3-25-2011TownTimes by Town Times Newspaper

Volume 17, Issue 50

Serving Durham, Middlefield and Rockfall

Durham woman has new appreciation for life after teaching English in Laos

Lili Kinsman and Novice Monks by the waterfall in Laos. By Cheri Kelley Town Times Durham resident Lili Kinsman learned in a few months spent abroad that there are life lessons in

every new adventure. Kinsman recently returned home from a three-and-a-half month journey to Luang Prabang, Laos where she was a volunteer through Global Vision International (GVI).

GVI volunteers number in over 3,000 every year, which help aid-reliant projects world-wide. For Kinsman, teaching English to novice Buddhist monks and other Laos children was something that she thought about doing for a while. “I had been going through a rough time and wanted a change of pace. I wanted something that was totally different,” she said. “I was researching Laos, Thailand and Vietnam and the secret war in Laos. I thought I might feel like a foreigner in a place where I might not be accepted, and nothing could be farther from the truth.” The culture and traditions of Laos are different from those that Kinsman grew up knowing, so it was a bit of a culture shock when she first arrived in Luang Prabang. See Laos, page 24

School budget increase down to 4.58 percent, more cuts sought Mark Dionne Special to Town Times During the Wednesday, March 16, Board of Education (BOE) meeting, Superintendent Sue Viccaro and business manager Ron Melnik presented several changes to the proposed 201112 school budget that dropped the increase from 6.25 percent to 4.58 percent. The proposed capital expense line decreased by $165,000. This reflects delaying projects until future years. Board member Kerrie Flanagan said that these were projects that could not be done during the school year and “could be deferred until the following fiscal year.” This raised concerns about future expenses and debt manage-

ment. “We’re trying to be very careful about moving capital payments around,” said Flanagan. The other large change involved state grant money of $354,044. Although the grant was confirmed and the district has an award letter, board chairman Tom Hennick indicated that there were “real concerns about whether or not the governor was going to take it back” or ask for offsets. Despite the concerns, the figure was added. While the new expense side of the proposed 2011-12 budget increases by 1.21 percent, the end result is a 4.58 percent increase because of the decline on the income side. Throughout the two-hour meeting, board members sought nu-

merous other avenues to reduce that number. Members discussed custodial overtime, with Melnik noting that hiring cheaper part time workers has helped and that overtime hours haven’t gone up in three years. Board-member Merrill Adams asked about transportation costs. Board members will meet as a Transportation Committee with DATTCO to review route efficiency and to examine the policies, such as same-side pick up, busy roads and culde-sacs. Flanagan, who serves on the Long Range Planning Committee, reported that a “thorough review” of the opSee BOE, page 11

Friday, March 25, 2011

Two local students spend spring break helping others in Paraguay Celine Haeberly and Warren C. Hadley Jr., Durham residents who are students at Kingswood Oxford school in West Hartford, spent their spring break in Tobatí, Paraguay (population 21,000) in South America working on several community service projects. Nearly 75 percent of the population in this poor village is under 19 years old, 30 percent live beneath the international poverty line and 70 percent live in relative poverty. There is malnutrition, inadequate medical care and insufficient educational structures. Celine and Warren made bricks at a brick factory and used these to construct classrooms and medical outposts. They worked in the sugarcane fields, constructed playing fields and sidewalks and distributed clothing collected in the United States. Each mentored one of the children from the village. Harvard Medical School residents and UConn dentists and dental students joined the students on this trip. They left on March 7 for 10 days in Paraguay. For more info, visit www.teamtobati.org. Tobatí is both a town and a provincial district within the department (state) of Cordillera, Paraguay. Photos submitted by Gail Hadley

In this issue ... Calendar .............................4 Durham Briefs .................15 Libraries............................ 4

Middlefield Briefs ............16 Obituary...........................19 Sports ...........................20-24

Town Times Community Briefs

Project Graduation looking for donations For the 20th consecutive year, seniors will be invited to Project Graduation, an allnight, substance-free party for Coginchaug seniors only. As in the past, the theme will be a well-kept secret. This event will boast a variety of fun activities, live entertainment and an abundance of food. A highlight for these graduates is a drawing for

many donated prizes. Your help is needed to make this night a success. Thank you in advance for your generosity during these hard economic times. Contact Tiffany Makara at 860-9172596 or Kari Keuhnle at 860833-6872 for more info or to donate. All submissions must be received by April 1.

Daffodil Day at the Mansion The Friends of Long Hill Estate and the Long Hill Estate Authority will host their annual Daffodil Day on Sun-

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.

Index of Advertisers

State Park will present his live reptile show. At 2 p.m. Susan Peak will play and sing songs from her “Stupendously Wonderful Music Show.” Peak is a performer who lives in Durham and teaches guitar to students of all ages. [www.studioblueguitar.com]. Colorful characters from Art Farm will be clowning around from 1:30 to 3 p.m. Call 860-347-1064 or visiting www.WadsworthMansion.com for more info.

Special Olympics seeks athletes and volunteers The Greater Middletown Special Olympics will hold the Special Olympics Connecticut Eastern Regional Games on Saturday, May 7, at the University of Hartford and Hartford Public High School. The Special Olympics Connecticut State Summer Games will then be held June 10-12, hosted by Southern Connecticut State University, Yale University and the Hamden Hall School. The Greater Middletown Special Olympics is looking for potential athletes ages eight and up who could benefit from the many athletic events of the Special

Olympics. They serve athletes with intellectual disabilities in a variety of wellcoached Olympic type sports who reside in Cromwell, Durham, East Haddam, East Hampton, Haddam, Middlefield, Middletown and Portland. Volunteers are also needed. For more info, contact the Special Olympics Connecticut at 1-800-443-6105 or online at www.soct.org.

Friday Fun Night and Dance DMYFS will host their final grade 5/6 Friday Fun Night and Dance of the year on Friday, April 8 from 7 – 9:30 p.m. Activities include an open game room with ping pong, basketball and air hockey; a board game room and dancing with Sound Spectrum. There will be pizza and snacks available for sale. DMYFS would like to encourage parent chaperones. If interested, call 860349-0258 or e-mail bdean.dmyfs@comcast.net for price. Wii for Fun and Fitness For youth in grades 7-10 Mondays 2:30 – 4 p.m at Durham Library. Program is ongoing while school is in session. Participants must have a registration form on file. Go to www.dmyfs.org for form.

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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

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To advertise in the Town Times, call Joy Boone at 860-349-8026 Ace Oil .........................................5 Masonicare................................10 Addy & Sons..............................18 Michalowski Agency..................10 Allan’s Tree Service ..................17 Micheli Unisex Styling Salon ..........5 APEC Electric............................21 Middlesex Community College........11 Berardino Company Realtors....2, 23 Mims Oil.......................................3 Binge, Bruce..............................22 Molecular Neuroimaging ...........10 Brick Construction .....................21 Movado Farm ............................19 Brockett Paving & Construction .......17 Cahill & Sons.............................17 Neil Jones Home Improvements......19 Carlton Interiors...........................3 New England Dental Health......16 Carmine’s Restaurant .................3 Palace Theater..........................14 Centurion Exterminating............17 PD Home Care Repairs ............18 Classic Wood Flooring ..............17 Petruzelo Agency Insurance.....17 Coldwell Banker ........................23 Planeta Electric .........................19 Conroy, John, DMD...................14 Quality Landscaping Services......11 CT Fitness Coach .....................19 CV Enterprises ..........................20 Raney, Jason, DMD..................11 DCA Home Improvement............6 Realty Associates......................23 Dean Autoworks..........................6 RLI Electric ................................22 Desjarlais, Marsha ....................23 Roblee Plumbing.......................22 Disharoon, Wayne.......................7 Rockfall Co ................................20 Durham Auto Center ...................7 RSDL Home Improvements......18 Durham Dental ............................7 Durham Family Eyecare .............7 Sharon McCormick Design .........5 Family Tree Care ......................17 Silver Mill Tours.........................15 FineWorkHomeImprovement .......17 Singles Alternatives.....................5 Fosdick, Gordon, MD ................15 Solutions By Hypnosis ..............19 Fuel & Service .............................7 T-N-T Home & Lawncare..........20 Glazer Dental Associates............3 TherapeuticMassage&Bodywork..18 Golschneider Painting...............21 Tile Renovators .........................22 Grace Lutheran Preschool ..........3 Handy Man ..................................5 Tony’s Masonry.........................20 Hansen Contracting ..................21 Torrison Stone & Garden ..........21 Ianniello Plumbing.....................18 VMB Custom Builders...............18 Independent Day School.............5 Westfield Clock............................3 J & J Gutter Systems ................20 Whitehouse Construction..........22 KDM Kitchens............................21 Wildwood Lawn Care ................20 Langer Contractors ...................19 Windows Plus............................11 Lino’s Market ...............................3

day, April 17, from 1 p.m. until 4 p.m. at the Wadsworth Mansion at Long Hill Estate, 421 Wadsworth St. in Middletown. This event will be held rain or shine and there is no charge for admission. Thousands of daffodils will greet visitors as they follow the entrance drive leading to the Beaux Art style mansion for this annual celebration of spring. Guests are encouraged to enjoy the meadows planted by volunteers over the last decade. Throughout the afternoon there will be numerous activities for visitors wishing to celebrate spring. At 1:30 Marcy Klattenberg will take hikers on a walk along the Inner Trail looking for spring wildflowers. There is Vernal Pool Exploration between 2 and 4 p.m. at the vernal pool to the east of the mansion. Come see all the creatures including tadpoles and salamander and insect larvae that live in a vernal pool in the spring. Everyone Outside (www.EveryoneOutside.org) will provide viewing scopes and information. Learn what letterboxing is all about. Volunteers from Everyone Outside will explain how it works and provide clues to assist you in finding a beautifully handcarved stamp of a scene from the mansion. Ranger Russ Miller from Meigs Point Nature Center at Hammonasset

Friday, March 25, 2011

Town Times

Middlefield BOF hears budgets, complaints, objections

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Many portions of Middlefield and Rockfall flooded last week as a result of recent heavy rain and melting snow. These canoeing children are in a yard on Cherry Hill Road in Middlefield. From front to back in the canoe are Nicholas Benedetto, Nina Ciarleglio and Mattina Benedetto. Submitted by Paul Benedetto

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be replaced in 2012 at an expense of $450,000. However, Quick suggested that the pumper truck, since it has been well-maintained and has fewer miles on it than similar trucks in other towns, could be pushed to a 25 year schedule. Members of the board and Quick reviewed the replacement schedule for different vehicles and equipment. Quick said that certain wellmaintained and tested equipment could be used past the suggested replacement date. Quick also recommended that large capital expenses be partially funded each year to spread the payments out. Quick suggested saving for a large item like a pumper

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The Middlefield Board of Finance (BOF) heard budget presentations from two Middlefield institutions and sharp criticism from a third before returning to the charged subject of Powder Ridge at their March 17 meeting. Loren Webber, director of the Levi Coe Library, began her presentation by highlighting the benefits of the library to community members, job seekers, families and those without home offices. Webber referred to the library’s summer programs, museum passes and collaborations with the schools. The Levi Coe Library, while not a town-owned library, receives funding from the town. “It’s one of our biggest line items for outside agencies,” noted BOF chair Rebecca Adams. Members of the board and audience asked Webber about the

fundraising done by the library. Webber, referring to the current economy, said, “We worked very hard to keep this budget in line.” She also revealed that the library was hit with a new expense when the building’s furnace broke down and required replacement two days earlier. The line item for Capital Expenses in the library’s budget had been targeted to a potentially state-mandated well replacement. “To date we have not been ordered to move that well,” noted Webber, who said she hopes to use the Capital Expenses line on the new furnace. The library, she reported, is open again. Fire Chief Dave Quick also spoke about capital expenses during his presentation of the Middlefield Fire Department budget. One of the department’s more expensive items, a 1992 pumper truck, is on a 20-year replacement plan and due to

By Mark Dionne Special to Town Times

A short canoe trip in the yard

Town Times & Places

4 FRIDAY

March 25 Renaissance Dinner Coginchaug will host a Renaissance Dinner at 6:30 p.m. at CRHS. The snowdate is March 27. TGIF Memorial School’s TGIF evening for fifth grade students is tonight from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. IDS Musical Independent Day School is performing High School Musical, starring Middlefield’s Betty Smith, tonight and tomorrow night at 7 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m. Call 860-347-7235 to order tickets. Frog Fridays Everyone Outside invites people of all ages to join in observing the amazing transformations that occur in the vernal pools in Field Forest in Durham. You will see frogs, frog and salamander eggs, tadpoles, salamander and insect larvae, etc. Registration required. For more information or to register, contact Lucy at info@EveryoneOutside.org or 860-395-7771.

SATURDAY

March 26 Art Gala Farewell Levi Coe Library is hosting a final presentation of our local children’s individual talents from 5 to 8 p.m. Participation is open for both past and present homeschoolers from across Connecticut. Displayed artwork will be for sale, and all of the proceeds benefit the Levi Coe Library Children’s Room and Young Adult Department. Dress to impress, listen to live music and storytellers and enjoy food and great artwork. Family Supper Women’s Society for Christian Service will hold a crock pot family supper at the United Churches of Durham from 6 to 8 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall. There will be a kidfriendly menu and local entertainment.All are welcome and tickets available at the door. For questions, call Liz Copollina at 860-685-0207. Semi-Formal Coginchaug will have their semi-formal dance tonight at Memorial School

starting at 7 p.m. Men’s Health Ministry There will be a free prostate cancer screening/testing for men of all ages at 440 West St. in Middletown at 10 a.m. This event is sponsored by The Curtis D. Robinson Men’s Health Clinic. For more info, call 860-344-9527.

Naomi at 860-349-9558, or Bonnie at 860-349-9433.

Durham Library

Local author reading

Hours: Regular library hours are 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. Visit www.durhamlibrary.org to search the catalog, review your account, register for a program or renew your materials online. For info or to register for a program by phone, call 860-349-9544. Local author Leslie Bulion to launch her new book Come celebrate strange denizens of the deep with local author Leslie Bulion as she launches her brand new, beautifully illustrated, humorous science poetry collection, At the Sea Floor Café on Wednesday, March 30, at 7 p.m. Leslie will share juicy science stories, undersea photos from her March scuba trip, sea treats and will lead the group in a raucous sea creature sing-along. Signed books will be available for purchase. No registration required. Library Snapshot Week: The Connecticut Library Association is sponsoring a library “snapshot” program that will capture all the library activities and events from April 9 through April 16. Attend library events that week to participate in our programs and express your thoughts and feelings about our library. Evening Adventures: The Kids’ Book Club spring session for grades 1 through 3 will meet on Thursdays from March 10 through April 7. Each week a different book will be discussed along with crafts, snacks and games related to the book. Participants are required to read the book prior to the discussion. Books are available at the library. Please call or stop by the library to register. DPL Book Talk: Participate in the library’s new blog about all things book! Just click on the DPL Book Talk link on the library’s website. Exciting Music Event: The award-winning duo Atwater-Donnelly will perform a unique and thrilling blend of traditional American and Celtic folk music and dance, along with original songs

At 7 p.m., come celebrate local author Leslie Bulion as she launches her brand new, humorous science poetry collection At the Sea Floor Cafe. Signed books are available for purchase.

SUNDAY

March 27 Free Community Supper The Church of the Epiphany will host a free community supper from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. in the church hall at 196 Main St. in Durham. The supper is being sponsored by Boy Scout Troop 27. Parishioners from Epiphany and Notre Dame Church will provide desserts. All are invited.

MONDAY

March 28 Durham 60+ Durham 60+ will meet at 1 p.m. at the United Churches fellowship hall located at the corner of Rt. 68 and Main. This meeting there will be a variety table/raffle with items contributed by the members. Come join the fun with a social hour to follow. Come to also sign up for one of the new trips being offered to the membership.

TUESDAY

March 29 Ensemble Night The Memorial School Ensemble Night begins at 7 p.m. at CRHS. Snowdate March 30. 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 Coe Libraries.

WEDNESDAY

March 30 Knit Club Come knit or crochet at the Durham Activity Center from 6:30 to 8 p.m. TOPS Join the TOPS meetings every Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. at the Durham Town Hall third floor meeting room. Call

THURSDAY

March 31 ECO Hunger Awareness Banquet ECO is sponsoring a Hunger Banquet at 6 p.m. in the CRHS café. Come listen to the reflections of Lydia Asante, a woman in the process of founding a school in Ghana for children and their mothers. Also featured will be the famous dessert auction. Call Susan Michael at 860-349-7215, ext. 235 for reservations. Please bring a non-perishable food item for admission.

FRIDAY

April 1 Eat Pray Sing Celebrate the special joy of Shabbat at “Pray-Eat-Sing” at Congregation Adath Israel. These special high energy services will begin at 5:30 p.m. making it family-friendly. Services will be followed by a traditional Shabbat meal at 6:30, with warm conversation and song led by Rabbi Seth Haaz. The evening is free and open to the public. Call 860346-4709 or email office@adathisraelct.org by March 28 if you plan to attend or would like to contribute toward the meal cost. Willy Wonka John Lyman Parents Association presents a production of Willy Wonka, Jr. tonight at 7 p.m. and Saturday at 2 and 6 p.m. Tickets are available at the door or Showtix4u.com. Men’s Night Out All men are welcome to the Men’s Night Out program held at AME Zion Church at 7 p.m. There will be men’s choirs singing and information on fatherhood, food, fun and fellowship. Located at 440 West St. in Middletown; 860344-9527

Friday, March 25, 2011 and poetry on Saturday, April 9, at 1 p.m. All are welcome to this program. Mystery Book Discussion: The Mystery Book Club will meet on Tuesday, April 19, at 7:30 p.m., when Rabbit Factory by Marshall Karp will be discussed. All are welcome. Copies of the book are available at the library. Book Lovers’ Circle: The Book Lovers’ Circle will meet on Wednesday, April 6, at 7:30 p.m., when Olive Kitteridge by Elizabeth Strout will be discussed. All are welcome. Copies of the book are available at the library. Teen Book Club: The teen book club will meet on Tuesday, March 29, at 7 p.m., when The Rag and Bone Shop by Robert Cormier will be discussed. Copies of the book are available at the library.

Levi Coe Library Hours: The library is open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturdays. Visit www.leviecoe.com or call the library at 860-349-3857 for information or to register for any program. You can also renew, reserve and check your library record on the website. Special Closing: The library will be closed Saturday, March 26 for the Homeschoolers’ Art Gala. New Museum Passes: The library now has the following museum passes, which offer either free or reduced admission: CT State Parks & Forests Day Pass, Mystic Aquarium, Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art and CT’s Old State House. Please call the library for more info. Wish List Books: Donate one or both of the following Wish List Books to our library: Bel-Air Dead by Stuart Woods or The Fifth Witness by Michael Connelly. If you choose to donate one or both of these books, you will get to be the first one to check them out! We will also add a bookplate to acknowledge your kind donation. Call 860-349-3857 or stop by the library for details.

Friday, March 25, 2011

Town Times

Middlefield selectmen Lesser: State funds to approve Eagle Scout project Middlefield repair dams on its way brush pick-up for Coe Hill property

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State Representative Matt Lesser announced that the State Bond Commission is expected to approve funds to repair Lake Beseck’s dam in Middlefield and Dooley Pond’s dam in Middletown as part of $1.47 million in state funding slated for dam repair. Connecticut will also be able to leverage an additional $900,000 in federal funds.

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Eagle Scout Austin Mazo proposed a project at the regular Board of Selectmen (BOS) meeting held on Tuesday, March 22. The project would create a kiosk at the entrance of the Coe Hill property on School Street off of Jackson Hill Road. Bow hunters are allowed to hunt on the property, and to increase safety, Mazo would provide a pushpin system for hunters to mark their position on a map at the kiosk before entering the property. He also wants to gravel the parking area and clear brush from the pond. The BOS approved his project but suggested that he speak to the Fire Dept. as it is a fire pond; as for clearing brush, he should pass it by the wetlands and conservation committees. During Public comment

Marianne Corona suggested that town obtain a wood chipper. She believes that the town used to have one available for use but no longer does. With the many uses of wood chips in gardening and road projects, Corona felt that it would pay for itself over time, even though she understands that it is a significant purchase upfront. First Selectman Jon Brayshaw went on to say that, in the future, he believes there could be a part-time administrator for the transfer station as well as a scale for bulky or demolition wastes. The scale is to have, “Equalization for payments on load disposal,” said Brayshaw. Reported in New Business is a Freedom of Information (F.O.I) conference program workshop being held on April 7. Interested members of town committees can contact the First Selectman’s office for more information.

By Cheri Kelley Town Times

The Middlefield Highway Department will conduct its annual brush pickup for all residents of Middlefield and Rockfall. To insure pick-up, all brush must be at the curb by April 4. Residents should place clean brush at the curb with the butt end of branches toward the street. All branches should be less than eight feet in length and three inches in diameter. Leaves, stumps, garbage or building materials will not be accepted. Only one truckload per household will be removed as this is meant for regular spring clean-up and not clearing.

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Friday, March 25, 2011

Town Times

Middlefield Historical Society — how you can help preserve the past By Trish Dynia Special to Town Times Since its incorporation in the early 1970s, the Middlefield Historical Society has sought to preserve and promote interest in the history of this diverse community whose first white settlers established farms here in 1700. Like its inhabitants, then and now, Middlefield never fit the model of a typical New England village. There were no stately homes securely nestled around a pretty white church on the town green. In fact, the first three settlers lived several miles apart. Benjamin Miller es-

tablished the first homestead in 1700 at the southern end of town on what is now Miller Road. He was followed quickly by Samuel Allen at the northern perimeter, and Samuel Wetmore, who established himself and his family in the center of town, which is near the present day Middlefield Federated Church. They and the settlers who soon followed were primarily Englishmen from similar social and religious backgrounds. Families grew, intermarried and flourished. Large farming homesteads were established throughout the area. But these stubborn “Outlivers” could not agree

on a minister or a common branch of Protestantism. Colonial law required that a community could become a separate Parish from its parent township when a local church was established. Therefore, Middlefield would continue to be a ‘satellite’ village of Middletown until it established its own meeting house. This proved to be a daunting task for the Outlivers. But a meeting of stubborn minds finally came in 1744 with the establishment of a Congregational Church in Middlefield. However, unlike many colonial Parishes, Middlefield’s Locally made products and period clothing on dischurch was never the center play in a corner of the Middlefield Historic Society's

room in the Community Center. of community life, partly due to individualistic mindsets of its inhabitants, but mostly due to the fact that

the Congregational Church was in turmoil over several

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Friday, March 25, 2011

Historical

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ecclesiastic issues and the “Great Awakening” of religious philosophy and diversity was well underway throughout the colonies. This early history, and its subsequent menagerie of twists and turns, is what the Middlefield Historical Society and its new president Ken Twombly are attempting to preserve and promote. Twombly, who has been a member of the society for about three years, was recently elected president after the semi-retirement of founding member and cherished local historian Lynette Brayshaw. His goals as president are to increase membership, publish a pictorial history of Middlefield and expand fundraising activities. Said Twombly, “We haven’t set a date yet, but

Town Times sometime this fall we will be sponsoring an ‘Antiques Road Show’ type event.” A group of expert appraisers will be on hand to let you know if that odd-looking moose clock Aunt Emma left you is worth 50 cents or $10,000. In a letter to the editor in last week’s Town Times, Twombly requested that local residents scour their attics and closets for old pictures of Middlefield. These pictures will be published in the upcoming pictorial history book. If you find anything of interest, please call him at 860-349-0618. He will be happy to pick them up at your convenience. Currently, the Middlefield Historical Society collections are on display at the Community Center. The room is an interesting menagerie of precious memorabilia, including products from Middlefield’s

extensive manufacturing history, antique wedding dresses, handmade quilts and, oddly enough, a “slave bed.”

field Voices is a collection of oral histories obtained from local residents on life in the early twentieth century. Anyone wishing to view the collections or conduct historical/genealogical research should call the Middlefield A slave bed donated to the society Historical Society at from a Miller Road resident. 860-349-0665. During parts and how Phineas Miller your visit, you can also find helped Eli Whitney invent out why Benjamin Miller is the cotton gin. mentioned in Ripley’s Believe The society meets on the It or Not, which Rockfall busi- first Thursday of each month nessman was strategic in de- in the Community Center at 7 veloping and applying the p.m., and their meetings are concept of interchangeable open to the public.

Middlefield and Rockfall historical information has been carefully preserved through written histories, maps, and military, family and cemetery records. The society also maintains a collection of newspaper articles dealing with local events from the Town Times, Middletown Press, Hartford Courant and other news sources. The society also has available for purchase two DVDs; The Biggest Little Town in Connecticut is a general history of the town, and Middle-

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Town Times Opinion

Friday, March 25, 2011

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Town Times is published every Friday by the Record-Journal Publishing Co. and is delivered to all homes and businesses in Durham, Middlefield and Rockfall. Stephanie Wilcox, Editor Cheri Kelley, Reporter Kimberley E. Boath, Advertising Sales Manager Joy Boone, Advertising Sales Dee Wilcox, Office Manager Contributors: Chuck Corley, Diana Carr, Trish Dynia, Elisabeth Kennedy, Karen Kean, Michelle P. Carter, Judy Moeckel, Tori Piscatelli and Sue VanDerzee.

When the editorial staff at Town Times isn’t busy covering events in town, writing articles and putting together the newspaper, we often welcome visitors to our office in Middlefield who are eager to learn about how community journalism works. Durham Cub Scout Pack 27, Den 5 (pictured right), made their own newspaper with us on March 21! That’s one way we at Town Times like to share our knowledge and give back. In this issue, we have lots of coverage of other folks sharing their abilities and ways for you to get involved right here in town. On page 2 there is info on the upcoming Greater Middletown Special Olympics where athletes and volunteers are needed. On

Letter to the Editor ‘The difference is significant’ The Town Times March 16 cover story on Powder Ridge referred to “a foreclosure process against former owner Ken Leavitt,” later referring to vandalism,* “while Leavitt was in the bankruptcy process.” In fact, the foreclosure process was filed against the corporation, White Water Mountain Resorts of CT (WMR), which was also the party involved in the bankruptcy process, not Leavitt personally. (Leavitt is the guarantor the WMR note and holder of 100 percent of the stock in the company.) The difference is significant, truth is important and there are present and future implications. Litigation brought by Leavitt (the individual) to

date has been ruled by the courts to be without standing due to the company (WMR) being deemed by the courts as the party that was primarily damaged in these matters. The courts did not rule that the claims were without merit (a judgment on “standing” is not a judgment on “the merits”). However, the company, WMR, can’t bring the litigation** because it is still (three years later) in the hands of a trustee. However, the time will come when this is not the case and when that happens, White Water will no doubt be seeking the justice it has been so long denied. *(The vandalism occurred after the town and the investment company convinced the court to place the company with a trustee, which took control out of Leavitt’s hands. The Town

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.

Times reported on these events and Leavitt’s frustration with both the investment company and the town for doing nothing to stop the vandalism, at which time town officials told Leavitt, “There is nothing we can do until we own the property.” ) **(Claims against the town included tortuous interference, deception, fraud, unfair business practices and due process violations.) Had the town followed through with the sale/leaseback (purchase of development rights) in the first place, with the same good faith they solicited from Leavitt to work with the town, then: 1. the ski area would likely be operating today, along with a scaled down water park, or, 2. Ski Sundown would be operating the ski business, the town would have purchased the development rights at fair market value, and White Water would have received a fair deal. Unfortunately, what we have instead is: 3. a vandalized property, loss of 300 jobs, no tax revenues, no annual skiing for thousands of CT families, significant losses to other creditors and Leavitt personally, costs to the town of over $4 million to date (much to attorneys), and there is still hell to be paid. Ken Leavitt, Middlefield

page 1 we profiled Durham resident Lili Kinsman who recently returned from a trip to Laos to volunteer her time and talents teaching English. Also on page 1 are photos of two local students who spent their spring break helping in Paraguay. If sports or international travel are not your cup of tea, read the article on Middlefield’s Historical Society on

page 6. Perhaps you can help them save our local heritage. Finally, below, Middlefield’s Amy Poturnicki organized to get a Family Fishing area for Lake Beseck underway near the Middlefield Dog Park, also a volunteer creation. There truly is something for everyone in our towns — and some way to help! SW

Family fishing area at Lake Beseck By Amy Poturnicki Under the Lake Beseck Association, I have been working over the winter with the community and various commissions for approvals of a Family Fishing area on the town-owned King Property. The venture entails the revival of a location at the south end of the lake that was once used as a fishing access point. The area is accessible near the Middlefield Dog Park where a trail forks to the left and down to the water. The idea behind the location is to provide the community with fishing access on the west side of the lake that will create a fun escape for families who want to take their kids for a small hike through the woods where they can retreat to a relaxing “fishing hole.” This will not only provide an adventurous hike in the woods, it also provides families with access that does not infringe on private property and helps to prevent issues with people fishing in the beach area, which violates the town beach rules. The community was invited recently to visit the Family Fishing area and to help get the project underway! Twenty people showed up, making

a lot of progress in only two hours. Underbrush and dead wood was removed as well as an unhealthy overhead branch that raised some concern with a member of the Inland Wetlands Agency. Branches were also removed to allow for easier casting. Children raked leaves and trimmed briars and small saplings from the path. Downed trees were used to create a trail border. We were very excited to salvage an interesting and partially dead tree that was growing parallel to the ground. Dead limbs were cut back to the irregular trunk, and the tree will now be used as natural seating. We are thrilled about the community fishing area and hope to have it complete by the traditional opening of fishing season that kicks off the third Saturday of April! Thanks go out to Dick Boynton, James Crompton, Brandan Dana, Barbara Neligon and Michael, Craig Orosz and Jeanie, Rob Poturnicki and Heather and Ryan, Pete Sibley and Tyler, Amy Sorensen and Ricky, Claire and Noelle, Bill Warner and Tyler — a real community cross-section!

Friday, March 25, 2011

Town Times Columns

First impressions on life in the Overwhelming Gratitude General Assembly dren. On Feb 28, I was The sheer volume sworn into the Senate of legislation that has seat representing been introduced is Middlefield, Rockfall, mind-boggling. More Middletown, Merithan 3,500 bills have den and Cheshire. I been introduced by joined my fellow legmy fellow legislators. islators seven weeks It’s hard to believe after the session had that Connecticut started so I had some needs so many more catching up to do! In laws or law-changing my very first session action! in the Senate on Many of the proMarch 16, I voted on a Sen. Len Suzio posed bills require nominee for the Conmore state spending, necticut Supreme even though we are in Court. the middle of the Because I joined worst financial crisis my colleagues so long after the session began, I was not al- since the Great Depression. Many of the proposed bills are unlowed to introduce any legislation. The first 10 days in office were par- funded mandates that require our ticularly hectic because I had so school districts or towns to spend much to learn, and I had no legisla- more money even though our towns’ tive aide. Finally on March 15, my budgets are hard-pressed. The budget proposed by the goverSenate aide, Laura Fanelli (860-2400558) joined me. Laura had 10 years nor would increase real year-to-year of experience working for the House spending in 2011 and 2012, even Democrats (yes, I am a Republican though the governor asserts he is who knows good talent when he sees cutting spending. What the governor it!) and four years working for the is cutting is the proposed spending, former Lt. Governor, Mike Fedele. not the actual spending from year to So she has the experience and leg- year. I think it is important for the islative know-how to help me catch state to do what we all have to do in difficult financial times – cut real up quickly. Some of my initial observations spending. Only if we cut real spendabout life in the General Assembly ing can we avoid a tax increase. During the campaign, and now in are as follows: I have been appointed to the Ap- office, I continue to hear from overpropriations and Education Com- taxed citizens concerned about the mittees and was made ranking member to the Select Committee on ChilSee Suzio, next page

From The State Capitol

Honoring veteran Fred Dahlmeyer Veterans’ Voices Fred D. Dahlmeyer, of Durham, a disabled veteran, was retired from the U.S. Army on March 31, 1956, 55 years ago. Submitted by Sharon DahlmeyerGiovannitti

If you are or someone you know is active in the military or is a veteran, we would love to publish their accomplishments in this military column. Photos welcome too! Email news@towntimes.com.

where residents can Last week I officialenjoy meaningful ly declared myself recreational prooverwhelmed. It grams. seemed all I did was • The new Senior go from one meeting Café where over 50 to another to discuss senior citizens remajor issues. We are ceive a low/no cost working on the follownutritional lunch acing projects in no parcompanied by other ticular order of imporsocial activities tance or magnitude: every Monday and clean drinking water, Wednesday. superfund and storm • Our public works clean-up, personnel Laura Francis, Durham personnel who leave changes and reorganitheir families during zation at Town Hall storm events to keep and emergency servour roads and buildices, public works ings safe. building project, • Our state and feddrainage problems eral partners who and more. Add our day-to-day activities and the budget. have helped with technical assisWe are working tirelessly to bring tance and funding for some of our the most responsible yet affordable projects. • An electorate that can debate and budget to town meeting. My “friend” Oprah taught me that disagree on issues respectfully and a proven technique to calm down and productively. • Our winning streak on grants to restore focus is to create a gratitude journal. While journaling has never help fund some special projects and been my thing, I have done this men- for the staff who have worked dilitally when I’ve felt personally over- gently on those applications. • The new businesses that have whelmed. I usually begin with gratitude for my family and friends who opened in town along with the upserve as my cheerleading team and tick of building permits that will humility team when needed. I then help build back our grand list. • The recent sales of homes that list all the blessings I have and alterhave been lingering on the market nately, some that I don’t! Today I decided it is time for a pro- for months and months. • The brave men and women who fessional gratitude journal. Here is my list, again, in no particular order are serving in our armed forces both of importance or magnitude and cer- here and overseas, especially those tainly far from complete. I am grate- from Durham. • Neighbors who take care of ful for: • No major injuries and destruc- neighbors and call when they need tion from our unprecedented snow assistance. • Youth that are making a differfall this winter. • The fact that the only town build- ence through volunteerism. • Our contractors who perform ing that was destroyed by the winter weather was the building that we services that we cannot provide with need to replace anyway – public town of Durham staff or equipment. • The town of Middlefield, our partworks salt/storage shed. • More than 100 brave emergency ners in recreational and educational service volunteers that comprise our services and waste removal. • Our faith community that helps emergency services departments. • A superb staff of town employees provide support services to our resiand board and commission members dents. This list is not complete, but I feel who have streamlined their budgets over the last three years and who better. Now back to work! Stay tuned will get creative and innovative if we for project updates from my office and from our boards and commishave to make further cuts. • The Durham Activity Center sions.

From The Desk Of The First Selectman

Web update Our most recent poll question asked, “Now that spring is officially here, what do you plan to do?” By press time Wednesday, 30 people had responded. Twenty-seven percent said “Spend as much time doing outdoor activities”; 3 percent said “Spring clean my yard”; another 3 percent said “Spring clean my house”; 10 percent said “None of the above” and 57 percent said “All of the above.” Go to www.towntimes.com to answer our next poll.

Friday, March 25, 2011

Town Times

Middlefield woman charged

A sure sign that spring is here! The Durham Co-Op After-School Kindergarten program visited Durham Dari Serv on opening day! Pictured are Alex Woznyk, Ben Rascati, Abby Brown, Emma Samperi, Julia Gavin, Greyson Dykas-Hesser, Henry Bugai, Melana O’Sullivan, Alison Albanese, Katie Grenier, Kyle Miller & Drew Turner. For questions regarding enrollment at the Durham Co-Op, please call 860-349-9885. Submitted by Mica Machnik

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Gina Layman, of Middlefield, was charged on March 3 with first degree larceny and second degree forgery. Both charges are felonies; Layman was released on a promise to appear in the Middletown Court on March 25, after turning herself in. She maintains that she is not guilty. Layman is a retired state correction officer who obtained $28,692 per year for disability retirement since 2004. Her injury occurred on the job in 1996 as a result of an altercation with an inmate. Her retirement benefit was cut off last July as officials learned that she was a BMX director of the Falcon BMX track in Meriden and also a competitor in the BMX World Championships in Australia. Layman also was a Middlefield volunteer firefighter and an EMT. Layman’s attorney John Williams is representing her as a “pro bono” case and feels that, “the arrest will prove embarrassing to law enforcement officials,” as stated in The Hartford Courant on Sunday. (Cheri Kelley)

Suzio

(From page 9)

burden of increasing taxes. City and town officials also have expressed concerns about the impact of the governor’s budget proposal. Last week I watched more than 700 people attend the town hall meeting with the governor in Meriden. I have pledged to use all my accounting and finance skills to help Connecticut formulate a budget that will not increase taxes and will minimize the pain of budget cuts. I intend to honor that pledge as we go into the second half of the 2011 legislative session. Already I have met with the Senate Republican leadership and shared some of my ideas with them. I am hopeful that my suggestions will be reflected in the Republican alternative budget when it is made public. I encourage you to contact my office about your concerns and ideas. State Senator Len Suzio (RMeriden) represents Meriden, Middlefield, Middletown, Cheshire and Rockfall. Visit his new website at www.senatorsuzio.com and send comments to len.suzio@cga.ct.gov.

Friday, March 25, 2011

BOE

(From page 1)

erating expenses with supervisor of buildings and grounds Rob Francis revealed no areas for savings. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Most of it is maintenance, things that need to be done, and if you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t do it... the system will break down and youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll probably spend four times as much fixing or replacing it,â&#x20AC;? she said. When asked by Hennick how they wanted to proceed, the focus returned to the number, 4.58 percent. When asked to find more cuts and bring that number below 4 percent for the next meeting, Viccaro responded, â&#x20AC;&#x153;If you want to find significant savings, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re going to have to

Town Times cut staff or programs.â&#x20AC;? She added, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Certainly Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m not advocating cutting staff, but I will do that if Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m directed to do it.â&#x20AC;? The idea of offering early retirement to older teachers stirred the longest discussion. Melnik indicated that potential savings from early retirement depends on how many teachers would be allowed to take it and the impact on health insurance costs, which vary from teacher to teacher. Viccaro expressed concern about losing 38 veteran teachers, who potentially qualify for early retirement, all at once. â&#x20AC;&#x153;You have a lot of your institutional knowledge, a lot of your mentorsâ&#x20AC;? in that group, she noted. The teachers, Viccaro suggested, may

come up with some early retirement ideas that the board has not. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It could be a win-win situation.â&#x20AC;? No one suggested that early retirement could be conducted before next year, with the potential savings going into the 2012-13 budget. Questions about the budget also drove a discussion of sending out letters of non-renewal to as many as 45 teachers. The superintendent is required to notify by April 1 any teacher whose contract will not be renewed, before the budget is settled. Some districts, according to Viccaro, send notification every year to each non-tenured teacher as a precaution. District 13 in the past has used letters targeted to those in

In other on-line news, Viccaro encouraged residents to vote for two separate high school groups up for awards and prizes for safe driving and environmental videos. Links on the districtâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s home page lead to the videos and the voting. The next BOE meeting is Wednesday, March 30. The public hearing date will be Wednesday, April 6, at 8 p.m. at C.R.H.S.

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Â&#x2DC;Â&#x2021;Â&#x201D;Â&#x203A; Â&#x201E;Â&#x2014;Â&#x2022;Â&#x2039;Â?Â&#x2021;Â&#x2022;Â&#x2022;ÇĄ Â&#x192;Â&#x2030;Â&#x2021;Â?Â&#x2026;Â&#x203A;ÇĄ Â&#x192;Â?Â&#x2020; Â&#x2018;Â&#x201D;Â&#x2030;Â&#x192;Â?Â&#x2039;Â&#x153;Â&#x192;Â&#x2013;Â&#x2039;Â&#x2018;Â? Â&#x160;Â&#x192;Â&#x2022; Â&#x2021;Â?Â&#x2019;Â&#x17D;Â&#x2018;Â&#x203A;Â&#x2021;Â&#x2021;Â&#x2022; Â&#x2013;Â&#x160;Â&#x192;Â&#x2013; Â&#x2026;Â&#x192;Â? Â&#x2014;Â&#x2022;Â&#x2021; Â?Â&#x2021;Â&#x2122; Â&#x2039;Â?Â&#x2C6;Â&#x2018;Â&#x201D;Â?Â&#x192;Â&#x2013;Â&#x2039;Â&#x2018;Â? Â&#x192;Â?Â&#x2020; Â&#x2022;Â?Â&#x2039;Â&#x17D;Â&#x17D;Â&#x2022; Â&#x2013;Â&#x2018; Â&#x201E;Â&#x2018;Â&#x2018;Â&#x2022;Â&#x2013; Â&#x2013;Â&#x160;Â&#x2021;Â&#x2039;Â&#x201D; Â&#x2021;ĆĄÂ&#x2021;Â&#x2026;Â&#x2013;Â&#x2039;Â&#x2DC;Â&#x2021;Â?Â&#x2021;Â&#x2022;Â&#x2022; Â&#x192;Â?Â&#x2020; Â&#x2019;Â&#x201D;Â&#x2018;Â&#x2020;Â&#x2014;Â&#x2026;Â&#x2013;Â&#x2039;Â&#x2DC;Â&#x2039;Â&#x2013;Â&#x203A;Ç¤ Â&#x160;Â&#x2021; Â&#x2021;Â?Â&#x2013;Â&#x2021;Â&#x201D; Â&#x2C6;Â&#x2018;Â&#x201D; Â&#x2014;Â&#x2022;Â&#x2039;Â?Â&#x2021;Â&#x2022;Â&#x2022; Â&#x192;Â?Â&#x2020; Â?Â&#x2020;Â&#x2014;Â&#x2022;Â&#x2013;Â&#x201D;Â&#x203A; Â&#x2021;Â&#x201D;Â&#x2DC;Â&#x2039;Â&#x2026;Â&#x2021;Â&#x2022; Č&#x2039; Č&#x152; Â&#x160;Â&#x192;Â&#x2022; Â&#x201E;Â&#x2021;Â&#x2021;Â? Â&#x2020;Â&#x2021;Â&#x17D;Â&#x2039;Â&#x2DC;Â&#x2021;Â&#x201D;Â&#x2039;Â?Â&#x2030; Â&#x2026;Â&#x2014;Â&#x2022;Â&#x2013;Â&#x2018;Â?Â&#x2039;Â&#x153;Â&#x2021;Â&#x2020; Â&#x2013;Â&#x201D;Â&#x192;Â&#x2039;Â?Â&#x2039;Â?Â&#x2030; Â&#x2018;Â?ÇŚÂ&#x2022;Â&#x2039;Â&#x2013;Â&#x2021; Â&#x2C6;Â&#x2018;Â&#x201D; Â&#x2020;Â&#x2021;Â&#x2026;Â&#x192;Â&#x2020;Â&#x2021;Â&#x2022;Ç¤ Â&#x2021; Â&#x192;Â&#x201D;Â&#x2021; Â&#x192;Â&#x2DC;Â&#x192;Â&#x2039;Â&#x17D;Â&#x192;Â&#x201E;Â&#x17D;Â&#x2021; Â&#x2013;Â&#x2018; Â&#x2019;Â&#x201D;Â&#x2018;Â&#x2DC;Â&#x2039;Â&#x2020;Â&#x2021; Â&#x203A;Â&#x2018;Â&#x2014; Â&#x2122;Â&#x2039;Â&#x2013;Â&#x160; Â&#x192; Â&#x2C6;Â&#x201D;Â&#x2021;Â&#x2021; Â&#x2026;Â&#x2018;Â?Â&#x2022;Â&#x2014;Â&#x17D;Â&#x2013;Â&#x192;Â&#x2013;Â&#x2039;Â&#x2018;Â? Â&#x192;Â?Â&#x2020; Â&#x2018;Â&#x201D;Â&#x2030;Â&#x192;Â?Â&#x2039;Â&#x153;Â&#x192;Â&#x2013;Â&#x2039;Â&#x2018;Â?Â&#x192;Â&#x17D; Â&#x192;Â&#x2022;Â&#x2022;Â&#x2021;Â&#x2022;Â&#x2022;Â?Â&#x2021;Â?Â&#x2013;Ç¤ Â&#x2021;Â&#x192;Â&#x201D;Â? Â&#x192;Â&#x201E;Â&#x2018;Â&#x2014;Â&#x2013; Â&#x2013;Â&#x160;Â&#x2021; Â&#x2013;Â&#x201D;Â&#x192;Â&#x2039;Â?Â&#x2039;Â?Â&#x2030; Â&#x2018;Â&#x2019;Â&#x2019;Â&#x2018;Â&#x201D;Â&#x2013;Â&#x2014;Â?Â&#x2039;Â&#x2013;Â&#x2039;Â&#x2021;Â&#x2022; Â&#x2039;Â? Â&#x2013;Â&#x2021;Â&#x2026;Â&#x160;Â?Â&#x2039;Â&#x2026;Â&#x192;Â&#x17D; Ć¤Â&#x2021;Â&#x17D;Â&#x2020;Â&#x2022;ÇĄ Â&#x17D;Â&#x2021;Â&#x192;Â&#x2020;Â&#x2021;Â&#x201D;Â&#x2022;Â&#x160;Â&#x2039;Â&#x2019; Â&#x192;Â?Â&#x2020; Â&#x2013;Â&#x2021;Â&#x192;Â?Â&#x201E;Â&#x2014;Â&#x2039;Â&#x17D;Â&#x2020;Â&#x2039;Â?Â&#x2030;ÇĄ Â&#x160;Â&#x2014;Â?Â&#x192;Â? Â&#x201D;Â&#x2021;Â&#x2022;Â&#x2018;Â&#x2014;Â&#x201D;Â&#x2026;Â&#x2021; Â?Â&#x192;Â?Â&#x192;Â&#x2030;Â&#x2021;Â?Â&#x2021;Â?Â&#x2013; Â&#x192;Â?Â&#x2020; Â&#x2022;Â&#x2014;Â&#x2019;Â&#x2021;Â&#x201D;Â&#x2DC;Â&#x2039;Â&#x2022;Â&#x2039;Â&#x2018;Â?ÇĄ Â&#x2039;Â?Â&#x2C6;Â&#x2018;Â&#x201D;Â?Â&#x192;Â&#x2013;Â&#x2039;Â&#x2018;Â? Â&#x2013;Â&#x2021;Â&#x2026;Â&#x160;Â?Â&#x2018;Â&#x17D;Â&#x2018;Â&#x2030;Â&#x203A; Â&#x192;Â?Â&#x2020; Â?Â&#x2018;Â&#x201D;Â&#x2021;Ç¨

which is open to the public, will be linked to from the districtâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s home page, and possibly the townsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; pages as well.

1186489

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danger of being laid off. Some members felt that a blanket non-renewal looked less like a scare tactic and more like a contractual technicality, while others wondered what it would do to morale and if it would send teachers who have little realistic chance of being laid off looking for work in other districts. No final decision was made. In other business, board member Nancy Boyle reviewed a survey going up using the web utility Survey Monkey to garner feedback from the public. The survey,

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Friday, March 25, 2011

Town Times

Round One UT-San Antonio/Alabama St./Paint Imporium

THE CHAMP IS HERE!!

Round Two Ohio State

Round Two

Round Three Ohio State

George Mason/Moran’s TV & Appliance Villanova/Hunter’s Pool

Town Times

brought to you by the Tow n Times

2011 Ohio State/Catherine & Co.

Friday, March 25, 2011

Round Three

Round Four

George Mason

Kansas

Richmond

Round Five

Morehead St.

VCU Marquette

USC/VCU/YMCA of Wallingford & Duchess

VCU Purdue/Miller Accupuncture & Chiropractic

Syracuse

Purdue

Washington

Florida St.

Washington/Bella Luna Pizza Florida St.

North Carolina/Horton Insurance Services

Round One Duke/Darrell’s Auto Hampton/Josie’s Hair Salon

Championship Game

North Carolina

Duke

Notre Dame

Round Two

Round Three Duke

Round Three

Round Four

Michigan

Pittsburgh

Butler

Kansas St.

Round Five

Wisconsin

Gonzaga UConn

1195075

Utah St./Prestige Cleaners

Belmont/601 Deli

Gonzaga/Ted’s Restaurant

BYU BYU/Carlton’s Interiors

UConn

BYU

Temple

UCLA

Temple/Stephen Toyota

Wofford/Amore Apizza UCLA/Ace Oil

San Diego St.

Michigan St./Star Auto Sales

Florida

San Diego St./Marianna’s Belltop Bakery No. Colorado/John J. Kovacs Insurance

Old Dominion/CT Power & Sport

St.John’s/Colony Pizza Cincinnati

UConn/K. LaMay’s Steamed Cheeseburgers

Penn St./Executive Kia

UNC-Ash/Ark-LR/TJ’s Auto Body

Wisconsin/Vine’s Distinctive Wines

Round Five

Texas

Cincinnati/Gionfriddo’s Tailoring

Bucknell/Avanti Restaurant

Pittsburgh/Meriden Self Storage

Wisconsin

Texas/Ives Road Wine & Spirits

Missouri/Suzio Insurance

Round One

Kansas St./North Haven Bike &First Base Sports Cards Arizona Arizona

Oakland/Roberts Chrysler Dodge

Akron/Valencia Liquor

Butler/Silver Mill Tours Butler

Arizona/Middletown Toyota Memphis/V. Nanfito Roofing & Siding

Florida St./Four Points by Sheraton Notre Dame/Aresco’s Superette

Championship Game

Round Two

Michigan/MJ Duke’s Tennessee/Case Handyman

Saint Peter’s/Wireless Zone of Meriden Texas A&M/Berlin Bicycle

North Carolina LIU/Dino’s Seafood & Zandri’s Stillwood Inn

Morehead St./Danby’s A-1 Service Georgetown/Foucault’s

Marquette

Syracuse/Uncle Bob’s Garden Center

Georgia/Michael’s Trattoria

Richmond/Meriden Hyundai Louisville/Sal’s Pizza

Round Five

Kentucky

Xavier/Dad’s Restaurant

Indiana St./Quality Time Food & Spirits

Illinois/Meriden Pawn Shop

Richmond

Kentucky/K.T. Baxter’s

Marquette/Dowling Ford

Boston Univ/Waste Material Trucking Co.

Vanderbilt/Billings Sports West Virginia Kentucky

Princeton/Rosie’s Cafe

Kansas/Lido’s Restaurant

UNLV/Phil’s Lock Shop Illinois

West Virginia/Tuxis-Ohrs Fuel UAB/Clemson/Brothers Pool

Round One

Florida/Paul’s Deli & Catering San Diego St.

Florida

This is a Promotional Advertising Contest Sponsored by TownTimes

UC Santa Barbara/G.T. Tire & Service Center

Friday, March 25, 2011

Town Times

Durham children’s author finds inspiration everywhere morning to feed. When they return, the adult takes a few of them at a time into its Convict fish live in under- mouth and spits them out. ground caves, with the Nobody knows why. Snapping shrimp live in young swimming out in the tropical waters, and when in danger, they snap their claws so fast that there is an underwater explosion that scares the intruder off. The coconut octopus winds its tentacles around its head in order to look like a drifting coconut, thereby escaping the attention of predators. The tadpoleLeslie Bulion and her new book. like larvacean Photo by Diana Carr stays inside a big By Diana Carr Special to Town Times

net that it makes out of mucus, which traps particles of organic matter and dead animals. Every day, when it is done feeding on its prey, it casts off the net and makes a new one. Scientists have found that this discarded mucus net provides half of the food needed by deep sea animals. This is the world your children will enter when they read Durhamite Leslie Bulion’s latest book, At the Sea Floor Café, which comes out on April 1. Bulion describes it as a book of “humorous and slightly gruesome science poetry” about odd ocean critters, with each sea creature presented in a different form of poetry. Bulion has been writing full-time since 1996, originally for magazines and the Internet, and has been writing children’s books since the turn of

1195930

Sponsored by

AnEvening with

Garrison Keillor

the century. A former social worker with a master’s degree in biological oceanography, she didn’t start out as a writer. Her writing career was born when she told her magazine editor friend about something that happened to her daughter, and the reply was, “That would make a good children’s story.” The manuscript didn’t sell, but says Bulion, “I fell in love with writing for children. It was a matter of serendipity and having an astute friend. It was hard work, though. I kept sending things out and getting rejections. And I worked at improving my craft. I went to conferences. I read books about writing for children. I joined the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators. The children’s writing community is very supportive and encouraging. I wouldn’t have gotten anywhere without their support.” She writes both middle grade novels and science poetry books. “Part of the reason I like to write poetry,” she says, “is that I get to make up words. We all learned that from Dr. Seuss.” Her next book, The Universe of Fair, is set in a fictional version of the Durham Fair. It’s about a boy trying to convince his parents to let him go to the fair alone. “It’s a coming-ofage story for a Durham kid,” says Bulion. “He tries to show how responsible he is, but events conspire against him. There’s a little bit of a ghost story in it as well as

mixed-up bits of Durham history.” Her creativity, she tell us, is inspired by the world around her. “I get ideas from things that have happened to me or to my family or friends, or from stories that are told to me. Inspiration comes from everywhere if you pay attention. I can be standing in the line at the Department of Motor Vehicles and get a story idea from the person I’m chatting with. Sometimes I start with a setting that I love, and I ask myself, ‘What if somebody did not love that place, and why didn’t they love it? What happened that made them unhappy there?’ The answers will lead to a story.” She wrote At the Sea Floor Café because of the importance of stewardship of the world’s oceans. “The health of our planet depends on the health of the ocean. The oceans are our last frontier, and I want to get people interested in and entranced by them so that we can preserve and protect them,” she said. “When I write novels, I think about loving to read, and what a wonderful feeling it is to be lost in a book. I hope that’s what it’s like for the reader. With the poetry books, I hope to share with the kids my fascination with science, and at the same time to share a playfulness with language and words that I hope they will try themselves.” See Author, page 20

ORTHODONTICS

Dr. John Conroy

April 2

April 4

April 10

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1193214

For a Complete List of Shows and to buy tickets go to www.palacetheaterct.org

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Friday, March 25, 2011

Adopt-A-Road

Passport Day The Durham Town Clerk Office is hosting a special passport event in Durham on Saturday, April 9, from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. to provide passport information to U.S. citizens and to accept passport applications. Durham is joining the Department of

State in celebrating Passport Day in the USA 2011, a national passport acceptance and outreach event. Information on the cost and how to apply for a U.S. passport is available at travel.state.gov. U.S. citizens may also obtain passport information by phone by calling the National Passport Information Center toll-free at 1-877-487-2778.

Road Clean-up The town of Durham Public Works Department will begin the annual spring curbside brush pick-up the week of April 11. It is understood that the winter season has created a lot of debris for all residents, so please be sure to follow the strict guidelines so the job can be completed in a timely manner. Brush should be less than four inches in diameter and not longer than six feet in length. Brush should be stacked at roadside in an open area, away from mailboxes, trees, telephone poles and other structures. Brush should be stacked perpendicular to the roadway, butt end toward the road. No leaves, stumps, wood or foreign matter will be picked up. Each household will be strictly limited to one truck load during this collection. In an effort to be more efficient, it is recommended

Durham Government Calendar (All meetings will be held at the Durham Library unless otherwise noted. Check the town website at www.townofdurhamct.org for updates.) Monday, March 28 7 p.m. — Board of Selectmen on the third floor of the Town Hall Tuesday, March 29 7 p.m. — Ethics Committee Wednesday, March 30 7 p.m. — Board of Selectmen (Joint Meeting of Boards and Commissions) on the third floor of the Town Hall that neighbors combine piles on property lines. Loads shall not measure any larger than four feet high, six feet wide and eight feet long, unless combined with a neigh-

bor. If your load does not follow these guidelines, it will not be removed. The town will publish in The Town Times and also at www.townofdurhamct.org

each street/area to be passed each week. We will make one pass only so be sure to check. For questions, all the Public Works Office at 860-349-1816. The week of April 11, the clean-up will be Maiden Lane, Johnson Lane and Foot Hills Road areas.

1192890

After a winter that made its mark in the history books for snow, ice and water damages, we are now finally seeing signs of spring! With this said, it is time to clean up the roads. Join us on Saturday, April 2, at Allyn Brook Park for a few refreshments before getting the special ties and bags for the Adopt-A-Road clean up project sponsored by the Durham-Middlefield Exchange Club! You do not have to belong to a club or group. Perhaps you and your family or neighbors would like to adopt “your” road! Our goal is to get every street in Durham and Middlefield adopted! Even the smaller neighborhood roads need to be added to the list! Come to Allyn Brook Park on April 2, from 8 a.m. to 9 a.m. (rain or shine) for the bags and ties. For more info, email adoptaroad@att.net or call 860-349-0798.

Durham Town Briefs

Silver Mill Tours January 5-31, 2012 Escape to Sunshine! Clearwater Beach, Florida 22-nights at the Clearwater Beach Holiday Inn (on the beach!) 2-nights Richmond & 2-nights Savannah Breakfast daily, 4-dinners, tour director Studio ($3279) 1 BR Suite ($3599) 2 BR Suite ($4899) A $500 deposit will hold your reservation! Apr. 1-3 & 8-10.......Washington, DC “Cherry Blossoms” 2 Br & 1 D.................$379 April 30..........New York City “On Your Own”..................................................$43 May 7 & 21.....New York Food & Markets Tour................................................$45 May 14 ........... Madame Tussauds & Carmine’s ..............................................$99 May 14-15......NASCAR Racing at Dover Downs 2-Races.........................$359 May 19 ........... Hidden Gardens of Beacon Hill...............................................$79 May 28-30......Gettysburg & Lancaster 2Br 2D & 1 Show (Memorial Day W/E)................................................................$359 June 4............A Bronx Tale w/lunch at Mario’s..............................................$89 June 11..........Boston Ducks & Historic Fenway Park Tour ..........................$87 June 11..........Get to Know Providence..........................................................$59 June 18 & Sept 10 ........... Statute of Liberty & Ellis Island (child 17 & under $49)........$59 June 18..........Rockport & Gloucester Lobsterbake......................................$89 June 22..........Boston’s North End Markets Tour (includes food sampling)......$83 June 25..........Harlem - The Apollo & Lunch at Sylvia’s................................$89 June 26..........Newport Flower Show at Rosecliff Mansion..........................$59 June 29..........Mystery Tour including lunch, entertainment & sightseeing......$85 July 4.............Macy’s Fireworks Cruise & buffet on board.........................$139 July 7-8..........Kutztown Folk Festival 1 Br & 1 D........................................$199 July 16...........Martha’s Vineyard .....................................................................$89 July 23...........Newport “on your own”............................................................$45 July 23...........Whale Watch from Plymouth....................................................$77 July 30...........Baseball Hall of Fame...............................................................$63 Aug. 7.............Boston POPS & Brunch on board Cape Cod RR ................ $139 Concert only.............................................................$89 Aug. 13 & 14..Saratoga Race Course - reserved seats.................................$61 Aug. 17 & 21..Ground Zero & Yankee Stadium Tour - new tour!................$69 Aug. 20...........Nantucket on board the “fast ferry”......................................$129 Sept. 16-18.....Atlantic City Weekend--$40 bonus!.......................................$199 Sept. 23-25.....Niagara Falls 2 Br & 1 D overlooking the Falls....................$429

2011 Christmas Spectacular at Radio City Music Hall Nov. 11, 13, 19, 29 & 30 Dec. 1, 2, 5, 7, 9, & 13........ $99 Dec. 3, 4, 11 & 12...........$129 Nov. 12 & 20 with lunch served family style at Carmine’s ... $131 Over-night rates are per person double occupancy. Office is open 7-days for reservations.

For Information & Reservations Box 2325 203-235-2668

Meriden, CT 06450 888-229-2668

1196006

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SILVER MILL TOURS

BEING RETENTIVE Swelling (edema) of the feet can be caused by a number of different, unrelated factors. A sedentary lifestyle or overindulgence in salty foods may cause the condition. Varicose veins or an allergic reaction could also result in the swelling. In addition, birth control, hormone replacement therapy pills, or the misuse of diuretics or laxatives can be the cause of this painful condition. Although swollen feet do not necessarily indicate an immediate health danger, any change that involves swelling of the legs and feet (particularly if accompanied by pain or redness) should be reported to the podiatrist. Medical attention is important since the cause may be of a more dangerous nature, such as kidney, liver, or heart disease. Good foot health can enhance your daily existence and improve your quality of life. Some ways to prevent swollen feet include avoiding tightfitting shoes and refraining from standing in place for a long time. If you are experiencing painful, swollen feet, call AFFILIATED FOOT CARE CENTER, LLC today to schedule an appointment. We are committed to providing exceptional podiatric care in a friendly, relaxed environment. Office hours in Middlefield are Mon. 9-5, Wed. 3-7 & Fri. 9-5; Tues. & Thurs. 9-5 in Wallingford. For our patients’ convenience we offer on-site X-rays, and diagnostic and therapeutic ultrasounds.

Town Briefs

Friday, March 25, 2011

Middlefield Government Calendar (Unless otherwise indicated, all meetings are held in the Community Center.) Wednesday, March 30 7 p.m. — Board of Finance (Special Budget Meeting) Thursday, March 31 7 p.m. — Board of Finance (Special Budget Meeting) Monday, April 4 7 p.m. —Board of Selectmen Tuesday, April 5 6:30 p.m. — Parks and Recreation Commission 7:30 p.m. — Midstate Regional Planning Agency at 100 DeKoven Dr., Middletown

Middlefield Senior Center Hearing screenings will be held, by appointment only, on Wednesday, March 30, by Richard Lastrina, BS, BCHIS, ACA, from Beltone New England. He will also be available for hearing aide cleaning. AARP Safe Driving course will be offered on Thursday,

April 28. New this year, this course is only four hours. Upon completion of this course, you may qualify for a discount on your auto insurance. We also advise that you check with your agent. The fee is $12 for AARP member and $14 for non-members. The class will be taught by Ray Flynn of Durham. Please call Antoinette if you would like to register; space is limited.

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Join in on card game fun at the center. We have three days of card playing: Tuesdays at 1 p.m., set back is played, and on Thursdays and Fridays, Bridge is played at 12:45 p.m. No sign up is necessary; they are drop in games. Bingo is played on every third Monday at 1 p.m. The next game will be played on April 18. Cards are $1 each (4 card max). All are welcome. The Senior Center is located in the Community Center at 405 Main Street, phone 860-349-7121 or email a_astle@middlefield-ct.com.

Durham 60+ is on the road On Wednesday, May 11, Durham 60 Plus will visit to the Westchester Broadway Theatre in Elmsford, New York, to view Singing in The Rain. It is based on the highly successful 1952 film of the same name. You will receive a choice of entree upon arrival. We will depart the United Churches parking lot at 9 a.m. and return at 6 p.m. Cost is $89 per person with a $50 ticket deposit due upon registration and the balance due April 11. On June 15 the group will travel to The Delaney House in Massachusetts for a Lobsterfeast and cruise on the Connecticut River between the Holyoke Dam and Northampton. This is a 75minute cruise that will be narrated about the history of the area. We will leave the United Churches Parking lot at l0:15 a.m. and return at 5:30 p.m. Cost is $85 per person with full payment due by May 9. For more info, contact Ellie Golschneider at 860-349-3329 or Karen Dyndiuk at 860-349-3468.

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Kids in Town Times

Friday, March 25, 2011

Willy Wonka, Jr. at Lyman

Little Learners leprechauns

The John Lyman Parents Association presents Willy Wonka, Jr. One hundred and fourteen district 13 students have been rehearsing for three shows, which take place on Friday, April 1 at 7 p.m. and Saturday, April 2 at 2 and 6 p.m. at Coginchaug Regional High School. Tickets are $6 and available at Showtix4u.com or at the door. Left, join Charlie (Josh Mann) and Grandpa Joe (Patrick Holden) on their sweet journey through Willy Wonka’s chocolatey whirlwind wonderland. Photo credit: Curtis Studio

The three-year-old class at the Academy for Little Learners enjoyed making Leprechauns for St. Patrick’s Day, “so the real leprechaun’s will feel at home when they visit our school.” Pictured from left, Nathan Mazzetta, Lea Hogan, Anya Carter, Ashley Kijewski, Estella Perez, Hailey Kijewski, Aidan Willett and Brennan Stopka. For more info on Little Learners, please call 349-0909. Submitted by Lisa Stopka

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Yesterday I went to Mackenzie’s house to have a playdate. Mackenzie is my older cousin because she was born before me. Mackenzie’s brother Matthew is 11 years old. Her mom is named Jessica. My dad and Jessica are cousins. I played on her iPod in the car because we had to go to Stop and Shop. After that, we went to Taco Bell to have some lunch. After we went to Taco Bell, we went back to Mackenzie’s house to eat. Mackenzie asked her mom if we could go outside, but she said no because it was too cold out there. When she asked me if I wanted to go up to her room, we went in her brother Matthew’s room first. I saw his guinea pig. Then we went in her room. I gave Mackenzie a makeover. I put mascara on for her. When I did the makeover, this is what I put on her: eye shadow, nail polish, lipstick and lip gloss. In her hair, I put a headband and conditioner, too. Then we had to leave. I wish I could go back to Mackenzie’s house and do the makeover again.

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Going to Mackenzie’s house to have a playdate

Friday, March 25, 2011

Town Times

Middle school musicians make IDS history

Jammin’ Jazz Bands

What a great way to welcome spring! On a beautiful and musical afternoon on Sunday, March 20, the Jazz Bands from Memorial, Strong and Coginchaug schools entertained the attendees of the Exchange Club Spaghetti Dinner at CRHS! Those who were at the event said that it was great fun hearing the talented performers, and they loved the special solos by many of the student musicians. Photo submitted by Lynn Stanwood

Twenty-one students from the Independent Day School (the largest group in the school’s history) performed in concert as part of the Southern Region Middle School Music Festival Band, Chorus, Jazz Band and Orchestra. Students from more than 40 towns and cities across a quarter of Connecticut auditioned last fall for placement in the Festival. The performance took place at Seymour Middle School in Seymour. Nicole D’Amico sang a solo during the concert. IDS music teacher Jane Mills ran the woodwind sectional for the Southern Region Orchestra at the festival and is co-chair of the 2012 Southern Region Music Festival Orchestra along with former IDS parent Jan Royce.

St. Patty’s Day at Middlefield Senior Center

Submitted by JoAnn Rider

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Three photos above: clockwise from top left, First Selectman Jon Brayshaw, Middlefield’s municipal agent for the elderly Antoinette Astle, Ruth Kowalski and Connie Drega help serve corned beef and cabbage to seniors at the Community Center on March 17; Ned and Ellen Cassidy wait to be served; Dee Caron and Anne Tuthill, wearing shades of green, enjoyed the festivities.

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Town Times 860-349-8000

Friday, March 25, 2011

Evan Blomkvist

(Continued from page 3) truck immediately after a new one is purchased. In previous years the town planned seven or eight years before a major purchase. The fire chief also reported that his department had received a grant for three emergency sirens in town. Anthony DeFilio, representing the Durham Middlefield Interlocal Agreement Advisory Board (DMIAAB) Working Group, gave a spirited critique of the economics of the transfer station. The DMIAAB Working Group was assembled by the first selectmen of Durham and Middlefield to study the transfer station before the expiration of its 40-year agreement, according to Chad Spooner, another member of the group. The working group is empow-

ered only to make recommendations. DeFilio spoke of “so many things kicked under the rug.” He told the board that the DMIAAB held over $200,000 in reserve at the end of the last fiscal year. Bulky waste, according to DeFilio, cost the towns over $177,000 against collections of $32,000. Both working group members raised the issue of commercial entities using the bulky waste and household waste at Durham and Middlefield’s expense. DeFilio detailed losses in excess of $500,000. Recommendations from the working group members included limiting DMIAAB to holding only five percent of the past year’s budget in reserve and charging according to expenses on items like bulky waste, mattresses and freon, a chemical found in many old refrigerators and A/C units. The BOF discussed how to move forward, in-

cluding meeting with Durham and DMIAAB. Dave Lowry was on the agenda to present a history of the Powder Ridge purchase but had to leave early. Nevertheless, Lowry’s presence as a potential speaker caused Mary Johnson, a member of the Board of Selectmen, to object “strenuously.” Adams maintained her right as chair to call who she wanted, and Johnson maintained that she would object. Discussion of Powder Ridge continued as new BOF member Frank St. John asked about buying out the previous lease and wondered about the true cost of Powder Ridge. A few minutes later, as discussion of Powder Ridge continued and Johnson had been recognized to speak, Adams threatened to throw her out of the meeting “unless you can be polite.” This caused a different member of the au-

dience to leave the room, muttering, “This is ridiculous.” Adams apologized, saying that her comments were uncalled for. Adams, St. John and Johnson all agreed with the sentiment that the hard feelings surrounding previous dealings shouldn’t damage the potential for the current deal. The board approved four transfers to budget lines for items such as street lighting, election expenses and the Brookside Drive sewer system that are expected to exceed budget. Near the end of the meeting, the board voted Bob Yamartino to the position of Vice Chair. The BOF will hear other budget presentations at their meetings scheduled for March 30 and 31 at 7 p.m. at the Community Center.

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Evan Axel Blomkvist, 72, of Durham, husband of Jean (Meder) Blomkvist, p a s s e d away on Thursday, March 17, at Wadsworth Glen Health Care Center. Born in Brooklyn, NY, he was the son of the late Evan R. and Agot (Johander) Blomkvist. Evan was a member of St. James Episcopal Church in St. James, NY where he ran the youth group. He was also active with Boy Scout Troop 301 of St. James, NY and worked for S.B. Thomas for 32 years. After moving to Durham seven years ago, he became a member of The Church of St. Andrew the Apostle in Rocky Hill. Evan loved fishing, boating and hot rods. Besides his wife, he is survived by his son, Jeffrey E. Blomkvist and his wife, Melissa of Bethlehem Township, NJ; his daughter, Julie A. Fosdick and her husband, Gordon of Middlefield; a sister, Kay Baxter of Mahwah, NJ; and five grandchildren: Madalyn, Katie, Emily, Christopher and Sarah. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, March 26, at 1 p.m. at The Church of St. Andrew the Apostle, 331 Orchard St. in Rocky Hill, with the Rev. Dr. William P. Veinot officiating. Burial will be at the convenience of the family. There will be no calling hours, and in lieu of flowers, friends may make donations in Evan’s memory to The Church of St. Andrew the Apostle. Messages of condolence may be sent to the family at www.doolittlefuneralservice.com. The Doolittle Funeral Home, 14 Old Church Street, Middletown is handling the arrangements.

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Town Times

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Town Times Sports

Friday, March 25, 2011

Southington gets better of Durham Men’s League, taking 4 of 6 Around the Clock was the only Durham team to win both games played against Southington, and Durham finished with a 4-8 overall record against their out-oftown opponents. With one regular season game remaining, and all of the seeds set up already, the players look ahead to the league playoffs, which run March 29 – April 5.

By Scott Strang Special to Town Times Unlike the first series between the Durham and Southington Men’s Leagues, the road was a much friendlier place this time around. Southington swept the three games played at Strong School while Durham took two of three at Southington.

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Games at Strong School Truck Kings 50, Torrison Stone 48 – Torrison overcame a seven-point first half deficit but fell just short in a physical battle against the visiting Truck Kings. Adam Poturnicki led Torrison (8-2) in scoring with 18, but found every inside shot contested, as the Kings matched up well against Torrison’s big men. Matt Lynch, playing in just his third game this season, added some needed offense, finishing with 12. Trailing by two, and needing to go the full length of the court with three seconds remaining, Pete Lynch launched a halfcourt shot that missed long, and the Kings held on for the win. Mike Verodeau was the top scorer for the Truck Kings with 20, including three second-half threes. Prozzo Agency 60, Allstate Fire Equipment 55 – Mark Sutterline had a big night with 15 second half points and

22 total, but Allstate Fire Equipment fell to Allstate/Prozzo Insurance by five. For Allstate Fire, it was their most productive offensive night so far this season, with all eight players scoring. Eric Francis and Dave DeRosa each added nine and Kevin Kilroy picked up six for Allstate (2-8). Dave Rodriguez led all scorers for Prozzo with 24, and Middlefield’s Rick Mach hit four key free throws in the second half, finishing with six. Sonic 65, Young Gunz 55 – The Young Gunz hit only five three-point shots, and fell to Sonic of Southington by 10. Sonic’s Mike O’Keefe hit on three 3-pointers to end the first half and open up an 11point halftime lead. Alex Schade scored 20, Mike Baranoski had 10 and Eric Sumpter and Kevin Walsh each added eight for the Gunz (5-5). O’Keefe finished with 23 and Steve Wright had 16 for

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Sonic, who won both games against Durham teams this year. Games at DePaolo Middle School in Southington LasEngS 52, Southington Generals 43 – LasEngS picked up their first win in seven games with a ninepoint victory over the Southington Generals. Tim D’Aquila led LasEngS (2-8) with 22 and Dave Adams scored 10. In the loss, Pat Mulholland scored 15 for the Generals. Around the Clock 71, Stanley Street 66 – Pete Donecker and Steve Markowski combined for 46 points as Around the Clock defeated Stanley Street of Southington. In four games played, Markowski leads the Durham Men’s League in points per game with 23.5. John Szewczyk also scored 15 for Around the Clock (6-4), while Dan Fairly’s 13 led all Stanley Street scorers. Southington Police 68, Snowservices 58 – Snowservices was unable to pull off the sweep for Durham at Southington, falling to the SPD by 10. Danny Haynes scored 25 and Ryan Cove picked up 18 for Snowservices (5-5). Jeff Dobratz was Southington Police’s top scorer with 19.

Author

(From 14)

Bulion continued, “What I love about writing these books is the feeling of being so lost in the story that the characters are alive and I’m in their world. And it’s surprising and interesting how readers filter the stories through their own experiences and beliefs. They may be getting something different out of these books from what I experience, but it is just as valid. That’s the magic. Kids will read one of my books, especially one of the novels, and will say, ‘I think so-and-so did this because of that,’ and I may not have thought that, but it is exciting that they are so invested in the story that they bring parts of themselves into it.” Bulion will be speaking about At the Sea Floor Café at the Durham library on March 30 at 7 p.m.

Town Times Sports

Friday, March 25, 2011

Coginchaug bows out of tournament By Alan Pease Special to Town Times

There were no bench points, but Brock Hoyt did pull in four rebounds. Coginchaug ended the season with an overall record of 15-9, with five of those losses coming while either one or both of their big men, Donecker and Hoyt, were injured with sprained ankles. Losing in the first round of the Shoreline Tournament was disappointing, but making a run to the quarter-fi-

nals of the state tournament more than made up for it. There were five seniors on this year’s team, three of them starters. Ryan was the second leading scorer.

Check the events in Town Times & Places to see what’s happening in Durham, Middlefield and Rockfall.

Town Times 860-349-8000

Rec Basketball Champions Fifth and sixth grade Rec Basketball Champion Celtics won a great game 31-30 over Lakers. Back Row: Head Coach Brad Murphy, Griffin Saks, Jake Layman, Michael Doyle, Griffin Murphy, Justin Faiella, Jack Murphy, Assistant Coaches Nick Faiella and Sean Doyle. Front Row: Danny Dumont, Anthony Arreguin, AJ Kleckowski, Josh Fazzino and Manny Bowles. Submitted by Nicholas Faiella

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On Monday, March 14, the Coginchaug boys traveled to Bristol to take on the Falcons of St. Paul Catholic in a quarter-final game in the state class S tournament. St. Paul had finished the regular season with a record of 16-4, with two of their losses being to class M Watertown, and one loss each to class LL schools Crosby and Holy Cross. So it figured to be a tough game for the Devils, and it certainly proved to be just that. The Falcons jumped out to a 6-0 lead, and it looked like a blow-out was in the works. But first Andrew Markoski, then Erikson Wasyl scored to make it a 6-4 ball game. St. Paul scored back-to-back to go ahead 10-4, but in the best Coginchaug moments of the game, Ethan Donecker scored on a rebound putback, Wasyl tallied another basket, and Markoski scored off an EJ Luther rebound and length-of-the-court pass to tie the game at 10-all. That proved to be the last serious challenge the Devils could mount as the superior quickness of the Falcons (12 steals on the game) and their frequent success, if not accuracy from beyond the arc (they were nine of 23 for the game), gave them a 20-10 lead after one period. Wasyl caught fire in the second period, hitting on all three of his three-point shots, plus adding a free throw. That, along with four points from Tommy Ryan, was enough to shrink the deficit by three to 31-24. Despite four points each from Ryan and Donecker and three from EJ Luther, St. Paul more than doubled their lead as they twice went on 7-0 runs and ended the third period with a 53-35 advantage. In the final period of the Devils season, Donecker scored seven, Luther six, Ryan three and Wasyl two, managing to cut the final deficit to 16 at 71-55. Donecker just missed a double-double, leading the team in rebounds with nine

and scoring 13 points. He also had two assists. Luther scored nine points, adding five each in the rebound and assist columns and stealing the ball three times. Ryan scored 11 and added seven rebounds and two assists. Wasyl led the team in scoring with 16 and also had three rebounds. Markoski had six each of points and rebounds and three each of steals and assists.

Don’t miss out

Benchwarmers’ Winter Sports Banquet

diligently to provide encouragement and direction. Her message was always positive. She was always there when you needed her.

Jennie Ochterski

Andrew Markoski

Girls’ Indoor Track Coach’s Award This year’s team gave 100 percent, but one athlete went beyond the call of duty on a consistent basis. She came to every practice fired up and ready to push herself and her team. When leadership was needed, she stepped up and led. During meets she dug deep and always found a way to challenge and push herself. When her teammates felt discouraged, this personable athlete worked

make the most of every trip up the court. All good players have one thing in common: they understand that every second in the game matters and that everything starts with hustle and desire. This young man took it to another level every single day. He started out as a manager for the team in fifth grade and finished his career with total respect and admiration from the coaching staff.

Friday, March 25, 2011

This cheerleader is a strong athlete. She was counted on to base many stunts. She has attended all practices and games and is one of our strongest leaders. She was always there to give her team and coach support. Always positive in attitude and energy, Stephanie will also be one of the tri-captains for next year’s cheerleading team.

Floriana Manna

Stephanie White Boys’ Basketball Coach’s Award The coach’s award in boys’ basketball could very well have been presented to the entire team. However, this year’s selection goes to a young man who found a way to make himself shine with an unprecedented desire to

stunt. She is the main flyer for the squad — the higher the better! She accomplished “fulls,” “show and gos” and had done “basket tosses.” “Halves” are very easy for her. My favorite stunt is one we call the “deadman.” The flyer is put into a half and she slowly falls into the arms of the cheerleaders lined up behind her and then thrown up to a standing position where she started. It’s very dramatic and the crowd loves it. This cheerleader is petite and very quiet. She is a real sweetheart, but when you ask her to try a new stunt, she comes alive.

Amanda Boyle & Andrea Braga Cheerleading (white squad) Coach’s Award This cheerleader is fearless. She is willing to try any

Cheerleading (blue squad) Coach’s Award

Town Times Service Directory

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Girls’ Basketball Coach’s Award Amanda led the 2011 Lady Devils with both voice and actions. If Amanda needed to dive on the floor to save one possession or spend an entire game boxing out the opponent’s best rebounder, she did it. Amanda was able to maintain that delicate balance of having fun and being focused. Amanda stepped up in the team room and team huddles to provide encouragement or intensity depending on what was needed. The 2011 Coginchaug girls’ basketball team had 16 good teammates, but Andrea Braga brought a little extra sugar to every practice and every game. It didn’t matter if Andrea was competing with a player for playing time; it didn’t matter if the player was an upperclassman or underclassman. Andrea shared her positive attitude with everyone, encouraging them with a bright smile, a pat on the back or a positive word, always helping her teammates to be their best every day. More on next page

Benchwarmers’ Winter Sports Banquet

Friday, March 25, 2011

Jimmy Malcolm

Emily Halligan

high-scoring athlete. She was valuable as a role model. She was valuable to the coaches as a go-to athelte. She was valuable as a source of inspiration to all who came in contact with her. She set the bar high for herself and then systematically achieved all that she set her mind to. She qualified for the Class S State meet in five different events. Because she is a tenacious competitor, she was never passed in a race this season. She has aptly earned the nickname “The Closer.”

Jenna Barton

Girls’ Indoor Track: MVP This year’s girls’ indoor track MVP embodies this award. She was valuable as a

Alex Morin

Jenna Barton is MVP. She is always encouraging the girls. When I had to change a time or date for a game or practice, she would make sure everyone knew. She was like my right arm. Without knowing who might be in a group, you could always tell if Jenna was there by her distinctive laugh. She taught the cheerleaders a dance, mixed the music and would also take suggestions if anyone thought there should be changes. Not only is Jenna mature for a freshman, she is a delight!

Katie Chabot & Katelyn Hill Cheerleading Blue: MVPs Katie has been a positive leader, leading the team in cheers and workouts. She has been the organizer, lead flyer, teacher and friend and attended all practices and games. She is talented in gymnastics and one of the

Cheerleading White: MVP Without a doubt captain

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Boys’ Indoor Track: MVP The list of accomplishments for this year’s indoor track MVP are unprecedented in school history. In the course of amassing the most points for his team this year he went on to break a total of five school records, ranging from 600 meters to the mile, some of which he broke multiple times. He qualified for the New England Championship by finishing in fourth place at the Class S state open meet in the 1,000meter run. On the big stage at the Reggie Lewis Track in Boston, he finished an amazing seventh place in the entire New England re-

team’s best flyers. She has been named to the CT All State Cheerleading Team and plans on continuing her cheering career at Southern CT State University while majoring in nursing. As a freshman, Katelyn played a big part in teaching the dance to the team while helping them prepare for their first competition in 27 years. This year, as a junior, she again taught the dance section of the routine. Voted by her team members for Team Above Self, she has a passion for cheerleading and strives to make CRHS cheerMore on next page 1190702

Boys’ Indoor Track Most Improved Award Every team needs a player whose determination to improve and be the best that he or she can be is the very essence of what sport is all about. This year’s MIP had a goal to qualify for the Shoreline Championship in the 1600-meter run. Through intense training he was able to improve his time by over 14 seconds; attesting to his work ethic. Despite this huge improvement, he fell short of his goal by less than a second. Many athletes facing similar disappointment pack it in, but not this MIP. He continued to attend practice to improve and support the guys who had qualified.

gion while setting a new personal best and once more breaking the school record he set at States. A week later this athlete competed at the famed Armory in New York City, running against the best two-milers in the nation and turned in a solid performance. Additionally, through patient mentoring of younger teammates and the inspiration he has provided, his impact will be felt for many years to come.

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Town Times Jumps

24 CRHS Sports Banquet (Continued from page 23) leading fun and competitive. She is a volunteer coach in the Falcon cheerleading program. She has also been named to this year’s second All Shoreline cheering team.

Erikson Wasyl & Tommy Ryan

Boys’ Basketball: MVPs The MVP in boys’ basketball is not always an obvious choice. This year is no exception. There are two players on this year’s squad, however, who played with tremendous confidence every game. They were not only leaders statistically but were also consistently involved in the final result of each game. They were marked men on the court at all times and the pressure of being go-to players was something they thrived on — the greater the challenge, the more they rose to the occasion. These players possessed the ability to change the momentum of a game. They led by example and provided the team with direction that would take them to the quarter finals of the state tournament. Individually they are highly regarded players in the Shoreline Conference, together they were a dominating force for us.

Audrey Biesak & Samantha Mancinelli Girls’ Basketball: MVPs Audrey walks into every gym as the player the opposing team has listed as their

number one priority to stop, and she is still able to render their plans useless through a wide array of offensive weapons with the deadliest being the three-point shot. Audrey led her team and the Shoreline Conference in three-point baskets with a total of 42. She set the record for three-pointers made in one game with six, and she did that twice. Audrey scored 30 points or more in a game twice on her way to averaging a team high of 16 points per game, adding three steals per game. Audrey goes about her business in a quiet and unassuming manner, but her results wreak havoc on Coginchaug’s opponents. Audrey was named First Team All Shoreline, All Area and to the New Have Top-Off team. Sam was the Blue Devils’

point guard, whose job description included distributing the ball, but also included the statement: “And anything else necessary for the team’s success.” Sam took this job seriously, led her team and the Shoreline Conference in assists with eight per game, and also led her team in rebounds, blocks and steals. Sam recorded the programs first triple-double, and she did it three times on her way to averaging 12 points and 11 rebounds per game to go along with three steals and one block. Sam’s ability to split traps and make accurate ¾ court passes rendered opponents’ presses useless and resulted in quick lay-ups for the Devils. Sam was named First Team All Shoreline Conference and All Area.

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Laos

(From page 1)

She had researched and studied the Lao culture, but being there is totally different. “You can read about it, but, until you do it, you can’t understand it. It’s like explaining the color red or the taste of ice cream,” explained Kinsman. It was the culture and rich traditions that called to her and made her want to go to Laos. Kinsman taught five classes a day, five days a week to monks and village children. Her first class started at 7:20 a.m. and her last class ended at 8:30 p.m. Kinsman said that Luang Prabang is about the size of Middletown, but there are no trains or buses so she walked everywhere. There are 32 temples, and five or six of them have classrooms. Kinsman spoke of the role of a teacher in Lao society: they are considered to be at a high level in society and are respected by all. Every morning Kinsman said she was greeted with a warm, “Good morning teacher!” from all those she crossed on the way to class. At the end of lessons, the students would pray for her and give her blessings. Most of her students were boys, but for those who were girls and were lucky enough to be there, Kinsman said they wanted to learn three times as much as the boys. She said, “Girls don’t have any other opportunities.” There are very few public schools in Laos and so many families send their sons to join the monasteries to obtain an education, as well as food and housing. The boys don’t have to take their vows; they can take 10 years to decide, and the novice monks are supposed to be at least 10 when starting at the monastery. Kinsman learned of the monks’ rite of giving alms. At 4 a.m. the monks, from oldest to youngest, form a procession through the cities collecting alms from the people. The townspeople make steamed packages of rice and homemade food and give it to the monks; this food is the only thing the monks are permitted to eat

Friday, March 25, 2011

all day. They cannot eat after noon, and they are only permitted drinks after that point. “The rite of giving alms is a big part in the townspeople’s day — it is an honor to do it,” Kinsman explains. Kinsman met so many people in her time overseas. She now has friends all over the world and says, “My world is rounder because of this program.”

“I am glad we have what we have. Happiness doesn’t come in an X-Box. It is within contentment. Teaching children to serve and to give would change things emmensely in our society.” - Lili Kinsman Because Laos was a French colony, the older people speak French, but English is a very desirable language to learn on top of the Lao language. To see how far her students have come in their learning in three month was amazing; they learned to speak and write using a whole different alphabet. Towards the end of her time in Laos, Kinsman taught the students to write letters; she went to the post office and got air mail envelops and stamps, and when returning home she received the going away letters. Her students had never written a letter before in their lives, and they turned out to be treasured keepsakes from what Kinsman described as a “life-altering experience.” When speaking about the Lao people, Kinsman spoke with meaningful quiet, thoughtful words — something she learned from the amazing Lao culture and something she hopes to

blend into her own culture and way of life here. “They do an amazing job at preserving the Buddist and Lao cultures. They are a very quiet people; you see poverty, but you don’t see the social deprivation like you see in Thailand. They are a very proud people.” Even though they are novice monks, they are still boys and sometimes the teachers needed to be firm with them. Kinsman was told of a time where a teacher started to raise his voice a bit to get their attention, and a student asked, “Why is your heart so hot today?” That melted the minute bit of tension and is something, among many others, that has impacted the way Kinsman chooses to live her life. She says, “I am hanging on to everything and riding the wave of peace. I would go back tomorrow if I got an offer on my house. I would go for a year.” She spoke of her last day with her students and how she was so sad to leave them, for they had become like her own children. And when speaking about the interaction between a novice that she had become close with, she teared up — wanted to hug every last one and knew that this was not permitted. The novice said, “We will miss you greatly and if I could I would hug you like my own mother.” Just hearing the tender words was emotional. Kinsman took many things from this experience, like the teacher becoming the student in many ways, but she said the biggest thing was to not let other people affect her sense of balance. She learned that there is no control at, and being out of that mold of control is so freeing.

Lili Kinsman in one of the classrooms.