Serving Durham, Middlefield and Rockfall
Volume 18, Issue 6
Friday, May 20, 2011
Powder Ridge sale up to Middlefield voters By Sue VanDerzee Town Times Dennis Abplanalp can tell you exactly when he began thinking about Powder Ridge Ski Area. “I have the magazine right here,” he said during a phone interview this week. “It was the March 2007 issue of Ski Area Management magazine where Ken Leavitt had placed an ad. I called him up. “I’ve been working on this for four years,” he continued. “I’m tenacious.” While Powder Ridge has been simmering in his consciousness the last four years, Abplanalp’s involvement with skiing goes back much further. “I started working in ski areas as a 17-
year-old in 1974 in the ski rental division of Ski Liberty in southeastern Pennsylvania,” he explained. “After a few years, I realized that I wanted to be in mountain operations, and I left there nine years later as assistant mountain manager. Since then I’ve worked in at least 10 different resorts all across the country, including Mt. High in California, the
Above, CRHS students begin the first lap around the new track, released by Bill Currlin's starting pistol. Left, students form the words "Thank You!" to the community for the new athletic complex.
See Sale, page 16
In this issue ... Calendar............................4 Durham Briefs................13 Middlefield Briefs...........12 Obituaries .......................28
Photos by Mark Dionne, Beth Manley and Sue Michael
Adopt me, please!
Rain doesn’t stop enthusiasm at Coginchaug track opening By Mark Dionne Special to Town Times
Photo by Cheri Kelley
The third annual Durham Pet Fair, where lots of lovable pups like this one were hoping to find a new home.
Students cheered as they stepped past the fence, still marked with “Keep Off” signs, and onto the newly finished track complex at Coginchaug Regional High School (CRHS). A few minutes later, they cheered again for the rain that started to pour down, but no one left. According to Bill Currlin, Board of Education and Building Committee chair, “The kids wanted to be the first on the field.” After school on Monday, May 16, Currlin and CRHS principal Andre Hauser presided over the opening of the track and the ceremonial first lap. A track meet was scheduled for the
following day. Dozens of students gathered with various coaches, teachers, Board of Education (BOE) and community members and reporters on the artificial turf and eightlane track for the brief ceremony.
Hauser tossed a football with some students before making his remarks. He thanked, among others, the BOE, the Boards of Selectmen from both towns, Superintendent Sue Viccaro and
“the thousands of voters of Durham and Middlefield.” Hauser also cited Currlin for special thanks, calling him the project’s “guardian angel.” Currlin, who only a week earlier lost his re-election bid to the BOE after 17 years as a member, spoke next. He thanked the work done by the BOE and recognized “all the athletes for years and years who didn’t get a chance to run on their home track.” It has been 10 years since CRHS has hosted a track meet, according to Viccaro. Currlin also encouraged student athletes to thank members of the community. The track complex faced opSee CRHS Track, page 14
2
Musical instrument drive Tristan Sayah, a Boy Scout in Troop 27, has organized a musical instrument drive and is seeking donations of new or gently used instruments. The event will be held, rain or shine, on June 11 at Coginchaug High School on Pickett Lane in Durham, from 12 to 4 p.m. All donations will be turned over to Horns for Kids, a nonprofit organization that supports school music programs
Town Times Community Briefs throughout Connecticut. Their main purpose is to encourage children to experience the thrill of performing music in school and as a lifelong activity. The organization cleans and repairs the donations it receives and redistributes them to public schools. Please help students who might not otherwise afford to study music by donating an instrument. This project is the Eagle Scout service project of Tristan Sayah. To learn more about the Horns for Kids program or to make a tax de-
Index of Advertisers
A jazz evening Come to the CRHS café at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, June 7, for “An Evening of Jazz” featuring the Coginchaug Jazz Ensemble and Dixieland Ensemble with special guests, the Galvenized Jazz Band. Tickets are available in the CRHS music office. For more info, call 860-349-7215.
Pancreatic cancer reasearch fund has local roots The Sunrise 18-Hole Stroll is an early morning walk at TPC River Highlands in Cromwell during the Travelers Championship. All net proceeds will benefit The Lustgarten Foundation, the nation’s largest private foundation dedicated solely to funding pancreatic cancer research. Held on June 26 at 7:30 a.m., the Sunrise 18-Hole Stroll aims to raise money and awareness for muchneeded research for pancreatic cancer, America’s
fourth-leading cause of cancer deaths. Fifteen-year-old Brittany Vose created this event in honor of her father, John Vose, who passed away from pancreatic cancer when she was just five years old. Brittany’s mom is Pat O’Connor, formerly of Middlefield. This is Brittany’s third annual event, second 18-Hole Stroll, with the first two years raising more than $32,000 for pancreatic cancer research. Brittany said, “Sadly, I learned the devastating impact of pancreatic cancer, having lost my beloved father. That’s why I am joining together with The Lustgarten Foundation in his honor to fight this deadly disease. I know he would be proud.” The event will kick off with registration starting at 6:30 a.m. and the walk from 7:30 to 9:30 a.m. After, enjoy some of golf’s greatest players and help raise awareness and money to fund pancreatic cancer research efforts. The color purple represents pancreatic cancer, so Brittany is asking that you wear the color purple, and she is hopeful that the “Gallery” will be filled with that color. With an overall survival rate of just six percent, pancreatic cancer is a disease
with no prevention, no early tests and, unless detected in its early stages, no cure. The Lustgarten Foundation works to advance scientific and clinical research related to the diagnosis, treatment and cure of pancreatic cancer. One hundred percent of all donations to the foundation will go directly to pancreatic cancer research. Ann Walsh, director of events for The Lustgarten Foundation, said, “We are grateful for the support of Brittany and her team. It is because of the dedication and determination of individuals like this that we’re able to not only raise muchneeded funding, but also much-needed awareness of pancreatic cancer.” For more info and to register, visit www.lustgarten.org/18holestroll or call 1-866-789-1000.
Corrections We strive to bring you the most accurate information available each week, but if you see something in Town Times that isn’t quite right, give us a call at 860-349-8000, and we’ll do our best to make things right.
The Family Practice For Your Pets
Sudesh Kumar DVM, MS, PhD 178 Parmelee Hill Road Durham, CT 06422 Phone 860-349-3485 1202032
To advertise in the Town Times, call Joy Boone at 860-349-8026 Addy & Sons..............................30 John’s Café & Catering .............16 Advertising Donations ...............16 Lyman Orchards..........................7 Adworks.....................................15 Masonicare..........................12, 18 Affordable Excavation................30 Meetinghouse Hill Property.......24 Allan’s Tree Service ..................28 Michalowski Agency..................19 APEC Electric............................25 Micheli Unisex Styling Salon.....11 Be Free Solar ............................25 Mickey Finn’s.............................20 Berardino Company Realtors....31 Middlefield Remodeling.............27 Berlin Bicycle Shop ...................23 Middlesex Community College....13 Binge, Bruce..............................26 Middlesex Dance Center...........13 Bonterra Italian Bistro................14 Middlesex Hospital Vocal Chords.....7 Brick Construction .....................25 Miss Joanne’s Learning Center ....22 Brockett Paving & Construction...29 MLT Painting .............................30 Cahill & Sons.............................28 Moroni & Son...............................6 Canine Fence Company ...........14 Mountain Spring Water .............24 Carlton Interiors.........................18 Movado Farm ............................30 Carmela Marie Catering............15 Natureworks ................................5 Carmine’s Restaurant .................5 Neil Jones Home Improvements ...25 Celltell Communications............21 New England Dental Health......20 Centurion Exterminating............24 New England Homes & Properties..31 Classic Wood Flooring ..............29 Paint Spot....................................5 Coldwell Banker Premier ..........31 Petruzelo Agency Insurance.....25 Conroy, John, DMD...................13 Pizza King....................................3 Core Club ....................................3 Planeta Electric .........................28 Country Flower Farms.................3 Raintree Landscaping ...............27 Custom Carpets ........................15 Raney, Jason, DMD....................7 CV Enterprises ..........................28 Realty Associates......................31 Desjarlais, Marsha ....................31 RLI Electric ................................30 Durham Auto Center .................11 Roblee Plumbing.......................27 Durham Dental ............................3 Rockfall Co ................................26 Durham Family Eyecare .............7 Rockfall PC Medic.....................24 Durham Veterinary Hospital........2 Rockwell Excavation & Paving....27 Edward Zavaski Agency ...........23 RSDL Home Improvements......26 ERBA Landscaping...................28 Rudolph’s Landscaping.............21 Executive Offices.......................32 Sharon McCormick Design .........5 Family Tree Care ......................29 Solutions By Hypnosis ................7 Fuel & Service .............................7 Split Enz ....................................29 Gaylord Hospital........................17 T-N-T Home & Lawncare..........29 Glazer Dental Associates..........11 Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork .27 Grace Lutheran Preschool ..........5 Torrison Stone & Garden, .........26 Grant Groundscapes.................24 VMB Custom Builders...............30 Griswold Plumbing Services .....24 Wallingford Auto Company .......10 Hansen Contracting ..................26 Whitehouse Construction..........29 Healing Hands Massage Therapy...25 Wildwood Lawn Care ................27 Ianniello Plumbing.....................28 Window Man..............................22 Jay Landscaping .......................26 Windows Plus............................18 JC Farm & Greenhouse ............11
ductible donation, contact Tristan at L.Sayah@sbcglobal.net or come to the instrument drive.
Friday, May 20, 2011
Fax 860-349-8649
Providing Quality Care for Your Pets Through Medicine Surgery Dentistry Radiology Behavior Counseling Wellness Programs and More
www.durhamdvm.com
Friday, May 20, 2011
3
Town Times
Board of Education finds cuts, passes budget at 3.45 percent By Mark Dionne Special to the Town Times
uses a junior high model, where teachers teach individual subjects. No one said if cross-certification would leave enough certified teachers to cover the necessary subjects. The idea of eliminating a school nurse position, proposed in an earlier budget and then dropped after protests from parents and the nurses, also briefly came back for discussion. Several board members
1202186
At the May 11 Board of Education (BOE) meeting at John Lyman Elementary School, board members discussed three positions for possible elimination before making numerous other cuts to the 2011-12 Regional School District 13 (RSD13) budget. The board approved a budget with a net increase of 3.45 percent without new personnel cuts. The previous budget failed to pass by 80 votes. Among its other recommendations, the administrative team proposed not hir-
ing a replacement for late riculum Carol Luckenbach math teacher Phil Martel agreed that reducing the inand reducing the high struction time would have school’s Algebra I from one an impact and added that it and a half to one credits. would take significant work This move would save mon- over the summer to change the course. ey on salary and Members of benefits but reBOE District the board, induce math inMeeting: May 25 cluding Norman struction time Hicks and Kerfor the students, Referendum on Flanagan, which caused BOE budget: May 26 rie asked if a teachsome concern ing position could be elimiamong board members. Superintendent of nated from the grade 6 ConSchools Sue Viccaro, while temporary program. Grade noting that other schools in 6 Contemporary is schedthe area have Algebra I as a uled to have class sizes of 19 one credit course, said that students. Other classes at that this would be removing half level have as many as 25. a year of instruction time Memorial principal and could conceivably affect Kevin Brough noted that the test scores. Director of Cur- Contemporary program
1 FREE PIZZA TOPPING With purchase of large Pizza (Must bring ad)
www.coreclubllc.com
Every Thursday • 5 - 9 pm 860-346-2131 2100 South Main St. Middletown
Don’t Sit Get Fit!!
See BOE, page 15
USPS 021-924 Published weekly by Record-Journal Publishing Co., d/b/a Town Times, P.O. Box 265, Middlefield, CT 06455. Periodicals Postage Paid at Middlefield, CT and at additional mailing offices. P O S T M A S T E R: Send address changes to Town Times, P.O. Box 265, Middlefield, CT 06455.
1183309
“The CORE Team”
Live Acoustic Music
expressed fear of altering a math course or the elementary classes without more study. By law, the board had to approve a budget for it to go to a vote on May 26.
1ST Annual Biggest Loser $39.95 Weight Loss Challenge per month Get a Team of 4 Together Runs May 23 - July 1
Kettebells
Kick Boxing Group Cycle R.I.P.P.E.D. Boot Camp
Pilates
Family Discount Special $39.95, other family member $19.95 350 Main St., Durham (Carolyn Adams Complex) • 860-349-9100
1198649
Yoga
1202720
Line Dance
unlimited classes
William J. Witkowski, D.M.D. 360 D Main Street, Durham Allan A. Witkowski, D.M.D. (860) 349-1123 We will submit claims to all insurances
1202961
It’s time to start your Vegetable Garden Over 60 varieties of Tomatoes including Heirlooms Our own grown Herbs - Best in the state!
Hanging Baskets $2.00 off with this Ad, expires Mon., 5/23/11
Town Times & Places
4 FRIDAY
May 20 Plymouth Rocks! Korn School’s fourth grade students have their class trip to Plymouth today. Volunteer Recognition Lyman School’s Volunteer Recognition Assembly is today at 10 a.m.
SATURDAY
May 21 Cheese Making The Durham Fair Foundation is sponsoring a session on Making Cheese at Home at 9 a.m. at the United Churches Fellowship Hall at the corner of Routes 17 and 68 in Durham. Family Movie Night The Durham Co-op Nursery School will hold its second annual Family Movie Night at the Durham Fairgrounds for the showing of the film Kung Fu Panda on a two-story inflatable screen under the stars. Doors open at 7 p.m. Movie begins at sunset. Free entertainment will be provided, and a concession will be open. For ticket information or to learn how you can help sponsor the event, call the Durham Co-op at 860-349-9885. Rain date is June 11. Vocal Chords The Middlesex Hospital Vocal Chords, under the musical direction of Gina Fredericks, will present their 22nd annual Spring Concert at Portland High School at 7:30 p.m. on High Street in Portland. For tickets, call 860-347-2787 or 860342-3120 or visit www.vocalchords20.org Senior Spring Fling Come join the Durham Senior Citizen’s Board in celebrating with a Spring Fling for Older American Month at the Durham Activity Center from 12 to 2 p.m. We will have music and refreshments will be offered. A cake will be donated by Kim’s Cottage Confections in Durham. Call 860-343-6724 or register at the Activity Center at Senior Lunches on Monday and Wednesdays. PALS Book Sale PALS, the Durham Public Library friends group, is conducting a book sale from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission to the sale is free. An early bird preview will begin at 9 a.m. until
10 a.m. The sale takes place in the lower level of the Library at 7 Maple Ave in Durham. The library is accepting donations of gently used books for the sale. Please donate your used fiction, non-fiction and how-to books. Sorry, the organizers cannot accept donations of textbooks or books that are damaged by use or mildew. Proceeds go to provide the extras for the library and help to keep the taxpayerfunded expenses minimal. Call PALS at 860-349-1916 for preview sale entrance fee. DAR Genealogy “Past Generations Come Alive Through DAR Genealogy” will be held at the Keeney Memorial Cultural Center, 200 Main St. in Wethersfield, at 9 am. This workshop is open to anyone interested in learning about the work of the DAR and the application process to become a member. The workshop will consist of a morning and two afternoon sessions with a box lunch available (reserved in advance). The deadline is May 14. To reserve a seat, contact Beth Witham at 860-285-8778 or bwitham1@comcast.net. Totally RED Come see the Independent Day School put on MAPA’s production of Totally RED, today and tomorrow at 2 p.m. at IDS. For more info and ticket prices, call IDS at 860-347-7235. Car Wash Middlefield Federated Youth is holding their annual car wash and blessing from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. This fundraiser benefits their Mission trip to Brooklyn, NY, this coming July.
MONDAY
May 23 Durham 60+ Durham 60+ will meet at 1 p.m. at the United Churches fellowship hall located at the corner of Rt. 68 and Main. At this meeting there will be a variety table/raffle with items contributed by the members. Come join the fun with a social hour to follow. Come to also sign up for one of the trips being offered to the membership, and they are welcoming new members. The club does not meet in July and August.
Friday, May 20, 2011
TUESDAY
WEDNESDAY
FRIDAY
May 24
May 25
May 27
Free Breakfast Middlesex Health Care Center in Middletown will be sponsoring a breakfast at the Middlefield Senior Center. Reservations for this breakfast must’ve been made by May 16. Space is limited for this popular event. Middlesex Health Care generously donates the breakfast and also is a great support with volunteering to call bingo and bringing delicious refreshments. Please call the center if you would like to come to the breakfast, and as always we ask that you “lug a mug,” helping us go green, so we can cut down on paper waste. Call Antoinette at 860-349-7121. DARE The Memorial students’ DARE graduation ceremony begins at 6:30 p.m. at Memorial School. White’s Farm Community Forum Part 2 The Durham Board of Selectmen and Conservation Commission invite you to attend the White’s Farm Community Forum -Part 2 at 7 p.m. in the CRHS auditorium. This is a continuation of a discussion that was started in July of 2009 regarding White’s Farm, with a special focus on issues related to its frequent flooding as well as any other matters of interest to the public. Since the meeting, a study was conducted by the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service entitled “Allyn Brook Rehabilitation Project Conceptual Design and Channel Alignment Options,” which will be presented at the forum. White’s Farm is a large tract of meadows and fields, lying north of the Durham Fairgrounds and south of Route 68. It is part of the floodplain for the Coginchaug River and is the most popular and frequently visited open space property in Durham. It is used for passive recreation by individuals and organized groups and provides some opportunities for active recreation (e.g. skating pond). The public is invited to attend and provide input and comments to the Board of Selectmen and Conservation Commission regarding White’s Farm, its use and its management.
Healing Eucharist Come to the Church of the Epiphany, Main Street in in Durham, at 9 a.m. for the weekly Holy Eucharist with healing. Knit Club Come knit or crochet at the Durham Activity Center every Wednesday from 6:30 to 8 p.m. TOPS Join the TOPS meetings every Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. at the Durham Town Hall third floor meeting room. For more info, call Naomi at 860-349-9558 or Bonnie at 860349-9433. Concert The John Lyman School third and fourth grade choral concert will be held at 2:15 and 6:30 p.m. Veterans’ Employment Workshop Linda Schwartz, Terry Brennan and Jeff Thierfeld are the featured speakers for this program from 6 to 8 p.m. in the Hubbard Room at Russell Library, 123 Broad St. in Middletown. According to a March article in the Washington Post, unemployment for young veterans of the Iraq and Afghanistan wars is at 21.1 percent. This is signifigantly higher than the 16.6 percnet unemployment rate that nonveterans of the same 18-24 year old age group are experiencing. There will be presentation and a panel discussion on this issue, and the speakers will give advice on resum`es and job interviewing. After the presentation, an open discussion will follow. Veterans of all eras are welcome.
Tot Time The MOMS Club of Durham and Middlefield sponsors a weekly Tot Time at the Middlefield Community Center. It is held every Friday from 10:30 a.m. to noon at Peckham Park. If rainy, the location is the Middlefield Community Center. For more info on the MOMS Club, please contact Ann at momsdurhammiddlefield@yahoo.com.
THURSDAY
May 26 Farmers’ Market The Durham Farmers’ Market is every Thursday from 3 to 6 p.m. on the town green through Sept. 8. Today’s theme is Strong School’s select chorus. Visit www.durhamfarmersmarket.org for more info. Concert The Korn School chorus concert will be held at Coginchaug at 6:30 p.m.
MONDAY
May 30 The Transfer Station is closed today. RSD13 Closing RSD13 schools will be closed today because of Memorial Day. Parade The Durham Memorial Day Parade will step off at 9:15 a.m. at the corner of Haddam Quarter Road and Main Street and then continue down Main Street to the Town Green. Parade participants should assemble at the corner between 8:15 and 8:30. The parade will take place rain or shine. Immediately following the parade there will be a ceremony at the Town Green honoring our nation’s servicemen and servicewomen. Any organizations wishing to participate in the parade or if you have any questions concerning the parade please contact parade chairman Bob Francis at 860-349-0881. 10K Road Race & 4K fun run The 34th running of the Washington Trail 10K Road Race will take place in Durham today. A feature again this year will be a 4K Fun Run, starting at the same time. Race time will be at 11 a.m. sharp following the Memorial Day parade. The start and finish of the races are at Coginchaug High School on Picket Lane, just off Route 17. Registration will take place at the high school beginning at 9 a.m. and will close at 10:45 a.m. Find registration forms, registration fee and more info at www.DMExchangeclub.com . The races are hosted by the town of Durham and the Exchange Club.
Friday, May 20, 2011
5
Town Times
iDevices enter a test period at CRHS
Middlefield budget passes
By Mark Dionne Special to the Town Times
By Chuck Corley Special to the Town Times
What do you think of students using personal hand-held technology, like iPads and cell phones, in the classroom? Answer our poll at www.towntimes.com.
Middlefield held its annual town budget meeting on May 16, at which time residents reviewed the town’s operational budget. While the presented budget estimated a 28.34 mill rate, increasing the rate by .91 mills from 2010-11, this number included the education budget that was previously voted down. Of the $15,622,562 of expenditures projected for 2011-12, only $4,211,979 are for town expenses, excluding the education budget. This is
still an approximately 10 percent increase from the $3,843,175 in expenditures approved for 2010-11. Part of this increase stems from the town’s interest payment on Powder Ridge, which increased by $60,000 from 2010-11 to 2011-12. However, First Selectman Jon Brayshaw noted that part of the town’s debt service payment will go down so long as the town enters into a longterm bond for Powder Ridge. Brayshaw also pointed out that the town will need to pay $25,000 in taxes to the See Middlefield, page 27
www.carminesdurham.com for our menu
Now taking enrollment for 2011-2012 School Year 1055 Randolph Rd Middletown, CT (860) 346-0766
Carmine's Pizza & Italian Take-Out
Call for more information
(860) 349-5411
Grace Lutheran Preschool
We Deliver!
Your Organic Gardening Headquarters
1201236
casts are available in levelappropriate foreign languages. There are ways teachers can use hand-held devices and wi-fi to poll or quiz a classroom and get immediate feedback. “If they (hand-held devices) didn’t play music and make calls, we would have accepted them a long time ago,” Hauser said.
CRHS is not about to become a digital free-for-all. There will still be no iPods or cell phone use in the hallways. Teachers will be instructing the students to turn the devices off if they interfere with the learning environment or become a safety issue. Use in the classroom will be at the teachers’ discretion. There will be an emphasis on the etiquette of using these devises as well. Personal technology use, Hauser said, is “one of the big conversations in education.” He noted the numerous devices adults used and asked, “Is this a tool that helps me be effective? And if it is, we should be teaching kids how to use it.” At the end of the school year, CRHS faculty will give feedback about the policy switch. In the summer or fall, Hauser will meet again with the Policy Committee to discuss the use of technology at CRHS and to consider the future of the ban.
1193975
At their May 11 meeting, the Board of Education (BOE) voted to lift the ban on student use of personal handheld technology for the rest of the school year. This was done at the urging of Coginchaug Regional High School (CRHS) principal Andre Hauser who, along with the BOE’s Policy Committee, wanted to keep the school up with the times. Previously, students at CRHS were not allowed to use devices like cell phones and iPads during the school day. Many of the students, of course, had the electronics for use as soon as they left the building, but the rule during school hours, according to Hauser, was “that they be out of sight and turned off.” For the rest of this school year, students at CRHS will be able to use their Blackberries, Droids, iPads and other similar devices. The intent of
the reprieve is to aid and not distract from the educational environment, Hauser said. “The focus is educational use and appropriate use.” In an interview, Hauser noted several free applications that could be useful in a classroom. A free calculator can replace one the students currently have to buy. Pod-
FREE Garden Walks & Workshops EVERY WEEK!
cool plants and tools, too! Learn more at www.naturework.com
203-484-2748
1201816
518 Forest Road (Rte. 22), Northford, CT 06472
Sharon McCormick Design, LLC Fine Interior Design The Paint Spot
40 Main Street, Suite 201 Durham, Connecticut 06422
• Paint • Wallpaper • Shades & Blinds • Flooring • Computerized Color Matching
860-349-1349 www.sharonmccormickdesign.com
benjaminmoore.com 1193970
1201813
34-36 Shunpike Rd., Cromwell (Behind KFC) The Paint Spot 860-635-1111 34-36 Shunpike Rd www.paintspot.net Cromwell, CT 06416 benjaminmoore.com 860-635-1111 www.paintspot.com
Voted Greater Hartford’s Best Interior Designer
Charity in Town Times
6
Friday, May 20, 2011
Annual Durham Lyman Orchards presents check to American Cancer Society Pet Fair
The third annual Pet Fair took place in the rain Sunday, May 15.
There were 55 pets in the parade and around 3,000 people in attendance throughout the day.
Photos by Cheri Kelley
There were 40 shelters and rescues at the fair and over 100 adoptable pets.
On Saturday, April 16, John Lyman lll (left), executive vice president of Lyman Orchards in Middlefield, presented a check for more than $44,000 to Lynn Kipphut and Mary Kate Doherty of the American Cancer Society. The presentation was made prior to Lyman’s Easter Apple Hunt magic show. The check represented $1 for every admission ticket sold at Lyman’s 11th annual Corn Maze last fall. The maze had a record attendance. This was the 11th consecutive year that Lyman Orchards has contributed to this good cause. Lyman’s 11-year total contribution is $313,034. Submitted photo
A FAMILY BUSINESS SERVING FAMILIES
Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late! Order Our Buy Ahead Program Today! HOD 00000591
• • • • •
Automatic Fuel Oil Delivery Burner Installation 24-Hour Emergency Service Save 15-20% on Your Electric Diesel Fuel Call Lenny or Matthew
860-388-2298 1202803
For More Information www.moronioil.com
3
$
39
/Gal.
1st payment due 5/30, 2nd payment due 6/30 Deduct 2 cents/gal. if Paid in Full by 5/30 Additional 2 cent/gal. discount if 1000 gal. or more! CAP & BUDGET DISCOUNT PLANS ALSO AVAILABLE CT Lic. #3022002 384654 201817
S1 Lic. #401319
THREE GENERATIONS, OVER 60 YEARS OF CONTINUOUS AND RELIABLE PERSONAL HEATING OIL DELIVERY
Friday, May 20, 2011
7
Town Times
Old Home Days 2011 Grand Marshals revealed voted mother and wife. She tended the small vegetable plot next to the house and made sure her four children, George Jr., Sherry, Karen and Linda were well-fed, healthy and happy. (All four kids are doing well, living in other states with families and children of their own.) “What I miss the most,” Dot said during the interview, “is having my children and grandchildren close by.”
‘The long awaited revelation is here... George and Dorothy (“Dot”) Pogmore are the Grand Marshals of this year’s Old Home Days parade. George and Dot have been Middlefield residents since 1954, first coming to Lake Beseck, and then moving to the Pogmore Farm on Route 147 where they have resided for nearly 50 years. They are the perfect couple to open Old Home Days 2011: “Celebrating Our Past — Looking to Our Future — Embracing Our Agricultural Heritage.” George and Dot arrived here from Wallingford where George had grown up on his family’s farm. From as far back as he can remember, George has been lovingly sowing seeds and watching them grow. The richness of the earth calls to him every late winter; when his seeds arrive, he sows them individually in huge metal tubs he has in his basement.
Dorothy is a wonderful singer with a perfect husky, country western voice that she uses to accompany her guitar. Of her many guitars — she likes the older Gibson the best. On Wednesday nights she can be found jamming with Hank Crandall and other country singers in his barn. (Hank’s band was featured at the Lions Club dinner during Old Home Days 2007.) George
makes sure she gets there as Dot does not drive. Fact is, she never has; of course, she used to ride her horse, but not anymore! Since George and Dot’s humble beginnings with memories of tending livestock, pulling weeds, milking cows and selling vegetables on the Wallingford family farm (where George’s mother taught See Pogmore, page 18
• Invisalign • Free Consultation • Clear Braces • Flexible Financing • Digital X-rays • Cutting Edge Technology
Apple Barrel open every day, 9am-6pm
FREE GAS CARD!
Dot is a delightful and de-
85 Church St., Middletown, CT 06457 (860) 228-9800 • www.raneyorthodontics.com 1201233
Get relief!
George and Dot Pogmore.
1195571
(George worked a normal eight-hour day at Meriden’s Cummings Plant as a sheet metalist and then another eight-10 hours a day before and after “work” on their farm when their four children were young.) Keeping the seeds warm and moist indoors at first allows the budding plant to grow strong and healthy roots. Then George transplants them to his greenhouse in April/May where they strengthen their leaves and stalks. Unhealthy plants are weeded out. Once the last frost happens in May, George takes the plants outside and plants them in welltended beds, in rows and rows on his many acres — all by hand! Traditionally he started over 5,000 pepper plants this way (as well as tomatoes, squash, etc). Now approaching what many of us would call an elder age (80-something), he has taken that number down to about 1,000. He just loves watching things grow!
By Summer Lerch Special to the Town Times
Instant Rewards:
SOLUTIONS BY HYPNOSIS
spend $25 at the Apple Barrel & get a $5 gas card! Spend $50, get a $10 gas card.
with Mary Ellen Moneymaker, CHt
860-349-7039
Offer available thru 5/31/11
Pain Management, Anxiety/Stress Relief, Weight Control, Smoking Cessation, Behavior Modification
Visit the Garden Center for annuals, herbs, & vegetable plants.
SolutionsByHypnosis.com
VE A E H ED W OV M
Plumbing, Heating, & Cooling • Large Volume Discounts • Emergency Burner Repair • New Installation on Boiler/Furnace
elcome Busses W
1201814
1199391
6 Way Road, Middlefield, CT
J. Marotta
32 Reeds Gap Road, Middlefield • 860-349-1793 lymanorchards.com
Durham, CT
(860) 349-4328
S1-394808 P1-282720
243 Main St. Durham, Rt. 17 Corner Main & Maiden
Dr. Frances E. Sites, O.D.
1201214
Experienced Doctors Small Town Service Philip M. Perrino, O.D.
Eyecare • Glasses • Contacts 1201240
860-349-2323
Town Times Opinion
8
Friday, May 20, 2011
What’s black and white and “red” all over? Town Times 488 Main St., P.O. Box 265, Middlefield, CT 06455 http://www.towntimes.com News Advertising Fax Marketplace
(860) (860) (860) (877)
349-8000 349-8026 349-8027 238-1953
news@towntimes.com advertising@towntimes.com (toll-free)
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 Cheri Kelley, Reporter Kimberley E. Boath, Advertising Director Joy Boone, Advertising Sales Dee Wilcox, Office Manager Contributors: Chuck Corley, Diana Carr, Trish Dynia, Elisabeth Kennedy, Judy Moeckel, Frank Logiudice, Michelle P. Carter and Sue VanDerzee.
A newspaper! There’s nothing like that feeling of holding rough newspaper pages in your hands, flipping through as you eye the headlines, photos and captions at your leisure. We know; we love it, too! If you recall, Town Times celebrated its 17th birthday last month. For all these years, every Friday, the newspaper has been delivered to each resident and business in Durham, Middlefield and Rockfall — and we even have subscribers as far away as Maine and Florida, folks who say they want to stay in touch with Middlefield, their hometown as a child, or Durham, where their kids and grandkids live. The rest of you reading this probably count on the community news being delivered right to your home for free. Lucky you! While we’re still devoted to our print product, we want to take the opportunity to
remind people that we have a website (www.towntimes.com) that is updated daily. We use our website to announce breaking news, post photos that didn’t make it in the paper and keep the community in the loop with up-to-theminute announcements. If you haven’t yet been a responder to our weekly online poll, this is where you’ll do that, too. Every weekday morning we offer “Today in Town,” a snippet of the day’s local events, meetings and cancelations, as well as the local weather and fun facts of the day, right on our homepage. So while we pick the best photos, most important news and most local and timely announcements for our print publication, our website will have it all there too, plus more. Oh, and you can “like us” on Facebook as well. Stephanie Wilcox, editor
Letters to the Editor Why I’m voting “yes” for the sale of Powder Ridge If the residents of Middlefield vote “no” on the sale of Powder Ridge, then you can be reasonably sure that we will never have a ski resort again, and the town will be stuck with the entire cost of the property. What future buyer would spend the time and considerable expense of placing a bid on the property with the knowledge that town residents might then also vote his offer down? So voting “yes” is a much better deal for us. At least we get $1 million plus the buyer
spends $2 million on improvements to the property, and we get the ski resort back. The ski area will be paying taxes to the town. Over the years, this could amount to a considerable sum of money. If the buyer goes bankrupt, we own the improvements. The ski area will probably employ at least 10 full- time and 200 parttime workers. Many of the workers might live in Middlefield. I keep hearing people ask why we are willing to sell the property for $1 million when we paid well over $3 million for it. They are overlooking the fact that one of the major reasons for buying the property was to prevent a massive housing project from be-
Letters policy The Town Times intends to present a forum for the lively exchange of ideas and issues. To facilitate the publication of your contributions, several guidelines should be followed. Letters to the editor must be signed, with a phone number included. The writer will be called to confirm authorship. No anonymous letters will be printed. Contributions by any individual or group will not be published more frequently than once a month. Every effort will be made to print all letters received. However, the selection and date of publication will be at the discretion of the editor. Finally, the opinions expressed by our letter writers are not necessarily those of this newspaper. Deadline: Tuesday noon for Friday publication.
ing built on this land. One of the proposals several years ago before the town bought the property was to construct 300 housing units there. Assuming an average of two school-age children per unit, Middlefield would have needed a new school, and our taxes would have increased considerably. The new purchase agreement limits the number of new homes to four. Ever since we bought the property in December 2008, the town has been trying to get a buyer who would restore the ski area. Now we are finally within days of making this happen. If we blow this deal, then Middlefield will lose its ski resort, the area will become a playground for vandals and the town loses millions of dollars. So I’m voting “yes” for Powder Ridge. Dick Boynton, Middlefield President Lake Beseck Association
Vote “yes” to bring Powder Ridge back to Middlefield How awesome it is for Middlefield to finally have the opportunity to close a
deal on Powder Ridge and bring our winter playground back to us! Powder Ridge has played a major role in Middlefield’s history since 1959. I am looking forward to Alpine’s presentation at Memorial School on Tuesday, May 24, at 7 p.m. What they want to do is awesome, and we will be proud of the ski resort they have in store for us! You can check out the excitement via a simple Google search of their video “Alpine releases Powder Ridge presentation.” This is a win-win. The ski area will create many, many full-and part-time jobs, especially for youth, as well as construction jobs during the rebuilding process. It will help Middlefield businesses thrive and create tax revenue to the town. It will also eliminate our tax bill to Wallingford and Meriden and our responsibility to pay for expensive liability insurance. We won’t have to spend tremendous amounts of money for demolition and removal of unsafe buildings, and the threat of housing with its additional school taxes will disappear. Don’t be fooled by scare tactics or get caught up with inaccurate information. Attend the hearing, ask your own questions and hear the
facts! Alpine is a natural fit for Middlefield and will bring Powder Ridge back in an even more exciting way! There is no reason to delay the purchase. Relive and revive the memories! Vote YES for the Ridge on Tuesday, May 24, 7 p.m. at Memorial School! Amy Poturnicki, Middlefield
Powder Ridge giveaway I read with interest Jim Malcolm’s recent letter to the editor relevant to the giveaway of Powder Ridge Ski Area. Jim presented a lot of very important facts in his article, some I knew, and some I didn’t. However, the information Jim presented is factual. I still don’t understand why our first selectman went with a series of Short Term Borrowing vs. Long Term Borrowing, a maneuver that has cost the town thousands of dollars. Anyone with any financial knowledge at all should question this action. Another maneuver incorporated by our “leader” was See Powder Ridge, page 29
Friday, May 20, 2011
Town Times Columns
Before you form your opinion on Powder Ridge sale... agreed that $1,000,000 In anticipation of was a fair price. the town meeting and As to the sevenPowder Ridge sale year interest-free vote next week, the mortgage, it is not unBoard of Selectmen common for towns to wants you to know offer tax abatements that we have been in and other financial total harmony in the incentives to compamatter of selling Pownies looking to exder Ridge Ski Area to pand, move to town Alpine LLC. We and or start new operaothers have worked tions. New compafor nearly six years nies moving to town on various issues and permutations per- Jon Brayshaw, Middlefield usually bring outside money and spin-off taining to the ski area benefits (like jobs) and its survival. into town. This “enThere is no subject couragement” has that has captured prompted Alpine to more of the board’s agree to spend miltime and attention than Powder Ridge and our various lions on the restoration of PR over negotiations. If you don’t know the the next few years, and it has details, it’s not due to our lack of try- prompted the state to “give” us a ing to disseminate information as it $500,000 grant to help. As you form your opinion on the developed. At this point, there seems to be one sale, please remember that the item that crops up more than others townspeople voted in a duly called having to do with the “value” of what referendum to buy Powder Ridge. we are selling. How is it that we are We now encourage you to take the selling the property for only next step and attend the hearing and $1,000,000? It’s simple; that’s what meeting next Tuesday and vote to apthe property is worth. Today, our as- prove the sale to Alpine. On other fronts, I’m void of comsessor places the land value at $1,495,700 to be exact. That value is ment this week due to my overbased on no land use restrictions on worked brain, other than to say that any of the property. In other words the town budget passed this week. today without restrictions (accord- We will now be waiting for the RSD13 ing to our zoning regulations), an school budget to pass before we have owner could legally build about 70 the data to set a mill rate. I can tell residential homes in what is an AG 2 you that the preparation of this zone. The “agreement” with Alpine year’s budget for town operations contains restrictions on the land was taken apart by our outstanding records removing the ability of Board of Finance using a microscope Alpine (or anyone) to build homes and tweezers. It has been a real chal(other than four owner/manager-re- lenge that may not be really over. lated homes). This restriction de- The state contributions are in and prives the new owner of the underly- then out...yes and then no…more ing value of the many acres as resi- and then less. I still have a hard time dential building lots. Ask yourself, understanding how we put a man on how much would you pay for a build- the moon. Thanks for listening, and by the ing lot if you were prevented from using it to build a new home on? The way, you can tour Powder Ridge on bottom line is that by removing the either Saturday or Sunday afternoon land’s potential, the buyer and seller 1-5. See you there.
From The Desk Of The First Selectman
Middlefield police stats for April incidents involved an 10 accidents Trooper Eric Kelley open window, and the Two DWI arrests suspect cut through the 253 infractions issued screen and gained ac20 warnings issued cess. Call 911 if you see Six criminal investigations anything/anyone suspicious, either 539 total calls for service There was one residential burgla- on foot or in a car. There have been ry on April 21 on Laurel Brook Road, two complaints about someone walkand a second on May 12 on Burt Dri- ing in the backyard of houses, but ve. The troopers ask that residents the complaints came hours late. Relock doors and windows. One of the port these concerns immediately.
Trooper Talk
9
A tough but fair budget Although it still needs to be approved by state workers, last week’s announcement of an agreement between Governor Malloy and employee unions could represent a very good deal for taxpayers. Balancing a $3.3 billion budget deficit is inevitably going to be difficult and involve some very tough choices. Indeed Governor Malloy received plenState Rep. ty of criticism for making a gutsy move — bargaining that he could balance the state budget by negotiating $1.6 billion in concessions from state workers. He appears to have won that bargain, and Durham and Middlefield residents are the beneficiaries. Like many of you, I have long felt that our towns do not always receive enough state funding relative to the taxes we pay. I am pleased to report that Durham and Middlefield not only will have their funding preserved, but will actually see a small increase in state funding in 2012 and 2013. The more our towns and regional school district receive in state funding, the less dependent we are on property taxes. In addition, we were able to defeat earlier proposals to raise income taxes on the middle class, eliminate the property tax credit and raise the gas tax — all ideas I strongly opposed. My priorities going into the budget process: control spending, reorganize government to make it run more efficiently and limit the impact on Connecticut students, seniors, small businesses and the middle class. We needed to protect investments in education and job creation so we can grow our economy. Most importantly, we needed a fiscally responsible budget with no borrowing, no gimmicks and no one-time revenue shots in the arm. I serve as vice chairman of the Government Administration and Elections (GAE) Committee, which oversees state government organization, and I am pleased to report that this year the budget reduces the number of state agencies fully by one third. The budget achieves savings where they are needed most: in redundant overhead and administration costs that add no value to taxpayers.
This coming year, the budget cuts spending by $1.5 billion. I voted against last year’s budget in part because I believed it was irresponsible. Instead of balancing the budget — as our state constitution requires — it kicked the can down the road. Instead of making tough choices, the budget relied on borrowing and gimmicks as Connecticut budgMatt Lesser ets have for 20 years. Maybe people thought an economic boom would rescue us, or maybe they just wanted to avoid tough choices — either way, the borrowing of the past left us with a maxed-out state credit card and one of the highest debt burdens in the country. This budget is fundamentally different. It is balanced, and instead of increasing our debt, we start to pay some of it back. While the employee give-backs will be difficult, they are absolutely essential to our state getting its fiscal house in order. I appreciate the good and often unheralded work of our state’s civil servants, but there is simply no alternative to these concessions that avoids mass layoffs and protects the character of our state. I strongly urge state employees to approve the negotiated concessions. Lastly, one final note: some political opportunists are claiming that there were easy alternatives. With much fanfare, they announced a “no tax increase budget,” claiming they could balance the budget without tax increases, without borrowing and without cutting spending for seniors, education or public safety. You can get every program and service you want, and it will not cost you a penny. Sounds awfully good, doesn’t it? Unfortunately, they are trying to pull a fast one on Connecticut taxpayers. While the so-called “no tax increase” budget did protect spending in many areas, it did so by using the kind of accounting tricks that would make an Enron executive blush, gimmicks that would have left the next generation of Connecticut residents deeply in debt. When the Hartford Courant took a close look at their budget, they called it a joke, and this alternate-reality budget was rejected as irresponsible by the CEOs of virtually every major corporation in Connecticut.
From The State Capitol
10
Town Times
Federal Emergency Homeowners Loan Program for residents facing foreclosure By Cheri Kelley Town Times As more and more news comes in about tax hikes, unemployment rates and home foreclosures, things may seem pretty bleak for many folks in our state. Durham and Middlefield are not exempt from these issues. According to Middlefield First Selectman, Jon Brayshaw, “Middlefield has two to three people in the foreclosure mode for non-payment of taxes and two to three others in line.” However, there is help out there for those who qualify. “The federal Emergency Homeowners Loan Program (EHLP) provides assistance to eligible Connecticut homeowners who are 90 days or more delinquent with their first mortgage payment as a result of having suffered a loss of income due to unemployment, underemployment or adverse economic conditions resulting from a
medical emergency or serious injury.” To really understand what that means, we’ve done some research to find out who is eligible. To qualify, in most cases, one must be looking at foreclosure and be at least 90 days behind on payments. The current household income needs to be equal to or less than 120 percent of the Area Median Income (AMI). For Durham and Middlefield, these are the figures taken from the Connecticut Housing Finance Authority (CHFA) website: the maximum income limit (FY 20082010) for a one-person household is $71,500; for a two-person household is $81,700; for a three-person household, it is $91,900; and for a four-person household, it is $102,100. The household income is all wages for all adult members of the household. To be eligible, the current yearly gross income must be at a minimum 15 percent less than what the homeowner’s
income was at the time they became unemployed, suffered from a medical emergency or serious injury or became underemployed. The homeowners must live in the property as their main residence. This property needs to be a single-family residence. One-to four-unit dwellings and condos are also included in this, but no commercial or business use of the property is permitted. Homeowners who are qualified need to, according to the CHFA, “have a reasonable likelihood of being able to resume repayment of the first mortgage obligation and meet other housing expenses and debt obligations within two years as determined by CHFA.” The EHLP loans will be completely forgiven five years after the monthly assistance is finished as long as the homeowners continue to live in the property and pay their See EHLP, page 26
Friday, May 20, 2011
Durham Library plant sale
The long line at the Durham Library plant sale last Saturday, top. David Turley had to put the top down on his car to bring his rosemary plant for the sale, below.
Submitted by Cyndi Shirshac
$5 LUBE, OIL & FILTER ~FOR NEW CUSTOMERS~ BUICK, CADILLAC, CHEVY, GMC, PONTIAC, SATURN
WE WANT YOUR BUSINESS!!!
*EXPIRES 5/31/11. NEW CUSTOMERS ONLY. DIESELS NOT INCLUDED. TAXES NOT INCLUDED. WLFD BUICK
Rt. 5, Wallingford (203) 269-8741 www.WallingfordBuickGMC.com
1201484
Friday, May 20, 2011
11
Town Times
Public hearing on Allyn Brook reconstruction planned May 24 By Sue VanDerzee Town Times The last several years have been tough on Allyn Brook and the surrounding White’s Farm in Durham, especially since the breach in 2005 of the upstream Allyn Brook Millpond dam. Conditions have been so tough, in fact, that residents who live around the brook and/or who love the ambiance of the wide flat valley banded together in an informal group called Friends of White’s Farm. The friends, along with the Durham Conservation Commission, have sponsored over the last two years or so a variety of clean-up activities on the farm property and along the streambed. They also asked town and
state officials to investigate what could be done about the deteriorating stream and resultant flooding of the surrounding area. That request by residents led to town officials contracting with non-profit Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) to survey the area and develop a conceptual plan for bringing the brook back to health and thus restoring the surrounding land. That report, with two options, will be presented at a public hearing on Tuesday, May 24, at 7 p.m. in the auditorium at Coginchaug Regional High School. The venue for the meeting makes it possible for a large attendance, which officials hope will be the case. The two options include two different routes for a
newly-cut channel for the brook. One option would have the brook join the Coginchaug River heading directly west from the current bridge over Maple Avenue with the junction in the tree line below Greenbacker’s farm. The second option would take the brook on a northerly curve, joining the river along Route 68 to the west of the current skat-
J.C. Farm & Greenhouses 385r Wallingford Rd. (Rt. 68) Durham, CT 06422 (860) 349-5649
Spring Sale Large Variety of 4” Premium Annuals
• Geraniums 4 1/2” pots
Middlefield Barber Shop
11” Hanging Baskets
2.49 ea.
14.99
$
24.99 Dozen
each large assorted variety
12” Coco Moss Basket $
2.49 ea. 24.99/dozen
4” pots $ Closed Sat. June 11
$
• New Guinea Impatiens
1202147
Shop 860-349-3389 Salon 860-349-8220
$
2.99 ea. $ 29.99/dozen $
Micheli’s Unisex Salon
Gift Certificates Available
The options are nearly equal in length (2,100 or 2,200 feet of streambed reconstruction), and thus the costs associated with do either one of them would be very close, estimated by the NRCS to be between $150,000 and $285,000 with $215,000 set as a reasonable expectation, based on previous bids for NRCS projects.
ing pond. According to the NRCS report, the purpose of the project would be to “create a channel (stream)-floodplain system congruent with stable, undisturbed natural streams. Stream stability is defined as the ability of a stream to maintain its pattern, dimension and profile over time while transporting the water and sediment generated by the watershed.”
$
19.99
• Large variety of
Annual Flowers
1.99 11.99
$ $
tray/6 plants
flat/48 plants • Large variety of
Annual Vegetable Plants
each
1.99 tray/6 plants
$
We carry a large variety $ 11.99 flat/48 plants of perennials and shrubs. Open 7 Days a Week - Mon.-Sat. 9 AM-6 PM, Sun. 9 AM-5 PM s r
r
1197262
Tues. & Thurs. 8-8 • Wed. 8-5:30 Fri. 8-5 • Sat. 6:30-12:30
Senior Citizen Discount Wed. & Fri. 193 Strickland Road, Middlefield
Your
Complete
Auto
Repair
Facility
Locally Owned & Operated Honest And Dependable Service • Friendly, Caring, Clean Atmosphere • Providing the Full Range of Dental Services • No More Silver Mercury Fillings
1190283
16 MAIN STREET, DURHAM 349-3368 WWW.GLAZERDENTAL.COM JASON GLAZER, DMD • KATE GLAZER, DMD
1193968
• State-of-the-Art Dentistry
featuring Mobil 1 Lube Express 428 Main St., Durham MON., TUE., & FRI 8-5:30; WED. & THUR. 8-7
Approved Auto Repair
349-CARE (2273) Rides to work and home available - locally s r
r
TM
TM
Middlefield Town Briefs
12
movements and meditative character of the practice develops a relaxed and positive spirit as well as a general sense of well-being. This class is free to seniors and is presented by Green Street Arts Center through the generosity of the Middlesex County Community Foundation and the George A. and Grace L. Long Foundation. Please register with Antoinette Astle at 860-349-7121 by May 20.
Middlefield Government Calendar (Unless otherwise indicated, all meetings are held in the Community Center.) Monday, May 23 11 a.m. — Middlefield Housing Authority Wednesday, May 25 6:30 p.m. —Planning and Zoning Commission 8 p.m. — Board of Education district meeting at Memorial School Thursday, May 26 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. — BOE budget referendum Thursday, June 2 7 to 10 p.m. — Economic Development Commission
T’ai Chi for seniors Seniors are welcome to complimentary T’ai Chi classes with Tom Cushing on
Levi Coe Library
May 25 and June 1, from 1 to 2 p.m. T’ai Chi is an ancient Chinese martial art which, when practiced with regularity, improves balance, disposition and overall health. The slow, gentle
Hours: The library is open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturdays. Visit
www.leviecoe.com or call the library at 860-349-3857 for information or to register for any program. You can also renew, reserve and check your library record on the website. Closing: The library will be closed Saturday, May 28, and Monday, May 30, for Memorial Day weekend. The library will be closed on Saturdays starting May 28 through Labor Day. Book Donations: The library is now accepting items in good condition for our annual November book sale. We do not accept textbooks or magazines. Thank you! New Museum Passes: The library now has the following museum passes,
Independent Living at Masonicare Health Center
E
njoy Affordability and Peace-of-Mind
If you’re tired of shoveling snow, mowing the lawn and keeping up with home repairs, consider independent living on the Masonicare Health Center campus in Wallingford.
“Being from the area, we didn’t have to leave old friends, yet we’ve made many new friends here. And we truly enjoy the worry-free lifestyle.“ ~ George and Anna Geer
With access to a host of activities, volunteering, spiritual services and amenities, it’s the perfect setting to enjoy a more relaxed lifestyle. Our over-55 apartment options vary in size and features, but all have: r One monthly rent that includes extended basic cable and all utilities except telephone r A 12-month lease contract r 24-hour emergency response and security services r 0QUJPOBM IPVTFLFFQJOH services, meal plan and online access
r On-site laundry room r 4BGF DPOWFOJFOU QBSLJOH r .BTPOJDBSF .FEJDBM Office Building just steps away with physicians and laboratory services r 4IPVME ZPV OFFE JU QSJPSJUZ access to Masonicare Health Center, its hospital unit and rehab therapy units
This lifestyle is popular, so plan ahead by getting your application in now. For more information, call The Masonicare HelpLine at 888-679-9997.
1196081
The independent living apartments at Masonicare Health Center include the Hawkins, Johnson and Wells Apartments.
Friday, May 20, 2011 which offer either free or reduced admission: Beardsley Zoo, CT State Parks & Forests Day Pass, Mystic Aquarium, Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art and CT’s Old State House. Please call the library for more info. May Programs: Call or stop by the library to register and for more information, call 860-349-3857. Knitting: Brought to you by Country Yarns of Wallingford. Two consecutive sessions, on Wednesday, May 25, and Wednesday, June 1, from 5 to 6:45 p.m. Bring your own knitting needles and yarn if you prefer, or they will be provided for you for a nominal materials charge of $10. You’ll be creating a “neck accent” to enjoy forever. Good for ages 14 and up. Space is limited. Healing Arts Program: Brought to you by Middlefield’s own Kim Blankenburg and Holly Marek. Join them in learning more about massage, reiki, meditation and hypnotherapy on Thursday, May 26, from 5:30 to 6:15 p.m. The instructors will also include demonstrations and a chance to take home a gift certificate for a massage. Relax and enjoy this special program at the library. Light refreshments will be provided. All are welcome! Wish List Books: Donate the following “Wish List Book” to our library: The Kingdom by Clive Cussler. If you choose to donate a book, you will be the first one to check it out! We will also add a bookplate to acknowledge your kind donation. Call or stop by the library for further details.
Middlefield man guilty in bank fraud Kerry Marshall, 52, of Main Street Middlefield, was found guilty of 20 counts of bank fraud and one count of fraud using an access device on Friday, May 13. According to evidence shown during the trial, Marshall acquired blank credit card checks without the cardSee Fraud, page 26
Durham Town Briefs
Friday, May 20, 2011
Board of Finance The Board of Finance met briefly on May 17, at which time they discussed the school budget. Finance director Maryjane Malavasi informed the board that, should the school budget pass at the May 26 referendum, then Durham will have a mill rate of 30.46 mills. The board scheduled a meeting for May 27 to set the mill rate. The board also transferred $25,000 from the reserve fund to pay for an air handling system for the Fire Department. The transfer received unanimous approval. Additionally, the board approved the tax collector’s suspense list for 2011-2012. This list covers taxes that the town no longer actively seeks. Board member Loraine Coe was curious if the list automatically includes taxes owed by deceased individuals, but Malavasi was unsure of the answer.
One final item brought before the board came from member Renee Primus Edwards, who acts as the Treasurer of the Ambulance Corps. She informed them that the corps hired an auditor and that the board should receive an audit report by their next meeting. Member Fran Korn noted that it has been three years since the board received a financial statement from the Ambulance Corps, and the last one was only a partial statement. (Chuck Corley/in attendance)
“Conversation� postponed “The Beauty and Value of Maps,� a “conversation� previously scheduled with local talent Connie Brown for May 23, is being postponed until October when the Durham Senior Citizens Board will resume its community program which highlights local artists,
historians and travelers. Cartographer Connie Brown will open the fall series with a presentation of her nationally recognized work creating oneof-a-kind thematic, travel and biographical wall maps in her Main Street Redstone Studios.
Durham Library
(All meetings will be held at the Durham Library unless otherwise noted. Check the town website at www.townofdurhamct.org for updates.) Monday, May 23 7 p.m. — Board of Selectmen on the third floor of the Town Hall Tuesday, May 24 7 p.m. — Economic Development Commission 7 p.m. —White’s Farm Community Forum, Part 2 at CRHS auditorium Wednesday, May 25 7:30 p.m. — Board of Education district meeting at Memorial School Thursday, May 26 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. — BOE budget referendum at Korn School 1:30 p.m. — Senior Citizen Board at Durham Activity Center Art Display: The annual RSD13 schools exhibit will be featured during May.
MIDDLESEX COMMUNITY COLLEGE
A COLLEGE Education
-XO\ $XJ REGISTER NOW Different classes each week to choose from!!
1202831
IS YOUR PASSPORT
Middlesex Dance Center 0$,1 67 ‡ 0,''/(),(/' ‡
START YOUR JOURNEY TODAY!
www.middlesexdancecenter.com
Open House: June 18, 9am-12pm
ORTHODONTICS
Take a Summer Course at MxCC!
Dr. John Conroy
Session I: May 25-June 20 Session II: June 22-August 1
www.conroyortho.com
Creating Beautiful Smiles!
IN-PERSON REGISTRATION FOR SUMMER COURSES IS GOING ON NOW!
1193214 1185008
• Children and adults • Cutting edge technology • Invisalign available • Lingual braces now available • No charge for first visit 282 Main Street Extension at Sanseer Mill, Middletown (near Stop & Shop) (860) 347-4618
Durham Government Calendar
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. To register for a be held Saturday, May 21, program, call 860-349-9544. Book Sale: PALS Book from 9 to 10 a.m. Regular sale Sale early bird preview will hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
SUMMER DANCE 3 Preschool Classes (ages 3-5) 2 Elementary Ballet Classes (ages 5-8) 3 Elementary Jazz & 3 Elementary Tap Classes Ballet, Tap, Jazz, & Lyrical Classes for ages 9+
13
Courses in Middletown, Meriden, and Online! For more information call the college at 860343-5800 or visit us online: www.mxcc.commnet.edu
14
Friday, May 20, 2011
Town Times
CRHS Track (Continued from page 1) position from some over cost and size.
Is your dog happy, safe & free like Kaia?
Even on a dreary, overcast day, the complex impressed everyone in attendance. The green field and the giant blue “C” on the 50-yard line were bright and bold. Those who climbed up the bleachers were treated to a nice view of the field, the school and the hills and woods of Durham. Adults long past playing days expressed a desire to start a game on the surprisingly soft turf. For the official first lap, Currlin was given the honor of firing the starter’s pistol. Fittingly for such a long-gestating project, the pistol misfired once. Some students raced around the track, clearly hoping to be the first
around. Others took a more leisurely pace. Like kids trapped inside for too long, the students took to the field in celebratory groups, playing with frisbees and footballs. Soccer players started running suicides. Currlin noted the work to be done in the future, such as lights, sound buffers, concession stands and restrooms. According to Currlin, the Benchwarmers booster club plans to donate a scoreboard. There will be, according to Hauser, a more formal dedication ceremony in the fall.
In photo above, CRHS principal Andre Hauser and BOE member Bill Currlin address the crowd on the newly opened field. Left, students are exuberant over their new track and field.
g her freedom
Photos by Sue Michael and Mark Dionne.
s, lovin Kaia, 5 month
THE CRITICS HAVE SPOKEN
“It’s hard to express the awesomeness of our puppy being trained to her Invisible Fence. Kaia is happy and I know she is safe. I can’t imagine a single day without it.
OUTDOOR PATIO NOW OPEN!!
”
Kaia’s owner, Heather I. – customer since 2010
NOW SERVING PIZZA!! FREE order of Garlic Parmesan Boneless Wings with the purchase of any large pizza**
Ask about our convenient CURBSIDE TAKEOUT
starting at *
caninefence.com
(while supplies last)
98 MAIN STREET, DOWNTOWN SOUTHINGTON
860-426-2620 1201609
*Offer for Top Dog do-it-yourself self-install kit. Additional $25 shipping charge applies. Call for Kit contents. Installation of Kit available for $349. Offer valid only with Canine Fence. Certain restrictions apply. Offer expires 6/15/11. Invisible Fence is a registered trademark of Invisible Fence, Inc. All rights reserved. ©2011 Canine Companies, Inc. Canine Fence is a registered trademark of The Canine Companies, Inc.
1202966
888-761-0951
$299
Book your next event in our private Wine Room.
**For a limited time only **Not Valid On Saturdays
WWW.BONTERRAITALIANBISTRO.COM
Friday, May 20, 2011
BOE
(From page 3)
budget by $40,000. Although with the busing study still weeks from completion, the amount of the savings is only anticipated, and the way to get there unspecified. Board chair Thomas Hennick said, “If we put a number there and it doesn’t work, we’ve got a hole.” Until the transportation study is concluded, no one can say if this reduction would be felt by families in the form of longer bus rides or multi-school busing. Flanagan raised the issue of teacher stipends. The stipend line of the budget, covering activities, athletics and the athletic director, increased for 2011-12 even though the teachers’ con-
tracts held salaries and benefits to zero increases. The stipends increase with the teacher’s years of experience. The recently renegotiated teacher contracts, according to Melnik and Flanagan, are silent on the issue of stipends. Flanagan stated that the intent of the contracts was a complete freeze on increases. The board elected to save $25,000 in stipends by not allowing increases and capping the W.I.S.E. program, an independent study for high school seniors, at 12 participants.
Also at Flanagan’s urging, the board removed $12,000 from IT support. Flanagan cited the high hourly rate paid and suggested the work could be done for less. The board also cut all money for new musical instruments and warm-up uniforms for the volleyball team, saving a combined $7,000. The various cuts reduced the budget to a total of $33,009,935. This figure represents an expense increase of 0.27 percent, with declining revenue putting the net increase at 3.45 percent. The
board passed the budget, with Dr. Joseph Ochterski abstaining. The next BOE meeting will be on Monday, May 23, with the district meeting on Wednesday, May 25. The budget vote is scheduled for Thursday, May 26. Strong School principal Scott Nicol is leaving District 13 at the end of this school year to take a job in Hartford Public Schools. Look for more details in a future issue.
SPECIAL PURCHASE TRADITIONAL COMTEMPORARY STYLE RUGS
1202829 1202965
Business manager Ron Melnik appeared to sum up the feeling of the board when he said, “We would clearly rather take the money out of overhead than out of the classroom.” The board adopted all of the other proposals put forth by the administrative team. The new budget reduces energy costs by $15,000, citing D13 green initiatives. There is also savings from a CRHS art teacher voluntarily reducing to .6 from a full time equivalent. CRHS also had its supply budget cut by $10,750. The capital spending line was reduced by $92,000, which puts off some building maintenance, wireless upgrades and new gym mats at Memorial. Also in the proposed budget, CRHS parking fees will double from $25 to $50 to increase revenue. The board members also initiated their own methods of cutting the budget. Citing the popularity of the recently conducted online survey, the BOE elected to reduce the transportation
15
Town Times
12 to Choose From
6’x9’ or $4995 ea. 8’x8’ $ 95 99 ea. 9’x12’
15 Rugs to Choose From! *approx. size, not exactly as illustrated. Subject to prior Sale.
Catering With a Personal Touch
SPECIAL PURCHASE BERBER CARPET Tan Tweed or $ 95 Beige Multi Color
Banquet Buffet
Three Entrees featuring:
Deluxe Wedding Buffet with Fresh Hors d’oeuvres, Prime Rib Carving Station & 2 other Entrees
Only
$
12.00pp + gratuity
PLUS We Have Over 200 Remnants to
32.00pp
Choose From...Many Sizes...Most Colors
+ gratuity
*approx. size, not exactly as illustrated. Subject to prior Sale.
Working Lunches thru Deluxe Wedding Buffet Packages From $8.50 pp thru $32 pp
Al Hamrah’s
CUSTOM CARPETS
1192290
887 Meriden-Waterbury Road • Plantsville, CT Phone (860) 628-8794 www.carmelamarie.com info@carmelamarie.com
sq. yd.
12’x9’ Room.......................$96 12’x12’ Room .................$127 12’x15’ Room .................$159 12’x18’ Room .................$189
Carmela Marie is a full service caterer and event planner. Let our 20 years of experience help you plan your next party, wedding or corporate function.
Chicken Marsala • Potato Crusted Cod • Roast Beef $ Vegetables & Potato & Salad & Dessert Only Silverware & Cloth Napkins
7
566 Washington Street (Rt. 66), Middletown (In Front of Palmer Field)
(860) 346-8633 “Serving the Greater Middletown Area Since 1961”
Since 1961
16
Friday, May 20, 2011
Town Times
Sale
(From page 1)
largest snow-making operation in the west. “I have also worked in small resorts similar to Powder Ridge and as a sales rep and consultant to three snowmaking companies, two of them in New England,” Abplanalp continued. All of this, he believes, makes him very qualified to acquire and run Powder Ridge. When asked, “Why Pow-
der Ridge?” Abplanalp did not miss a beat. “It’s the old story,” he said, “location, location, location,” specifically referring to Middlefield’s proximity to cities and major highways. The other reason for his four-year interest is what he perceives as the “community’s strong desire to keep this property as a ski area.” He has encountered this attitude in negotiations with town officials as well as local conversations and news articles. Several other questions
- EVERYONE IS WELCOME TO THE 26th ANNUAL -
have arisen in conjunction with Abplanalp’s proposal. One is whether residents will have access to hiking trails, particularly those on the ridge top. In response, Abplanalp said, “I am a hiker. One of the first local people I called was Eric Hammerling, director of the association that runs the trails (Connecticut Forest and Park Association) to let him know that I will work with him to keep the integrity of the trail.” He added that he has worked successfully with the federal Department of the Interior at other sites to make sure that trails could co-exist with ski operations. Another question concerns possible wind turbines on the mountain. “The contract that will be voted on next week includes provisions to cooperate with a wind study that has been planned. Beyond that, it would not be prudent from a business standpoint to say ‘yes’ or ‘no’ to something that has not even been studied,” he noted.
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
As far as the price of $1 million being too low, Abplanalp said, “What I am purchasing is around 250 acres
5:30-9:30 pm
AQUA TURF CLUB, PLANTSVILLE
of open space that cannot be developed for housing and some ski trails with lifts that will probably have to be replaced over time. Everything else will have to be removed because of its condition. Also, the contract specifies that I invest $2 million in improvements to bring a ski area back by December of 2013.” The contract also includes provisions for up to four houses for staff, but Abplanalp does not envision any houses being built soon, or perhaps ever. When asked about plans for multi-season use, Abplanalp said, “My first priority is to have a ski season in 2012-13 on a facility that the community can be proud of. After that, down the road, we’ll see. I have no plans right now for anything but a ski area.” Should the vote to sell Powder Ridge pass at the May 24 town meeting at Memorial School, Abplanalp plans to move here from his current home in Pennsylvania, ending a quest that started four years ago when he read an ad in a ski magazine. Sometime after that, he hopes to host his three grand-
5:30 - Silent Auction 6:30 Dinner & Program Silent Auction Items Signed Yankee Jersey from C.C. Sabathia Signed Red Sox Jersey from Carl Crawford Signed Baseball from Albert Pujols Autographed Picture of Ted Williams Autographed Photo collage of Mickey Mantle
Photo of Babe Ruth and Ted Williams, Yankee/Red Sox Signed UCONN Basketball Golf for Four at Yale Golf Course Dinner for Four at Carmen Antahony Steak House Art Print of Jackie Robinson Stealing Home
- HONORING Saint Francis Award - Tom Moore Head Basketball Coach, Quinnipiac University
Saint Clare Award - Luisa Kuhn Wife of Bowie Kuhn
Special Guest Jim Calhoun Head Basketball Coach, University of Connecticut
Jim Calhoun Community Service Award - Kevin Ollie Assistant Basketball Coach, University of Connecticut 1202967
Central Connecticut Acoustics
1202641
For tickets w2 0w3w- .2f 3l c7 e- n8 t0 e8r.4 o rorg Sponsored in part by Corporate Sponsorship Award
daughters, currently aged two-and-a-half, four and eight. “I can’t wait till the youngest turns three,” he said. “That’s when I buy them ski equipment and a ski pass. The older two already ski, and the oldest is on a skiracing team.” Clearly, Abplanalp plans to see that skiing in his family does not end with him, and he’d like to say the same about skiing at Powder Ridge in Middlefield.
Big week for Powder Ridge Middlefield officials are hosting a second and third open house at Powder Ridge on Powder Hill Road this weekend, May 21 and 22, from 1-5 p.m. each day. Residents and other interested persons are invited to tour the site before the public hearing and town meeting on Tuesday, May 24, at 8 p.m. at Memorial Middle School on Hubbard Street. Amy Poturnicki, of Middlefield, acted as host for the first open house held last weekend. She said about two dozen people showed up on Sunday, May 15, despite the rain. “About a dozen of them were former workers at Powder Ridge or close neighbors. Some hadn’t been up there in years. They were shocked and saddened by the destruction,” said Poturnicki. “Most people seemed to support the plans to bring back a ski area, especially after they saw the damage up there,” she continued. “Several people even volunteered to come back and help clean up or whatever might be necessary.” If you haven’t yet been up to the Ridge, remember you’re welcome this Saturday and Sunday from 1-5 p.m. Citizens of Middlefield and Rockfall are also urged to attend the public hearing and town meeting on Tuesday, May 24, at 8 p.m. in the gym at Memorial School. Dennis Abplanalp and other members of the Alpine Ridge LLC team will be there to explain their plans for the property should the public vote to sell it to them. To preview a video presentation that will be shown on Tuesday, visit our website www.towntimes.com.
Friday, May 20, 2011
Town Times
My snoring was intense. Even after a night’s sleep, I felt exhausted. Like I hadn’t slept at all. My doctor recommended a sleep study at Gaylord Sleep Medicine. They discovered I was having dangerous heart arrhythmias as a result of sleep apnea. The next day, my sleep medicine physician told me that I could have died. Thanks to Gaylord Sleep Medicine, I no longer worry about falling asleep. And the treatment they prescribed has given me the energy to pursue my love of local politics. That simple sleep study probably saved my life! Now I’m truly getting a good, healthy night’s sleep.
To learn more or to see Vinnie’s Story, visit www.Gaylord.org.
Gaylord Specialty Healthcare Rehabilitation|Medically Complex|Sleep Medicine 1196612
Care beyond the ordinary
17
18
Friday, May 20, 2011
Town Times
Pogmore (Continued from page 7)
Dot to cook in those early days of their marriage), they have built three homes (two at Lake Beseck and the one they have lived in for almost
George inspecting his many tomato seedlings, ready to plant right after the last frost.
50 years on the farm — a stately, southern colonial complete with four columns). They have slowly expanded their farm operations from the 14 original acres to the 103 acres they now own. They have farmed and sold peppers, tomatoes, beans, zucchini, asparagus, broccoli, cabbage, melons, winter squash, potatoes, pumpkins, strawberries, raspberries, blueberries among others, as well as acres and acres of hay and corn. (The corn seedlings are planted every few days so that the ears will be harvestable every few days... imagine all that corn ripening all at once; you get a sense of a farmer’s night-
“ he Hearth has gone so far beyond T my expectations for my mother that
I want to share my story with others.”
“Caring for someone with dementia can be more than any one person, or even a family, can do. After extensive research, I chose The Hearth. My decision was easy after spending time with the staff. People here truly love what they do and they’ve worked here a long time. In a hundred different ways, they make sure my mother has everything and anything I’d ever want her to have.
mare!) Now they farm about 70 acres with the help of three tractors, other m o d e r n equipment and their own hard work supplemented with help from friends. The farm has been good to them, too. They continue to make a living that supports their s i m p l e lifestyle. Nowadays, with the cost of fuel and Dot (center) with her sister and cousin seed going up, around the time they preformed at Centhey are being ter School...she just loves the guitar. hit hard. FurSubmitted by Summer Lerch ther, the future is uncertain since the good, wholesome work and kids have moved away. the love of watching life There are two things for sprout out of the earth has kept him young at heart and sure: 1. As long as he can, sharp of mind all this time. 2. When you drive down George Pogmore will be out there, tilling the soil, watch- Route 147, past the Lyman ing his crops and hoping for Homestead and then Miller good weather. He will keep Road and you see that veggoing as he has for many, etable sign pointing down a many years. It is his life — country driveway…don’t be farming is in his blood. He is afraid. Go on down there. clear that the farm and the You just might find Dot sitting in the sun, strumming her guitar, with a beautiful smile on her face, her golden husky voice sharing a tale of Interior Decorating love beside the best vegetaCreative Affordable Solutions bles you have ever seen, For Your Home or Business grown with commitment Call Nancy Trott and love. You will know you are being embraced by all that for your Appointment is good about agriculture! Please welcome the Grand Marshals of 2011 Middle,INC. field/Rockfall Old Home Furniture & Interior Decorators Days: Mr. and Mrs. George 60 Chamberlain Hwy., Kensington (860) 828-4176 Pogmore!
No Interest for up to 15 Months
Barbara Lidsky, daughter of
Best of all, my mother feels secure and happy. What could make me happier?” Read more about Barbara’s story at www.MasonicareHearth.org or call 800-382-2244 for more information or a personal tour.
1202352
new Hearth resident The Hearth isn’t just beautiful; it’s designed by experts who understand what people with dementia need to feel secure, yet independent. You really have to see for yourself how different and special this place is.
WHITE DOUBLE HUNG ANY SIZE!
• Awnings & Canopies • Storm & Entry Doors $ 24900 • Gutters & Gutter INSTALLED Guards Includes: Low E and Argon Gas • Vinyl Siding fill, Lifetime Glass Warranty ALL STYLE WINDOWS - WOODGRAINS • COLORS • WHITE
WINDOWS PLUS Local 1197961
Cheshire Road, Wallingford ~ Masonicare is not-for-profit
(203) 269-8723 • 1-877-567-5914
CASH & CARRY SHOWROOM SHOPPERS 21 NORTH PLAINS INDUSTRIAL RD., WALLINGFORD MORE THAN 30 YEARS EXPERIENCE • FULLY INSURED A+ Rated Visit us at www.windowsplusinc.com Company CT. Reg. #574938
1201087
IN-HOME ESTIMATES OR VISIT OUR SHOWROOM
Friday, May 20, 2011
19
Town Times
Glacier Drilling in Durham provides latest drilling technology loves being outside and drilling. And he loves what the drilling unearths. “When the glaciers came through and melted and receded, they lay down deposits, leaving behind the material they had carried. The sub-surface investigation reveals interesting geology that has taken place from hundreds of thousands of years ago to the present. There’s always a story being told.” For more information, go to www.glacierdrilling.com.
Happy Birthday, Carmel Happy 85th Birthday, Carmel Dills! Love, your loving family! Left, Carmel; below, Carmel and her grandkids at a birthday party held for her recently.
Above, Mark Schock and his father, Reuben, of Glacier Drilling in Durham. Photo by Diana Carr
MORE COMPANIES - MORE OPTIONS
INSURANCE INSURANCE
INSURANCE
INSURANCE
INSURANCE
INSURANCE
INSURANCE
1197054
INSURANCE
INSURANCE
INSURANCE
Submitted by Jamie Blair
INSURANCE
INSURANCE
Let us find the right company for you.
INSURANCE
Home • Business • Life • Car
203-265-6763 1185482
When Mark Schock, of Middlefield, started his Durham-based company, Glacier Drilling, in 1996, he was hoping to become “a force in the industry,” like the glaciers that had passed this way eons ago were a force of nature. When the drilling company he was working for at the time went out of business, he bought their equipment and made his father, Reuben, who had taken an early retirement from United Technology, his business manager. “We have the same goal in mind,” says Schock, “which is to be the best at what we do. We continue to provide our clients with the latest technology available.” The company, which has nine employees, works for environmental consulting and engineering firms that make sure there is no contamination in the ground. Glacier Drilling gets soil samples that geologists and hydro-geologists study in order to identify contamination and installs remediation systems to reclaim the contamination back out of the ground. “This is called environmental drilling,” says Schock, “because it identifies contaminated soil and water so that something can be done about it.” They also do geo-technical drilling for structural engineering, which tests the integrity of the ground in order to ensure that the ground will support the foundation of whatever building is going up. Data is collected, through samples, to determine the density of the soil and rock, and to determine the kinds of materials below the surface, like sand, clay or bedrock. “We’re not a lab,” says Schock. “We do not do the analysis. And we’re not the engineering people. We are contracted to do the drilling and give them samples, and then they will determine what they will do.” In the near future they will be doing the drilling for geothermal heating. “We’ll set everything up for the company to come in and install the
equipment,” says Schock. Geo-thermal heating draws up heat from the earth in the winter and returns heat to the earth in the summer, by means of a heat pump that is installed in the house or place of business. Schock is planning on having this type of heat in his home soon. Schock believes that, with the rising cost of oil, this will “take off,” especially with new homes. “According to the government, it’s the most consistent renewable energy there is. All new federal buildings are mandated to have geo-thermal heating, and a lot of schools are changing over to it. Wesleyan University is now using it. The geo-thermal numbers are growing very fast. You may not see it with your friends and neighbors, but it’s coming. Oil prices may continue to rise, but the temperature of the Earth is always the same,” he explained. Though Shock’s business is successful and keeps him busy, he never loses sight of the people who got him here. “My family played a huge role in the early years of the company,” he says. “My wife, Kelly, brought the kids and meals to the office, and when the kids got older, they came to the shop and helped with various jobs. There were long hours, but the family stayed close. And they still spend a lot of time at the shop. “I’ve been fortunate to know and be associated with many outstanding people during my years in the drilling industry. We’ve surrounded ourselves with people of integrity and a work ethic that is exceptional, people who have integrity and pride in what is being done. That is no small matter.” It seems that Schock’s company has, indeed, become “a force in the industry.” “Our objective is to be as successful as we can be at what we do. We will continue to arm ourselves with the best equipment and people, always seeking out ways to provide a service second to none.” And all the while, he is loving what he does. He says he loves being out in the field,
INSURANCE
By Diana Carr Special to the Town Times
821 East Center Street, Wallingford www.michalowskiagency.com
20
Friday, May 20, 2011
Town Times
Tosca’s Kiss comes to Middletown and New Britain Puccini’s Tosca, commonly referred to in the opera world as “that shabby little shocker” rocked New Britain’s Trinity-on-Main May 13 when the Connecticut Lyric Opera (CLO) presented the Italian masterpiece at the historic, revamped old church. As is always the case with this company, the production will tour the state during the week and culminate at Middletown High School’s Performing Arts Center on Saturday, May 21. This opera has everything — violence galore, hit tunes, religion, history — and should be as well-received by Middlesex
County music-lovers as it was by New Britain’s. The cast members, all plagued during rehearsals by that nasty round of pollen allergies and head colds that invaded the state last week, should all be in full recovery. Floria Tosca is the ultimate glamour-goddess role — a prima donna portraying a prima donna. While it isn’t the dramatic coloratura marathon that is Lady Macbeth, every soprano at some point aspires to sing it, for it contains many knockout high Cs, ravishing music and perhaps the greatest acting challenges, physical and emotional, of any female
part other than maybe Puccini’s equally popular Madame Butterfly. Rising to the daunting task was Jurate Svedaite, resident diva of CLO. She is by nature and
Larry Kellum
Opera Review temperment a muy simpatica lyric soprano, not the edgy spinto the role calls for. Predictably, she reveled in the lyric aspects of the part — the tender love duets with Mario and the beautiful “Vissi d’arte” aria. What
1202723
GIGANTIC CLOTHING & FOOTWEAR
TENT RAIN OR SHINE
SALE TOPS • JEANS • SHORTS SHOES • SNEAKERS & more FRI. MAY 20th (11a - 6p)
• MENS • LADIES • KIDS
SAT. MAY 21st (10a - 6p)
SUN. MAY 22nd (11a - 5p)
was not expected was the gutsy tigress she became onstage in her powerful confrontations with Scarpia in Act 2. Those high Cs were all bullseyes, the chest voice had just the right cutting impact, she scorched and she sizzled in probably the best performance she has ever given anywhere to date, one that can only get even better with repetition. As her evil nemesis Scarpia, audiences usually get the classic caricature villain — a middle-aged, potbellied baritone in a white powdered wig — an obvious turn-off to any woman. However, when he looks like Luke Scott — tall, slender, young, handsome — it adds an unusual sexual twist, however subtle, to the drama, and makes the Police Chief’s malignancy that much more terrifying and complex. To boot, Scott has an absolutely gorgeous voice, as smooth as a fine Chardonnay, one that excelled in the role’s many parlando passages. Unfortunately, though, he was still suffering from his indisposition and had no choice but to let the orchestra swamp his biggest outbursts. In this opera, the painter Mario is the center of atten-
tion — the reason for the murderous acts committed by Tosca and Scarpia — so a tenor of stature with an effortless top is paramount. Here John Tsotsoros came through with flying colors, managing to sound both boyish and manly as needed. Laurentiu Rotaru was deluxe casting as Angelotti and Matthew Gamble was finally(!) a Sacristan who didn’t try to be funny. As with every Connecticut Lyric production, maestro Adrian Sylveen’s Virtuosi Chamber Orchestra is the orchestra of choice. Despite a couple of expected opening night kinks and missed cues along the way, Sylveen held his forces together with his usual aplomb and gave this verismo orchestration its full due. For tickets to Middletown’s performance, please call Barbara Arafeh at 860347-4887. For more information on the big, blockbuster season that Sylveen, Svedaite and the CLO have lined up for next season (now three operas, many chamber concerts), please visit www.thevirtuosi.org or call Trinity-on-Main at 860-229-2072.
Put Your Best Smile Forward! NO NEED to be without Teeth! $ 5DENTURES Styles starting 199 to at$959$199
DENTURES UPPER OR LOWER
Dentures availvable in 24 hours.
Extractions and Dentures Relines and Repairs while you wait. at same appointment!
5
$
RACKS
$
10
RACKS
$
15
Complete Affordable Family Dental Care!
RACKS
Payment Options • Fillings • Crowns Available • Cleanings • Bridges Most Insurance Plans • Teeth Whitening • Cosmetic Dentistry Are Accepted 1197035
All First Quality Brand Name Merchandise
Call Now For A FREE Consultation! newenglanddentalct.com
874 BERLIN TURNPIKE, BERLIN CT (860) 828-6547 OPEN MONDAY-FRIDAY 9:30-9, SAT 9:30-6, SUN 11-5
10% Senior Discount NEW ENGLAND DENTAL 899
ORANGE
501 Boston Post Rd. Liberty, Sq. Plaza
203.799.3311
MERIDEN
533 South Broad St. Townline Sq. Plaza
203.238.7968
Offer expires 11/28/03 AllDenture Denture MaterialADA ADAApproved Approved Offer Material Approved Offerexpires expiresonon on9/30/06 6/30/11 AllAllDenture Material ADA
Friday, May 20, 2011
21
Town Times
Middlesex Dance Center in Middlefield heads to Disney World
Happy 60th Anniversary Henry and Ruth Bugai, of Durham, recently celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary at a party surrounded by their children and grandchildren.
By Toni-Lynn Miles
Submitted photo
Pictured from left are Emily Dell’Orfano, Savannah Ngo, Kayleigh Crocetto, Meghan Crocetto, Toni-Lynn Miles, Rachel Arreguin and Alexandra Santiago. Photo taken by Tony’s Photography and Video
Don’t overpay for your new Verizon phone or accessories!
$
20 OFF ALL
With this ad. No activation req’d. See store for details.
1201466
Android™, BlackBerry® or Feature Phones, USB Modems, MiFi devices, Tablets, or Accessories! www.WirelessZone.com/Meriden
MERIDEN 203-235-3770 1231 East Main St. In the Lowe’s Plaza
BillLandscape Rudolph Contractor - IN BUSINESS OVER 30 YEARS -
(203) 237-9577 “Prices you can afford, and quality you can count on."
1200243
Paver Walkways, Patios, Driveways Retaining Walls & Stairs Landscape Design Plans Landscape Renovations A variety of styles and Waterfalls & Ponds colors now available. Drainage & Backhoe Work CERTIFIED INSTALLER Reg. Our business is based on All Work Guaranteed #563661 customer satisfaction! References Upon Request
1185120
Six dancers from the Middlesex Dance Center, along with their Director, Toni-Lynn Miles, will be performing at Walt Disney World in Florida this summer. The group will be part of the Main Street parade on June 24 at the Magic Kingdom performing a Disney choreographed routine to “Ease on Down.” This is the first year that Disney is offering the ‘Dance the World’ program, and the dancers are very excited to be participating! They will be dressed as Dorothys, complete with red ruby slippers. The girls will also be performing routines from their 2011 dance concert at the Premiere Theater in Disney Hollywood Studios on June 25. The MDC Disney team consists of Emily Dell’Orfano, Savannah Ngo, Meghan Crocetto, Rachel Arreguin, Alexandra Santiago, Kayleigh Crocetto and Toni-Lynn Miles. Meghan (age 7) studies ballet, tap and jazz and will be performing a jazz solo in Florida. Rachel (age 8), Savannah (age 9), Alexandra (age 9), and Emily (age 10) study jazz, tap, ballet, and lyrical; the girls will be performing their tap routine at Disney Hollywood Studios. Kayleigh has been an MDC Dancer for 11 years and studies jazz, tap, ballet, lyrical, and pointe; she will be performing her jazz solo at the Premiere Theater. All of the girls are also members of Team MDC, the competition group at Middlesex Dance Center, and all participate in the American Academy of Ballet Performance Award program. Disney has already honored the girls and invited them to perform again in 2012 as well!
22
Friday, May 20, 2011
Town Times
Saint Sebastian’s Church “I Nuri” Run took off in Middlefield By Frank LoGiudice Special to the Town Times The heavy rain on Sunday morning, May 15, did not dampen the spirit and devo-
tion of the “Nuri” of Saint Sebastian’s Church in Middletown. The “I Nuri” Run went on as planned as parishioners of the Italian church still proclaimed their love of God and
Saint Sebastian by making their annual pilgrimage from St. Sebastian’s Cemetery in Middlefield, along with another contingent of Nuri stationed at the former Sons of Italy Hall on Court Street in Middletown, to the Saint Sebastian’s
A group of Nuri leave the St. Sebastian’s Cemetery in Middlefield in the rain on Sunday, May 15, 2011 for the Saint Sebastian’s Church in Middletown.
Coming May 27th The Town Times Annual
Women in Business Section
Church on Washington Street. The Nuri made their love of their patron saint, Saint Sebastian, known by declaring loudly through the streets of Middlefield and Middletown the Italian phrase, “E Chiamamulu Paisanu! Primu Diu E Sammastianu!” Translated to English, it means: “He’s one of our own! First God and then Saint Sebastian.” The Nuri are dressed in white clothing and wear red sashes with a picture of Saint Sebastian pinned on their clothes. They hold flowers in their hands, and they run either barefoot or in stocking feet through the streets. Both the young and not-so-young males and females participate in the annual “I Nuri” Run. About 90 people gathered at St. Saint Sebastian’s Cemetery in Middlefield to honor
PRESCHOOL
TEACHER
500 Main St., Middlefield
(860) 345-7586 Miss Toni-Lynn has studied dance continuously since the age of five and minored in Dance at Hofstra University while earning a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science Mathematics. She continues to study all dance forms, participating in master classes and dance conventions throughout CT, NY, NJ, MA, NH, and NYC. Toni-Lynn was “Certified by Test to Teach” by Dance Masters of America in 1995 and became “A Qualified Member” of Dance Educators of America through examination in 1999. Toni-Lynn choreographed the Coginchaug Regional High School productions of Once Upon A Mattress (2008), Beauty and the Beast (2006), The Wiz (2003), Grease (2002), 42nd Street (1999), Crazy for You (1998), Good News (1997), and Oklahoma! (1995). Ms. Miles also choreographed the Hartford Children’s Theater productions of BIG: The Musical (2005) and Oliver! (2002). In 1992, Toni-Lynn established the Middlesex Dance Center and has always been the sole Owner, Director, and Instructor. Her three-phase dance program insures a solid foundation of dance technique that compliments the physical, mental, and emotional development of their students. The curriculums are continually analyzed and updated to incorporate new technique and styles. Her award-winning students are encouraged to develop self-confidence, creativity, friendships, responsibility, teamwork, leadership, a sense 140 West St., Middlefield of accomplishment, and an appreciation for the dance arts. Each season with MDC, dancers will be (860) 349-0575 challenged to learn and grow. MDC is proud to be entering its 18th exciting season of excellence and fun! The Middlesex Dance Center offers weekly dance classes throughout the Summer, and the Fall season justforyouweddings@msn.com includes classes in Jazz, Tap, Ballet, Lyrical, and Pointe as well as a 10-week Hip Hop session. Registration www.justforyouweddings.com is currently being accepted for both the Summer and Fall programs! Look for the MDC Dancers Jane Brayshaw Rynaski has been designing floral arrangements since she got her first job at the performance the 2009 Old HomeHigh DaysSchool, celebration. age of 16 at Keser's Florists in Middletown. After graduationat from Coginchaug Jane
Jane Brayshaw Rynaski Just for You Floral Design Studio
attended The Rittner School of Floral Design in Boston where she received her certificate. She then returned to Connecticut where she began her career working in the floral industry, eventually deciding she would like to concentrate her efforts on weddings and special events. Her business, Just For You Floral Design Studio, located at 140 West Street in the old Lyman Gun Sight building in Middlefield, evolved at that point. Without the day to day operations of a full service florist shop, Jane is able to focus her creativity on each individual event, thereby making each wedding or event uniquely personalized: "Just For You". Jane keeps current on new trends by attending industry workshops and conferences on a regular basis. She has studied under many nationally and Realtor, GREEN, internationally known designers. Just For You also carries invitations, rental items, bridal accessories and services are available for custom floral design. To be able to devote her timeAccredited to each individualStaging Professional event, Just For You is by appointment only. Jane would be pleased to hear from you if you have an event coming up. You can reach her at 860-349-0575.
82 Cedar St. Rockfall, CT 06481 or email to
Debbie Huscher William Raveis Real Estate
www.debbiehuscher.com Debbie.Huscher@Raveis.com
Call Joy Boone today
(860) 349-8000
The faithful Nuri gather behind the St. Sebastian’s Statue. the statue of Saint Sebastian was carried out of the church by parishioners who then handed the statue over to the “I Nuri” who parade it
mjlcapplications@gmail.com See “I Nuri” Run, next page 1199615
Ad Deadline: Friday, May 20th
1202142
This special issue will deliver your personal message to every home and business with the real story about what you and your business are all about.
860-918-4580
Looking for an edge? Put your most valuable asset in the hands of true sales and marketing professional. Debbie uses her marketing degree and former career experience to her full advantage as a real estate agent. She is a consistent top producer and was the top producing single agent in her office for 2008. Her marketing has received national recognition with an Excellence in Internet Marketing award from Realtor.com. Debbie continues to develop ways to add value for her customers. She is an Accredited Staging Professional, allowing her to give expert advice on preparing a home for sale. In an effort to help consumers who care about energy efficiency and sustainable building practices, she also earned the new GREEN designation from the National Assoc. of Realtors. So when the time comes to buy or sell, get the marketing edge by calling Debbie Huscher.
1201965
Full time position available starting Aug. 22nd. Minimum CDA or higher. Send cover letter, resume and salary requirements to: MISS JOANNES LEARNING CENTER
Toni-Lynn Miles Middlesex Dance Center
Let us showcase your business and your contribution to its success. It’s your opportunity to promote you and your business in a distinctive and personal manner.
their patron saint according to Scott Colavito, one of the organizers of the “I Nuri” Run. Colavito has been participating in the “I Nuri” Run since 1982, and he has never missed a year. Before the Nuri started on their trek to the church, they said prayers to their departed relatives, God and Saint Sebastian. The people who ran in the “I Nuri” Run from the cemetery left in small groups between 10 a.m. and 11:15 a.m. so they could arrive at the church by 12:15 p.m. for the conclusion of the High Mass in honor of Saint Sebastian. When the mass was over, both groups of “I Nuri” converged and run into the church still chanting “E Chiamamulu Paisanu! Primu Diu E Sammastianu!” Then,
Only $
75 860-747-8875
Friday, May 20, 2011
23
Town Times their patron saint on city streets. On May 15, this did not happen and the plan was to keep the statue inside the church, but the Nuri insisted in carrying Saint Sebastian’s statue out of the church in the pouring rain for everyone to see through downtown Middletown. The Nuri prevailed. During the processional, the Nuri still chanted “E Chiamamulu Paisanu! Primu Diu E Sammastianu!,” and they continued with this phrase until the statue was returned inside
the church then they laid their flowers at the base of the statue. A total of 250 people participated in the “I Nuri” Run. They came not only from Connecticut but also from Rhode Island and Pennsylvania, according to Gene Nocera, general chairman of the festival. Why do the Nuri do this? There are several reasons, such as preserving tradition, to thank Saint Sebastian for his help throughout the year, to honor relatives, for health
reasons, personal sacrifice to honor Saint Sebastian, family reasons and hoping for a miracle of some kind from Saint Sebastian. The I Nuri never do it for monetary reasons.
The Transfer Station will be closed Monday, May 30, for Memorial Day.
SAVE 50% OR MORE at local businesses! The Parishioners of St. Sebastian’s Church carry the statue out of the church with the faithful Nuri behind them. and said the weather usually clears up in time for the Nuri to parade their likeness of
“I Nuri” Run (Continued from page 22
SAVE $5.00 On Tune-UP!
through downtown Middletown for everyone to see. Normally, when the statue of Saint Sebastian is set to be carried out of the church and there’s a threat of rain, the sun usually comes out just in time for the Nuri to parade Saint Sebastian through the streets. Joe Monarca of Middletown has been attending this event for the past 30 years
Check Out Our Large Selection of Road Bikes
10% ON ALL CA RACKS R
SAVE 10% OFF HELMETS
Auto Insurance “too” expensive?
www.BerlinBicycle.com
Call Christine today at
855 Mill Street, Berlin
(860) 828-1132
1199202
860-349-2322
1202764
1202666
SAVE
SUDOKU ANSWER
CROSSWORD ANSWER
COMING JUNE 1 Sign up today at
/deal 1185116
Business in Town Times
24
Friday, May 20, 2011
New preschool incorporates yoga and energy into curriculum area. Jaime DeFelice and Katie Copeland are two experienced teachers who are super excited about opening their new school, Northford Preschool Academy, located at 28 Gail Drive in Northford.
Northford Preschool Acedemy owners pose with their daughters. Katie Copeland (left) with her daughters Haley and Ava and Jaime DeFelice with her daughter Maddie. By Cheri Kelley Town Times Upon arrival, one is blanketed in excitement and coziness; polka dot curtains shade the sun-filled win-
dows, whimsical costumes hang on child-sized hangers ready for dress-up time, and books and colorful cushions and bean bags are piled neatly waiting for a comfy reading adventure in the circle
ed yoga session once a week. All the poses have kid-friendly names, and it is approached as storytelling through yoga. As former elementary school teachers, DeFelice and Copeland feel that they know where the students need to go socially as well as academically. They know what steps to take to be ready for kindergarten. “Expectations have changed for kindergarten,” DeFelice explains. “I taught first and second grade, and compared to when I first started teaching, the second grade curriculum is now what is expected for the first grade.”
DeFelice and Copeland have always wanted to work with preschoolers. “It was always a dream; it’s really exciting to be a part of the children’s first exposure to education. I earned my master’s in early childhood and special education, and when I had my own child I thought, it is now or never,” DeFelice said. Copeland shared her enthusiasm: “I taught yoga to preschoolers, and after one summer decided this was a must. I have to work with them.” Yoga will be incorporated throughout the school day through transition time, and there will be a designat-
The curriculum at Northford Preschool Academy is theme-based on a book of the week. It is a play-based curriculum; they worked off of the Read, Play and Learn curriculum by Toni Lindor
Town Times Service Directory Best Water
Griswold Plumbing Services LLC
Best Price
Tim Griswold
860-554-5219
“Pool Water Pete”
• • • •
CENTURION EXTERMINATING LLC LLC Business PEST CONTROL SERVICE Connecticut License #B-2045
TERMITES • ANTS • ROACHES • RODENTS • BEES • SPIDERS • FLEAS • TICKS
Mention this ad and receive $10 off any pest control service
Joe Simmons, Jr. License #S-4909
www.ridofbugs.com Did winter bring your lawn down? This is the perfect time of year to
Well Water Tanks Well Pumps Water Treatment & Purification Sewer & Drain Cleaning
• • • •
Drain Line Repair/Replacement Fixture Replacement Water Line Repair Frozen Pipe/Thawing
MEETING HOUSE HILL Property Maintenance CT Lic. 0627761 Fully Insured
Bill Ashelman Durham, CT (860) 349-8003 (860) 803-0496 Cell
Rockfall PC MEDIC
1200204
• Lawn Repair • Overseeding • Thatching • Tree Cutting and Chipping
860-301-7722
In house service / Pick-up & Return Pricing available at www.rockfallmedic.com
(860) 638-7717
Free Estimates
1198645
“Total yard renovation and much, much more”
Firewood Tree Removal Lawn Care Pressure Washing
Computer Repair - Virus Removal - Data Recovery - PC Tune up
spruce it up!
Fully Insured HIC #0630530
With coupon. Not combinable. Expires 6/1/11
1200248
Family Owned & Operated Joe Simmons, Sr. License #S-2712
Any Service $950 & above
1201202
203-265-7328 203-756-6028 860-426-1040
Any Service $550-$950
Emergency Service • Residential & Commercial
Mountain Spring Water
Wallingford Waterbury Southington
Senior Discounts
Any Service $150-$550
1199390
(203) 237-3500
1199201
POOL WATER
25 OFF $ 50 OFF $ 100 OFF $
but have adapted it and made it their own. They have centers with suggested theme-based activities, but the kids are also encouraged to be creative and make up their own activities with the materials provided. Copeland stated, “It’s a good balance of child and teacherled activities. Guided play, but not putting it into a box and saying you have to do it this way.” There will be music and movement throughout the day, and a music program will come in once a month. The school has a separate art/snack room that was built for keeping up with the kid-crafted messes. The program will encompasses visual literacy, which will incorporate arts and writing. They will also use the Hand Writing Without Tears curriculum, which is used by older children in the North Branford public schools; this will get the kids ready for where they need to be. DeFelice and Copeland both used Responsive Classroom techniques in their classrooms and plan to do the same in this new journey. Copeland said, “It is a lot of using positive language, and repetition at this age, like we use walking feet in the classroom, kind words, rather than telling them what not to do.” Copeland and DeFelice said they had tremendous family support for making this school a reality and are beyond excited to start in September. The program is for potty-trained 3-6-yearolds and runs from September to June in a three-day, Monday, Wednesday and Friday format, from 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. There will be an opportunity for an extended day Lunch Bunch program from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. They are holding an open house on Saturday, May 21, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. where they will be having a tuition raffle for a free month of Lunch Bunch for the winner. Northford Preschool Academy is taking enrollment for the 2011-2012 school year. Call 203-208-1306 for a tour or to learn more.
Friday, May 20, 2011
New Life Around Town
Clockwise from top left: a baby rabbit at Cedar Mountain Farm (Jen Schulten), Middlefield flower (Danielle Fisher), hatchlings in a nest (Danielle Fisher), Molly Fehon of Durham with baby chick (Jen Schulten), lilac branch in the sun (Danielle Fisher), three-week-old Jersey calf “Calais” at Greenbacker’s Farm (Melissa Greenbacker), dandelion seedhead (Danielle Fisher), a baby goat at Hackney Farm (Jen Schulten), a baby cow with his mom at Naples Farm (Jen Schulten), “Mabel,” a baby ferrett only a few weeks old at Greenbacker’s Farm (Melissa Greenbacker), Maura Fehon of Durham with baby chicks (Jen Schulten) and “Smoothie,” a four-dayold baby Brown Swiss at Greenbacker’s Farm (Melissa Greenbacker.)
Town Times Service Directory
N
S
L J O NE I E
1194743
1201014
Home Improvements LLC Roofing Systems • Vinyl Siding • Replacement Windows Storm Doors/Windows • Prime/Patio Doors Skylights • Porch Enclosures FREE Estimates Reg. #517277 No Obligation Fully Insured neiljoneshomeimprovements.com
349-8771
MASONRY
Commercial • Residential • Industrial • Licensed • Insured
APEC ELECTRIC
All 1194757
FAZO
Purpose Electrical Contractor
Joseph W. Fontanella
Lic.# E1-123497
860-349-0303
Ct. Lic. 568080
1201197
"Electrical Construction Built on Quality" “ N o J o b To o S m a l l ”
Healing Hands Massage Therapy For All Your Healing, Relaxation, Stress and Pain Relief Needs
Jennifer Lewis, LMT CT Lic. #006384 www.healinghandsmassagetherapyllc.webs.com Gift Cards Available
1202157
454 Main St., Suite C Durham (860) 262-1422 1198606
Photos submitted by Jennifer Schulten, Melissa Greenbacker and Danielle Fisher
25
European Style
Summer Special
10%off
Brick • Block • Stone • Steps • Stucco Refacing • Pool Decks Chimneys • Fireplaces • Patios • Stucco • Sidewalks • Stamped Concrete • Tile • General Masonry • Retaining Walls • Repairs No Job Too Large or Too Small
Tel: (203) 759-0879 30 Years Experience
FAZO
FREE ESTIMATES Work Guaranteed
IDS in Town Times
26
Friday, May 20, 2011
Totally RED
IDS Space Adventure
In conjunction with their upcoming Galaxy Gala Auction, students, teachers and parents of the Independent Day School recently had the privilege to visit with Leland Melvin, associate director of education at NASA and astronaut who served as crew on two Shuttle Atlantis trips. During his visit via Skype, Astronaut Melvin shared a slide show about his work on the shuttles and answered questions posed by the students. The picture above shows Astronaut Leland Melvin at the All-School Meeting, via Skype. Photo submitted by JoAnn Rider
Fraud
How many different ways can you tell the story of Little Red Riding Hood? Well, at least four ways in MAPA’s production of Totally RED. Come and see for yourself on Saturday, May 21, and Sunday, May 22, at 2 p.m. at the Independent Day School (IDS) in Middlefield. Above, Granny (Isabelle Haeberly of Durham) thanks Red (Acadia Barrengos of Middletown) for the basket of food in one of the vignettes. For more info, call IDS at 860-347-7235. Photo submitted by JoAnn Rider
KENNETH R. JAY Landscape Maintenance & Construction LLC Complete Lawn and Shrub Bed Maintenance Landscape Design and Installation Service HIC #0621170
Stone Work and Pavers
www.jaylandscape.com
92 Jackson Hill Road, Middlefield, CT 06455
(860) 346-3827 • (860) 250-0628
GENERAL REPAIRS
Home Improvement & Repairs Specializing in Bathroom Remodeling
NO JOB TOO SMALL! ROOFING WINDOWS
1201299
Licensed/Insured
CT Lic. 0612088
(203) 481-5988
• Painting/Dry Wall • Tile Flooring • Basements/Skylights • Decks/Patios/Sheds • Odd Projects • No Job Too Small
Robert Trombetta 860-798-5374 Middlefield, CT
HIC #0572247
Bruce Binge Fully Licensed and Insured
CT License #559832 HIC Locally owned and operated
Call today for a FREE estimate. 860.349.1758 Ask for Tray CELL 860.790.6290
Custom Building & Remodeling Contractor 1194753
> Kitchens > Bathrooms > Roofing > Siding > Window Replacement > Decks > Additions > Gutters/Leaf Guard
1201182
YOUR REMODELING SPECIALISTS
1199389
RSDL
GUTTERS and LEAF GUARDS
All Types of Repairs Done - Will Answer all Inquiries
(860) 349-1173
1202153
HIC LIC # 566924
Call For Your Spring Clean-up Quote Now! 1198673
www.torrisonstone.com
• New Homes • Additions • Kitchens • Garages • Decks All Types of Remodeling & Renovations HIC #0606486
Call after 5 pm (860)
347-1445
Town Times
EHLP (Continued from page 10)
Commercial, Residential, Industrial
860-349-0119
holders’ awareness and either made them out to himself or a business associated with him and forged the signature of the account holder. All of the card members lived near Marshall’s previous homes in New Haven and West Haven. A sentencing has been scheduled for August 24 by United States District Judge Janet C. Hall. Marshall could receive a maximum term of 30 years in prison on each of the bank fraud counts and also a maximum of 15 years of imprisonment on the access device count. The United States Postal Inspections Service investigated this case. (Cheri Kelley)
Your source for local news and events
Town Times Service Directory
Call for Summer Specials
(Continued from page 12)
mortgage payments on time. In year one, as long as the preceding requirements are met, 20 percent of the loan is forgiven, in year two, another 20 percent is forgiven, and so on up to five years when all 100 percent is forgiven. So this is basically how it works: eligible homeowners will receive monetary assistance to bring the mortgage payment current, plus monthly assistance for up to two years. CHFA figures out how much the homeowners can afford to pay out monthly for mortgage, taxes, insurance and homeowner association dues if relevant. With this program, the homeowners will send CHFA their portion of the monthly payment, and the program will make up the difference and pay the homeowner’s mortgage payment each month. For more information and to see if you qualify, call 877-5712432 or 860-571-3500 for the CHFA Customer Call Center.
Business in Town Times
Friday, May 20, 2011
27
Core Club in Durham focuses on mind, body and nutrition By Cheri Kelley Town Times Looking for a new place to get yourself in gear and have fun at the same time? Check out Core Club Mind and Body Workout at 350 Main Street in Durham, located in the Carolyn Adams complex across the street from Grippo’s. Owner Cheryl Salva opened Core Club on April 18 and is excited about her business. “This is my dream to have mind, body and nutrition together,” she said. “You can’t just work out your body; you have to work out your mind as well.” The fitness center offers Zumba, line dancing, yoga, Pilates, personal training, group cycle and so much more. They also have a babysitting service available so parents can workout and bring the little ones along.
The large facility is set up for all sorts of activities; in the front room there are 15 stationary bikes for group cycling, and the whole facility is wired with a sound system to pump up the energy. A sign-up for bikes is available online, so one is guaranteed to be available upon arrival. All classes and babysitting sessions are available for sign-up online. “The wooden floor is a dancer’s dream; it is where Zumba, kickboxing and boot camp is done,” said Salva. In the carpeted open space, circuit and personal training is done as well as yoga and Pilates. Core Club offers Core Group Exercise (C.G.X.) where Salva explains the benefits: “Having an instructor is so much better than just training on the machines yourself because they can fix your form, and the
group really inspires you to complete the workout. It is the best bet for your hour. You capitalize on that hour and get the best workout.” A new program that is being offered is the Biggest Loser Weight Loss Challenge. It starts May 23 and goes through July 1. The challenge is open to members and non-members, and it works in groups of four. Either bring your own group or they will form a group for you. The groups meet with a nutritionist, and guidelines of nutritious foods and guideline of an exercise program are set up for the individual to set their own goals. This, combined with the encouragement of peers and the staff who are available to answer any questions, is the key to the program. Core Club will be doing three challenges a year with another
1201809
(Continued from page 5)
Michael Haglund
• Additions • Kitchens • Baths • Decks • Siding • Roofing
Town Times 860-349-8000
860-759-2432
PROPERTY MAINTENANCE
CT Lic. #606458
Call for Special Offer
Creating & Maintaining Beautiful Landscapes
Specializing in Service & Repairs of Plumbing Systems 1194755
006132
LAWN CARE
860-349-0467
Quality Carpentry Licensed & Insured No job too small 860-704-8312 203-919-2031 Jerry Finch
1200241
• Kitchen & Bathroom Remodels • Toilets, Faucets & Piping Repairs • Water Heater Replacements • Submersible Well Pumps, Jet Pumps • Pressure Tanks • Water Main Repairs • Well Repairs Licensed & Insured Lic #PL204680
CT Lic. # 11216
R
e Lawn Ca e r t n ai Lawn Mowing re 860-663-3107
Ernie Laudano • STONE & MULCH DELIVERED • Complete Excavation Service • Septic Systems Installed • Bulldozer and Backhoe Work • Screened Top Soil Licensed & Insured
860-398-0954
• Hedge Trimming FREE ESTIMATES • FULLY INSURED Serving Durham and Middlefield since 1985
1197796
TAG SALE Saturday, May 21, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Race Track Hallow in Middlefield. Small furniture, excercise equipment and electronics.
6 Way Road BA LMT CIMI CMC SWEDISH MASSAGE Suite 110 License #004365 REIKI Middlefield, CT 06455 DEEP TISSUE MASSAGE 860-349-7063 CHAIR MASSAGE Major Credit Cards Accepted PREGNANCY MASSAGE INFANT/CHILD MASSAGE CLASSES GIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE
1202140
With the educational budget still undecided, though, the total town budget has yet to be finalized. The education budget referendum is scheduled for May 26.
To advertise your business, call the
Spring Clean-up
1202155
The town held no further discussion, and residents approved the Board of Finance’s proposal with 19 votes in its favor and one abstention. The abstention came from former registrar Barbara Rowe, who later expressed concerns about the registrars’ ability to function, thanks to a $6,200 reduction to their election expenses budget.
one to start in September. Core Club is for everyone, men and women, and it is, according to Salva, “a hardcore group X center.” For more info, visit www.coreclubllc.com or call 860-3499100.
Town Times Service Directory
Middlefield town of Meriden should residents not accept the sale of Powder Ridge before the next fiscal year. So long as Alpine acquires the property before July 1, then Alpine will need to pay the taxes on the land.
Enthusiastic ladies pose after a workout session. From left, Judi Judson, Elizabeth Shaudy, Cheryl Salva and Stephanie Bascetta.
Town Times Obituaries
28
Daniel Lehet
Daniel L e h e t , 81, of Durham, husband of the late Phyllis (Nichols) L e h e t , p a s s e d away on Wednesday, May 11, at his home. Born in Wilkes-Barre, PA, he was the son of the late George and Emma (Meado) Lehet. Daniel grew up in PA, graduating from Coughlin High School in Wilkes-Barre and was a veteran serving in the US Air Force during the Korean Conflict. He had lived in Durham since 1964, worked for Sears and retired after many years with them, was a member of the VFW Post #10362 Middlefield/Rockfall and volunteered with the Lions Club. Daniel was always trying to invent things and loved spend-
ing time with family whom he loved immensely. He is survived by his son, Alan S. Lehet of Middletown; three daughters, Ellen Gribko of Middlefield, Cheryl Johnson of East Haddam, and Danielle Lehet of Middletown; three brothers, Robert Lehet of Orange, CT, John Lehet of Titusville, NJ, and Richard Lehet of Benton, PA; his dear companion, Ruth Sadvary; 13 grandchildren and six great grandchildren. Besides his wife and parents, he was predeceased by his son, Robert D. Lehet. A memorial service was held on Saturday, May 14, at the Middlefield Federated Church, 402 Main St. with the Rev. Dr. Dale H. Azevedo officiating. Interment will be at the convenience of the family in Mica Hill Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, friends may make donations in Daniel’s memory to Middlesex Hospital, 28 Crescent St. in Middletown, CT 06457. Messages of condolence may be
sent to the family at www.doolittlefuneralservice.c om. The Doolittle Funeral Home, 14 Old Church St. in Middletown, is handling the arrangements.
Ruth (Anderson) Gregg Brechlin R u t h Phyllis (Anders o n ) G r e g g Brechlin, 82, of Middlefield, wife of the late Alfred E. Brechlin and Walter Gregg, passed away on Monday, May 16, at Heritage Commons in Middletown. Born in Cobalt, she was the daughter of the late Arthur and Agda (Johnson) Anderson. Ruth had lived in Middlefield since 1994, moving from
Friday, May 20, 2011
Durham after living there for 43 years. She was a member of the Durham 60+ Club, the Middlefield/Durham AARP and worked for Lyman Orchards, retiring after 21 years. She was a member of Christ Lutheran Church in Middletown and was active in many church activities, had a love of quilting, flowers, birds, bridge, traveling and following the UConn Women’s Basketball. Ruth’s faith was her rock, and her family and friends were always at the center of her heart. She is survived by two sons, Mark P. Gregg and his wife, Jane of GA and Gary B. Gregg of VA; a daughter, Kimberly R. Benvin and her husband, Stanley of PA; daughter-in-law, Barbara Gregg of Higganum; her sister, Doris Matthias of Middletown; a special aunt, Elsie Hagberg of NH; five grandchildren; two great grandchildren; several nieces and nephews; two stepsons, Earl Brechlin and Dale Brechlin,
Town Times Service Directory
Cahill Septic Service Est. 1965
1198675
1194745
• Septic tank cleaning • Septic systems installed & repaired • Sewer drain cleaning • Portable restroom rentals
270 Main St., Middlefield 860-349-8551
1194758
Planeta Electric LLC Residential and Commercial Lic. #0929450 Registered and Insured
1202143
Lic.# 102065
203-980-0908
Lic.# 123670
CV
~ professional care at its best ~
PAVING
• Pruning • Cabling • Tree & Stump Removal • Spraying & Disease Control • Bucket Truck
• Quality Driveways & Concrete • 1194754
Established 1976 • Fully Insured • Work Guaranteed in Writing
(25+ yrs. Exp.) CT REG.# 580903
Water Problems & Drainage Work
• Lot Clearing - Tree & Stump Removal
Ct.LIC#61798
Allan Poole, Licensed Arborist Phone 349-8029
1195971
Allan’s Tree Service
Lawn Cutting Specials Seasonal Clean-ups Retaining Walls, Walkways, Patio Installation Dethatching Flower Bed Design & Plantings Mulching Hedge Trimming Much More!!!
In Durham Call Charlie
(860) 349-0157
LICENSED & INSURED We work 24/7
both of ME; two step daughters, Barbara Saunders and Pauline Lane, both of ME; several step grandchildren and step great-grandchildren. Ruth was also predeceased by her son, Kevin Gregg; her brother, William A. Anderson; her sister, June Munson and stepson, Carl Brechlin. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, May 21, at 12 p.m. at Christ Lutheran Church, 300 Washington St. in Middletown, with the Rev. Joel S. Neubauer officiating. Burial will be private in Mica Hill Cemetery. Friends may call on Friday evening from 5 to 7 p.m. at Doolittle Funeral Home, 14 Old Church St. in Middletown, and in lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Ruth’s memory to Christ Lutheran Church Memorial Fund. Messages of condolence may be sent to the family at www.doolittlefuneralservice.com.
John Joseph Morin John Joseph Morin, 78, formerly of Connecticut and in recent years, the Newport, RI, area, passed away peacefully on Monday, May 9, in New London after a long illness. He was born in Lewiston, Maine, March 21, 1933, the son of the late Peter Morin and Rosella (Arsenault) Morin. He was a U.S. Army veteran and served during the Korean War. During most of his life, he was self employed in the insurance and real estate businesses. He was predeceased by his wife, Carolyn. He is survived by his son, Richard Morin and his wife Joan of Durham, daughters Pamela Tadich of West Haven,CT, Michelle Lydon and her husband Steve of Guilford, CT; his grandchildren Aleksandr, Yuri and Nicholas Morin of Durham, Vanessa Elias of West Haven and Nicole Genovese of Portland, CT. He is also survived by his brother, Richard, of New Hampshire and three great-grandchildren. A private burial will take place at Duck River cemetery in Old Lyme, CT. Donations in his name may be made to Church of the Epiphany, Organ and Stained Glass Window Funds, 196 Main Street, Durham, CT 06422.
More Letters to the Editor
Friday, May 20, 2011
Powder Ridge (Continued from page 8)
CRHS sports facility opens! We want to thank everyone who helped make the Coginchaug Blue Devil sports facilities a reality! It means so much to the stu-
dents at CRHS and to their parents, past, current and future. No longer do parents have to worry that their son will sprain his ankle during a tennis match as he lunges, keeping his eye on the ball but missing that crack with grass growing through and missing most of the tennis season. Like our son. No longer will parents have to worry that their daughter will risk shin splints and other injuries hurdling over potholes on a 40-year-old track devoid of modern safety features or trying to learn how to high jump and long jump without adequate equipment. Like our daughter. No longer will all meets have to be away at other schools because the track and tennis courts are condemned. No longer will we have to rent expensive sites for football games, soccer tournaments and track
meets. And now the tennis team can actually have a meet where all of the competitors can start at the same time! Students can learn about hosting events in our new facilities! No longer will students have to practice their events only at track meets while their competition can practice running, jumping, hurdling, relays, shot, discus, jave and pole vault every day. And in keeping with Mrs. Obama’s war on obesity, have you ever seen a more physically fit group than the students laughing as they start on their first victory lap today on the new track in the rain, with Mr. Bill Currlin (from the Board of Education), the project’s “Guardian Angel” in charge of the starting gun? Our children are our future, and we need healthy, active, productive students to conquer some of the big
problems facing our world. Learning to work as a team on the football and soccer fields is full of priceless experiences that will last a lifetime. Friendships strengthened on the tennis courts and ball fields will be important assets to our community as these students grow into the leaders of Middlefield, Rockfall, Durham and the state and country down the road. Facing challenges, whether by setting a goal for a personal record or helping score a goal or cheering for that field goal or teaching a teammate a new move, develops confidence and skills that will help our children and consequently, our community grow and thrive. And for those of you who feel the track was too expensive, we understand that you did not object to it for frivolous reasons. It’s here now; come and see it. There is a
See Track, next page
Town Times Service Directory
Family Tree Care
serving LLC
Durham 1194760
www.family-tree-care.com
• Sanding • Staining • Installation • Refinishing • Repairs Specializing in Custom Designs & Quality Workmanship
1180114
If we can’t save your tree we can turn it into a beautiful piece of furniture.
1194307
Free Written Estimates • License #00564185 • Insured 25 Years Wood Flooring Experience • CWFloor@aol.com
203.457.9652
Phillip E. Mason Jr.
(860) 349-6355
WHITEHOUSE INSTALLATION & REPAIR
Randy Whitehouse CT Lic. #554559 Durham, CT
(860) 349-1904 Fully Insured
1194759
SEPTIC
Total Hair Care
Hair - Nails - Tanning 16 Main Street • Durham, CT • (860) 349-6901
1194751
• PAVING • ASPHALT CURBING • DRIVEWAY REPAIR & ENTRANCES • DRIVEWAY GRADING
BROCKETT PAVING DARYL BROCKETT DURHAM, CT (860) 349-1972
Lic. #562871 LICENSED & INSURED FREE ESTIMATES
1201230
the price paid for the development rights. What a rip-off! Premium price for a hill side that is nothing but rock and ledge, unsuitable for the development of homes, yet the agreement with Alpine Ridge LLC okayed the construction of four homes on this site. I wonder if they will be located in the existing parking lot where a septic system could possibly be installed. I thought we purchased the development rights to this area to prevent the building of houses? Since the usage of the existing system for the disposal of sewage is questionable, is the undisclosed intent in the near future to connect the ski area’s septic system to the Lake Beseck’s system? If so, that’s a no-no. An obstacle like that usually doesn’t slow down our first selectman he will work it out, and he usually does since he does what he wants to do. As things stand right now, the town has more than $4,000,000 tied up in this property, and the clock is still ticking. It sure would be nice to go down to the bank and get a $700,000 loan without paying any interest. Alpine LTD did; the bank is the town of Middlefield. Where did the town of Middlefield get $700,000? At the bank of course. Do we pay interest on this money? You better believe we do. Christmas only comes once a year in CT. In PA, it is different. There are those of you who advocate selling at any price, get rid of the Ridge; we are losing tax revenues, tax money paid to neighboring towns, jobs that don’t exist. It’s just a big headache. It takes a lot of time and revenue to add up to $4,000,000. I don’t feel it is worth the giveaway price we are being forced to accept compared to the benefits. Let’s send it back to the drawing boards, and hopefully we can get someone with experience in this area to expedite the sale with reasonable terms. I can remember a few years ago when our first selectman made a statement that went something like this, “I will spend the town’s
money like it were my own personal money.” That is quite a statement. I think this philosophy applies to all transactions except Powder Ridge, or is this statement just political talk? This entire transaction on Powder Ridge has been one blunder after another. Our town leadership is definitely questionable. This is precisely what happens when the people of authority are “in over their heads” and don’t know what they are doing! We need a better deal to give up Powder Ridge. Attend the meeting and vote “no!” Albert D. Smith, Middlefield
29
More Letters to the Editor
30
Track
(From page 29)
walking path around the track for everyone not quite ready to run the track. The teams of track and field, football, cheerleading, tennis and soccer say, “Thank you!” as only they can! Beth and John Manley, Middlefield
Dave Lowry knows the facts After reading Mr. Malcolm’s letter in last week’s Town Times, I feel I must respond to the criticism leveled, not only on the proposed deal for Powder Ridge, but on current and past administrations for “not doing enough.” When the town voted overwhelmingly at referendum allowing us to purchase Powder Ridge, the goal of administration was to secure existing property and foster a successful business. Our first origi-
nal partner was not obligated to pay us back for the $2.85 million we were afforded to spend. Our payback was going to be the jobs, tourism dollars, recreation and tax dollars from a successful business. As times change, and different partners were sought, our overall goals remain the same. If Mr. Malcolm weren’t so busy throwing stones, he would have seen the hundreds upon hundreds of hours spent striving for success, beginning with myself and Mr. Pizzo, the Board of Selectmen and continuing with the Powder Ridge Ad Hoc Committee and now the present administration. The selfless efforts of the Powder Ridge Ad Hoc Committee and Board of Selectmen to find potential owners were admirable and impressive. The Powder Ridge Ad Hoc Committee itself was an awesome collection of our town’s best talent. We directly solicited every ski operator
Friday, May 20, 2011
turning a prideful piece of our history. Thank you for your patience and time, and I urge you to please attend the meeting for the presentation, on Tuesday, May 24. David J. Lowry, Middlefield
we could in the United States; the entire ski/winter recreational community was aware of our offer. Circumstances regarding property, most likely the lack of residential development rights, was a huge detraction. The fact of the matter that I discovered was that no bank would loan money against a property with no residential development rights. Therefore, with no equity to borrow against, the business plan is a much more difficult one. I believe, with the economic climate we are in, we as a town cannot afford to let this deal slip away, and I am confident that with the total management team that includes Mr. Abplanalp, we as a town can achieve our goal. Powder Ridge still means a lot to Middlefield, and it can certainly mean even more in the future as a successful recreational business, employing our people and re-
Powder Ridge fear factor 101 Taxpayers are getting scammed? Buyers will be lined up across town end to end? Professional recreation managers? Yikes! By reading the latest letter to the editor, one would think we were selling an operational, profit-making Mount Snow for a dollar. The facts remain that Powder Ridge property was put out to bid on more than one occasion. Selectmen have tried to negotiate with more than one interested party without success. Several Ski area owners (I would qualify them as professional managers) have
Town Times Service Directory V.M.B. Custom Builders “No jobs too big or small” Mike Gerchy OWNER/BUILDER
Residential Wiring Specialist Landscape Lighting Design • Install • Service 1194746
“Complete Jobs From First Stud To Last Touch Of Paint”
Lic. & Ins. EI 183930
Fully Insured & Licensed HIC #614488
Relax! Don’t get nervous
Movado Farm Inc. 1194749
Let MLT Painting LLC take the worries away
Riding Lessons
Did Ice damming cause you to have a nightmare?
Then call us at 860 349 2022 HIC #0604563
Adults and children 1199186
Painting, sheetrock damage, carpentry repair, remodeling Insured
Addy & Sons Landscaping Decorative Walkways, Patios and Retaining Walls 1194861
CT Lic. # 579167
349-8728
NEW Spring & Summer Programs Target Your Market with Inserts!
’s l l u B
Route 17, Durham, CT www.movadofarm.com
Eye 1185406
349-1314 • 349-3297 Backhoe and Loader Work • Planting Trimming • Harley Raking • Pruning Insured • Free Estimates
1194752
Specializing in Historic Renovations and Custom Cabinets, Additions, Decks & Roofs 35 Maiden Lane Durham, CT 06422 (860) 398-0785 VMBCustombuilders@live.com
eting
Mark
(203) 317-2270 FAX (203) 630-2932 CT 1-800-228-6915, Ext. 2270
Ron Nagy Sales Representative
expressed interest in Powder Ridge, only to look at the condition and walk away. In any negotiation, there is give and take to meet both party’s needs. If the RFQ was adjusted to get the sale through, maybe it needed to be adjusted. If you believe that those changes would have gained taxpayers bookoo bucks had other interested parties been privy to them, then you have a chance to vote accordingly on the April 24. I don’t think four houses for employee housing is an unreasonable compromise in a business that operates 24-7 and needs on-site personnel. We’re giving it away? The value in most real estate lies in the development rights. Since it was in the taxpayers’ best interest, the deal strips development rights from the new owner, which explains some of the difference between the purchase and sale price. Thinking we are going to get a $10 million for Powder Ridge in its current condition (or in great condition for that matter), absent of development rights, is difficult to visualize. Highly profitable wind power was mentioned and does remain a possibility at Powder Ridge, as well as other larger locations selected by the Wind Committee. It is true that with emerging technology, a wind farm may be possible near the ridge line. However, even if there is enough wind to make wind turbines feasible, there are many potential road blocks that have stopped wind generation at far better sites than Middlefield. So even if there is sufficient wind resources, and I for one hope there are, let’s not assume we are giving away the FARM (no pun intended). Water Park fears? Oh Christ, haven’t we been through this, once or twice? I believe the permits have expired. If this deal doesn’t go through and we spend even more taxpayer money, without securing a better deal from a party who is willing to take ownership, and resurrect a dilapidated ski area, then taxpayers will be stuck See Fear, next page
More Letters to the Editor
Friday, May 20, 2011
Fear
(From page 30)
Edward Bailey, Middlefield Selectman
The facts of the sale are available at www.middlefieldct.org or the Town Hall. Powder Ridge is open to the public
1190705
Experience makes the difference.
360 Main Street Durham, CT 06455 Phone: (860) 349-5300 Pamela Sawicki-Beaudoin
Lisa Golebiewski, ABR, GRI
Broker, Owner
Broker, Owner
Cell: (203) 623-9959
Cell: (203) 631-7912
55 and Older Active Adult Community
All the Expertise You Need Buying and selling real estate can be a complex experience. For 18 years, I’ve been representing buyers and sellers in Middlesex County. Give me a call now for a free consultation or market analysis. I’ll be looking out for your best interests. - 860-638-0309 www.raveis.com/marshadesjarlais
Helping you make a Positive Change
48 Main Street Middletown 1202280
You will adore this picture perfect newer active adult community. Custom built ranches and capes with first floor master bedroom suites, open floor plans and tasteful kitchens with granite and GE appliances. All units offer 2 car garages and carefree maintenance free living. Prices start at $299,900.
Small enough to service you, Experienced enough to know how!
NICHOLLE DAGATA •860-205-4053 www.beckleyfarms.com 860-357-2008 55 Old Farms Rd., Durham
Open Sun. 12-2 Durham 57 Patterson Lane New Listing! Custom built Colonial in desirable neighborhood. Beautiful 1.75 acre lot at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac. Relax on the large deck overlooking the private, level backyard. Quality construction throughout. Only $415,000. Call Berardino Realtors 860-349-0344. Come Sunday! DIR: Rt. 17 to Howd Rd. to Patterson Lane.
60 Thayer Rd., Higganum
$244,999 Well maintained two bedroom, two bath Ranch situated on 1.2 acres. Updated electric, plumbing, septic, roof. Newer furnace and well pump. Great for the person looking to downsize or first time homebuyer. Call Cecelia for details 203.710.8059.
Open Sun. 2:30-4:30 Middlefield 37 Derby Road Reduced! Privacy abounds in secluded 1.5 acre lot set far back from the road. Offers 3 beds, 2 baths & 2 car garage. Huge patio & deck for entertaining. One of a kind! Only $289,900. For more information, call Berardino Realtors 860-349-0344 or come Sunday! Dir: Rt 157 to Derby Rd.
40 Main St., Durham • 860-349-0344
$279,000 Just in time for entertaining, this very spacious three bedroom, 1.5 bath home offers a private yard with inground pool located in a wonderful neighborhood. Brand new roof, newer carpet and remodeled baths. Extra large garage and comfortable family room located in lower level. Call Tammy for details 203.715.4864.
1202997
On Tuesday, May 24, at 7 p.m. at Memorial School there will be a public hearing followed by a town meeting to vote on the sale of the Powder Ridge Ski Area to Alpine Ridge LLC. The sale of Powder Ridge brings full circle the pivotal decision of the town’s citizens to purchase Powder Ridge four years ago to insure that Powder Ridge remained a recreational ski area. The process over the past four years has been complicated with many twists and turns. Finally, a decision by the citizens of Middlefield is the last step in this process. Alpine Ridge LLC, a group of ski entrepreneurs, has agreed to the terms of the sale to make a substantial investment in Powder Ridge and return downhill skiing to the slopes no later than December 2013. The town retains the development rights (that is the rights to develop housing) at Powder Ridge. The intentions of the
to view this Saturday and Sunday, 1 to 5 p.m.
1197264
Support Powder Ridge sale
jobs for our young people) and, most importantly, bring back to Middlefield the sense of pride that Powder Ridge brings to our community. Please turn out next Tuesday and support this sale.
1201527
with no income, paying for the property anyway, and the cost to have the site cleaned up. The idea of calling on Governor Malloy to cancel a half million dollar grant that supports our community: does this need comment? After years and years of negotiating, let’s move this forward and let someone else pump money into it for a change. As a long-time outdoor recreation enthusiast, with the hopes of generations of the same, I urge voters to get out and approve the sale of Powder Ridge to Alpine Ridge LLC on May 24. Dwight Fowler, Rockfall
citizens who supported the purchase of Powder Ridge in 2007 are being honored. As citizens of the town, we must look forward and support the vision of restoring Powder Ridge as a premier ski area, as a center of recreation for our families, as source of economic activity, as a provider of jobs (particularly part-time
31
370 A Main Street, Durham, CT 06422 • 860.349.1222 • www.propertiesne.com Your Neighborhood Real Estate Specialist ... Local, Independent and Friendly
INDUSTRIAL SPACE FOR LEASE Tax and Moving Incentives! security camera on site. Centrally located in downtown Meriden, CT. Convenient access to major highways and railroad/bus terminal. (Rt. 5, I-91, Rt. 15, Rt. 66 are within a mile of location.)
Total Space Available: 7,500 SF Rental Rate: $5.50 /SF/Year Min. Divisible: 3,600 SF Property Type: Industrial Property Sub-type: Warehouse Zoning Description: Enterprise zone
Call: 203-317-2330 for more information or search our listing on LoopNet.com (11 Crown Street, Meriden, CT)
1187720
Located in Meriden, CT on property zoned c-1, Enterprise Zone with potential tax incentives & moving expense incentives. This 3,600 sq. ft space is expandable into adjacent space for a total of 7,500 sq ft of space. Some of the features are covered loading docks, 24 hour tractor trailer access, up to 20’ ceilings, high voltage available, office / bathroom /
32
Friday, May 20, 2011
Town Times
1201312 863556
EXECUTIVE OFFICES
Professionals
860-349-7000
6 Way Road in Middlefield www.execoff.com PAUL T. MALAVENDA Principal
CORE INSURANCE SERVICES For All Your Insurance Needs
Guarantee lower rates for: Auto, Home, Life, Disability and Business
Sr. Mortgage Consultant
6 Way Road Suite 133 Middlefield, CT 06455 Phone / (860) 349-7025 Fax / (203) 413-6240 Cell / (860) 857-0186 marable@commercialct.com
1201305
1201307
Phone: 860-349-7071 Fax: 860-499-5034 e-mail: paulm_core@sbcglobal.net
Northeast Financial
Carl Marable
Representing: Travelers, The Hartford, Tower, Ace, Progressive, One Beacon, Arrowhead, Main Street, Safeco, Zurich, Lexington, Liberty Mutual, CNA, Foremost, Farmers, Markel, General Casualty, USLI, Penn Millers, RLI, Fireman’s Fund, Selective, Great American, Peerless, Hanover, Utica National, Infinity, Dairyland, Met Life, and many more ...
David E. Rosenberg, Esq. 1201308
1201314
6 Way Road, Middlefield, CT 06455 Tel: (203) 404-7287 • Fax: (203) 413-5777 david@rosenbergattorneys.com www.rosenbergattorneys.com
VISITING ANGELS
Lyman Insurance Agency, LLC
Personable & Compassionate Live-in and Hourly Caregivers are needed for in-home non-medical care for elderly in the area.
Home• Auto • Life • Disability Business • Farm • Contractors Special Needs Trusts 1201309
Our caregivers are as valuable to us as our clients. Call us at 860-349-7016
Orchard Guitar School
William J. Lema, D.M.D.
Guitar, Bass and Drum Instruction All ages and levels Performance opportunities
General Family Dentistry • Children & Adults State of the Art Dentistry in a Caring, Small Office Atmosphere Saturday & Evening Appointments Available 1201302
6 Way Road, Middlefield, CT
www.OrchardGuitarSchool.com
1201303
860-349-7038 orchardguitarschool@gmail.com
Phone: 860-349-7064 Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM Great Rates, Personal Service
1201313
Flexible schedules, supportive staff, one-on-one care
Cosmetic Bonding • Gum Therapy • Crowns & Bridges Dentures & Repairs • Emergencies • Fillings • Root Canals
(860) 349-7006
Regular Hours: Tues.-Fri. 9 am-6 pm
6 Way Road, Middlefield (Near Powder Ridge Ski Area)
William J. Lema, D.M.D.
NANCY C. FERRERO, LMFT, LLC
P: (860) 349-7003 FAX: (860) 349-7032 CT LICENSE #000932
CLINICAL MEMBER OF AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF MARRIAGE & FAMILY THERAPY
• • • • • •
Hourly Fee-Only Advice Financial Check Ups/Second Opinions Investment Planning Social Security Planning Learn more at www.JimSeagrave.com Saturday & Evening Appointments Available
Jim Seagrave, ChFC, CFP®, AIF® • 860-349-7036
1201304
6 WAY ROAD MIDDLEFIELD, CT 06455 nferrero.lmft@gmail.com
1201306
INDIVIDUAL MARITAL AND FAMILY THERAPY