3-30-2012 Town Times by Town Times Newspaper

Volume 18, Issue 51

Serving Durham, Middlefield and Rockfall

TownTimes.com

Friday, March 23, 2012

BOE reviews budget cuts, pushes for more

Powder Ridge Meet and Greet

By Mark Dionne Special to the Town Times In a lengthy and detailed meeting at Strong School on March 21, Superintendent Sue Viccaro presented the public and the Board of Education with a revised budget that dropped the increase from 4.24 percent to 3.84 percent. After reviewing the proposal, the BOE encouraged the superintendent and administrators to cut more. All-day kindergarten remains in the new budget proposal. Savings were found by reducing costs at each school

Sean Hayes shares his plans for a winter sports park with groups touring the Photo by Stephanie Wilcox Powder Ridge property on March 24. Story on page 3.

as well as Central Office. Larger savings were found by reduced teaching assignments at Coginchaug Regional High School, a lower than expected fuel oil contract, merging copier contracts, and cuts to the proposed special education and athletic budgets. Overall, the budget presented by Viccaro was reduced by $134,082. Each school principal, as well as the pupil personnel director, the curriculum director, and the athletic director detailed their budgets for the

See BOE, page 6

Fun with Dad...in space

Residents give input on Right to Farm ordinance By Trish Dynia Special to the Town Times Approximately 40 residents attended a public hearing in Durham March 26 to hear details of the Right to Farm ordinance being proposed by the town’s Agriculture Commission. The main part of the ordinance states, “The Right to Farm is hereby recognized to exist within the town of Durham. No present or future agricultural operation conducted or maintained in a manner consistent with accepted agricultural practices which is engaged in the act of farming as described in this ordinance shall become or be considered a nuisance solely because such activity resulted or results in any changed condition of the use of adjacent land. Agricultural operations may occur any day or

night provided such activities do not violate applicable health, safety, fire, zoning, wetlands, life safety, environmental or building codes and regulations…” Agriculture Commission chairman Warren Herzig explained that the state of Connecticut adopted a right to farm ordinance in 1981, but it has only been in the past two to three years that towns have begun adding the ordinance to their charters. A resident asked if there is a book one can refer to that lists the aforementioned accepted agricultural practices. Joan Nichols from the Connecticut Farm Bureau explained that there is no definitive reference because best practices keep improving and changing, although there are several documents and guidelines available through the state.

First Selectman Laura Francis, along with other members of the audience, requested language changes to the document that would “equalize” the uses, farming vs. non-farming, and reflect that farming, though accepted and desirable, is not a superior use. One resident asked if the ordinance could override neighborhood covenants that restricted land use. Francis stated that the town attorney had indicated it would not, “but he will be looking at the entire document again before it is voted on.” Other residents, including farmers, expressed concerns regarding possible litigation or complaints. Herzig stated that there have been very few complaints over the See Hearing, page 12

Ali and Stuart Vestergaard wear alien headbands at Durham Co-op Nursery’s Dad’s Night. More photos on page 13. Submitted by Josh and Mica Machnik

Friday, March 30, 2012

Town Times

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 203-317-2448, and we’ll do our best to make things right.

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

The town of Durham will not conduct a spring brush pickup this year due to the multiple passes already done in response to the last two major storms. Residents may bring debris to the transfer station located on Cherry Hill Road (at the intersection of Route 147). Site users are required to have a DMIAAB sticker affixed to the windshield of the vehicle. Stickers may be purchased at the facility with proof of residency. Please note that brush brought to the station must measure no larger than 8’ in length and 4” in diameter. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. For more information, call (860) 349-1816.

Girl Scout camp registration Girl Scouts of Connecticut offers nine day camps and three resident camps across the state that offer girls a safe, nurturing environment. In addition to traditional arts and crafts, swimming, hiking, games and nature walks, Girl Scout camps offer a variety of unique, special interest programs, such as the signature anti-bullying program Girlz R.U.L.E.TM, horseback riding at select camps, boating and more. While each camp offers its

own personalized, age-appropriate programs, all of the Girl Scout camps and programs are designed to encourage girls to discover more about themselves and their values, connect with others to form healthy relationships and take action to make the world a better place. All girls are welcome to explore the camps. Programs are filling quickly. For more information, call (800) 922-2770 ext. 3313 or e-mail camp@gsofct.org. Financial aid is also available to those who qualify. A list of all the camps and their individual programs can be found at www.gsofct.org.

Voter registration The Durham Registrars of Voters has scheduled an evening registration session from 6 to 8 p.m. to enroll new voters on Tuesday, April 10. Registrars will be available in their office on the 2nd floor of the Durham Town Hall. The registrars will also be available to hear requests by persons removed from the preliminary registry voting list to add their names back to the list. Monday, April 19, is the last day to register by mail in order to vote in the April 24 Republican primary, or, to change from unaffiliated to the party affiliation for the April 24 primary. Residents not currently enrolled who wish to vote April 24 may enroll in person up until noon on April 23. Residents should appear in person with identification.

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Scholarship applications available Applications for graduating high school seniors who live in Durham, Middlefield or Rockfall are available through the guidance offices at Coginchaug Regional High School, Vinal Regional Technical High School, Choate Rosemary Hall, Xavier High School and Mercy High School. Deadline is May 18. If you are either a resident who does not attend any of these schools, or if you have any questions, please contact Helen Pearce at (860) 349-9163 or William Currlin at (860) 349-5060.

USPS 021-924 Published weekly by Record-Journal at 11 Crown Street, Meriden, CT. Periodicals Postage Paid at Meriden, CT and at additional mailing offices. P O S T M A S T E R: Send address changes to Town Times, P.O. Box 265, Middlefield, CT 06455. 1227889

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ACE OIL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 ALLAN’S TREE SERVICE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18 ANDERSON LAWN CARE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13 APEC ELECTRIC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22 B & R CONSTRUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 BATTERS BOX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13 BINGE, BRUCE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19 BOYLIN, DR, WILLIAM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13 BRENDA’S MAIN STREET FEED . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11 BROTHER’S POOL ENTERPRISES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14 CAHILL & SONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18 CARLTON INTERIOR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 CARMINE’S RESTAURANT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3 CONROY, DMD, JOHN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 COUNTRY LANDSCAPING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6, 21 CV ENTERPRISES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20 DEAN AUTOWORKS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7 DURHAM AUTO CENTER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16 DURHAM AUTO PARTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22 DURHAM DENTAL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 DURHAM FAMILY EYECARE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11 DURHAM LEGAL NOTICE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11 DURHAM MARKET . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 DURHAM NATUROPATHIC HEALTH . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 DURHAM VETERINARY HOSPITAL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 EAMES, ALAN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 EDIBLE ARRANGEMENTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24 EXECUTIVE OFFICES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 FAMILY PEST CONTROL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22 FORRESTER, DR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11 FOSDICK, MD, GORDON . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7 FRANOS HAIR DESIGN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13 FUEL & SERVICE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 FUGGE, DAVID, M . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17 GLAZER DENTAL ASSOCIATES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11 GRACE LUTHERAN PRESCHOOL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3 GRANT GROUNDSCAPES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17 GRISWOLD PLUMBING SERVICES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17 HANSEN CONTRACTING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22 HARMONY HOME IMPROVEMENT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21 HOME WORKS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21 HUSCHER, DEBBIE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23 IANNIELLO PLUMBING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18 INDEPENDENT DAY SCHOOL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 JAY LANDSCAPING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19 JC FARM & GREENHOUSE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 KIM’S COTTAGE CONFECTIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3 LEMA, WILLIAM J., DMD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 LINO’S MARKET . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3 LYMAN ORCHARDS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 MASONICARE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15, 24 MIDDLEFIELD REMODELING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17 MIDDLESEX HEALTH CARE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 MIMS OIL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11 MOUNTAIN SPRING WATER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21 MOVADO FARM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17 NEIL JONES HOME IMPROVEMENTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3, 19 NEW ENGLAND DENTAL HEALTH . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14 NORCOM MORTGAGE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18 OLSEN, LEIF . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23 PROFESSIONAL SECURITY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17 RAINTREE LANDSCAPING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19 RANEY, DMD, JASON . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7 RLI ELECTRIC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21 ROBLEE PLUMBING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19 ROCKFALL CO . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21 RSDL HOME IMPROVEMENTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18 SINGLES ALTERNATIVES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 SISTERS CLEANING SERVICE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20 THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE & BODYWORK . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20 THOMPSON CANDY COMPANY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15 TILE RENOVATORS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20 TONYS MASONRY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18 TORRISON STONE & GARDEN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20 UNCLE BOB’S FLOWER & GARDEN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2 VMB CUSTOM BUILDERS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20 WESLEYAN UNIVERSITY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 WHITEHOUSE CONSTRUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19 WILD WISTERIA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7 WILDWOOD LAWN CARE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22 WINDOW MAN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15 WINDOWS PLUS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24

Brush cleanup canceled

Friday, March 30, 2012

Town Times

Residents attend Powder Ridge Meet and Greet By Stephanie Wilcox Town Times

For all your Spring and Easter needs Easter Basket Fillers Chocolate Popcorn, Pretzels, Cookies Chocolate Pops, Truffles and More! We Ship Anywhere! 16 Main Street - Durham Village

860-349-2256 ❤ www.kimscottageconfections.com Store Hours: Tues. - Friday 10-5, Saturday 10-3 www.linosmarket.com

EASTER LAMB • Baby Lamb • Leg of Lamb • Rack of Lamb • Crown Roast of Lamb

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DELI

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Sam Maulucci RICOTTA, 3 lbs.............$6.99 ea. Pecorino ROMANO CHEESE................$5.99 lb. 3 lbs. or more.....................................$5.69 lb. Domestic PARMIGIANO.......................$6.69 lb. Carando PROSCIUTTO........................$6.99 lb. HOT CAPICOLA..................................$5.69 lb. PEPPERED HAM.................................$5.99 lb. MUENSTER CHEESE...........................$5.49 lb. JENNIE-O SMOKED TURKEY BREAST.$5.99 lb. Slicing MOZZARELLA CHEESE.............$4.69 lb. Cosmo’s ROASTED PEPPERS, 12 oz. jar....$1.99 Sclafani Imported PROVOLONE TADE CHEESE..$7.49 lb.

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All types of Interior & Exterior repairs, replacements and upgrades.

Lino's also has a full line of Deli Easter Specials: Basket Cheese • Fresh Ricotta in a tin can • Fresh Mozzarella • Dry Sausage • Abruzzese Calabrese • Cacciatore • Prosciutto Di Parma Pancetta • Sopressata • Mortadella • Cheese Imported…Parmigiano Reggiano, Grana Prodano Parmesan, Pecorino Romano, Reggianito, Pepato, Ricotta Salata, Asiago, Fontina, Stella Sharp Table Cheese, Gorgonzola Imported & Domestic

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Calendar............................4 Town Briefs ................10-11 Sports ..........................17-18 Sports Schedule ..............16 Obituary..........................23

Kim’s Cottage Confections

www.carminesdurham.com for our menu

Carmine's Pizza & Italian Take-Out

Grace Lutheran Preschool

In this issue ...

Hop Into

1239361

Now taking enrollment for 2012-2013 School Year

want this place opened up. (Hayes) has got my full support — I’m all for it.”

1239888

Residents review plans for a new and improved Photo by Stephanie Wilcox Powder Ridge.

Nearly 70 residents showed up for a Meet and Greet March 24, with Sean Hayes, managing director of Brownstone Exploration and Discovery Park LLC in Portland. Groups toured the property listening to the details of Hayes’s proposal to turn the vacant and vandalized property into a winter sports park. “We want to create a destination,” Hayes said. Hayes covered everything from restoration to the ski slopes to new features. “The restaurant building lends itself to a day spa,” he said. Read full details of his proposal from the March 6 public hearing online at www.towntimes.com. Hayes said, “We need the

support — employees, boards and committees in town need to know we want this to happen. One High Street resident who attended the Meet and Greet said he is saddened every time he hears of the vandalism. “I worked here when I was 16 or 17 years old,” said Richard Parker. “I learned how to ski here... I definitely

We reserve the right to limit quantities. We are not responsible for typographical errors. Expires 4/4/12.

• Crown Roast of Pork• Porketta(stuffed pork roast) • Pork Roast Bone-In or Boneless • Stuffed Pork Roast with Prunes & Apricots • Stuffed Pork Roast with Bread Stuffing

EASTER ROASTS

• Prime Rib Roast(Semi-Boneless) • Boneless Prime Rib Roast • Spoon Roast • Beef Tenderloin Roast • Eye Round Roast • Veal Loin Roast • Boneless Veal Shoulder Roast

EASTER KIELBASA

• Fresh Rosol’s Easter Kielbasa • Rosol’s Smoked Easter Kielbasa

EASTER DELICACY Rabbit

FRESH FISH • Tuna • Scallops • Squid • Smelts • Lobster Tails • Baccala • Flounder • Swordfish • Cod Fillet • Octopus • Cherry Stone Clams • Live Lobsters (daily to order) • Shrimp • Salmon

EASTER HAMS Carando Spiral Ham (Bone-In)-Half 8-9lb or Whole 1418lb • Boar’s Head Bone-In Ham-Whole Boar’s Head Boneless Ham-Whole or Half • John Morell EZ Cut Ham Bone-In-Whole • Fresh Ham-Whole or Half

Easter Sweet Bread

With or Without Colored Eggs

Cookie Tray Fruit Baskets Starting at $35.00 Store Made Pastries & Pies

Town Times & Places

4 FRIDAY

March 30

Bridge Night Come join in at the Durham Activity Center every Friday night at 6:30 p.m. for a fun night of bridge with great people. If you are not sure how to play, Jim will teach you. You may call Jim at 860-3466611 with bridge questions. Call Durham Recreation at 860-343-6724 with further questions. Musical Coginchaug Regional High School is scheduled to present Legally Blonde, the Musical today and tomorrow. at 7:30 p.m. at the school. For more info and tickets, visit showtix4u.com. Square Dance The 4C’s Square Dance Club has scheduled a dance for today at 8 p.m. at the Brewster School, Durham. Caller is John Hendron. For more information, call (860) 349-8084 or (203) 272-7463.

Saturday

March 31

Lion’s Easter egg hunt The Middlefield Lion’s annual Easter egg hunt will take place at 1 p.m. sharp today at Pekham Park for preschool children up through fourth grade. Families are welcomed to go to the pavilion for a refreshment and snack and to enter the jelly bean contest. Greeters will assist hunters to their proper locations. Rain date: April 7. Bake sale The Notre Dame Church Palm Sunday Bake and Craft Sale for today from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. and tomorrow from 8 a.m. to noon. Homemade candy, cookies, coffee cakes and more will be available. Road Clean-up The Exchange Club has scheduled Adopt a road cleanup for today from 8 to 9 a.m. a Allyn Brook Park. Town Hall will provide special bags For more information, call (860) 349-0798 or email adoptaroad@att.net.

Sunday

April 1 Model Train Show

Friday, March 30, 2012

NY diner has Durham connection This is a photo of Dan’s Diner, a 1925 18-seat Jerry O’Mally Diner in Spencertown, NY. It was originally Moe’s Diner located at the intersection of Routes 17 and 79 in Durham. Dan Rundell purchased it in a scrap yard and painstakingly rebuilt it to its present state. Submitted by Richard Robinson

The Mark T. Sheehan High School Music Parents Association will sponsor its 4th annual model train show at the High School, 142 Hope Hill Road in Wallingford, today from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. There will be several operating layouts of various sizes, and approximately 40 vendors from Connecticut and beyond will be there to display and sell their items. There will be food available for sale, and door prizes will be given away during the show. The “Roaming Railroad,” a large ride on train, will be there to provide rides for a small fee. This show is a fundraiser, and all of the profits made from the show will go directly to the students in the music department. For further information, contact Phyllis Drescher at (203) 265 0223.

MONDAY

April 2 Durham Senior Lunches Every Monday and Wednesday, hot lunches are available for seniors over 60 and their spouses at the Durham Activity Center (350 Main St.). Following the lunches on Mondays is game time which includes billiards, Wii and cards. Bingo starts at 1 p.m. on Wednesdays. For pricing info and to make a reservation, call Amanda Astarita, senior café manager, at (860) 349-3153. Middlefield Senior Lunches The Middlefield Senior Café is serving lunch three times a week, on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Reservations are required 24 hours prior, and the monthly menu can be

picked up at the center, Town Hall, or at www.middlefieldct.org. Register today for the traditional Easter dinner to be served at the Senior Center on April 4 at noon. Call Antoinette at (860) 349-7121. CVEF Grants Q&A A workshop for organizations and individuals interested in applying for a 2012 CVEF grant will take place today. Questions about your grant idea and/or the application will be covered. Come to the Durham Library from 3 to 5 p.m. or 6 to 8 p.m. E-mail cvefgrants@gmail.com for more info. Bootcamp Body Boxing Bootcamp, or BBB, is an intense calorie burning professional boxing/kick boxing workout. During the month of April, participants can have one free trial class. Classes are every Monday and Wednesday from 7:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Core Club, Main Street in Durham. Call (860) 349-9100.

WEDNESDAY

April 4 TOPS Meeting TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) meets every Wednesday at 6 p.m. on the third floor of the Durham Town Hall. Contact Naomi Klotsko at (860) 349-9558 or Bonnie Olesen at 860-349-9433 for more information.

Thursday

April 5 Flower Sale Durham Middlefield Exchange Club’s Annual Easter

Flower Sale is scheduled for today from 3 to 6 p.m., tomorrow from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Strong School Parking Lot. Rain, snow, or sunshine. Hunger Banquet The Coginchaug ECO Club has scheduled its annual Hunger Banquet for today at CRHS. The event helps raise awareness of worldwide hunger and money for local and global relief organizations. Charlie Proctor, of Durham, and founder and director of Honduras Children’s Project, is scheduled to speak. The evening also features a silent dessert auction.

FRIDAY

April 6 GOOD FRIDAY TOT Time Bring your babies, toddlers and preschoolers to join other moms and children in the community. Event hosted every Friday by MOMS (MOMS Offering Moms Support) Club of Durham/Middlefield at the Middlefield Community Center at 10 a.m. Tot Time is only open to residents of Durham and Middlefield. For info, contact momsdurhammiddlefield@gmail.com. Frog Friday People of all ages are invited to join Everyone Outside (www.EveryoneOutside.org) this spring as we observe the amazing transformations that occur in vernal pools. Over several outings we will see frogs, frog and salamander eggs, tadpoles, salamander and insect larvae, etc. To-

day’s Frog Friday will be in the Field Forest in Durham. Additional vernal pool explorations will take place on April 22, May 4, 25 and June 8. To register, e-mail Lucy@everyoneoutside.org or call (860) 395-7771.

SATURDAY

April 7 Easter Bunny Breakfast Troop 270 has scheduled breakfast with the Easter Bunny for today from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. Menu includes eggs, pancakes, bacon, sausage, homefries, juice and coffee. Proceeds benefit troop equipment and the cost of trips to Boston Freedom Trail, Fort Ticonderoga, Whitewater rafting, Pr4esidential Mountain hike and Camp Yawgoog. Have your photo taken with the Easter bunny. For more information and cost, email t270durham@comcast.net. Dudley Farmers’ Market The Dudley Farm winter farmers’ market will be held the first Saturday of the month from February through May from 9 a.m. to noon in the Munger Barn. Goods for sale include: homegrown or handmade baked goods, crafts, eggs, fiber, honey and maple syrup, jams and jellies, naturally raised meats, pickles, soap and vegetables. In case of inclement weather, please visit www.dudleyfarm.com or call (203) 457-0770 for update. Lions Road Race The East Haddam Community Lions Club will host its 13th annual April Fools 5k and 10.5 Mile Road Race today at 10 a.m. The race will start and end at Nathan HaleRay High School, 15 School Road, Moodus. Registration begins at 8:30 a.m. Awards will be given to the first three runners in each category each race. Free children’s fun run for children seven years old and under. Walkers are welcome to register for the 5K race only. Free Tshirts for the first 100 paid registrants and free post-race refreshments for all runners. Come and enjoy the scenic route, water stops and mile splits. For registration fee, more info and to download the registration form, visit www.EHCL.org..

Friday, March 30, 2012

Town Times

‘Girl Power’ program promotes self-esteem By Christine Foster Special to the Town Times

the last 30 years, the age puberty starts has been pushed back about a year and a half, Moen says. In some girls it can start as early as seven or eight. Moen said parents who have girls younger than fifth grade showing signs of development should call her to discuss whether the program would be appropriate for their daughters. Girls who participate will be given a chance to create a “Goddess in Me” collage. Local artist Marcy LaBella of Durham will bring in pictures and words that reflect strong girls and women for the girls to work with. “It will serve as a reminder of that confident girl that many of them still are when they start this process,” Moen said. Girl Power will be held on Monday, April 30, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at DMYFS, located in the Middlefield Community Center on the lower level at 405 Main Street in Middle-

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Puberty. The idea of talking about it challenges many a parent. Your own folks may have spoken about it in euphemisms. Or perhaps your parents assiduously avoided the topic altogether, leaving you to learn from peers filled with misinformation. A new offering through Durham Middlefield Youth & Family Services aims to make talking to your girls easier. The program, called “Girl Power,” is designed to help fifth and sixth grade girls and their female support person (mom or a relative or mentor) learn about and open a discussion about puberty. Jane Moen, the program director for DMYFS, says that although the program is new to this community, it has been offered successfully in surrounding towns. “The program that we are doing has been done all over the shoreline and Middlesex County for years,” Moen said. “It is new for us locally, but most places run it twice a year and have waiting lists each time.”

Carving out time for the conversations about puberty can be hard — even for families who don’t intend to avoid the topic.“ Parents are really stretched,” Moen said. “Sometimes these conversations just fall off the back of the plate.” Girl Power is facilitated by a middle school health teacher and funded in part by a grant from Middlesex County Community Foundation. It is run as a conversation, not a lecture, said Moen. It is intentionally timed to dovetail with when Memorial School does its unit on puberty in mid-April. The facilitator will explain the physical changes girls experience during puberty and will also talk about how to maintain a positive body image. “The emotional changes can be hard on confidence,” Moen explains. “The girls start to process things differently, to think more abstractly. They even start to question whether they are weird because everything is changing,” she said. This sort of course is especially important because girls are hitting puberty earlier than ever. Over the course of

field. Registration is limited to 10 girl/adult pairs and should be mailed by April 27.

To get a registration form or for for fee information, go to www.dmyfs.org.

Web Update This week, we asked our online readers, “What’s your number one pastime?” Here are the results: Creating artwork (painting, carving, collaging, photography, etc.): 5% Writing (poetry, essays, diary entries, etc.): 15% Music (playing, writing or listening to it): 10% Reading: 10% Working out or being active: 15% Sleeping, meditating or attempting to do nothing: 5% Watching TV or surfing the net: 15% Other: 25% Be sure to vote in our next poll at www.towntimes.com!

New deadline for letters, obituaries The deadline to submit letters and obituaries to the Town Times is now Mondays at noon for that Friday’s edition.

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Friday, March 30, 2012

Town Times

BOE

sorbs the majority of the stipends, said he had studied student participation in these activities and thought the district was getting good value out of the expense. Hauser also noted that the district was undergoing evaluation for accreditation. “If we chip away too much at too many things we may end up with accreditation with warning.”

(from page 1)

BOE. Common areas targeted for cuts included office supplies, postage, books and equipment repair. The amount of detail presented included things like the schedule for tuning the piano at Korn School. Andre Hauser, CRHS principal, said he played “musical numbers” and found “a number of small savings that added up over time.” Hauser presented a CRHS budget reduced by $14,234.

Members also questioned class sizes at Strong School. A teaching position possibly could be eliminated without raising class sizes above the recommended limit. This potential cut, which would represent significant savings, would also be complicated because of the team teaching practice.

According to business manager Pam Mangini, each administrator was given a percentage reduction as a goal and made his or her own decision about how to get there.

Lilly Montgomery (center) recites the Pledge of Allegiance before the March 21 Board of Education meeting. Lilly attended the meeting with her Mom, Christine, The BOE also spent time exwho was one of several parents who spoke to the board in support of all-day amining the expenses dedicatPhoto by Mark Dionne kindergarten. ed to what is sometimes called Enough savings were found

that four part time literacy tutors were included in the new proposal. In previous discussions, the BOE had asked about helping younger students with reading at both the remedial and non-remedial levels. Literacy tutors, who would be part time and receive no benefits, are cheaper than reading consultants and work with both remedial and non-re-

medial students. Brewster principal Nancy Heckler and John Lyman principal Karen Brimecombe recounted their positive experiences working with literacy tutors in past years. “We were sorry to lose that [literacy tutor],” said Heckler. The total cost of four part time literacy tutors — one at John Lyman, Brewster, Korn

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BOE members pushed for that number to come down. Stipends, which are fees paid to teachers for things like running clubs, coaching sports or being a department head, became one focus. “We have allowed stipends to run for the

seven years I’ve been on the board, and it’s getting to be too much,” said member Kerrie Flanagan. According to Flanagan, stipends account for approximately $1.2 million in the 201213 proposed budget and have increased 12.4 percent. “Our stipends relative to the other districts are high.” Hauser, whose school ab-

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“special ed” and sometimes called student support services and falls under the supervision of the pupil personnel director, Amy Emory. According to Flanagan, student support services have increased as a percentage of RSD13’s budget and is higher as a percentage than in other districts.

Emory said that student support, which includes special education workers, speech therapists, guidance counselors, social workers and remedial support staff, should not be considered separate from the rest of the school. “The department is not in isolation,” said Emory. Summing up the BOE’s message, chair Tom Hennick said, “We’re looking at stipends, we’re looking at staffing, we’re looking at electricity, we’re looking at legal fees.”

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Friday, March 30, 2012

Town Times

Sirens and communication policy cause a stir at Middlefield selectmen meeting By Trish Dynia Special to the Town Times

communication between the town attorney and various members of town agencies and commissions, or residents. Said Brayshaw, “We receive detailed bills in five minute increments, and that adds up if anyone is allowed to call him. “ The impetus for this agenda item was the fact that town resident Marianne Corona had called and left a message for Antin to call her back. During discussion on this agenda item, Corona attempted to explain that her call to Antin was regarding a personal matter unrelated to town business. Brayshaw would interrupt to say, “I am not talking to you... I am simply trying to clarify the procedure for town personnel and commission members regarding access to the town attorney.”

Selectman Ed Bailey then quoted from an e-mail he received from Corona, in which she accused the town of unfairly limiting access to the town attorney. Corona attempted again to explain herself by asking him to read the first line of her e-mail into the record, in which she explained that her inquiry had nothing to do with town business. In a raised voice, Bailey replied, “We need to get back to town business.” In a subsequent interview, Corona explained that she had called Antin to ask him to be a speaker at a private event unrelated to town business. Corona subsequently received an e-mail apology from Antin for presuming that she had called him regarding a Middlefield legal issue. In other business,

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During the public comments section of a March 20 Middlefield Board of Selectmen meeting, Way Road resident Sue Heuberger expressed concerns about the high decibel level of the newly installed emergency siren on Way Road, and questioned the need for testing the siren at 6 p.m. each night versus having a silent test of the alarm system. Heuberger stated that she and many of her neighbors have been disturbed by the siren. Said Heuberger, “One time I had chest pains that literally took my breath away.” She added, “This is a quality of life issue when it is at this decibel.” First Selectman Jon Brayshaw explained that two independent methods of alerting emergency personnel are required by state statute.

Emergency personnel have beepers, and the siren is their backup. He further stated that the 6 p.m. siren was necessary in order to ensure that the system is operational. Residents noted that silent alarms were viable options. Heuberger stated that the Rockfall siren and the siren at the fire department itself were not functioning. Brayshaw responded that he had been assured by the fire chief that all were now functional. Several residents stated that was not true, and Brayshaw said he would set up a meeting between himself, the fire chief and Heuberger to resolve this issue. The most contentious item on the evening’s agenda was a statement by the first selectman regarding use and access of the town attorney, Ken Antin. Brayshaw reiterated the policy, as stated in the town charter, which called for the first selectman to approve any

BE AWARE When the peripheral nerves of the feet are damaged, an initial burning or tingling sensation may be felt. This condition, referred to as peripheral neuropathy, can result in the loss of sensation in the feet. The individual is vulnerable to untimely falls that could result in serious bodily injury. Extremes in temperature are indiscernible. Poor blood flow to the legs, an underactive thyroid, infections, and low levels of vitamin B12 in the diet are potential causes of peripheral neuropathy. Proper treatment may improve the symptoms. It is important to take precautions in the home, such as removing area rugs from hallways. Uneven areas of the flooring must be addressed, and handrails should be installed in the bath and toilet areas. Have you been diagnosed with peripheral neuropathy? At some point in their lives, most people suffer from some kind of foot disorder-from foot odor and nail problems to bunions and disease. Heredity, neglect, injuries, and medical conditions are often the culprits. Whatever the state of your feet, at AFFILIATED FOOT CARE CENTER, LLC, we can treat your problem to restore your comfort and ease of movement. If you are new to the area and don’t have a podiatrist, why not call us for an appointment today. Good foot health can enhance your daily existence and improve your quality of life. Office hours in Middlefield are Mon. 9-5, Wed. 3-7, and Fri. 9-5; Tues. & Thurs. 9-5 in Wallingford. For our patients’ convenience we offer on-site X-rays, and diagnostic and therapeutic ultrasounds.

Friday, March 30, 2012

Town Times

Local wildlife photographer: lizards, snakes and bugs, oh my! Town Times 488 Main St., P.O. Box 265, Middlefield, CT 06455 http://www.towntimes.com News Advertising Fax Marketplace

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Town Times is published every Friday by the Record-Journal Publishing Co. and delivered to all homes and businesses in Durham, Middlefield and Rockfall. Stephanie Wilcox, Editor Marsha Pomponio, Office Assistant Olivia L. Lawrence, News Editor-Weeklies Kimberley E. Boath, Advertising Director Joy Boone, Advertising Sales Contributors: Diana Carr, Trish Dynia, Elisabeth Kennedy, Karen Kean, Judy Moeckel, Mark Dionne, Christine Foster and Michelle P. Carter.

Letter to the Editor Disrespect at Durham Library

Teens have always been spending time at the Durham Public Library. These kids come to talk with friends, do homework and play games. In the past year, the amount of teens flooding the library every day after school has dramatically increased. There are literally not enough chairs in the library to hold all the teens; instead, they crowd the overhang outside the library and plant themselves in the middle of aisles. In the past the teen librarian could identify almost all the teens by name. Now there are so many teens migrating to the library that it’s impossible to know who they are and where they’re headed when they leave.

Teens have spoken disrespectfully to both patrons and librarians. These young adults are not only being disrespectful, they’re also vandalizing public property by graffitiing vulgar expletives on chairs. It has become necessary for the librarians to “retire” some of the stuffed animals because they were

destroyed by rough treatment of teens. Every week some teens are asked to leave because they’re being too disruptive, and every week they come back with the same behavior. Things came to a boiling point recently when a librarian went out to empty the book drop and found a container of ice cream upended on the books inside. The librarians quickly mobilized; they expelled the disruptive teens while contemplating calling higher authorities. The librarians hate that it has become necessary to ask kids to leave the library. Banning teens from the library would be impractical and harmful to the many teens who are quiet and respectful; however, the library is not a holding pen for teens who are distractions to the quiet atmosphere of the library. The solution is very simple: these disruptive teenagers must be reminded how to treat public property and adults with respect. Samantha Turley and Emily Tuttle Durham Library student volunteers

Mackenzie Hurlbert Special to the Town Times Durham resident Paul Benjunas is a freshman biology and secondary education major at Southern Connecticut State University with a unique hobby — and many would call it a talent. When he is not commuting to Southern or working back at home, he spends his free time outdoors with his camera and the surrounding wildlife. Benjunas has captured a variety of Connecticut’s species throughout his years as a photographer, and his subjects have ranged from praying mantises to cooper’s hawks, from water snakes to box turtles. He has won multiple recognitions for his photography in the Durham Fair, and plans to continue photographing wildlife for the rest of his life. Benjunas’s interest in wildlife stems from his childhood adventures outdoors and watching Steve Irwin on TV. “When I wasn’t outside experiencing wildlife for myself, I was inside watching someone else experience it on Animal Planet,” said Benjunas. He started photographing his wildlife encounters about six years ago, at

Praying Mantis photographed by Paul Benjunas Submitted by Mackenzie Hurlbert

the age of 13, when his grandfather bough him his first camera. “I always had a general interest in wildlife growing up, but I would say my photography started when my grandfather bought me my digital Minolta. He thought it would be used for family events, but it ended up being mostly used for my wildlife photos,” Benjunas said. Benjunas now uses a Canon digital SLR, and when it comes to the best camera for wildlife photography, he recommends, “The more optical zoom the better!”

Town Times Your source for local news and events Visit www.towntimes.com

Paws Place: Garfield Hi. I’m Garfield. My brother is Stretch. We are about two years old. We were found abandoned in Middletown. I have a very similar personality to my brother Stretch. I absolutely love to talk up a storm. I will talk to you all day if you let me. I am also extremely loving and affectionate. I love to just curl up in your lap or in your arms. I purr every time you pet me and am a huge love bug. Please adopt me. I have so much love to give and need a forever home with Stretch, because we are so attached. Please consider adopting us. Call Catales at (860) 344-9043 or e-mail info@catales.org.

Benjunas started taking pictures of reptiles and amphibians, such as snakes, turtles and frogs. While those species still remain his main focus, he has been recently experimenting with photographing larger insects and birds. “The praying mantis has been the most interesting thing I’ve photographed. Their eyes and facial expressions give them a really unique and bizarre look,” said Benjunas. “My favorite thing to photograph is See Photographer, page 21

Friday, March 30, 2012

Town Times Columns

A different look at the price of gasoline gram without closing As you have un600 gas stations, and I doubtedly observed, can’t think of any faster our gas stations store way to get to $6 a galtheir gasoline supplies lon.” in large underground This dilemma has not tanks. Many of those been resolved but must tanks have been in the be for the sake of the unground since the 1930s derlying jobs, the price and ‘40s, have grossly of gasoline and polluleaked and caused subtion avoidance. I am stantial contamination proposing to the goverto neighboring propernor and the legislature ties, waterways and that the state continue aquifers. The cost to to pay all the gas station decontaminate averState Senator Ed Meyer claims received before ages about $200,000 per Oct. 1 of this year and tank, and there are that thereafter the gas now $17 million in apstations must rely on inproved contamination surance coverage or cost claims and anothself-insurance. The gover $81.6 million in ernor has offered $5 million to cover claims that are now being processed. Since 1989, the state government the claims, but this is clearly inadehas paid the decontamination costs of quate. I just do not think that the state our gas stations from the petroleum can pull out of its funding program ungross receipts tax. However, Gover- til it covers current claims. The gas nor Rell and now Governor Malloy stations have relied on that state fundhave tried to reverse that direction by ing for decades and so the funding abruptly ending state funding and re- should be phased out in a reasonable quiring the gas stations to fund the de- and responsible manner. That is what contamination costs by insurance other states have done when they coverage. That has brought a large have decided to transition from state squawk from the 1,400 gasoline sta- funding to private insurance. Finally, this week the legislature is tions in Connecticut that do not believe they can afford to pay the premi- taking up an emergency bill which ums. At a public hearing I held as will suspend the automatic increase chair of the Environment Committee, in the gasoline gross receipts tax and the executive director of the Gasoline will impose fines of up to $10,000 on & Automotive Service Dealers gas dealers who engage in price gougcharged, “You can’t eliminate the pro- ing.

From The State Capitol

Powder Ridge, youth employment, budgets and basketball and buyer. Things are going There remain a few quite well on the holdouts that continPowder Ridge sale. ue to want condos; Following the signsome who want nothing of an initial ing except for open agreement on March space and fewer yet 6, Sean Hayes who see defeat as a (Brownstone) has game. Readers, the been making the Brownstone proposal rounds explaining is a fair proposal. It is his vision and plans my opinion that this to restore the Ski is the best deal so far Area. On Saturday, for the town and the March 24, a Meet and Jon A. Brayshaw, neighbors. It is not Greet session was Middlefield intended to be a #10 held at the property ski resort. It will stop for those who wanted and in fact reverse to see the condition the financial carryof the property and ing cost each year. It wanted to meet with will provide jobs and Mr. Hayes firsthand. will restore a signifiEven Portland First cant piece of our Selectwoman Susan town’s fabric. MovBransfield was on hand to answer questions about ing on… Among the not so visible ways Sean and Brownstone. There will be another such session in a few Durham and Middlefield work together is with the “Workforce Alweeks. Attorney Antin is now crafting liance” summer youth employment the actual sales agreement while I program. Laura Francis and I have am working on the “due diligence” two years under our belts and are tasks like criminal checks, surveys gearing up for another round of and pealing off the 22 acres that we summer employment opportunities want to keep out of the deal with for our youth. If you recall, last year Brownstone. My wish, as we move our two towns (combined) either toward a closing, is that we all see the benefit to this particular deal See Brayshaw, page 12

From The Desk Of The First Selectman

Steering clear of unhealthy food

Middlefield Lions Club happenings

Not quite a vegetariTrue to my word, I Claudia O’Connell an at this point, I am at have spent some time the precipice of change. digging into the blood I will keep you all postand guts surrounding ed. In the meantime, my American factory farmgrocery habits have ing, learning about how animals are raised and brought to changed practically overnight. I spent slaughter. I am now more familiar $178 at the grocery store on Sunday with the conditions and treatment of and purchased no meat whatsoever. In animals at factory farms and the tox- fact, I loaded my cart with many items ins and antibiotics used to keep ani- I have never bought before. Looking at mals “healthy” enough to reach my menu planning in a new light, I slaughter weight. Throughout the var- also just bought a share in a CSA ious texts I have read so far, the C (Community Supported Agriculture). While my green thumb is still ripenwords (cancer and carcinogen) have come up again and again. At this ing, I can take advantage of experipoint, I have read enough to be dan- enced local organic farmers and reap gerous, but not enough to be thorough- what they sow. For a reasonable inly educated. Based on what I know to- vestment, I can buy a share in a local day, however, the reality is sobering CSA farm for the growing season and and I am scared to awareness for the sake of both my family and myself. See Earthwise, page 23

ter of Ceremonies, and Happy early Spring Rockfall, Middlefield N. Summer Lerch, president our hats are off to Lion and Durham. The Lions Middlefield Lions Club Marc D’Amato for once again organizing Club of Middlefield is this great community roaring into action, and service event. we wanted to update Two weeks later we you on what we’ve been “Sprint Into Resident” with our first up to and what we have coming up. This weekend is our annual Easter ever 5K/10K road race and kids fun Egg Hunt at Peckham Park with lots run. Walkers are welcome too. Kickof fun and goodies for all kids off is Sunday, April 15, at 8 a.m. through grade 4. Please arrive at the There will be refreshments and mupark at 12:30 this Saturday, March 31, sic from our own DJ, Lion Scott Casso that your kids are ready to run for ciano. All proceeds go back into our the goodies promptly at 1 p.m. As in community. Go to www.SprintInthe past, there are real silver dollars toSpring.com to register. Lion Mike for the kids who find the specially Skelps of Capstone Photography is marked eggs. There will be coffee for our host, and we own many, many the adults, and we guarantee a good thanks to him for organizing this time for all. Our incoming president, Lion Mary Roberts, will be the MasSee Lions, page 10

Earthwise

Guest Column

Durham Town Briefs

Durham teen hurt in crash Michael Mischke, of Durham, was seriously injured in a car crash Sunday afternoon. The 17 year-old lost control of his car and struck a tree shortly after 4

p.m. along Route 147 in Middlefield, according to state police. He was airlifted to Saint Francis Hospital in Hartford via Lifestar and was reported to be in stable condition. The accident remains under investigation. (Stephanie Wilcox)

Durham Government Calendar (Unless otherwise indicated, all meetings are held in the Durham Library. Check the town website at www.townofdurhamct.org for updates.) Monday, April 2 7 p.m. — Historic District 7 p.m. — Fire Department Trustees at Durham Volunteer Firehouse Wednesday, April 4 6 p.m. — Recreation Committee at Coginchaug Regional High School 7:30 p.m. — Planning & Zoning Thursday, April 5 7 p.m. — Public Safety Facility Renovations Planning Committee

Friday, March 30, 2012 YOUNG ADULT PROGRAMS

Durham Library Hours: Regular library hours are 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. Visit www.durhamlibrary.org to search the catalog, review your account, register for a program or renew your materials online. For information or to register for a program by phone, call (860) 3499544. DPL Book Talk: Favorite book or movie? Let us know by writing a message on our Facebook page or fill out one of our Patron Picks forms when you’re at the library! Next week, we’ll list all your favorites on our book blog, DPL Book Talk: Participate in the library’s new blog about all things book! Just follow the link from the library website Teen Blog: Get the latest on new books, graphic novels, programs and more! www.durhamteen.blogspot. com

Wii Wednesdays: Every school day Wednesday from 3 to 4 p.m., come to the library after school to play on the library’s Wii! Snack provided. ADULT PROGRAM

Couponing 101: Thursday, April 5, at 7 p.m. Learn how to maximize savings, use coupons to shop for free and find coupon savings and deals online and in stores. Course given by couponing maven and frugal shopper Gina Juliano. Registration is required, (860 349-9544. Mystery Book Discussion: Tuesday, April 17, at 7:30 p.m. Crooked Letter, Crooked Letter by Tom Franklin. Copies of the book are available in the library. CHILDREN’S PROGRAMS Lunch Brunch Discussion Group: Saturday, April 17 12:30 to 1:30, when Among the Hidden, by Margaret Peterson Haddix; grades 4-6; no registration required; bring a lunch, dessert provided.

Lions (Continued from page 9) event. Finally, look for our big Lions Club Tag Sale, held on the family property of Lion Judy Didato, where Main and Cherry Hill intersect. It will be on the weekend of May 19-20 (the weekend before Memorial Day). Stay tuned for the exact date. This will be our fourth year, and each year it grows bigger. Please contact Judy at djd1944@aol.com if you have items you would like to donate. She can tell you when/where to drop off and/or help if you need items picked up. All proceeds funnel back into the community in the form of scholarships for our young people, donations to the Senior Center and/or to the Fuel Assistance program, etc. Thank you for all you do. We look forward to seeing you at one of our many spring events.

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Middlefield Town Briefs

Friday, March 30, 2012

Middlefield agrees to become member of COG By Trish Dynia Special to the Town Times

field and Middletown, will function as the regional planning agency for these towns.

At a special town meeting held March 20, Middlefield residents approved a proposal to have Middlefield become a member of the Connecticut River Valley Council of Elected Officials. This group, which is to include chief executives from Chester, Clinton, Cromwell, Deep River, Durham, East Haddam, East Hampton, Essex, Haddam, Killingworth, Lyme, Middle-

For many years Middlefield has received these services from the Midstate Regional Planning Agency in Middletown headed by Geoff Colegrove, “This is a preemptive strike due to the fact that the state has decided to reduce the number or regional planning agencies as a cost saving mechanism,” Colegrove said. First Selectman Jon Brayshaw added, “It is a pre-

emptive strike because joining this group gives us the ability to determine which towns we ally with, rather than having the state decide for us.”

will be a member of the board of selectmen, town manager or finance director, depending on the governance structure of the member town and the decision of its residents.

For the time being, Colegrove will continue to serve as Middlefield’s town planner with additional services provided by the council. When Colegrove retires, the town would have the option of hiring a new town planner or relying on services from the council. Most likely the official appointed by the member towns

Middlefield Government Calendar (Unless otherwise indicated, all meetings are held in the Community Center.) Monday, April 2 7 p.m. — Board of Selectmen Thursday, April 5 7 p.m. — Economic Development Wednesday, April 11 7:30 p.m. — Board of Ed at CRHS

Middlefield approves 20-year DMIAAB agreement By Trish Dynia Special to the Town Times

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The Board of Finance will conduct the Annual Budget Hearing on Monday, April 9, 2012 at 8:00 p.m. in the Julian B. Thayer Auditorium, Coginchaug Regional High School, Durham, Connecticut.

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Copies of the Proposed Budget are available at the Office of the Town Clerk, Durham Public Library, www.townofdurhamct.org, or by calling (860) 349-9366.

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During a special town meeting held on March 20, Middlefield residents voted to allow the Board of Selectmen to enter into a revised 20-year agreement with Durham for the continued joint operation and governance of the transfer station. For the past 16 months, a joint task force consisting of residents from both towns conducted an extensive review of the existing 40-year agreement, and presented their recommendations for changes to both towns during town meetings last fall. In February, Durham residents voted to allow their Board of Selectmen to enter into the new agreement. Task Force chairman Chad Spooner reviewed the 10 page revised agreement with Middlefield residents, noting that many of the changes reflected new state statutes and the addition of language to cover recycling issues. In response to

questions regarding cost sharing and which town brings non-recyclables to the transfer station, town planner Geoff

Resident Marianne Corona stated the proposal was a good one because the towns represented in this consortium are all in the same watershed.

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Town Times 2012. Student athletes who are selected must be a varsity letter winner and have a 3.0/B average while demonstrating leadership qualities such as being a positive role model, helping teammates overcome adversity, showing a commitment to selfimprovement or putting the

School news Cassandra L. Santoro, of Durham, was an outstanding student athletes recognized by the Sports Center of Connecticut/Southern Connecticut Conference Scholar Athlete of the month recipients - January

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versity. Josef Bober, Abby Huntley and Emily Spence, of Durham, have been named to the fall 2011 dean’s list at Northeaster University. Emily Sokol, of Durham, has been named to the dean’s list at Choate Rosemary Hall.

needs of the team before themselves. Eric Andrews, of Durham, has been named to the University of Massachusetts Amherst fall 2011 dean’s list. Deven Comen, of Durham, has been named to the fall 2011 dean’s list at Georgetown Uni-

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hired or found jobs for 25 teens. The program focuses on employment of youth by both private sector and towns at no cost. Jobs can be full time or part time. The program gives that critical first entry on a teens resume. I hope those reading this note will avail themselves of the opportunity perhaps recalling their first job. Call the Guidance Department at Coginchaug or visit the Workforce Alliance website or call my office for more info. And finally, the selectman’s budget: Here are a couple of tidbits. First, the “average house” tax in the 08/09 budget was $4,987. Five years later my budget carries a $5,364 tax for that

(Continued from page 9)

same “average house.” That’s $75.40 increase per year. The actual cost to run the town continues to hover at about $4 to $4.4 million. The budget as presented “pays down” another $150,000 on our Powder Ridge loan. All in all the goal of little or no tax increase on our homes was met. Now it’s in the hands of the Board of Finance to do the tweaking. And finally, finally I have a confession to make. Some call what I got into this winter an addiction… perhaps so. My addiction began back in December one evening when I didn’t have a meeting. I was bored and ended up in the Coginchaug gym watching the

Hearing years regarding farm activity and most can be dealt with through the town’s land use boards if necessary, and often problems can be avoided by communication between neighbors. Committee member Fred Mastele added, “It’s not our intent to step on anyone’s toes, just to let people moving into town know that agriculture

girls play basketball. One game and I was hooked. Like most addicts, I manipulated my life over the next three months so I could be at every girls (and then boys) basketball game. I missed a number of night meetings blaming a sudden headache so I could make the games. Soon my wife Gwen and I began to chug down our meals and out the door we went. We were reminded each night that we have something very special here in Middlefield, Rockfall and Durham. It’s either in the water or in the air or in the DNA of people like Coach Rett Mancinelli who led the girls to win the State Championship. (Continued from page 1)

has always been a big part of this town. I agree that some of the language is strong and we will look at it again.” Mastele also encouraged the community to attend their monthly meetings, which are held on the third Tuesday of each month at the Durham Public Library. Francis asked the Agriculture Board to “take into con-

sideration all the comments you heard tonight, temper the language and bring us a revised version next month.” At that time the Board of Selectmen will decide whether or not to schedule the ordinance for a vote at town meeting. Read coverage of the March 26 selectmen meeting at www.towntimes.com.

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Friday, March 30, 2012

Town Times

Dad’s Night fun in space

The Durham Co-op Nursery School held its annual Dad’s Night recently, where the students bring their father or grandfather for a night of one-on-one fun. This year the school chose a space theme. The participants explored a spaceship, played at the space slime table, constructed rocket gliders and were able to test out the anti-gravity zone. The three year-old class poses. Submitted by Josh and Mica Machnik

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Town Times

Independent Day School preschoolers get hands-on By Diana Carr Special to the Town Times

Monday morning will see no heavy sighs and dragging feet for the students of Independent Day School, located in Middlefield. Said Robin Nichols, director of admissions, “They skip into school, and they don’t want to leave. They want the weekends and vacations to

end, so that they can get back.” And this goes for the three to five year-olds, too, who make up the preschool program. The preschool program is a half day, with an option for an extended day, and consists of three and four yearolds (three year-olds who are turning four) in the beginners class and four and five year-olds (four year-olds

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who are turning five) in the pre-k class. The beginners class, taught by Heather Urso, has a three-day-a-week or a five-day-a-week option, and the pre-k class, taught by Margot Kawecki, is five days a week. The days are rich with diversity and cultural enrichment and learning opportunities and a sense of community. Said Kawecki, “We’re part of the whole community, and you won’t see that anywhere else. Kids can be here for 11 years. That’s the community.” They go to the library and to the gym. They participate in music with the kindergarten. They attend the plays that each grade puts on. They are part of the cultural enrichment program that the whole school participates in, and which introduces them to such things as theater, dance, singers, puppetry and writing workshops. They are read to by children in older grades. They work with the older kids on service projects, such as making

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Friday, March 30, 2012

Preschool

Town Times

Middlefield Democratic Town Committee Chili Tasting party

(Continued from page 14)

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valentines for a nursing home, and decorating collection boxes and donating the money to warm needy children, as part of their involvement in community outreach. There’s a transversal wall for them to climb (they climb across, not up). There are nature trails and nature walks. And there’s field trips to such places as the Peabody Museum, the Children’s Museum (in West Hartford; the planetarium and Hammonassett. JoAnne Rider, the third grade teacher and person in charge of publicity, said, “Because preschool is part of the school, the children get all the benefits of the school campus, like the library and the gym and nature trails. We also have two playgrounds. We believe that being outside is very important.” Urso and Kawecki use theme to teach their classes. For instance, there’s a dinosaur theme that provides the pre-k children with a variety of hands-on experiences, such as cutting out and painting a picture of Dazzle the dinosaur; drawing a dinosaur picture and telling a story about it; dinosaur digging, where each child is given a block of Plaster of Paris/sand that contains a plastic dinosaur inside that they ferret out, and a trip to the Peabody Museum. “The teachers are highly trained and experienced,” said Nichols. “They’re here for a long time. They believe in this. They have a passion. And they feel supported. It’s a community that works together. All the teachers in the school interact with each other.” Nichols continued, “The kids learn through play. They learn how to get along with others, how to be part of a group, how to give and take. They learn social skills. They learn to advocate for themselves. We want them to be independent and in charge of themselves.”

Left, the Middlefield Democratic Town Committee hosted a successful chili-tasting party in early March at Indian Hills Golf Club. Heaping servings of chili were served by Ellen Waff, Middlefield treasurer, and Donna Golub, Middlefield town clerk. The Middlefield Ukulele Club entertained with songs such as “Country Roads.”

Spring Sports Schedule

Friday, March 30, 2012

STRONG MIDDLE SCHOOL Baseball/Softball Home game sites to be determined Games generally start by 3:30 p.m.

April 24: at East Hampton 26: at Middletown 30: Cromwell May

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COGINCHAUG HIGH SCHOOL Unless otherwise noted, home games are at Coginchaug High School Baseball April 2: V Xavier (Scrim.) at 3 p.m. 4: V Hale Ray at 4 p.m. 5: JV at Hale Ray at 3:45 p.m. 6: V at Valley Regional at 3:45 p.m. 7: JV Valley Regional at 10:30 a.m. 11: V Old Saybrook at 3:45 p.m. 12: JV at Old Saybrook at 3:45 p.m. 13: V at Hyde Leadership (Bowen Field) at 3:45 p.m. 14: JV Hyde Leadership at 10:30 a.m. 16: V North Branford at 3:45 p.m. 17: JV at North Branford Away at 3:45 p.m. 18: V at East Hampton at 3:45 p.m. 19: JV East Hampton at 3:45 p.m. 20: V Haddam-Killingworth at 3:45 p.m. 21: JV Bat Haddam-Killingworth at 10:30 a.m. 23: V at Old Lyme at 3:45 p.m. 24: JV Old Lyme Home at 3:45 p.m. 25: V at Hale Ray at 3:45 p.m. 26: JV Hale Ray at 3:45 p.m. 27: V Cromwell at 3:45 p.m. 28: JV at Cromwell at 10:30 a.m. 30: V at Morgan Away (Indian River Complex) at 3:45 p.m. May 1: JV Morgan at 3:45 p.m. 2: V Portland at 3:45 p.m. 3: JV at Portland at 3:45 p.m. 4: V Westbrook at 3:45 p.m. 5:JV at Westbrook at 11 a.m. 7: V at Cromwell at 3:45 p.m. 8: JV Cromwell at 3:45 p.m. 9: V Morgan at 3:45 p.m. 10: JV at Morgan at 3:45 p.m. 11: V at North Branford at 3:45 p.m.

1:2 JV North Branford at 10:30 a.m. 14: V at Haddam-Killingworth at 3:45 p.m. 15: JV Haddam-Killingworth at 3:45 p.m. 16: V East Hampton at 3:45 p.m. 17: JV at East Hampton at 3:45 p.m. 18: V Valley Regional at 3:45 p.m. 19: JV at Valley Regional at 10:30 a.m. 21: V SMSA at 4 p.m. 21: JV SMSA at 4 p.m. Softball April 5: V Middletown at 3:45 p.m. 5: JV Middletown at 3:45 p.m. 6 V at Valley Regional at 3:45 p.m. 7: V Lyman Memorial at 11 a.m. 7: JV Lyman Memorial at 11 a.m. 7: JV Valley Regional at 1:30 p.m. 9: V at Waterford (Veterans Field) at 3:45 p.m. 9: JV at Waterford (Lisa Dedrick Field) at 3:45 p.m. 11: V Old Saybrook at 3:45 p.m. 12: JV at Old Saybrook at 3:45 p.m. 16 V North Branford at 3:45 p.m. 17 JV at North Branford (Totoket Park) at 3:45 p.m. 18: V at East Hampton at 3:45 p.m. 19: JV East Hampton at 3:45 p.m. 20: V Haddam-Killingworth at 3:45 p.m. 21: JV at Haddam-Killingworth at 10:30 a.m. 23: V at Old Lyme (Town Woods Park) at 3:45 p.m. 25: V at Hale Ray (Milardo Field) at 3:45 p.m. 26: JV Hale Ray at 3:45 p.m. 27: V Cromwell at 3:45 p.m.

30: V at Morgan (Peters Complex) at 3:45 p.m. May 1: JV Morgan Home at 3:45 p.m. 2: V Portland at 3:45 p.m. 3: V at Berlin (Sage I) at 7 p.m. 3: JV at Portland at 3:45 p.m. 3: JV at Berlin (Sage II) at 4:30 p.m. 5: JV at Westbrook at 11 a.m. 8: V at Cromwell at 3:45 p.m. 8: JV Cromwell at 3:45 p.m. 9: V Morgan at 3:45 p.m. 10: JV at Morgan (Peters Complex) at 3:45 p.m. 11: V at North Branford (Totoket Park) at 3:45 p.m. 12: JV North Branford at 10:30 a.m. 14: V at Haddam-Killingworth at 3:45 p.m. 15: JV Haddam-Killingworth at 3:45 p.m. 17: V Westbrook at 3:45 p.m. 18: V Valley Regional at 3:45 p.m. 19: JV at Valley Regional at 10:30 a.m. Boys’ Tennis April 4: Haddam-Killingworth at 3:45 p.m. 5: at Cromwell at 3:45 p.m. 9: Old Lyme at 3:45 p.m. 11: Morgan at 3:45 p.m. 13: East Hampton at 3:45 p.m. 16: at Westbrook at 3:45 p.m. 18: at North Branford at 3:45 p.m. 23: Valley Regional at 3:45 p.m. 25: Old Saybrook at 3:45 p.m. 27: at Haddam-Killingworth at 3:45 p.m. 30: Cromwell at 3:45 p.m. May 2: Portland at 3:45 p.m. 3: at Portland at 3:45 p.m. 4: at Old Lyme at 3:45 p.m. 7: at Morgan at 3:45 p.m. 9: at East Hampton at 3:45

p.m. 11: Westbrook at 3:45 p.m. 14: North Branford at 3:45 p.m. 18: at Valley Regional at 3:45 p.m. 21: at Old Saybrook at 3:45 p.m. Girls’ Tennis April 4: at Haddam-Killingworth at 3:45 p.m. 5: Cromwell at 3:45 p.m. 9: at Old Lyme at 3:45 p.m. 11: at Morgan at 3:45 p.m. 13: at East Hampton at 3:45 p.m. 16: Westbrook at 3:45 p.m. 18: North Branford at 3:45 p.m. 23: at Valley Regional at 3:45 p.m. 25: at Old Saybrook at 3:45 p.m. 27: Haddam-Killingworth at 3:45 p.m. 30: at Cromwell at 3:45 p.m. May 4: Old Lyme at 3:45 p.m. 7: Morgan at 3:45 p.m. 9: East Hampton at 3:45 p.m. 11: at Westbrook at 3:45 p.m. 14: at North Branford at 3:45 p.m. 18: Valley Regional at 3:45 p.m. 21: Old Saybrook at 3:45 p.m. Golf April 4: at Old Saybrook at 3 p.m. 12: Cromwell at 3 p.m. 23: at Valley Regional (Fox Hopyard CC) at 3 p.m. 25: at Cromwell, Old Lyme (TPC) at 2:30 p.m. 30: at Haddam-Killingworth (Banner) at 3 p.m. May 1: East Hampton, North Branford (Lyman Orchards) at 3 p.m. 2: at Hale Ray (Fox Hopyard) at 3 p.m. 7: Morgan, Hale Ray (Ly-

man Orchards) at 3 p.m. 9: Valley Regional (Lyman Orchards) at 3 p.m. 10: at Old Lyme (Black Hall Club Old Lyme) at 3:15 p.m. 15: Old Saybrook (Lyman Orchards) at 3 p.m. 16: at Portland (PGC) at 2:45 p.m. 22: at Morgan, Fitch (CCC) at 3 p.m. 23: at North Branford (Tradition Golf Course in Wallingford) at 2:30 p.m. 24: Old Lyme, Portland (Lyman Orchards) at 3 p.m. Boys’ Outdoor Track April 10: Westbrook, HaddamKillingworth at 3:30 p.m. 24: Valley Regional, East Hampton at 3:30 p.m. May 1: Cromwell, East Hampton at 3:30 p.m. 5: Coginchaug Invitational at TBA 8: at Hyde Leadership, Old Saybrook (Old Saybrook High School) at 3:30 p.m. 15: at Valley Regional, Cromwell (Valley Regional High School) at 3:45 p.m. Girls’ Outdoor Track April 10: Westbrook, HaddamKillingworth at 3:30 p.m. 24 Valley Regional, East Hampton at 3:30 p.m. May 1: Cromwell, East Hampton at 3:30 p.m. 5: Coginchaug Invitational at TBA 8: at Hyde Leadership, Old Saybrook (Old Saybrook High School) at 3:30 p.m. 15: at Valley Regional, Cromwell (Valley Regional High School) at 3:45 p.m. For the most up-to-date schedules, visit www.casciac.org/ciacsports.shtml

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Town Times Sports

Friday, March 30, 2012

Time Out upends Durham Dental to finish in second By Scott Strang Special to the Town Times

Dental. Allstate Fire Equipment 53, Laser Engraving Services 38 LasEngS continued their six-game losing streak as they fell to Allstate. Unfortunately this game also set a league record, as five technical fouls were called, with four against LasEngS including a player ejection. LasEngS (3-7) opened the season 3-1 but injuries to five players, four of them season ending, have depleted their roster badly. Allstate (28), who has been improving in their offensive production the past few weeks, finally turned it into a victory — their first in their past six tries. In his best game this season, Rich Notorangelo led the way with 16 for Allstate, and Eric Francis and Dave DeRosa added 11 and 10 respectively. Nick Halkias was the top scorer for LasEngS with 14. Allstate

opens their playoffs in the number eight v number nine play-in game against ScottTax

on Tuesday. The winner will then face top seed Torrison Stone on Thursday.

Local boys go undefeated

Foundation Soccer Club U10 boys went undefeated in weekend Ironbound Tournament March 17-18 in New Jersey. Local players include, front row: Aidan Lentz, Max Temple, Michael Salley, Jason Salley. Back row: Anthony Gavrilovic. Mark Salley

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Several league records fell as the regular season ended with three exciting games Tuesday night. A logjam between second and sixth seeds, and the resulting fourway tie for second place made for a playoff-like atmosphere for all three games. Here are the recaps of an exciting night at Strong School this past week: Time Out Taverne 52, Durham Dental 43 Time Out vaulted from sixth to second place as they defeated Durham Dental on Tuesday. With the win, Time Out (6-4) moved into a fourway tie for second, and they needed a win by eight or more points to elevate them into the number two spot, where they will face number seven seed LasEngS in the opening round of the league playoffs. Mike Aitken had a very productive first half with seven points for Time Out, but suffered a season ending knee injury midway through the second half. Scott Chesmer led all scorers with 22 for Time Out, going six of seven at the foul line in the second half, that included two free throws with 15 seconds left to build the lead to eight and then nine points to secure the second place seed. Durham Dental (6-4) committed a league record 23 team fouls, many during the late second half comeback effort. Scott McGuinness continued his consistently strong season for Durham Dental, topping out at 15. Chris Haywood also added eight in the loss. Around the Clock Heating and AC 60, Shadow Room 58 Steve Markoski scored a Durham Men’s League season high 29 points, including an amazing 15 of 16 at the foul line, (league records for foul shots attempted and made by a single player in a game), as Around the Clock held off a last minute charge by Shadow Room. It was nearly a repeat of their first meeting back on opening night in early January, when ATC set a new league record 28 free

throws in a game en route to a 66-52 win. On Tuesday they equaled that same number, going 21 of 28 overall, as Shadow Room committed 20 team fouls to just four for Around the Clock. The score was tied at 28 at halftime, but ATC built an eight point lead that they held with just one minute left. Shadow Room hit a pair of three-pointers, including Mike Baranowski’s three with four seconds left, but time expired before they could get the ball back. Baranowski led Shadow Room with 19, Kevin Walsh scored 14 and Greg Bereski added 13. Pete Donecker picked up 13 for Around the Clock, including 5-5 from the foul line. Shadow Room (5-5) takes the sixth seed in the league tournament and will open against number three seed Snowservices. ATC (6-4) will be a fourth seed and play Durham

Durham, CT (860) 349-1131 Pick-up & Delivery

Friday, March 30, 2012

Town Times

Park and Rec basketball activities The final week of Park and Rec basketball recently took place and included some extra activities for the kids. Back row (l-r): Joe Davis (finalist in the dunk contest); Sam Mancinelli (league director and finalist in three-point shooting contest); Audrey Biesak (league director and winner of the three-point shooting contest); Jim Veronick (guest speaker and dunk contest judge) and Erickson Wasyl (finalist in three-point shooting contest). Front row (l-r): 1st Team All-League Seth Azevedo; Hogan Dahlman; Joe Franklin; Lucas Schleicher and Alex Wyskiel League MVP. Other League Notables were 2nd Team All League Mike Scherer; Ricky Murphy; Zach Schleicher; Justin Saks and Steve Nash. Special thanks to John Esposito; head coaches Matt Reed, Al Marino, Walt Tregoning and Jim Murphy, and their assistants; and Penny Sawicki Submitted by John Biesak

GMSO athletes compete in their own March Madness By Frank LoGiudice Special to the Town Times Special Olympics Athletes from the Greater Middletown Special Olympics and the TriTown Special Olympics of Meriden had their own version of March Madness at the Special Olympics Connecticut Northwest Invitational Basketball Tournament on Saturday, March 24. The event was hosted by Holy Cross High School, Chase Collegiate School, Kennedy High School and Chase Park House in Waterbury. The athletes from the Greater Middletown Special Olympics basketball team, The Thunderstorm, included David Crovo of Middlefield. The GMSO athlete rivals from the Tri-Town Special Olympics of Meriden basket-

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ball team were the Tri-Town Thunder-Lightning. In the first match-up of the afternoon, the Tri-Town Special Olympics & Greater Middletown played one another in an exciting and intense game. Tri-Town Special Olympics athletes edged out their competitors from Middletown defeating The Thunderstorm by a score of 29-28. In the second game of the afternoon the Tri-Town Thunder-Lightning played the Griswold Jets from Griswold, this time losing the game by a score of 32-26. The Tri-Town Thunder-Lightning won a second place slver mdal. For The Thunderstorm of Greater Middletown in their second game they played the Saybrook Cheetahs of Old Saybrook. This time they won with a score of 30-25. The athletes from Greater Middletown won a third place bronze medal at the tournament. The next event for the athletes in the Greater Middletown Special Olympics will be the Special Olympics Connecticut-Eastern Regional Games on Saturday, May 12, at the University of Hartford and Hartford Public High School in Hartford. The Greater Middletown Special Olympics serves athletes with intellectual disabilities in a variety of wellcoached Olympic type sports ages 8 and above who reside in Cromwell, Durham, East Haddam, East Hampton, Haddam, Middlefield, Middletown and Portland. According to the Special Olympics Connecticut website, “The mission of Special Olympics is to provide year-round sports training and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for children and adults with intellectual disabilities, giving them continuing opportunities to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, experience joy and participate in a sharing of gifts, skills and friendship with their families, other Special Olympics athletes and the community.” For more information, please call 1-800-443-6105 or visit the Special Olympics Connecticut website at www.soct.org

Friday, March 30, 2012

Town Times

Mercy sophomore to shave head for cancer research On Sunday, March 31, at the Portland Fairgrounds, Flannery Keenan, of Durham, will do what not many teenage girls would choose to do: get a buzz cut. Her father, firefighter Terence Keenan, is part of the South Fire District’s team for St. Baldrick’s, an organization that has raised nearly $80 million in funding the most promising cures for childhood cancers. When Flannery learned about it, she asked to join the team. “To tell you the truth, I’m kind of blown away that she wants to do it,” said Lieutenant Chris Gamache, captain of the South Fire District St. Baldrick team. Flannery, whose thick, brown hair is past her shoulders, will donate a ponytail or two to Locks of Love before

Three other members of the South Fire team are also the children of firefighters: Tyler and Zachary Zajac, sons of firefighter Robert Zajac, and Kevin Gamache, son of Lt. Chris Gamache. For information on St. Baldrick’s, or to pledge to the South Fire District team (or any team), please visit www.stbaldricks.org.

Photo submitted

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If you were unable to attend the town meeting or Meet & Greets with Brownstone’s Sean Hayes, there will be three more opportunities to get familiar with the potential new buyers of Powder Ridge. Tuesday, April 10, at the Community Center at 6:30 p.m.: Have coffee in the auditorium with Mr. Hayes; watch a slide show. Saturday, April 21, at Brownstone Exploration & Discovery in Portland from noon to 2 p.m.: Tour the property with Mr. Hayes to see how he turned an abandoned Portland quarry into a summer sports park. Sunday, May 6, at Powder Ridge from noon to 3 p.m.: Tour the Powder Ridge property with Mr. Hayes to learn his plan.

Brewster School students were entertained on St. Patrick’s Day by special performers. Pictured is Connor Stewart, a Strong School student, who performed the bagpipes for the entire school. He also answered questions from the audience on how the bagpipes work.

sion from her principal before committing to the team, as Mercy has a policy against radical haircuts. Sister Mary McCarthy said, “I support 100 percent Flannery shaving her beautiful hair so she can help raise awareness for children suffering from cancer. I am confident that this young woman of Mercy, of whom I am so proud, will do much to help St. Baldrick’s.”

1232806

Meet & Greet series with Sean Hayes of Brownstone

getting her head shaved. “I’ve given to Locks of Love twice before, but this time, I also wanted to raise money to help kids with cancer. I’ve always loved kids — I want to work with them when I grow up. I know it’s really hard to have cancer, so if kids feel self conscious about losing their hair, it might be nice for them to see someone else who was bald. And because it’s so unusual for a girl my age to shave her head, I thought it would get a lot of attention and raise a lot of money.” Flannery appears to be right: she raised more than $1,000 in personal and team donations in her first week. “I’m just getting started,” she added. An honors student at Mercy High School in Middletown, Flannery had to get permis-

By Chris Gamache Special to the Town Times

Bagpipe performance

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Friday, March 30, 2012

Town Times

Agway of Middlefield expands; maintains cozy atmosphere, friendly service

Mini Mustangs win Horse Bowl Competition

By Christine Foster Special to the Town Times

The Mini Mustangs Horse Club represented Middlesex County in the state-wide 4-H Quiz Bowl competition held recently at the UCONN campus in Storrs. The competition tests the participants’ knowledge of horses and the equine industry. The group placed first in the junior team division, while three of the junior participants placed first, second and sixth in the individual competition. One of the members placed second in the novice division. From left: Coach Debbie Sommers, Carol D’Agostino, Olivia Tawa, Brittany Hall, Avery Mendick, Bridget Turecet and Coach Pat Bandzes. Photo submitted

During the 15 years that Torelli, the store manager of Middlefield Agway, has worked here, friendly service has been one of the store’s major selling points. Now, though, she can also point to a much expanded line of products thanks to a remodel that added 3,000 feet of space to the store. Now bigger and brighter, the store, located on Route 66, near the intersection of 157, is one of six in a chain. If you think of Agway and picture mainly farm supplies, think again. This outlet is chock full of gardening products and pet food and supplies — items you might otherwise drive out of town to buy at a big box store.

As part of the expansion, a back portion of the structure, which served primarily as warehouse space, was woven into the store itself. The increased space means that they have been able to add to their lines, especially in those garden and pet departments. And, true to its farm roots, Middlefield’s Agway has also expanded the farm section of the store a bit. As proof, Torelli motions to flats stacked high with specialty dirt or shelves filled with food for a wide variety of animals. (Before the remodel, “the pet department was bursting at the seams,” Torcelli says.) There is an entire corner of the store, for example, dedicated to bird supplies, including a stunning range of seed types. The space also

Town Times Service Directory 1238404

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The expansion project began in November and the new portion of the store opened on Feb. 15. The total square footage of the store is now around 10,000 square feet. Still, the store feels cozier and more local than most. At 9:30 on a Saturday morning, business is already brisk, with shoppers buoyed by the unseasonably warm weather picking up annuals they hope to get in the ground early this year. A few of the approximately 20 employees greet folks as they enter. It’s the sort of place where the staff is able to spend some time thinking through everything you need for, say, a gardening project, or taking on a new pet. “We love setting you up and helping you get started,” Torelli says. A large chunk of the clientele are from Durham and Middlefield, but people come from Haddam, Killingworth, Berlin and other nearby towns, too, Torelli says. “The customers are happy for us,” she adds.

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means that Torelli can offer more competitive pricing on a range of products.

(Continued from page 7)

the Portland Brownstone/Powder Ridge proposal by hiring a forensic accountant to review the company’s ability to do what they say they can do, receiving bids for a land survey and reviewing proposals with the Middlefield Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Agency. He also noted that town attorney Ken Antin had brokered a new deal with Middlefield Holdings that would allow the town to make two $100,000 payments over two years and receive a savings of $25,000.

Also, the fire department’s desire for a fire pond access to Lake Beseck will be met via the state’s revamp of the Lake Beseck dam at no charge to the town.

Friday, March 30, 2012

Town Times

that,” said Benjunas. Benjunas describes his hobby as a chance to escape (Continued from page 8) from society and enter a totally new world, and his phothe Northern Water Snake. tos he sees as captured expeThey’re bland in terms of col- riences and moments of his or — not a very highly col- encounters which he can ored snake — but there’re so bring back and share with many around here locally. others. “For me personally, They are difficult to photo- it’s a way of being able to disgraph in a natural water set- connect from society and beting because they move so ing able to block everything quickly — I find it a chal- out. I enjoy the tranquility. It’s just something about belenge.” Benjunas focuses on making able to be surrounded by ing his photos look as natu- nature and to learn through ral as possible. “I always try observation,” said Benjunas. to get as close as possible “In my photographs I’m docan encounter when I photograph, and try umenting to see eye to eye with the ani- where it’s one-on-one. It’s me mal in order to get a true with this particular animal, sense of it. I also try to ex- and the photo is like a souclude any aspects of society venir of that encounter.” Sometimes when Benjubecause I really want to give it a natural setting — I want nas goes out to photograph the viewer to focus not on the wildlife he brings a friend — background, but on the cen- his black lab Duncan. Howterpiece, whether it be a frog, ever, he admits his photograsnake or something like phy tends to be less successful when he tags along: “As

Photographer

DMIAAB

much as I like bringing him, to see and experience what News and was the former edihe sometimes scares away they usually don’t. That’s tor in chief of The Devils’ Adthe wildlife.” why I enjoy it so much.” vocate. This article was writWhen asked what he plans Mackenzie Hurlbert is a ten for publication in the to do with his hobby/talent, Benjunas says he doesn’t re- staff writer for the Southern Southern News. ally have any set aspirations. “I think National Geographic has a little too long of a waiting list,” he joked. One thing is certain though, wildlife photography will always be a hobby of his. He plans to continue creating these “souvenirs” of his wildlife encounters in order to share not only his passion about wildlife, but also to share the often unseen or unnoticed beauty of wildlife in general. “My photography is something I will always do just for the sake of doing it,” said Benjunas. “My Paul Benjunas and companion Duncan on a wildlife photogSubmitted by Mackenzie Hurlbert photos allow people raphy outing

Town Times Service Directory

(Continued from page 11)

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In response to several questions regarding daily operations, Spooner encouraged residents to attend the monthly DMIAAB meetings to make suggestions. Middlefield DMIAAB member Jim Gibbons stated, “We’re lonely at those meetings because we never have an audience. We’d love to have people come and make suggestions.”

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Some residents expressed concern regarding shared liability due to equipment damage, theft, employee injury, etc., and who should pay the cost if one town’s actions were deemed more liable than the other’s. Colegrove stated, “The towns’ insurance companies would hash out who was more liable.”

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Friday, March 30, 2012

Town Times

Page and Golschneider to wed Robert and Deborah Page, of Wallingford, along with Andrew and Debra Golschneider, of Durham, are proud to announce the engagement of their children, Caroline Page and A. Michael Golschneider, III. The bride is the granddaughter of Louise Page and the late Dennis B. Page and Robert and Sharon Mansfield, all of Wallingford. The groom is the grandson of Eleanor Golschneider and the late Andrew Golschneider, and the late John and Frances Theiss. Caroline graduated from Lyman Hall High School in 2003 and magna cum laude from Yale University with a degree in music in 2007. Michael graduated from Coginchaug Regional High School in 2004 and cum laude from Central Connecticut State University with a triple concentration in illustration, painting and mural painting in 2008. Caroline and Mike met while working at the Neighborhood Music School in New Haven. The couple plans to wed in November 2012.

Morettini and Spooner to wed

Town Times Service Directory Michael Haglund

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Wallingford: (203) 265-7328 Toll Free: (800) 269-0948 www.RidOfBugs.com

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...serving Durham, Middlefield & Rockfall

Joy Boone Advertising

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11 Crown Street, Meriden, CT 06450 203-317-2313 • fax 203-235-4048 advertising@towntimes.com

New Location 336 Main St. Durham 860-349-8868

Mr. and Mrs. Edward Morettini, of Middlefield, and Mr. and Mrs. Richard Spooner, of Durham, are proud to announce the engagement of their children, Lisa Elizabeth Morettini and William Travis Spooner. The bride-to-be is a graduate of Coginchaug Regional High School, class of 2000. She received a bachelor’s and master’s degree in physical therapy from the University of Connecticut and a doctorate degree in physical therapy from Temple University. Lisa is a physical therapist at REACT Physical Therapy and Aquatic Center in Waterbury. The groom-to-be is a graduate of Coginchaug Regional High School, class of 1999. He received a bachelor’s degree in finance from the University of Colorado at Boulder. Will is the vice president of Powerhold Inc in Middlefield. Lisa and Will currently reside in Durham and plan to be married June 16, 2012.

Friday, March 30, 2012

Town Times Obituary Lil Michaud

Earthwise (Continued from page 9) get weekly payout in fresh, USDA certified organic produce for about five months, give or take. The freshness is unbeatable, and the taste (from what I hear from my brother-in-law) is incredible.

they are needed most, to meet the needs of the farm shareholders (shares in harvest, not actually farm). The CSA model is designed to pass along the bounty of a successful growing season to its members. By the same token, buying into a CSA can also bring risk. If the farmer experiences a bad growing season, fraught with disease or uncooperative weather, the harvest may be impacted and the results are felt by the CSA shareholders. In this scenario, the weekly haul could potentially be less than expected. With the premature emergence of spring, I’m hoping for a horn of plenty including spinach, kale, tomatoes, eggplant, potatoes, peppers, Brussels sprouts, cucumbers, leeks, beets, green beans, cantaloupe and much more! If you live in Durham and

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Middlefield, local doesn’t get much closer than Starlight Organic Farm in Durham (www.starlightgardensct.com ) offering their first CSA for

the 2012 season. For more information about farms and CSAs in your area, visit www.localharvest.org.

Submission reminder The Town Times welcomes submissions regarding upcoming events happening in the community, letters and obituaries. E-mail news@towntimes.com with your submission by Mondays at noon. We do our best to run calendar events and announcements at least one time. However, due to space constraints, we cannot guarantee a submission will be published on a specific date. To ensure your submission runs exactly as you would like it to, contact our sales representative, Joy Boone, at (203) 317-2313 or e-mail advertising@towntimes.com for a paid ad. Thank you.

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By buying into a CSA for the season, I benefit by knowing how my food is grown, and from where it comes. I can feel good about buying locally, eating healthier and supporting small family farmers. I also become a part of an important and supportive community of patrons that make the CSA model a successful one. Farmers benefit by getting paid early so that they can plan their growing season accordingly and invest their efforts where

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Lil (Ruszczyk), Michaud, 71, of Durham passed away peacefully on March 21, 2012. She was the beloved wife of Ludgi Michaud. Lil was born in New Haven on March 5, 1941. Besides her husband, she is survived by her three children, Lee Ann (Michaud) Cove and husband Kevin Cove of Durham, Leonard Michaud and wife Ellen Michaud of Cheshire and Lawrence Michaud and wife Nicolle Michaud of Manchester. She had seven grandchildren, Lynnea, Ryan and Thomas Cove, Lauren, Matthew and Molly Michaud and Savannah Michaud. She is also survived by her three brothers Benny Ruszczyk of New Haven, Joseph Ruszczyk of East Haven and Henry Ruszczyk of Glastonbury and their families. Lil enjoyed playing cards, dancing the polka, doing crafts and working in her garden. She worked in the Durham school system for 33 years first in the cafeteria and then as a librarian at Korn school. There will be no calling hours. A celebration of her life was held March 24, 2012. Burial will be at the family’s convenience.

Town Times

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The best of both worlds: a neighborhood with a completely private and level yard! Stunning and spacious 4 bedroom Contemporary with over 3500 sq ft of living space just flooded with natural light. Pristine and clean and reduced to $424,900. 29 Evergreen Ter

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Located on a cul-de-sac and backed to state forest, you’ll find this 4 bedroom Colonial filled with character and tons of upgrades like hardwood, remodeled kitchen with Corian, finished lower level and central air. New price of $340,000. 116 Sumner Wood.

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The Town Times charges a $25 processing fee for obituaries. For more information, call (203) 317-2448.

860.301.9102 Sherri Ahern

860.918.4580 www.TheHuscherGroup.com | www.ConnecticutPulse.com Debbie Huscher dhuscher@comcast.net

Call: 203-317-2330 for more information or search our listing on LoopNet.com (11 Crown Street, Meriden, CT)

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Friday, March 30, 2012

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If you’re caring for a parent . . .

Spring forward to a better way of living. Masonicare’s Assisted Living relieves the burden and restores the joy. Our all-inclusive Assisted Living offers gracious maintenance-free living and gourmet dining. We have activities to suit most everyone: walking paths, exercise and art classes, book groups and day trips to local places of interest. Or just enjoy family time near our beautiful pond. Masonicare’s unsurpassed range of healthcare options — from routine medical services to long-term care and a specialized memory care neighborhood, The Hearth — are all on our campus. So you can relax about any future healthcare needs your parent might have. For a personal tour of Assisted Living at Masonicare’s Ashlar Village campus in Wallingford please call 1-800-382-2244. Or visit us at www.MasonicareAssisted.org

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