 7 p.m. Zumba® is a fun, Latinnspired, calorie-burning dance workout. The event is open to all ages and anyone may participate. We ask for a minimum donation of $10, of which 100 percent will be donated to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. To pre-register, visit Durham Fitness at 6 Main St., or call 860-349-2480.

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Durham will again offer a Memoir Writing class beginning March 24 at the Durham Activity Center from 10 a.m. to noon. For residents age 60 and over, the Sr. Café is held on Mondays and Wednesdays at the Durham Activity Center. Lunch is served at noon. Suggested donation is $2. Reservations are necessary. On Wednesday, March 16, we will be celebrating St. Patty’s Day at the Café. It will be fun. Call Jan

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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, March 14 7 p.m. — Board of Selectmen on the third floor of the Town Hall 7:30 p.m. — Inland Wetlands Watercourse Agency Tuesday, March 15 7 p.m. — Board of Finance at the Town Hall 7 p.m. — Agriculture Commission at the Town Hall Wednesday, March 16 7:30 p.m. — Board of Education at Strong School 7 p.m. — DMIAAB at the Middlefield Community Center 7:30 p.m. — Planning and Zoning Commission

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Volume 16. Issue 5

Coginchaug Regional High School

March 11, 2011

Replacement for the Better By Mike McShane

For the 2010-2011 basketball together even if the freshmen outseason, Rett Mancinelli took over numbered the upperclassmen,” the head coaching spot for the said freshman Sydney Trusty. Lady Devils. He brought in leader- “Everyone was treated with the ship, a new personality and some- same amount of respect.” thing for Coginchaug to build off of. Coach Mancinelli brought the Mr. Mancinelli coached Strong basketball team to a 17-3 record. Middle School for the last four When it came time for the shoreyears. He has always stuck to sim- line conference tournament, they ilar practice routines to help shape knew it would come down to a team effort and hard work to prehis teams. “I believe in teaching all the ba- pare for the upcoming games. The Blue Devils carried their sic skills needed to play basketThe group of 16 students waited anxiously to meet their host fami- ball,” said girls’ head coach Rett regular season success into the post-season. They defeated Old lies for the first time outside of Blaise Pascale. Photo by Nancy Alberico Mancinelli. “We keep it simple by trying to execute the basics: drib- Saybrook and Cromwell to get to bling, passing, catching, shooting, the Shoreline Championship. The defending and rebounding. You brackets were set and they were can’t take the simple things for ready to face their archrival in PortBy Erin Holden granted because that is what land. Oaxaca has peaks almost major thing on their minds as they The Lady Devils had the home builds success.” 10,000 feet high, some of the stepped off the plane: How am I court advantage going into the From the first day of tryouts, Mr. game. They were hosting the 2011 deepest caverns in the world and going to be able to live with a naMancinelli knew what was in store tournament no matter how they hidden, dense jungles. Famous tive Spanish-speaker? for him in the upcoming season. for being home to many different “I was nervous about meeting He saw many of the same faces he performed in the regular season. indigenous cultures, Oaxaca was my host family and not being able The scene was set and Coginalso home to 16 brave Spanish to talk to them,” said junior Rachel coached at Strong School. He kept chaug faced Portland on Friday, students who ventured to south- Foley. “I had already talked to my an immense amount of freshmen Feb. 25. The girls pulled off a one east Mexico for a two-week ex- person through Facebook, but it’s to play for his team. point victory; 42-41. The Devils “If this group of freshmen were brought back the shorelines chamchange program. different talking to them and their not ready to play high school basThe group of 16 students from family in person and in another ketball, it was nobody’s fault but pionship trophy to the school for a variety of grades and Spanish language.” mine,” said Mr. Mancinelli. levels and two teachers, Ms. MarThe students had an interesting See Basketball, page 15 “Everyone was always working tino and Mrs. Alberico, left the time adjusting to the new culture. country on Feb. 12 and returned In addition to hearing mainly on Feb. 26. This was the second Spanish, the students were introtime that the Spanish department duced to different types of cuisine partnered with Blaise Pascale and household routines. “The part Prepatroia for an exchange pro- of the trip that surprised me the gram, the first being back in 2009. most was probably all of the differAs with the first trip, each Cogin- ent food, especially the cheese,” chaug student this year was as- said sophomore Kayla Makara. “I signed a host family. Once the would also have to say the whole CRHS group arrived in Mexico, ‘no toilet paper in the toilet’ was a the students lived with their host little shocking at first.” families, went to school at Blaise Once they were settled in their Pascale with their hosts and ex- new homes, the CRHS students perienced the Mexican culture attended classes at Blaise Pascale firsthand. All of the CRHS stu- and learned what it was like to be dents were excited about this a high school student in a Mexican The Coginchaug Lady Devils celebrating their shoreline champiunique opportunity to explore See Mexico page 18 onship in a defeat at home against Portland 42-41. Photo by Morgan Kuehnle Mexico, but most of them had one

Hola Mis Amigos!

Devil’s Advocate

Friday, March 11, 2011

Student Opinion

Waiting for the Melt Editor-in-Chief: Mackenzie Hurlbert Contributors: Julian Pasquale, Amanda Boyle, Kevin Onofreo, James Malcolm, Erin Holden, Mike McShane, Mackenzie Hurlbert, Tyler Cassidy, Alicia Lisitano, Alex Shoudy, Melissa Ober, Jocelyn Brown, Henry Willis, Alex Kovacs and Adam Twombly. Production: Mackenzie Hurlbert, Adam Twombly and Jennie Ochterski. Advisors: Mr. Nate Fisher and Ms. Stephanie Wilcox The Devil’s Advocate is the Coginchaug High School newspaper. These pages are the creation and expression of the students.

America the Knowledgable By Alex Kovacs I recently conducted a survey in Tell” policy? which I randomly chose students A: Although revoked, the policy to test their knowledge of the Unit- restricted the U.S. military from tryed States. The point was to see if ing to discover the sexuality of a our very soon-to-be voters could closeted homosexual or bisexual answer some simple questions service member. It also prevented that an informed voter should openly gays, lesbians, or bisexuals know. If you have a child and he is from serving in the military (53% of going to be voting soon, consider students answered correctly) asking him these questions. Better Q: Name one notable American yet, see if you can answer them satirist. yourself. It may deliver a surprising A: Mark Twain, Seth MacFaroutcome. Q: In what countries is the Unit- lane, George Orwell, Dr. Seuss, ed States currently involved in an and many more (23% of students answered correctly) active conflict? A: Iraq and Afghanistan (85% of Q: What is the American currenstudents answered correctly) cy? Interesting Answers I received: A: USD (85% of students anEgypt and Israel swered correctly) Q: Who is the current vice presiInteresting Answer: Millions dent of the United States? Q: What is your opinion on our A: Joe Biden (62 % of students current president? (Approve, disanswered correctly) Interesting Answers: Sarah approve, no opinion) 84% of people interviewed gave an opinion Palin, Joe Lieberman Q: Who was the previous vice about our president president of the United States? It’s interesting that 84% of the A: Dick Cheney (54% of stu- students interviewed were able to dents answered correctly) form an opinion about our presiQ: How many states are in the dent while only 62% could tell me contiguous United States? who our vice president is. I have A: 48 (62% of students an- been hearing many classmates swered correctly) say recently that they strongly disInteresting Answers: 50, 51, 2 approve of Obama. If I ask that Q: Name two countries that were student to tell me what specifically in the Multi-National Force- Iraq he dislikes about Obama’s work, A: United States, United King- the student will either not be able dom, France, Australia, Spain, and to respond or tell me something many more along the lines that he “screwed up Interesting Answers: Mexico, our economy” with no further eviCanada, Iraq, Lebanon, Ohio, dence to back that up. These are North Dakota high school students who will very Q: Who was the War of 1812 soon be a new generation of votfought between? ers. While I don’t claim to be the A: The United States and The most politically informed person British Empire and I understand high school stuInteresting Answers: US vs. dents are busy, I feel that it is necSpain, France vs. The British Em- essary for students to realize that pire, The North vs. The South there is a world out there and it’s Q: What is the “Don’t Ask, Don’t time to start to get to know it.

By Mackenzie Hurlbert These winter months have been they wait for a response for weeks, quite tiresome, haven’t they? After maybe even months. Some lucky all the shoveling and early morning seniors have already heard back car scrape-offs, we’ve suffered and now face the decision of through running noses and numb where to go, but it is all the same. fingers, and the warm spring Now is a time of indecision, anticiweather we want teases us by pation and suspension. showing up for a day-long appear“Senioritis,” the common diagnoance and then retreats once again, sis of procrastination and indifferleaving cold and snow in its wake. ence that kicks in usually someThe once fluffy, pristine snow we time around quarter three, has offisledded in and admired around the cially hit hard at Coginchaug. And holiday season is now grey, gritty after all of the pandemonium of apand crusty. I’m sick of it honestly; I plying and chasing teachers want to see green grass and blos- around for letters of recommendasoming daffodils, those sure signs tion and transcript requests, I think that spring is here to stay. Instead this lull in the action is a good we are left with monstrous grey, chance to take a breather and enfreezing mounds which are reluc- joy our last year at Coginchaug. tantly melting away one inch at a That doesn’t mean senioritis, but I time. do believe that after all of the craziBut I digress; it is not only the ness and hard work we did, we wintry weather outside that has seniors deserve a rest from the frozen and left us stuck in transi- stress. So teachers, please undertion. There are many seniors in stand, just like the weather outhigh school who are also frozen in side, we’ve just been through an mid-swing between Coginchaug icy patch, and now we are stuck in and college. After a fall and winter limbo, awaiting the acceptance letof college applications and essays, ter that will reveal the possibilities they’ve submitted their applica- for our future, as the vague and tions, and now their future is held mysterious snow outside will melt in another’s hands, their fate for away and reveal spring’s green next year suspended in time as grass.

Political Civility and the Fight for Compromise By Tyler Cassidy Assisted by: Erin Holden, Henry Willis and Melissa Ober After Jared Loughner shot Con- one of many that demonstrates the gresswoman Gabrielle Giffords in increasing hostility between the two the head on Jan. 8, commentators parties. “Mission accomplished, and politicians, such as Keith Ol- Sarah Palin,” tweeted Daily Kos bermann and Senator Dick Durbin, founder Markos Moulitsas after the blamed the violent political rhetoric shooting in Arizona. Moulitsas and other individuals of the Tea Party for Loughner’s actions. We, the Devil’s Advocate ed- are blaming political commentators, itorial staff, believe that although such as Sarah Palin, unfairly for the the violent rhetoric is not to blame tragedy. While these personalities directly, it is an issue that voters shouldn’t have been using violent should consider before casting their rhetoric in political speech, they are not to blame for the shooting. Politiballots. cians must resolve the hostility beAlthough aggressive speakers tween the two parties in order for are not directly responsible for the the government to function productragedy in Arizona, they need to tively. But the shooting is not the tone down the violent and aggresfault of any one individual, excludsive speech that has become maining the mentally unstable Loughnstream in Washington D.C. On er. In order to improve the environDec. 2 of last year, when ques- ment between the two parties, both tioned about whether to negotiate parties must begin to work toward with Republicans, Senator Bob political civility. Mendez said, “It’s almost like the question of do you negotiate with See Compromise page 15 terrorists?” This statement is just

Devil’s Advocate

Monday, March 11, 2011

Flapjacks for Fundraising By Alicia Lisitano A golden, fluffy, sweet flapjack said senior softball team member breakfast: who knew supporting Taylor DelVecchio. Coin collecthe girls’ softball team could be so tions are available at almost every delicious? The girls’ softball league local business in Middlefield and will be taking a trip to Orlando, Durham. Florida for the week “I have seen coin of April vacation, the collections around 15th through the town in places such 19th. Fundraising as Carmine’s Pizza has been going on and the Coginchaug for a while now to Market,” said sophohelp lower the exmore Michael Lisipenses. tano. “People seem On March 6, the more than willing to Wallingford Appledonate their spare bee’s hosted a change.” fundraiser for the The trip will be a girls. Tickets were sold to the pub- great experience for the girls and lic in advance allowing them to at- an honor for our town league! “We tend this breakfast in which the will play two games each day, profits would go to the softball some of which will count toward team. From 8-10 a.m. the softball our record. We will be playing girls waitressed breakfast. teams from all over the country, Said senior Hannah Fowler, “It which will help us in our upcoming was a good deal for only $5.” season,” said Taylor. The girls The pancake breakfast is only cannot wait to spend “spring trainone of the fundraising efforts. “We ing” in Florida, and the support of are also accepting donations and the community is definitely appresupport from anyone interested,” ciated.

Cogfest? What’s that? By Henry Willis After the Rachel’s Challenge assembly, the administration challenged homerooms to come up with ways to make Coginchaug a more connected, inclusive community. A number of homerooms, including those of English teachers Mr. Nathan Fisher and Mrs. Sarah Aceto, conceived collectively the plan for Cogfest. Separate ideas for a field day of fun and games and a school-wide talent show merged into a student activity extravaganza. The leaders of the current effort to organize Cogfest, seniors Ben Hamilton and Aubree Keurajian, are working hard to ensure that the event actually happens. “Cogfest

Compromise Most politicians know that personal attacks are not an appropriate response to policy disagreements. They know that the rhetoric they use seriously damages the American political system, but they just don’t care! There are ways to respectfully disagree with your opponents.

is going to be a great way to get everyone together,” said Aubree. At the Cogfest planning meeting held Monday, Feb. 14, in Mr. Fisher’s room, Ben, Aubree and senior Conor Grady picked some possible games. Using a map of the school grounds, they sectioned off areas for certain activities, like shipwreck and tug-of-war. They also debated the scheduling challenges of the day, such as timing lunch and preparing the auditorium for the talent show. Each team for the field events will have about four members from each grade. The Cogfest committee will prepare the teams and distribute the lists before the event.

Photo by Parker Dumont.

Hazards of Snowy Driving By Adam Twombly As we have all witnessed, Con- road surface, roads everywhere necticut has been pummeled with are now peppered with potholes. snowstorm after snowstorm this “Every time I hit a pothole, it’s just winter. While we can all enjoy the a string of profanities,” Stephon occasional snow day, everyday ac- said jokingly. “Potholes are one of tivities, such as driving, become the worst things for cars. They much more difficult. Coginchaug wear so much on your tires. Instudents who drive have found this stead of buying one new set of out the hard way over the winter, tires in a year, now you’re buying with several snow storms in the two or three, and it gets expenmonth of January alone. The snow sive.” just kept piling up, and eight school Ice, too, is causing trouble. days were canceled over a span of When the snow melts, it often refour weeks. “Snow makes driving freezes into a sheet of ice as temmuch more hazardous,” said sen- peratures plummet overnight. “It ior Stefon Danczuk, “especially gets more dangerous because the when you can’t see around snow roads are much more slick,” senior banks.” Junior Monika Malek Alex Holderman said. This is espeagreed. “It is really a pain in the cially true as students are driving neck because you can’t see on- to school in the morning, before coming traffic at a lot of intersec- the outside temperature has had a tions,” she said. chance to rise. With the string of warmer temWith late winter and early spring peratures recently, the remnants of upon us, we can only wait and see the snow are finally melting away. how much more snow will be payHowever, the after effects of the ing us a visit. But if more does fall, bad weather are still playing their students must remember to make part to impede driving. Due to good decisions when they’re drivsnowplows constantly scraping the ing, take their time and stay safe.

Basketball

the first time in over 30 years. “Our head coach really worked us (Continued from page 14) hard and that helped us get very prepared for our tournament However, politicians have found games,” said junior Audrey Biesak. overly aggressive rhetoric res- “I’ve never won a championship beonates better with voters. fore, but winning made me feel so happy for myself and my team beUntil voters understand that cause we all put in a team effort. It showing support for aggressive was great to be a champion.” politicians encourages the violent Mr. Mancenelli’s hard work and atmosphere in today’s politics, effort really paid off by bringing there will be no significant change. home the shreline championship

(Continued from page 13)

back to Coginchaug. “I know it meant the world to him,” said senior Amanda Boyle. “It was always a team goal to win a shoreline title. He told us a few practices before the game that he expected us to play in the finals.” The team plans to add to their resume by making a run in the state tournament. The girls kick off the first round opening with a home game on Thursday, March 3.

Seniors’ Wise Projects in Devil’s Advocate

Taylor Maus’ Goal for ExRacehorses By Jocelyn Brown Taylor Maus chose her WISE project based on an issue that has great personal meaning. She is interested in fostering off-track thoroughbreds. This means that instead of being sent to a slaughterhouse, they can ride out the rest of their lives in a caring home. “I’ve been around horses since I was little,” said senior Taylor Maus. “I love the thoroughbred breed. I watch the Triple Crown Races, but beyond that I don’t like racing. The life is horrible for the horses.” When a horse gets too slow to race, many of them end up in slaughterhouses, which puts a disturbing end to a hard life. Her ultimate goal is to foster an ex-racehorse through a program called CANTER USA. CANTER USA stands for the Communication Alliance to Network Thoroughbred Ex-Racehorses and has been pro-

viding horses with new homes since 1997. By fostering a horse, Taylor would be paying for the food, the bed, and providing a place for it to live. Also through fostering, CANTER USA would pay for the vet bills, the hoof-shoeing and other larger expenses. Taylor chose science teacher Mrs. Dunn to be her mentor. “She seemed pretty interested and knowledgeable about horses,” said Taylor. “She was very enthusiastic about what I was doing, so I figured she would be a great mentor.” Since fostering a horse is such an immense commitment that takes a lot of time, Taylor is hoping that she will be able to present a retrained offtrack racehorse at the end of the year. If she isn’t able to do that, then Taylor is aiming to do fundraising for the organization.

“Poetry as a Representation of Being” Jennie Ochterski By Jocelyn Brown

Jennie Ochterski loves both poetry and artwork and decided to come up with a challenging project. To really make this meaningful, Jennie decided to explore poetry in depth and its connection to the self-expression of humans. In the end, the project will be a poem and an oil pastel medium as its visual equivalent. “The idea was a natural combination of the two,” said Ochterski. “Also, my AP UConn English teacher told us the first week of school that poetry was the ‘truest’ way to represent human experience, so I wondered if this was true.” For her work, Jennie has been writing one poem a week. At the end of the project, she will choose the poem that she thinks best expresses herself to share at her presentation. Jennie also had to choose the teacher who would serve as her mentor. The ideal mentor is someone with whom the student works well and feels comfortable sharing problems or ideas. Jennie eventually chose French teacher, Madame Lejoly. “I have known her since fresh-

man year and value her opinion,” said Jennie. “I know from experience that I can work well with her.” Jennie does not have a projected date of presentation yet, but she said it would be sometime after the COLT Poetry Contest in April. One of Jennie’s poems: Charcoal Sooty black smeared ‘cross canvas thick, creating depth on empty plane. Highlight with a chalky hue, Turmoil amongst the colors few. Tension grows with white and black, fades to gray with eraser attack. Unrest becomes the charcoal lines, blending tortillion always binds. Too much expressed in 8x10, frustration born only then. Emotions fraught with tears and pain, ooze and run through pencil stain. The end is near, it’s time to turn to flame and watch the painting burn. Acrid smoke and love struck eyes, sing to us a lullaby.

Friday, March 11, 2011

Animal-Themed projects By Julian Pasquale Parker Paul It all started with an idea. “What Creating a habitat for first-time would it take to raise a Lionfish?” reptile and amphibian owners can senior Parker Dumont asked his be a real hassle. One person who teacher Mrs. Martin during her knows a lot about this is senior Oceanography class. This evolved Paul Benjunas. He himself owns into Parker’s WISE project of raising two corn snakes, one white’s tree fish in a saltwater fish tank. frog and one mountain king snake. Parker is raising two Blenny, “I’ve always had an interest in which is a type of bottom-feeding reptiles and amphibians,” said fish, two Clownfish, and one Lion- Paul. “I want to show people how fish, which was the original focus of to take care of them and show his project. He has had the tank for them that it’s easier to keep and four months now and plans to keep maintain a reptile or amphibian taking care of the tank and its fish af- than they think.” ter the project is done. A key aspect of Paul’s WISE Some of the challenges he faced project is to have a live presentain keeping the tank and fish were the tion with his own reptiles and amcost of all the supplies and fish, and phibian. “It will be similar to a cookhe also said that the Clownfish are ing show except I’ll be showing too aggressive. “The fish tank took a people how to step-by-step set up lot of time, money and patience,” a reptile or amphibian habitat,” said said Parker. “You have to have a lot of dedication to know about your fish Paul. When asked about what chaland their personalities.” “I think it’s awesome,” said lenges Paul faced, he said that oceanography teacher and Parker’s there are too many species to covWISE mentor Mrs. Martin when er and not enough time to talk asked about his fish tank. “He’s be- about them in one presentation. coming more wise and conservative “It would require me to write a but is also very brave with his tank book to talk about all the species,” and its fish.” said Paul.

Long Boarding, Wood-Wind Instrument Projects By James Malcolm Nate Szymanski Ben Hamilton Senior Ben Hamilton is learning When senior Nate Szymanski took up long boarding over the how to repair and restore woodsummer, he was immediately wind instruments. Because Ben hooked. Long boarding is similar to has been playing clarinet since skateboarding but uses a much third grade, he has gathered a collection of broken clarinets that larger type of board. “I noticed a lot of people on long need repairing. “I get to mess around with fire boarding forums had built their own custom boards, and when it and razors while learning how to came time for me to choose my fix instruments,” said Ben. idea, I knew exactly what I wanted Ben has to do a lot to restore to do,” said Nate. these clarinets, including stripping Building a long board isn’t just the keys and replacing the cork. sticking a piece of plywood on four When Ben needed to choose his wheels. Since November, Nate sponsor, he had to look no further has been learning how different than Coginchaug’s own band and types of wood, wood layering and music teacher Mr. Dean Coutdifferent types of wheels affect the souridis. Mr. Coutsouridis has way a long board rides. taught Ben the basics of instru“He’s doing a great job so far,” ment restoration from his experisaid Mr. Larry Gaechter, Cogin- ences as an instrument restorer chaug’s technology education before he became a teacher. teacher and Nate’s WISE mentor. He is really impressed with This is Mr. Gaechter’s third time Ben’s work and is even using Ben being a WISE mentor. Mr. as a helping hand to fix up instruGaechter has known Nate his en- ments in the band. tire high school career as his home“He is already going beyond his room and manufacturing teacher. project,” said Mr. Coutsouridis.

Devil’s Advocate

Friday, March 11, 2011

A Little Bit of Fairy Dust By Kevin Onofreo

For her WISE project, Zhining Fang is taking an abstract look at architecture. She’s taking something she loves and bringing it to life. “I’m building a fairy house,” said senior Zhining Fang. A fairy house is a small structure built in the woods and placed on the ground or low branches of trees. They are usually made with natural materials, but common household items can be added. “She’s always wanted to make

fairy houses,” said Zhining’s mentor and science teacher Mrs. Nancy Siedlecki. Zhining has been into fairies since a very young age. “When I was little I saw a video, obviously, about fairies…” said Zhining. Zhining’s mentor, Mrs. Siedleki, has been suggesting people who may be able to help Zhining, including some architects and people who have made fairy houses.

Oh No, NOT Midterms… By Amanda Boyle What would high school be without the stress, anxiety and last minute studying due to midterms? Though this year’s midterm schedule was altered quite a few times due to the snowy weather, the students and teachers still managed to successfully complete yet another year, or for some, their first year of midterm exams. As students we don’t think much of it, but a lot of planning goes into making a midterm exam. Though many teachers have midterms already made up from previous years, the majority of them go back and revise their old exams or just simply start from scratch. In departments such as the math department, teachers are told to send in their midterm exams to the department chair to be looked over a week in advance. The department chair’s job is to then make sure the exam can be completed on time, is error free, contains various subjects that should have been taught up to that point, and does not contain too much of any one subject. Midterms are designed to test each student’s knowledge gained throughout the first semester. For freshmen, sophomores and jun-

iors, these exams are mandatory. However, seniors who have an average of an A-, or a 90, in their half year class have the ability to be exempted with teacher approval. Many seniors, such as T.J. Murphy, had to take a minimum of two exams, while other seniors and underclassmen weren’t as lucky and had to take six to seven of them. For many, like sophomore Kaylee Powers, test-taking can become overwhelming. “I don’t like midterms, personally,” said Kaylee. “I don’t like taking exams.” “I think they are pointless because people feel like it only counts toward 10 percent of their grade, and they don’t try hard enough, so in the end it’s just a bad grade to show on your report card,” said T.J. Along with the broad range of students taking midterms, the study methods and techniques seem to have quite a range as well. The major controversy students had to deal with this year was the fact that there were no “review days” in the school sched-

Senior James Roether (middle) blocks senior Brandien Walker (right) from tackling senior Tyler Sibley (left) in a pick-up football game after school. Photo submitted by Melissa Ober

After School Football

By Melissa Ober This year you may have noticed senior James Roether. a large group of Coginchaug stuThe games are always tackle, dents gathering almost every week and they start them by picking two down at the soccer fields across captains. The captains are differfrom Allyn Brook Park. They have ent almost every time, and a simbeen getting together to play a ple game of “rock, paper, scissors” pick-up game of football after decides who picks first. The perschool at least once a week since son who wins rock, paper, scissors the beginning of the school year. gets to pick whether they want the Senior Paul Benjunas organizes ball first or if they want to pick the games after school. He lets someone to be on their team. “We everyone know that there will be a call it picking Ball or Paul because game after school through texting everyone always picks Paul first,” and talking and spreading the word said senior Julian Pasquale. through school. He said that they This group even thought about will either play on the soccer fields or, if they have a small amount of becoming an actual club at CRHS, people, in the outfield of one of the but in the end decided against it baseball fields. No matter what, because there would be too many they will always find a place to play. restrictions on the game. If they The weather is a big factor, and became a club, they wouldn’t be with all of the snow lately they able to play tackle anymore beSee Midterms, page 20 haven’t been able to play as much. cause school rules wouldn’t allow But this group of students is not it. No one who plays has gotten seone to let a little snow get in there riously injured from playing tackle way. As long as there is not too either. They like playing with their much snow, they will still play. On own rules and just having fun playSenior Jessie ManWednesday, March 2, they had a ing whenever they feel like it. iscalco is working game after school, and there was “Everyone has taken their fair still plenty of snow on the ground. share of bruises and sprains but on a scholarship It was very cold and very snowy, nothing that has sent anyone to the form in the library but they still played. “It’s really dif- emergency room. I think that I’ve for her upcoming ficult to play in the snow because accidentally torn more shirts than college freshman you have to lift your legs higher I’ve gotten scrapes or bruises,” year. than normal, but it’s still fun,” said said Paul. Photo taken by Alicia Lisitano

Look for the next Devil’s Advocate on April 15.

Devil’s Advocate

The ‘Other’ Mr. Fisher By, Alex Shoudy Many of you may only know one and learning enviroment,” said Mr. Fisher at Coginchaug, the Eng- Fisher. “All the way from the stulish teacher. But, there is another dents up to the faculty.” one frequently working at CoginKen plans to stay working here chaug. His name is Ken Fisher, and he has been working as a at Coginchaug and wants to retire math teacher and substitute here in about 10 years. In his free time, at Coginchaug. Most recently he he enjoys coaching basketball, has been working with Mr. Martel’s soccer and lacrosse all for the classes. Before Ken came to Wallingford Parks and Recreation. Coginchaug, he had owned his He also is a Red Sox baseball and own business. He came to Cogin- Syracuse basketball fanatic. He chaug last year and worked as an has two kids, one son, a freshman intern for the 2009-2010 school at Notre Dame University, and a year. daughter at Wallingford Middle “Coginchaug is a great school School.

The Twin Times, Part Two By James Malcolm This is part two of three of The Twin Times. Part two will focus on the junior twins. The twin bond isn’t something that can be shown in movies or books, the only true way to understand it is to experience it by being a twin. Movies and books do not give accurate examples of the twin bond. From the famous Harry Potter book series, Fred and George Weasly, twin characters known for saying and doing the same things, (playing quidditch and selling Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes), are nearly indistinguishable. Twins are similar but are not the same person. Although twins aren’t exact, it doesn’t mean we aren’t similar. In the Austin Powers film franchise, the protagonist, Austin Powers’, saved the world from his “evil twin” Dr. Evil. In real life, twins aren’t exact opposites. They are similar but different. Ben and Colin Plant are identical twins and Ben is older by one minute. They have similar friends but have different interests; Colin

has a job while Ben enjoys partaking in the clubs the school has to offer. Ben doesn’t like sharing things with Colin, including a room which the two no longer share. “Being a twin is good because you always have someone to talk to,” said Ben. “But you have to share basically everything in your life.” Kyle and Brock Hoyt are fraternal twins, and Kyle is older by one minute. According to Brock, most of their friends don’t even really consider them twins because they act and look different. They both enjoy fishing together, but in their spare time Kyle is a volunteer firefighter and Brock plays sports. I have an older fraternal twin named Billy. We like to read similar books, watch similar T.V. shows and we have a similar sense of humor, but we do have differences. For instance, he is into sports and I am not. But it was difficult not to be associated with him when I was younger because people who knew Billy assumed I was into sports.

Mexico school. “While many of the Americans’ experiences differed at Blaise Pascal, my experience was very positive,” said senior Alex Holderman. “The students in classroom 10 were some of the kindest and most social people I met in Mexico. While the teachers may not have paid that much attention to us, the classes at Blaise Pascal seemed to have a more accepting and relaxed atmosphere.” The CRHS group also made several excursions to small villages outside of Oaxaca. They visited the Zapotec/Mixtec ruins in Monte Alban, the black pottery village of San Bartolo Coyotepec, the wood carving village of San Martin Tilcajete and Teotitilan del Valle, a rug weaving village. In addition, the group took a trip outside of Oaxaca to the Puerto Escondido beach on the Pacific coast. “We went to the beach, which was about six to seven hours from Oaxaca, for a weekend trip,” said senior Laura Hargreaves. “This was one of my favorite parts because we didn’t go the last time I went, and it was a time when all the CRHS students really bonded.” The exchange program not only provided an opportunity to explore the many wonders of Mexico, but it was also a learning experience. “My favorite part of the trip was being able to use the Spanish I learned in the classroom in real life,” said senior Alec Bandzes. “Right after we stepped off the plane and went through Immigration at the airport, we were thrust into a world of Spanish speakers. Though at first it was overwhelming and hard for me to put sentences together, by the end of the week I could hold a good conversation without being nervous.” The group volunteered at the Centro Esperanza Infantil, a place where children from poor and troubled backgrounds can eat, do their homework and play. “One of the main reasons we go to Oaxaca is because the Spanish Honor Society sponsors a young man named Rodrigo Mesinas Perez,” said

Friday, March 11, 2011 (Continued from page 13)

Spanish teacher Mrs. Nancy Alberico. “Rodrigo went to Centro Esperanza Infantil and retired Spanish teacher Senora Marilyn Horn started sponsoring him when he was 14 years old. He just turned 23 and is now studying to be a special education teacher.” Oaxaca Streetchildren Grassroots, the American name for the organization, is based in US and is funded by the generous support of sponsors. When a sponsor donates money, it goes directly to the sponsored child’s account. The family can then use this money to support a child’s schooling, like buying new shoes, backpacks and school supplies. The money can also help pay for books, a school uniform and doctor physicals. “These are kids who wouldn’t go to school if this program didn’t exist,” said Mrs. Alberico. “If you can’t pay for your uniform, you don’t go to school. That’s what happened to Rodrigo. This program saved him.” By helping out at the Centro Esperanza Infanitl, the CRHS students became more aware of the poverty in Mexico, since their host families were very well-off. “We had lunch with the children, which was really fun because they were at the same level of Spanish as we were, so it wasn’t very hard to communicate and we could practice,” said senior Jamie Garuti. “After we ate, we played games with the kids. It was amazing that they were so happy even though they had so little.” Although the Mexican exchange students are coming here at the end of March, it was hard for many Coginchaug students to leave their new friends behind. “What surprised me the most was how close I got to the locals; it was hard to say goodbye to them all,” said junior Colin Plant. Oaxaca Streetchildren Grassroots serves almost 600 kids from preschool to college age, as long as they stay in school. If you are interested in sponsoring a child, contact Marilyn Horn for more information.

Far left, senior Laura Hargreaves embraces a member of her host family. This is the first time that the CRHS students met their host families. Immediate left, senior Hannah Goulis watches as two small boys at Centro Esperanza Infantil play Twister. Photo credit Nancy Alberico.

Friday, March 11, 2011

Devil’s Advocate

Feed the Need

Sisterly Gymnasts

By Mackenzie Hurlbert

By, Amanda Boyle

Interested in spending a night out for a good cause? The ECO Club will be holding the annual Hunger Awareness Banquet at Coginchaug on March 31. It costs $4 for a ticket to the banquet, which starts 6 p.m. at the Coginchaug cafeteria, and all profits will go to support hunger relief through Oxfam and towards the guest speaker's cause of choice. Guest Lydia Asante from Ghana will be speaking about her dream to start a school for children under the age of nine and their mothers, and there will also be a viewing of the video, Sisters on the Plan-

et, which shows the roles of different women in different cultures around the world. Also, the night includes a dessert auction sponsored by ECO. Tickets are on sale for $4 each, and you can get them from any ECO member or call Susan Michael at 860-349-7215 extension 235 to reserve a seat. Please bring a non-perishable food item to donate to the Amazing Grace food bank. Once again, the banquet will be held on Thursday, March 31, at 6 p.m. Hope to see you there!

Start with a dream. Finish with a future!

Got a story you want to share with the Devil’s Advocate? Contact editor Mackenzie Hurlbert for Coginchaug-related news items.

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“Get me back to gymnastics,” said then five-year-old Gretchen Donovan to her mother who took Gretchen out of gymnastics for a year to try other activities, such as piano and soccer. It was not the same. Senior Gretchen Donavan and junior Kelly Donovan have been participating in gymnastics since they could walk. Gretchen, having only one year of gymnastics experience over Kelly, has been a gymnast for 12 years since the age of five. “I think I have had the drive to do gymnastics for so long because of my friends. I have many close friends from gymnastics, and they are always there and go through the same challenges of a hard workout,” said Kelly. “I have met so many people, even on other teams,” Gretchen said. “I have grown up with them.” Both of the talented gymnasts attend Connecticut Gymnast Academy, better known as C.G.A., in Wallingford, where they both practice four days a week — Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays for four hours each day. While attending practice together, both sisters stretch, condition and run through each event. “I like having my sister with me. I feel comfortable, and it’s weird not having her with me if she’s not at practice that day,” Kelly said. The sisters participate in gymnastics all year long and even through the summer. Though competing in meets starts in January, the length of their seasons reflect on how well they do and how far they progress. “I placed fifth overall at the Eastern Nationals last year,” Gretchen said after previously winning regionals and states the same year as a level 10 gymnast. “I’m proud of all her accomplishments,” said Kelly. “I look up to her.” Even though there is no varsity and junior varsity in gymnastics, these sisters have both worked their way up from level one to level nine, level 10 being the ultimate level and anything after that is professional competitions during the Olympics. Level one through level four are early level classes that teach you basics, such as tumbles, cartwheels, and balancing on a low-to-the ground beam. However, level nine gymnasts like Gretchen and Kelly find themselves being judged at meets in multiple categories, such as the high beam, uneven parallel bars, floor exercise and vault. They are judged based on meet requirements, level of difficulty, and execution, which then results in a point-calculated score. “Gymnastics is a very hard sport,” Kelly states. “But I know that in the end the hard work pays off.” Having always participated in gymnastics together and also receiving physical education credit while attending high school, the sisters both have the utmost support and enthusiasm at home through their parents. “They support whatever I want to do in gymnastics,” said Kelly, who may look into pursuing gymnastics while at college. “They are at every meet,” said Gretchen who, on the other hand, knows that this will be her last year competing as a gymnast. “I have enjoyed it.” At the end of the day, these talented siblings both enjoy being gymnasts and working at making their goals a reality. “The highlights of being a gymnast would have to be having a great meet or overall just achieving skills my goals at the gym,” said Kelly.

Devil’s Advocate

Friday, March 11, 2011

Around the school in 80 minutes!

Left, junior Nicole L’Heureux and senior Brandon Norton check the oil in Brandon’s car in Keeping Your Car Alive. Photo by Melissa Ober

Above, underclassmen playing chess on the library’s chess table. Photo submitted by Henry Willis.

Left, senior Julian Pasquale in thought as he leans over the stairwell at Coginchaug. Photo submitted by Tyler Cassidy

Above, math teacher Ms. Megan Kavanaugh is applauded for her math song. Photo submitted by Kevin Onofreo

Midterms ule. In previous years, the two days before midterms start, class time was assigned to review specific subjects students would be tested on as well as give students the chance to bring forth any questions or exam concerns they may have had. For Victoria Bunnani, a freshmen at CRHS, this was her first time taking midterm exams. “I don’t think I prepared myself as well as I should have,” said Victoria. “I knew the information, but the parts I didn’t study for, I had trouble with.” “I locked myself in my basement and studied,” said sophomore Conner Thrall. “My exams were very stressful and hard.”

(Continued from page 17)

“I studied 15 minutes per day per subject,” said sophomore Conner Brennan. “I just skimmed through my notes,” said senior David Wheeler. “My tests were long and hard, and for some, I felt a bit unprepared.” Even though the majority of the students, had taken midterms before, exam taking and studying patterns were challenged this year due to the ongoing snow. With a total of four snow days in between scheduled exam days and eight total so far in the school year, each exam was pushed to the next day which, depending on the person, was either helpful or harmful. “I think it gave us more time to study,” said sophomore Kelly

Donovon, “but it was aggravating having to keep studying.” “The snow days took away my motivation to study; over the weekend I forgot everything,” said David. “It gave me more time to study,” said sophomore Leah Slawinowski. “I was more productive and in the end did pretty well on my exams.” “Having the snow days in the middle of exams didn’t help when I had to study,” said sophomore Natalie Swanson. Overall, teachers seemed to be pleased with the outcome of midterm exam grades. Having to submit both quarter two grades and midterms may have seemed

like a challenge, but with the short midterm days, many were able to submit their exams and grades in on a timely manor.

“My students did well,” said math department chairperson Mrs. Kathy Zygmont. “There were no huge swings, and my students preformed as I expected them to.”

“They had the skills I was testing for and therefore did really well,” said English teacher Mrs. Michelle McClintick.

Though midterms may be stressful, the outcome was clear, and both the students and the teachers are glad the chaotic days of midterm exams are finally done.

Friday, March 11, 2011

Read Across America in Town Times

Brewster, Korn and Lyman schools celebrated Read Across America on March 2 to honor Dr. Seussâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s birthday. Top left, Sofia Felgate and Emma Ostrander get in the spirit at Brewster. Above center, Board of Ed member Deb Golschneider reads aloud at Korn. Right, Janna Jose, of Brewster, is not sure how she feels about eating green eggs and ham. By Cheri Kelley, Patti Checko and Eileen Chupron.

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Left, children in their pajamas brought their families in the evening to hear exciting books. At right, Lyman principal Mrs. Brimecombe used the school-wide television broadcast studio, WJLS, to televise a read-aloud to the entire student body. The book she read, Hooray for Diffendoofer Day!, contained the perfect message for students as they begin assessments (CMTs, end-of-term).

Above submitted by Christine Davis and Carlye Kohs

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Friday, March 11, 2011

Town Times

‘The luck of the Irish’ is being Irish — Happy St. Patrick’s Day Diana Carr Special to the Town Times May your day be touched by a bit of Irish luck, brightened by a song in your heart, and warmed by the smiles of the people you love. May you be an hour in heaven before the Devil knows you’re dead. May a mouse ne’er leave your meal bag with a tear in its eye. May you live and may you wear it out. As you slide down the banister of life, may the splinters never point the wrong way. May all who love the Lord, love you and those who don’t love you, may the Lord give them a limp so you can see them coming. These Irish blessings and sayings show us the wit and wisdom, the humor and the

good cheer for which these folks are known. And let’s not forget that old saw, “the luck of the Irish.” There are quite a few people here in Durham who feel lucky just to be Irish, including three we have recently spoken. Nancy McSweet was born to Irish immigrants whose love story began back “in the old country” when 18year-old Ernie Elliott, while walking to work one day, spotted 13-year-old Ellen Moore riding her bike barefoot. A romance began years later when they met up again in this country. He finally proposed to her on the George Washington Bridge, before it was open, adding that he would jump in if she said no. She said yes, his life was spared, and they had a long and happy marriage, both living to the age of 95.

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McSweet went to Ireland two years ago and says, “My mother always said it was the most beautiful place in the world. I always took that with a grain of salt, but when I was there, tears came to my eyes because I saw that she was right.” It was a trip to remember. She met her cousins for the first time and cried when she saw the spot where her father had first seen her mother riding her bike. And she was impressed by the Irish

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Nancy McSweet with a photo of her Irish immigrant parents. Photo by Diana Carr

people. “They have a great sense of humor, and they’re so personable. It’s like the television show, ‘Cheers,’ where everybody knows your name.” She remembers the get-togethers of her Irish brood when she was growing up. “Some had lost their brogue, but when the families got together, it came back.” And the folklore – like not ever chopping down a particular kind of tree because it was home to the fairies, and you never, under any circumstances, wanted to incur the wrath of the fairies. Michael Ryan is Irish on both sides, with his paternal grandparents born and raised in Ireland. He keeps his heritage alive by playing the drums for The Highland Rovers, a band that plays the American rock version of traditional Irish music. And he put an Irish pub into the house that he and his family own on a New Hampshire lake. It opens up to the outdoors, and fishermen often go by and ask how late the pub is open. And, of course, Irish hospitality sees to it that they are always invited to come on up for a beer. He went to Ireland three years ago with his wife, Claudia, and daughter, Cassidy (now 13), and says, “It was

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everything I had ever dreamed of, and more. I met family, was able to experience the rich history of the land, to see it firsthand after all the stories that I had heard and read about. It’s breathtakingly beautiful, and the people are so heartwarming and embracing. Wherever you go, you find incredible conversation, laughter and love. They have a heartfelt love for others and a generous spirit.” Throughout his stay, he played his Bodran (a type of drum) with various bands in the pubs. “It was always the same,” he says. “If they liked the first song I played, they kept me on for the rest of the night.” He says he took on the “daunting task of renting a car.” Daunting because of the narrow roads, and the challenge of driving on the left side of the road. On one occasion, he pulled into someone’s driveway in order to let an oncoming car pass, and heard the homeowner call out, “Are you the Yank that’s here to see Sean and Rose Ryder? They’ve been waiting for you.” In the rural areas, Ryan explains, there is no post office, so people simply send their letters to the village, where they end up in a pub, in a stack with all the other letters people have sent. Then the request is put out for anyone going to the addressee’s house to take the mail with them. Says Ryan, “The Irish are the worst gossips, so these people knew who we were and why we were coming because of that mail sitting in the pub.” There are other rich memories. Like the day he had a chance meeting with an old gentlemen who was taking his garbage out. It turned out that he had grown up across the street from his great-grandfather, and “he had great stories to tell about him.” Or when he saw the cottage where his grandmother, who had moved to the states when she was 16, had grown up, and he saw the See Irish, next page

Friday, March 11, 2011

year, and they’ll try to make it to New York City for the parade. Other years they’ve gone to a local Irish pub or restaurant. And, of course, there will be corned beef and cabbage.

Irish (Continued from page 22) roses she had planted. “It was good to have this connection with my grandmother when she was young. I only knew her as an old woman.” Being an Irishman, Ryan says he not only celebrates St. Patrick’s Day, but “St. Patrick’s month.” He stays busy with the band, and eats corned beef everywhere he goes. “I haven’t gotten sick of it yet. I just wash it down with a good Guinness.” He says he loves everything about being Irish. “I love that it is the most welcoming, loving culture I have experienced; that it is filled with rich tradition and humble beginnings; and that it is typified by a hard-working, tenacious, generous spirit. That’s what my dad is like.” Emmet Murphy has parents who were born in Ireland and who met in the Bronx when they were 18. He, too, is proud of his her-

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Murphy says he’s been to Ireland at least a dozen times and will be going back in July for his grandmother’s 100th birthday. And he, too, is enamored with the people, most of whom he says have relatives over here and who have a great interest in America.

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Friday, March 11, 2011

Town Times

Teen violence (Continued from page 6)

A few dozen people attended the March 2 forum. Photo by Cheri Kelley In the towns of Middlefield and Durham, a program was set up by DMYFS to help prevent teen violence in the future. Parker Dumont, a student at CRHS, spoke about the workshops that were done by high school students for middle school students at

Strong School. They started by teaching the middle schoolers the definition of a dating relationship, which was “when two people decided they liked each other more than friends.” As in Melanie’s story, facts show that abusive relationships often become violent over time, gradually. Which is why seeing the red flags is so important for parents. By the end of the workshop, the Strong School students understood the warning signs for a violent dating relationship which are: taking control over a person, keeping tabs on them, isolation, change in appearance and threatening to hurt themselves or others if the relationship is ended. Rebecca Sinusas, a guidance counselor at Strong School, and Kathy Bottini, the school social worker for both Strong School and CRHS, spoke about the new type of controlling abuse done through technology, cell

phones and social networking sites. Sixty-eight percent of teens say that showing private or intimate photos on cell phones or Facebook is a problem. Bottini stated, “There have been instances of this type of abuse in Regional School District 13.” A national statistic was also shared, one in three teens report having 30 texts sent in an hour by their dating partner asking questions like “where are you,” “who are you with,” and “what are you doing?” The startling idea was stated at the forum that your child could be sitting next to you in your car and be receiving these abusive and intimidating texts, and you wouldn’t even know it was happening. This is another reason why it is so important for parents to understand the signs and keep open communication with their teens. Sinusas and Bottini shared what’s important for parents

to do to keep their kids safe: If you notice something has changed, talk to your teen about it; try to be open minded and not judge them, keep clear channels of communication open, and remember to keep calm. Monitor the programs that teens watch on TV and sit down to watch these shows with them and use them as a way to start a dialogue with your child about dating relationships. Another important step is to be a positive role model in your own relationship. For younger teens, allow them to go out in groups and know where they are, who they are with and when they will be returning. And lastly, teaching your kids to trust their instincts is crucial. DMYFS is considering a “Families for Safe Dates” program, which would give parents and their teens an opportunity to learn more together about teen dating violence. The program consists of one

workshop with DMYFS staff and a dating violence expert followed by parents and teens completing a booklet based program at home. The booklets provide background info and activities for families to do together to learn about dating violence with the goal of preventing teen dating abuse. Interested parents should contact Jane Moen at DMYFS, jmoen.dmyfs@comcast.net. Parents will be contacted directly regarding the program. Teen dating violence crosses all boundaries, social economic status and all types of relationships. During the Love Is Not Violent Forum, the first ever screening of the Public Service Announcement (PSA) was viewed. The PSA, which was filmed at CRHS, will be aired to the public in the future. It is powerful and will hopefully be effective in spreading awareness about this issue. 1192788

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Our Schools in Town Times

Friday, March 11, 2011

CRHS in top 10 for teen safe driving contest High school students’ videos showing how teens should make the right choices for safety when behind the wheel were rated recently by Governor Dannel Malloy, Travelers insurance executives, state commissioners and other safety advocates. The group rated the best among 164 entries in the annual contest for teen safe driving, and Coginchaug Regional High School is in the top 10. The top 10 videos are available for viewing on YouTube and the entry that receives the most “views” will receive a cash award for their school. Go to www.youtube. com/teensafedriving12 by March 31 and click on the Coginchaug video to show your support for the local kids. The theme for all the videos was: “Make the Right Choice.” The judges selected three winners who will be announced at an April 4 awards ceremony. Those winners are separate from the “see who can score the most views” contest.

In the special ceremony April 4 at Travelers’ conference center in Windsor, student directors, videographers and actors will be honored by their parents, school administrators, contest judges and other state officials.

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Above, students in Mrs. Abbott’s first and second grade class at John Lyman School shared pattern block designs on the Elmo and shared facts about their math work at the weekly school assembly. They also formed the shapes with their bodies. Above, Nadifo Kelley, Bayla Patel, Caroline Smith, Spencer Ricci Photo submitted by Elizabeth Hadlock and Connor Willett.

All tied up MaKenna Davis, a first grader from Mrs. Caramanello’s classroom, is all tangled up in a snake. Jay Kaplan from the Children’s Science Center brought several of his reptile “friends” to educate the first grade students. First graders got to look at the exhibits up close and personal.

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High schools of the top three winners will receive a monetary award to continue to promote teen safe driving in their schools. The top three winners will have their videos showcased in a number of venues and offered for airing in movie theaters, television stations and online video sites such as YouTube and Facebook.

The CRHS Chamber Choir will host their annual Renaissance Feast on Friday, March 25, at 6:30 p.m. in Castle Long Swamp (CRHS). The Feast is a wonderful evening of songs, great food and a short zany play titled “Who Killed the Kilt?” Chef Kevin Smith will prepare a delicious threecourse meal for the feast, and the choir students are working on songs to brighten the cold winter night. The entertainment is best suited to adults. Seating for the Feast is limited, and tickets must be ordered in advance. Please call Lisa Larsen at 860-349-8236 for pricing and to order tickets for this fabulous night out. Pictured above are Darryl Abbott, left, and Rebecca Weir practicing a scene in the play. Submitted by Lisa Larsen

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“This contest is one of the many ways we need to reach out in our state to young drivers and show how safe driving will save their lives and help to reduce crashes, injuries and deaths,” the Governor said. “The creativity in these videos and the use of technology by students presents a strong message on safety, and it’s done by teens talking to teens.”

Friday, March 11, 2011

Town Times

Crepes for a good cause

Adolescent drug and alcohol program

A few women from Durham ran in the Leukemia and Lymphoma Marathon recently, and Katie from Perk on Main hosted an All You Can Eat Crepe fundraiser event with proceeds going to the runners for their entry fee. A portion of sales for regular orders was donated by Perk on Main. In this picture, Katie Hughes is teaching Maura and Bailey Zettergren, sisters of a leukemia fighter, to make crepes. It was a wonderful time, and we are grateful Photo submitted by Jen Zettergren to Katie for her support.

A group is forming in Old Saybrook for teenagers who would benefit from gaining a better understanding of how their drug and alcohol use is affecting themselves and those around them. The Adolescent Drug and Alcohol Education program (ADEAP) will provide education, selfassessment and strategies for change. ADEAP is for ages 14-18 and will meet for five consecutive weeks starting March 17. There is no charge for the program as it is being supported by Rushford and the Middlesex United Way. For questions or to register a student, call Larry Freundlich at Rushford at 203-537-4908.

Troop 27 Klondike 2011

On Saturday, Feb. 12, 14 boys from local Boy Scout Troop 27 left the parking lot from United Churches of Durham at 6:30 am and headed for the Mark Greer Scout Reservation, or, as we call it, Camp Tadma. Camp Tadma is traditionally a summer camp for cub scouts, but every year for one weekend in February it becomes a location for the Connecticut Rivers Council Winter Camporee, or Klondike. Led by

Town Times Service Directory

At first aid event, the patrols walked up on a young person who had supposedly fallen out of a tree. They were told to move the small child approximately 50 feet, but the child had a dislocated left shoulder and a broken right leg. In the fire building event each patrol had to build a fire and boil water in the fastest time possible. The knots and lashing was an event where the boys had to each make a square knot and two tripods using six scout staves and rope. For the emergency shelter event, the boys were told to make an emergency shelter using only what they had on their sleds to protect them from an imaginary winter storm that was coming at them from the Northwest and would dump 6” of snow on top of them. The sled race was an event where each patrol had to run about 500 yards, either pushing or carrying their sled from point A to point B in the fastest time possible, with one person pushing the sled and the rest of the patrol pulling it.

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scout master Mike Phenicie, assistant scout master Mike Fumiatti, and senior patrol leader Jacob Nickel, the boys participated in five events: first aid, fire building, knots and lashings, emergency shelter building, and a sled race. Each event was graded on scout skills, scout spirit, teamwork and leadership. Two patrols went representing Troup 27, each consisting of seven boys per patrol. Both patrols competed against 11 other patrols, each representing their respective troops.

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More Letters to the Editor

Friday, March 11, 2011

(Continued from page 8) means question the information you are handed, as a healthy skepticism is one of the best tools for a rational analysis. To have an informed opinion, one must read the source material, or at least a qualified review thereof. Form your own informed decisions. Daniel Dykas, Durham

Guest editorial and Gov. Malloy remarks are inane and irrelevant

growing number of municipalities result entirely from this disconnect. It is our unwillingness to accept failure or losing or even death as a natural process that feeds this perspective. It is our presumed intelligence that we should engineer society and command economic laws that conflict with mankind’s natural tendency and will eventually face reckoning. Perhaps it already is. These days, the debate is presented as a closed case, with insinuations that the views espoused here are archaic and callous. The truth is that this view doesn’t pretend to know what is best for the neighborhood and is the epitome of just. No one is dismissing the importance of learning, of teaching our youth, of the livelihood of teachers. They should just not be a privileged species. Michael Satagaj, Middlefield

Local politics > national politics It’s budget season for the for the entire country, on all levels of government, and amidst the stalemate in Washington, D.C. between House Republicans and the White House and Senate Democrats, huge protests in Wisconsin and deficits galore across the Union, little old Durham, Middlefield and Regional School District 13 rolled out their budgets as well. In terms of local politics, this is where town citizens exercise the most political participation every year. During a usual Board of Education or Board of Selectmen’s meeting, a low public turnout is evident. Once you involve the budget or athletics, such as the new facilities at Coginchaug or the softball team seeking approval for their trip, the public turnout increases by an

immense amount. However, we still focus on national politics through our debates and media when we don’t even realize how much we can change right here in our own town. Of course, national politics are extremely important, but they should not overshadow government on the state and local level. The athletic facilities are a perfect example of local politics at work. A few dedicated individuals backed by a large number of the public in support worked and got this project done (albeit a little too late). Even those in dissent had the public forum to voice their concerns as well as a vote on the referendum. In stark contrast to this was public involvement in the “Mass Gatherings” law passed in Connecticut last year. Residents of Durham (and Middlefield) had almost See Politics, next page

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In the interest of an increasingly scorned and misrepresented minority, I would like to offer a couple thoughts in response to the guest editorial of Feb. 25, 2011. There is an overwhelming sentiment, especially in this corner of the country and routinely within this publication, which takes broad and unquestioned latitude in championing the “merits” of the public education system and its workforce while belittling opposing voices that cite the ideals that led to this nation’s inception. Blanket statements like the quote attributed to Governor Malloy (“Teachers do heroic work…”) or that of Ms. Kelley (“The requirements of CT educators vastly outweigh those of corporate executives… and teachers already sacrifice…”) are wholly unverifiable, inane, irrelevant and are almost never challenged. They are platitudes offered merely to deflect accountability and justify movement to collectivist systems by using false premises and creating straw men to vanquish. Why, who could be against education, you fiend? That you believe that you can deem the value of any person’s work, salary, contribution or societal worth is the height of arrogance and a very dangerous proposition. There are historical examples (study the 50-year German experiment that precluded both world wars).

The travesty is that we have somehow convinced ourselves over a century now that we can arbitrate with an unbiased and enlightened eye and forego the most detached and indiscriminate arbiter of all: the free market. While the free market necessarily allows room for losing and failing, it also constantly induces the cream to rise and naturally encompasses balance. Frankly, it honestly assesses efforts that fall short or that prove successful. This natural process holds that competing interests will automatically arrive at a mutual and acceptable arrangement. We, in our infinite wisdom, are removing the competing interest from the equation. We subjectively, not objectively, determine what is fair, and in effect determine privilege. The free market bears no such bias. The fiscal chasms facing our nation, many of our states, and a

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Friday March 11, 2011

Town Times

Politics

(From 27)

no idea what this law was and how it could potentially and seriously harm Durham’s greatest fundraiser and cultural experience: the Durham Fair. The poor turnout in the special elections for the 13th senatorial District in Middlefield is another example. If citizens really look at how they can get involved in their local and state governments, they can realize how much they can really change here and stop worrying so

much about what’s happening in Washington, D.C. In the words of former House Speaker Tip O’Neill, “All politics is local.” Josef Danczuk, Durham

BOE

(From page 1)

$1.3 million. Expenses in the budget were held down largely due to a pay freeze on the salaries of 221 employees, including all the teachers. The proposed budget also eliminates 1.5 elementary positions due to declining enrollment. Viccaro said she

hopes to accomplish the reductions through retirement. Among the other proposed cuts are the summer program, which is not state-mandated, and the permanent substitutes, whose duties will be handled by the already-inplace intern program. Health insurance represented the largest increase in expenses, with a nearly 10 percent jump. “A lot of places are seeing much higher than that,” Viccaro noted. When asked if they could maintain the current level of

service in their schools with the proposed budget, the assembled school principals of the district indicated that they could. On the revenue side, there is almost $75,000 less coming in from the state, but the biggest difference comes from the fund balance. Board members received the budget and offered suggestions to be discussed at future meetings, including transportation costs, activity stipends and potential state grants. Board member Merrill Adams said she was disturbed

Town Times Service Directory

by the potential elimination of the summer program. Members of the board’s Communications Committee reported that they want to use the online polling service Survey Monkey to get feedback from residents. No members of the public took advantage of the opportunity to comment at the start of the meeting. The board will have meetings about the budget on Wednesdays, March 16 and 23, at 7:30 p.m. at Strong School. The public hearing date is April 6, at 8 p.m. at CRHS.

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perience,” noted Brayshaw, adding, “It doesn’t come for free, at all.” Taxpayers have to pay for the land or the development rights and also deny themselves potential tax revenue from some development. “It will always cost more to live in Middlefield because of all the open space,” said Brayshaw. If you were to judge by the number of real estate ads that list how close the property is to open space or cite the fresh air and country living, you’d have to conclude that these expenses add some value as well. According to an old Conservation Commission survey still up on Middlefield’s website, “rural character” and “country setting” were picked as the best features of Middlefield by 49 percent of residents. Brayshaw cited the Mattabesset Trail as the most popular piece of open space in Middlefield and a Durham Conservation Commission member named White’s Farm as the most used open space property in Durham. Durham’s regulations are available on its website, and Middlefield’s town office gives out a helpful open space trail guide done by the Conservation Commission.

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Town Times Sports

Friday, March 11, 2011

Superfund (Continued from page 1)

The CRHS cheerleading competition squad won the second place trophy at the North East Cheerleading Association competition. Coach Sherry Hill was assisted by Mrs. Stankiewiecz and Rebecca, a permanent sub at CRHS. Captains are seniors Kate and Julianne, pictured with award. Photo by Karen Kean

Coginchaug Little League would like to announce scholarship funds for graduating seniors attending college or trade school this coming fall. Applicants must have played for Coginchaug Little League for at least three years. Other eligibility, criteria and requirements can be accessed online by downloading an application at Coginchaugll.org. Students can also inquire at their guidance office. All applications and required materials must be postmarked by April 9, 2011. Questions may be directed to Tonya Little at 860-349-8678.

Town Times Service Directory Relax! Don’t get nervous

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As for the contaminated soil, Loughlin stated that Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) and metals were found on the site, including high levels of leachable lead. EPA did various tests to see if the lead could have been coming from natural causes. The tests showed that MMC must have been doing something on site that had caused the leachable lead, but what that was they are unsure of. The excavation of contaminated soil will remove all contaminants exceeding regulatory standards/risk-based criteria. Metcalf and Eddy is the General Contractor for the project. A subcontractor will be doing the work on the site. The project has gone out to bid, and there have been several proposals. The initial steps will be to clear the site, which will most likely begin in April. All the equipment from MMC’s former operations will be removed, including propane and storage tanks, as well as overgrown vegetation. The next step is to install erosion control measures, which are typically hay bales and silt fences. The demolition and removal of the remaining warehouse and foundation of the warehouse will occur. All debris and hazardous materials found within the building will be transported off site. In May and June, geophysical investigations will be done to locate the underground utilities, and the soil excavation will begin at this point. The 32,600 cubic yards of contaminated soil that will be transported off site “is the equivalent to an NFL football field being filled 15 feet deep with soil,” said Loughlin. The excavation will go all the way to the sidewalk on Main Street, but not onto the apron. The sidewalk may be compromised for a temporary time for safety reasons, but Loughlin said, “We will do everything we can to help protect the safety of all residents.” The excavation could go as deep as 20 feet. There will be dust suppres-

eting

Mark

(203) 317-2270 FAX (203) 630-2932 CT 1-800-228-6915, Ext. 2270

Ron Nagy Sales Representative

Town Times Sports

Friday, March 11, 2011

Falcon football makes historic move to new field The Durham/Middlefield Falcons (www.durhammiddlefieldfalcons.com) will achieve yet another milestone in their program. The Falcons will be moving their home games from the improvised grass field in between the baseball fields at Allyn Brook Park to the new turf field at Coginchaug Regional High School starting in 2011. This historic agreement between the town, the school board, the athletic department and Falcons was announced at the Falcons’ annual awards banquet in December. Many of the kids in the program have already nicknamed the field “The Falcons’ Nest,” and new player

interest is the strongest it has ever been. This is an appropriate time to make the move to the new field as the Falcons as a group chalked up a total of 15 wins, the most in franchise history. The Falcons program started in the fall of 2006 with ground-work laid by Jim Banack (current president), Sherry Banack, Steve Augeri and Rob Levine. Prior to this, town residents mostly played in the surrounding towns of Cromwell, Wallingford and North Branford. The program has grown every year since it began and will surely expand as the excitement builds over playing on the new field.

The objective of the Falcons’ organization is to instill in the youth of the Durham-Middlefield youth football and cheerleading programs the principles of good citizenship, sportsmanship and knowledge of the competitive fundamentals of the game of football and cheerleading. It is the purpose of the program to teach the participating youths conditioning, discipline and teamwork as it pertains to full-contact tackle football and cheerleading while developing a winning attitude and sportsmanship, attributes that will be carried both on and off the field of play. The Falcons currently play in the CTYFL, a 14-team foot-

As seen in the March 2011 issue of:

Mighty Mites: 7- and 8year olds: Must be at least seven years of age prior to Dec. 31 of the playing year. The maximum weight is 110 pounds at game time. Nine year olds under 65lbs in pads may play on MM team.

Pamela Sawicki-Beaudoin and FIVE STAR Real Estate Agent Lisa Golebiewski

C Squad: 9- and 10- year olds: Maximum weight is 125 pounds at game time. Eleven year olds under 85 lbs in pads may play on C team.

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B Squad: 11- and 12- year olds: Maximum weight is 155 pounds at game time. Thirteen year olds under 110 lbs in pads may play on B team.

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Superfund

ball league that stretches across the central part of the state. The league is currently separated into three conferences, and each town may put forth a team in each division of play. The divisions were put in place to balance the competitiveness with safety as players are divided not only by age but also by weight. The CTYFL has found that age and maturity are the dominant factors as to how well a child competes in the game of football. The weight limits support most athletes in their given age or grade level, allowing more children to participate in sports. A child progresses through the teams, generally staying two years on the same team along with his/her fellow school classmates. Age brackets are 7-14 based upon the calendar year.

A Squad: 13- and 14- year olds: Players cannot turn 15 years of age on or before Dec. 31 of the playing year nor can they be enrolled in high school. The maximum weight shall be 185 pounds at game time.

(Continued from page 29) sion during the process, which will involve non-well water sources hosing down the area. They will also be monitoring the air for VOCs and particulates. “We are going to do our very, very best to contain this within the construction site, given that we are working in very tight quarters,” Loughlin stated. After the soil is removed, they will begin backfilling the area. Reseeding and replanting is expected to be completed by the end of 2011. In the wetland area, organic soil and indigenous plant species will be reintroduced. The EPA is soliciting comments on the wetlands by letter or email to loughlin.anni@epa.gov by April 15. The construction work will only be done Mondays through Fridays from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. unless special circumstances require more hours. Regular construction site noise will be expected. When the clean-up is over, the site will be restored to residential standards. The cleanup will allow for eventual redevelopment and reuse of the property. According to Loughlin, the cost for the project is in the $6 million range. First Selectman Laura Francis showed concern for the residential home at 275 Main Street, being that it is part of Durham’s Historic District. Loughlin stated that, after July 1, there will not be anyone living in the home. The septic system and well will be destroyed and removed, but the home will not suffer structural damage during the excavation. Any concerns should go to Loughlin at 617-918-1273 or via email.

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.)

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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 /

Town Times Sports

Friday, March 11, 2011

By Scott Strang Special to Town Times

and Tietelbaum scored 13 while Nick Halkias also added 12 for LasEngS. Torrison Stone 77, Around the Clock 46 – Leading 13-10 early, Dave DeSanti launched a barrage of five 3-pointers to lead Torrison on a 27-point run, in an eventual rout of Around the Clock. DeSanti and Adam Poturnicki each ended with 20 for Torrison (70) while Pete Lynch scored 15. Pete Donecker led Around the Clock (3-4) with 18 in the loss. With the win by the Young Gunz, and the loss by ATC, the Gunz have retaken first place in the American division with 2 league games remaining before the playoffs. The division winner gets a first round playoff bye. For complete standings and stats visit Durham Mens League on Facebook.

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Service Companion Available Retired RN Judy Nickerson is available for a service companion position anytime (7-3, 3-11, 11-7), full- or parttime. Very affordable. Excellent references. Has experience in elderly care, handicaps, Alzheimer patients, etc. Call Judy for more info; 203-237-4848.

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DURHAM - 62? YOU’RE LUCKY... Enough to live in Hill Hollow, a wonderful active adult community in the heart of Durham’s historic district. Open your slider to enjoy fantastic views from your new home in move-in condition. Lucky priced at $113,000. 21 Mill Pond Lane.

DURHAM - PICTUREPERFECT VIEW And an incredible house too! Beautiful Colonial with gleaming hardwood floors, open floor plan and a finished lower level adding over 800 more sq. ft. The outdoors are designed for easy-breezy living with patio, gazebo and inground pool. Only $439,000.

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Torrison Stone and Snowservices both continued their winning streaks with a pair of wins last week. Dave DeSanti, who had scored just 17 points in his first four games, dropped in 44 over the two games to lead Torrison. With the wins, Torrison clinched first place in the National Division and a bye in the first round of the league playoffs. Torrison Stone 64, LasEngS 46 – LasEngS kept the game close throughout, trailing by just 4 with seven minutes remaining, but Torrison went on a 20-6 run to close out the victory. Dave DeSanti led with a season high 24, and Adam Poturnicki also had 15 for Torrison. Mark Fong and Tim Egan led LasEngS with 9 and 8 respectively. Around the Clock 81, Young Gunz 68 – Leading by just 4 at the half, Steve Markowski and Dave Blair led Around the Clock to a huge second half, and the Young Gunz couldn’t keep pace. Markowski finished with 32 points, the most by any player so far this season. Blair ended with 17, and Pete Donecker and Rick Ryan finished with 16 and 14 each. Alex Schade had a big night, scoring 26 to lead the Gunz in the loss, and Brian Baranoski also added 14. Snowservices 57, Allstate Fire Equipment 37 – Danny Haynes scored 12 straight points in the first half on four 3-pointers and Allstate never had enough offense to make up for it, as Snowservices rolled by 20 in the first of two meetings this week between the teams. Haynes finished with 18 and Paul DeFlippo scored 11 for Snowservices. Mark Sutterline’s 14 points accounted for much of the Allstate offense, while Todd Manjuck finished with 7 points. Snowservices 43, Allstate Fire Equipment 39 – Despite a much better performance, Allstate fell to Snowservices for the second time this week. Tied at 17 at the half, Allstate led briefly midway through the second half, but after a

personal foul and then a technical foul were called on John Parke, Ryan Cove dropped in four free throws to open up a 4- point lead with six minutes remaining, and Snowservices held for the win. Paul DeFlippo led Snowservices (4-3) with 13 points and Parke had 12 while Dave DeRosa scored 10 for Allstate (2-5). Young Gunz 58, LasEngS 56 – Eric Tietelbaum’s half-court shot at the buzzer found the rim but not the net, and the Gunz held on to narrowly defeat LasEngS. Trailing by 7 at the half, Alex Schade scored 16 of his 22 in the second stanza to lead the comeback for the Gunz. Tim D’Aquila was outstanding for LasEngS (1-6), scoring 16 points along with a dozen rebounds. Greg Bereski and Mike Baranoski had 12 each for the Young Gunz (4-3)

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Torrison Stone clinches playoff bye with pair of wins

48 Main Street Middletown, CT 06457 Office: (860) 259-1060 Cell: (860) 918-4580 Office: (860) 259-1060 Cell: (860) 918-4580 huscherd@raveisre.com debbiehuscher.com

Friday, March 11, 2011

Town Times

1in sales

Guernsey Bates House One of Durham’s authentic period homes. Guernsey Bates House circa 1745. 2417 sq. ft. Colonial w/4 bedrooms in pristine condition. Home has a Post & Beam frame w/wood shingled gable roof, central chimney & cut sandstone foundation & beautifully detailed parlor paneling. Only $339,000. For more information or a private showing, call Berardino Realtors 860-349-0344 today!

of Durham and Middlefield Land in 2009, 2010 & 2011 Data from CTMLS For All Your Real Estate Needs Call (860) 349-0344 Visit www.berardino.com

Great Value! Cozy Ranch home on a quiet street in Durham. Home offers a large 1 bedroom which can easily be made into a 2 bedroom. 1 bath, greenhouse & 1 car garage. Needs TLC. Only $125,000! For more information or a private showing call Berardino Realtors 860-3490344 today!

At Berardino Company we know our job isn’t merely putting people in homes, it’s surpassing even the highest expectations of our customers Berardino Realtors a goal we meet every day. www.berardino.com

DURHAM DURHAM

Stately & symmetrical, the circa 1778 spacious and comfortable Thomas Lyman IV Georgian-style home reflects the rising ambition of a new country. Providing the perfect combination of rural privacy with the convenience of gentrified village living, this noteworthy 12 room residence occupies 13 sub-dividable picturesque acres with ponds, streams, and waterfalls. Classical ornamentation throughout. Call Berardino Realtors 860-349-0344 for more information today!

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Immaculate Ranch Immaculate 3 bedroom home featuring spacious family rm., cathedral ceilings & MBR w/full bath. Large deck overlooking one of the most beautiful level & private acres in Durham. Only $275,000. For more information or a private showing, please call Berardino Realtors 860-349-0344 today!

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DURHAM

DURHAM DURHAM

New Listing! Stately Farmhouse occupying 4.6 private acres enjoying commanding views of Durham’s picturesque countryside. You’ll appreciate the sensible open floor plan which is spacious & airy while affording ample privacy to all family members. 2736 sq. ft. with 3 car garage on cul-de-sac adjoining Tri Mountain State Park. Exclusively offered by Berardino Realtors at $499,900! Call 860-349-0344 for more information today!

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A Family Tradition of Outstanding Service For Over 100 Years !

Elegant Residence Build your dream home on 4 acre lot surrounded by state forest. Filled w/luxurious details, this 4 BR home to be built will house your family in style. Open flr. plan has wonderful views from every room on 1st flr. Massive kit. island faces dinette that is flooded w/light from windows on 2 sides. Master suite w/tray ceiling, balcony & spa bath. Ideal for equestrians. Exclusively offered at $985,000. For more information, please call agent at 349-0344.

Immaculate Condo! Private end unit with magnificent views. Impressive MBR suite w/sitting area, whirlpool tub & cathedral ceilings. LL family rm. w/sliders to patio. Bright open floor plan, ample storage & move-in condition. A must see at $277,900! Call Berardino Realtors 860349-0344 today for more information or a private showing!

Your Home in Durham Nestled in the forested hills high above Durham, Harvey Estates is the setting for this wonderful, to be custom built, Colonial with 3.47 exceptional acres of property. House to include 3.5 luxury baths, luxury kitchen, extensive crown molding, open loft to flr. below, 2nd flr. study/office, exotic hardwood flrs., granite & full walkout basement for future growth. Situated next to other exceptional homes surrounded by forest, boulder climbing, mountain biking & hiking beckon. Become a part of Durham - past, present, perfect. Exclusively offered at just $668,960. For more information call Berardino Realtors 860-349-0344 today!

To put our proven talents to work for you, call Berardino Company at (860) 349-0344 or visit us at 40 Main Street, Durham.

Agents Not Shown: Paul Ruzzo, Robert Ruzzo and John Spallone

(Next to Dunkin’ Donuts)