5-21-2010 Town Times by Town Times Newspaper

Serving Durham, Middlefield and Rockfall

Volume 17, Issue 6

Contingencies, reserve funds, surpluses: What do they have to do with my taxes? By Stephanie Wilcox Town Times

This week Town Times invited District 13 business manager Ron Melnik, Middlefield finance director Joe Geruch and Durham finance director Maryjane Malavasi to help us understand their respective budgets — specifically reserve funds, contingency funds and surpluses — in hopes that taxpayers would find it useful. Here is what we learned. When looking at a budget, whether it is the town or school budget, remember that “one number does not tell the whole story,” said Malavasi. This is particularly important when looking at contingency and reserve funds. The towns of Durham and Middlefield have a contingency fund and a reserve fund. However, the school district is not allowed to have a contingency fund, so they operate with a reserve fund only. A contingency fund is a budgeted amount to cover unexpected costs of any kind. The towns can and do budget for contingencies, but the number cannot be more than three percent of total expenditures by state law. Durham’s contingency fund is $115,000 and Middlefield’s is $50,000 in their 2010-11 budgets. The reserve fund can also be used to meet unexpected costs, but this account cannot be budgeted for. It is filled by surpluses from previous years as well as unexpected income, such as more building department fees than expected or a higher tax collection rate than budgeted. A surplus from the current year goes into the reserve fund in the next fiscal year. Towns can carry over these surpluses in a reserve

fund while a regional school district cannot; therefore District 13 uses those funds as income against expected expenses for the next budget year. Here’s where the towns are intertwined with the school district: Durham and Middlefield are responsible for the entire education budget even though it is developed and voted on separately. In other words, both towns are ultimately responsible to cover the Board of Education’s bills when it comes to an unanticipated expense such as replacement of a leaking oil tank at a school, if the district does not have enough money in its own reserve fund. “It comes from the same taxpayers, just out of a different pocket,” Geruch explained. Also, a “reserve fund balance drives what we think is like our credit score,” said Melnik. This means the towns and school district need to consider that lenders look for both consistency and an adequate amount to cover emergencies in reserve fund balances. “If we don’t have enough money in a reserve balance, then when we go to borrow money, we will pay a higher interest rate,” explained Geruch. That higher interest rate is, in effect, the price of budgeting really closely and not having much reserve fund balance. The Board of Education has recently been criticized for carrying a reserve fund balance that some feel is “too high.” Melnik says that the number has been this “high” before, but the economy has usually looked better than it does now so people weren’t focusing so closely on it. The proposed 2010-11 education budget See Taxes, page 17

Friday, May 21, 2010

Long ago and not so far away

Korn School third graders visited the Middlefield Historical Society recently. Above, Kyle Bubier tries on a World War II hat. Below, Netta O’Connor of the society shows Liliana King a typewriter while Thomas Vallone looks on.

Photos above by Susan Berry

Middlefield town budget meeting suspended again By Chuck Corley Special to the Town Times

Middlefield’s annual town budget meeting reconvened in a near-empty auditorium on Monday, May 17, as the budget is still not fully ready for presentation to the town. The meeting was opened and closed in order to satisfy the town charter requirement that the town meet every Monday until a budget is approved. And why is the budget not ready yet? It seems to come down to two things: the as-yet-unap-

proved school budget, and the town’s anticipated payment to MIRMA. Unfortunately, the school budget won’t be voted on until Tuesday, May 25, one day after the suspended town budget meeting is required to convene. However, even if the Board of Finance completes the town side of the budget during their May 20 regular meeting, the selectmen (who call town meetings) have decided to wait till the following TUESDAY, June 1, (Monday is a legal holiday) to actually attempt to hold a vote on the town budget – with or without an approved school budget.

First Selectman Jon Brayshaw said it was “fairer” to the voters to allow them to have sufficient time to look over the budget documents beSee Town meeting, page 12

In this issue ... Arts...................................22 Calendar ............................4 CRHS Honor Roll ............23 Durham Calendar ...........16 Libraries ..........................16 Middlefield Briefs.......12-13 Pet Fair ............................20 Sports...........................24-25

As a highlight of their Colonial studies, Ricki Barton and Alexander Kulasenski were invited to try on colonial style children’s clothing by a presenter from Plimouth Plantation.

Bike to School

On Friday, May 28, students from Coginchaug Regional High School will be biking to school from all over Durham and Middlefield. They will be on the roads between 6:15 and 7:20 a.m. and then again after school. Please drive extra cautiously. Students who signed up to participate will be receiving a mandatory safety training before the event.

Gambling and embezzling seminar

Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce chairman Anthony Assante announced that the Chamber will hold a

Town Times Community Briefs Gambling and Embezzling Seminar on Monday, May 24, from 9:15 a.m. to 11:15 a.m. at the Crowne Plaza in Cromwell. This is a timely seminar that will focus on the hidden addiction of gambling and its costly impact on the business community through embezzlement. Panel members will include: Dr. Lori Rugle, Ct. Problem Gambling Services; Stephen Pedneault, CPA and Certified Fraud Examiner; attorney William O’Sullivan; and peer counselors who lost their own jobs to gambling. The seminar is free for attendees of the Chamber’s breakfast meeting on May 24; others can register for the seminar for a $10 fee. To register or for information, contact Betsey Chadwick at 860-347-5959 or e-mail

Index of Advertisers

Crafters and artisans wanted Crafters and artisans are invited to exhibit at the Notre Dame annual summer festival on Main Street in Durham, featuring a craft fair, a strawberry festival and car show on Saturday, June 19, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. It is sponsored by the Notre Dame Knights of Columbus Council #12289. This is a high-exposure craft fair. Outdoor 10x10 spaces are available at $15. Optional eight-foot tables are $5. For reservations and information, contact Dan Murphy, 162 Tri-Mountain Rd. in Durham, or by phone at 860-349-1304.

Corrections We strive to bring you the most accurate information available each week, but if you see something in Town Times that isn’t quite right, give us a call at 860349-8000, and we’ll do our best to make things right. Freshmen Trevor Root and Tim Boyle, both of Middlefield, were left off the Xavier High School high honor roll. In reporting on the planned skateboard facility at Peckham Park, our reporter noted that it would be temporary. It will instead be a permanent facility done in earthtones.

Saturday, June 5, beginning at 5 p.m. the Levi E. Coe Library will host Judge Coe Day. Bring a picnic to the gardens at the library and enjoy a concert with the New Two Cat Band and ice cream sundaes. Tickets for the sundaes can be purchased at the library ahead of time.

Oberammergau Passion Play Rev. Dr. Elven Riggles, senior minister of the United Churches of Durham, announces that there are a limited number of seats available on this summer’s Aug. 6-16 trip to France and Bavaria to see the world-famous Passion Play in Oberammergau, Germany. For more info, call Elven at 860-349-0742 or 860-349-3683. Seats are available on a firstcome/first served basis.

Family movie night tomorrow Durham Co-op Nursery School will hold a family outdoor movie night on Saturday, May 22, at 7:30 p.m. featuring Toy Story 2. The “doors” open at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $5 per person; kids two and under are free, and the family maximum is $25. The ticket also gets kids under 12 a free kids cone at Durham Dari Serv that day.

The movie will be shown on a two-story high inflatable screen on the Durham Fairgrounds. Bring lawn chairs and blankets and dress for the weather. A concession stand will be open. For tickets or info, call Tyler at 860-983-9396.

Rabies clinic in Durham Local resident and veterinarian Dr. Mark Albin will be donating his services for this year’s rabies clinic to be held on Sunday, June 6, from 10 a.m. to noon. All proceeds will benefit the Durham Animal Response Team (DART). DART is a division of the Department of Emergency Management in Durham. The goal of the group is to support your pets in the event of an evacuation or natural disaster, in conjunction with the Red Cross, or to assist Durham’s emergency personnel with any animal-related accidents or emergencies. The clinic will be held on the Durham Fairgrounds at the medical building. Bring proof of previous year’s vaccines for three-year vaccines; otherwise all vaccines will be recorded as first year vaccinations. Rabies vaccinations will cost $20, and town officials will be present to license your dog. Call Kim Garvis at 860-349-3453, for further info.

“Are You Ready For Some Bark Mulch?” ★ MAKE IT A TEAM EFFORT ★ Fix up the lawn and garden in no time with a variety of products!

Now offering: Hardwood Bark Mulch •Natural Cedar Mulch • Woodchips Also offering sawdust, tomato stakes and rough sawn lumber Available for pick up or delivery!

Perma Treat Corporation 74 Airline Drive Durham, CT Call for Now Accepting (860) 349-1133 Details & Pricing

1156875

To advertise in the Town Times, call Joy Boone 860-349-8000. Addy & Sons..............................22 J.C. Farm & Greenhouse ............3 Advertising Donations ...............19 Lehet Fence ..............................22 Affordable Excavation ...............26 Lyman Orchards..........................7 All Ears Hearing Aid Service.....19 Lyon & Billard ............................20 Allan’s Tree Service ..................23 Masonicare................................14 Anderson Lawn Care ................24 Mickey Finn’s.............................17 APEC Electric............................22 Middlesex Community College .15 Appraisal One Associates.........26 Middlesex Dance Center...........11 Around the Clock Heat..............12 Midstate Tractor ..........................6 Assisted Living of Meriden ........20 MLT Painting .............................25 Berardino Company Realtors3, 27 Mountain Spring Water .............24 Berlin Batting Cages .................10 Movado Farm ............................23 Berlin Bicycle Shop ...................12 Neil Jones Home Imp................25 Binge, Bruce..............................24 Paint Spot....................................3 Black Dog ..................................13 Peaceful Healing .........................7 Cahill & Sons.............................26 Perma Treat Corp. ......................2 Carlton Interiors.........................10 Pet Stop.....................................22 Carmine’s Restaurant .................5 Petruzelo Agency Ins. .........13, 23 Centurion Exterminating............22 Professional Security ................26 Colony Ford...............................16 Raintree Landscaping ...............25 Conroy, John, D.M.D.................13 Realty Associates......................27 Country Landscaping ................26 RLI Electric ................................24 Ct. Home Additions & Remodel 23 Roblee Plumbing.......................25 CV Enterprises ..........................23 Rockfall Co. ...............................25 Daricek Landscaping.................24 Rockfall Northeast.....................26 Desjarlais, Marsha, realtor ........27 RSDL Home Improvements......21 Durham Auto Center ...................7 Sea Breeze Hauling ..................24 Durham Dental ..........................10 Sharon McCormick Design .........5 Durham In Bloom ......................10 Silver Swan ...............................22 Durham Veterinary Hospital........5 Sisters Cleaning Service...........25 Family Tree Care ......................25 T-N-T Home & Lawncare..........21 Fine Work Home Improvement.21 Tile Renovators ...........................5 Five Star Performance Horse ...24 Tony’s Masonry.........................21 Fuel & Service .............................7 Torrison Stone & Garden ..........26 Fugge, David M.........................25 Uncle Bob’s Flower & Garden...11 Glazer Dental Associates............7 VMB Custom Builders...............24 Home Works..............................23 Waz, Maria ..................................3 Hunter’s Pool and Spas ............18 Whitehouse Construction..........23 Huscher, Debbie, realtor ...........27 Whitney Ridge Stables..............23 Ianniello Plumbing.....................21 J. Randolph Kitchens ................21 Windows Plus............................10

Judge Coe Day

to Betsey@mcsaac.org.

Friday, May 21, 2010

s r

Ask for Becky

Town Times

Friday, May 21, 2010

Coginchaug principal search down to two potential candidates By Stephanie Wilcox Town Times

WE DO IT ALL! Lawn Maintenance + Power Washing Excellent References & Reasonable Prices Call

proposed budget, and she is looking into options. The next regular board meeting will be Wednesday, May 26, at 7:30 p.m. at Brew-

You’ll find thousands of colors at Benjamin Moore Stores. Our job is to help you find just the right one. Introducing our new pint sampling program - to help you get it just right! Only at Benjamin Moore.

(860) 301-3868

The Paint Spot • Paint • Wallpaper • Shades & Blinds • Flooring • Computerized Color Matching

385r Wallingford Rd. (Rt. 68) Durham, CT 06422 (860) 349-5649

34-36 Shunpike Rd., Cromwell (Behind KFC) 860-635-1111 www.paintspot.net

Spring Sale Large variety of

• New Guinea Impatiens

2.49 ea. 24.99/dozen

4” pots $

Mixed Combo

• Large variety of

12” Basket

Annual Flowers

19.99 ea.

2.49 ea.

24.99 Dozen

11” Hanging Baskets

14.99

1.99 tray/6 plants 11.99 flat/48 plants

12” Coco Moss Basket $

each

21.99

each

• Large variety of

Annual Vegetable Plants

1.79 tray/6 plants $ 11.99 flat/48 plants $

1158756

We carry a large variety of perennials and shrubs. Open 7 Days a Week - Mon.-Sat. 9 AM-6 PM, Sun. 9 AM-5 PM

s r

DURHAM

2.99 ea. $ 29.99/dozen $

1159485

4 1/2” pots

4” Premium Annuals

ster School. Before adjourning, the board moved into an executive session regarding the superintendent’s evaluation.

(860) 347-3753

J.C. Farm & Greenhouses

• Geraniums

Found, near the Middletown town line, a black lab cross, non-neutered male about two-and-ahalf to three-yearsold. The Durham dog warden has had him for about two weeks. If you have any information, call Durham animal control at 860-349-3980.

1159286

dents are using the program for college and career searches, letters of recommendation, access to scholarships, etc. “It’s a great connection with colleges and makes everyone accountable,” said guidance director Beth Galligan. New features of Naviance will be introduced next year. Committee reports Norm Hicks reported that parents expressed concerns with the bullying policy at the last Policy Committee meeting. “These concerns are being explored,” he said. Bill Currlin from the Building Committee confirmed that the water projects at Memorial and Lyman schools were bid on, and the committee has gone out to bid for the athletic facility at Coginchaug. Nancy Boyle said the Communication Committee is willing to arrange more opportunities for residents to talk to the district about the

1159332

The principal search committee at District 13 has worked hard to narrow the pool of 21 applicants. Six were interviewed, and the committee is down to two final candidates, one of whom will become principal when Steve Wysowski leaves Coginchaug High School at the end of this school year to become principal of Bristol Eastern High School. At the May 12 Board of Education meeting, Superintendent Susan Viccaro said the finalists will participate in focus groups throughout the district before a final interview by the board. Superintendent’s report Viccaro announced that the district is receiving a state award for the Community Round-Up program and a Live United Special Achievement Award for outstanding employee and volunteer activity. She was disappointed, however, to report that the school resource officer (SRO) program, which the district shared with H-K and Vinal, will be defunct as of June 30. The superintendent explained that the governor’s council removed all SROs in the state. The resource officer provides law enforcement and police services,

among other responsibilities. Viccaro handed out information on Phase II of the Race to the Top grant program and briefly discussed the program before the board approved her request to move forward in the process. Suppert staff contract The support staff contract was finalized for the period July 1, 2009 through June 30, 2012. In 2009, wages went up 2.5 percent, and insurance copays went up one percent that same year. In 2010 there is no wage increase and therefore no co-pay increase, and in 2011, the wage increase is set for 2.25 percent and insurance co-pay is up one percent. Naviance presentation Staff from the guidance departments at Strong and CRHS presented statistics and examples of how Naviance, a web-based program that charts a student’s educational course, was used at the middle school and high school levels this year. At Strong School, 100 percent of both seventh and eighth graders logged on to the program for student surveys, resume writing, etc. “We’ve only scratched the surface of what Naviance offers,” said Strong School counselor Rebecca Sinusas. At the high school level, stu-

Looking for me?

40 Main St., Durham

349-0344

www.berardino.com

For Lease 1480 sq. ft. Ranch for lease on over 6 acres offers privacy and fantastic views. Home features 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, and 2 car garage. All appliances included. $1500/month. First, last, and security. Credit check required. Call Berardino Realtors today 860-349-0344 for more information or a private showing!

Town Times & Places

4 FRIDAY

May 21

Circus Celebration Oddfellows Playhouse will present Spring Circus Celebration featuring unicycling, juggling, acrobatics and clowning performances today and tomorrow at 7:30 p.m. at Oddfellows Playhouse, 128 Washington St. in Middletown. Tickets are $15 and $8. For info, call 860-347-6143. Book Sale The Durham Library book sale begins tonight from 6 to 8 p.m. with a $10 admission fee, and then opens to all tomorrow from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. with no fee. Shabbat Celebrate the joy of Shabbat at Congregation Adath Israel in Middletown at 5:30 p.m. followed by a traditional Shabbat meal and conversation and song led by Rabbi Seth Haaz. The evening is free and open to the public. Call 860346-4709 if you plan to attend. Frog Friday Come to the Field Forest behind CRHS at 2:30 or 4 p.m. to visit vernal pools and look for frogs and other signs of spring. Wear clothes and boots that can get muddy. Email to lucy@womenofthewoods.org for information. Ukulele music Enjoy an all-ukulele show at 8 p.m. at the Katherine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, 300 Main St. in Old Saybrook. Bring your ukes for the strum and sing-along finale! Tickets are $20. Call 877-503-1286 or visit www.katharinehepburntheater.org for info. Tomorrow visit the Madison Arts Cinema, 761 Boston Post Rd., at 11 a.m. to watch a documentary on the Ukulele. Call 310399-7937 for info.

SATURDAY

May 22

Worship service The Church of the Holy Trinity, 382 Main St. in Middletown, will hold a contemporary worship service from 5 to 6 p.m. featuring music by the Holy Trinity Praise Band, and a light supper. For info, visit www.holytrinityct.org or call 860-347-2591. Lion’s Club Yard Sale

The Middlefield Lions Club will hold a yard sale from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. (rain date May 23) at 205 Main St. in Rockfall. To donate, call Judy at 860349-8557. All proceeds benefit the Sightfirst II campaign. Rain Barrels Free rain barrels will be distributed to the first 400 residents of Durham and Middlefield from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Durham fairgrounds. Soccer The boys’ U14 team will play round 16 in the CT Cup against Norwalk at CRHS at 10 a.m. Admission is free. Atwater-Donnelly Band The Atwater-Donnelly Band will perform at 2 p.m. at Russell Library, 123 Broad St. in Middletown, presenting a blend of American and Celtic folk music and percussive dance. Call 860-347-2528 for info. K-Club Dinner Enjoy a stuffed shrimp dinner at the K-Club, 168 Main St. in Rockfall, from 5 to 7 p.m. Reservations required by calling 860-346-9521. A donation of $10 is requested. Movie Night Durham Co-op Nursery School will hold a family movie night featuring Toy Story 2 at 7:30 p.m. The doors open at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $5 per person, kids two and under are free. For tickets or info, call Tyler at 860-983-9396. Touch-a-Truck The Middlefield Volunteer Fire Company will hold a touch-a-truck show from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Peckham Park in Middlefield. There will be construction vehicles, large trucks, the Connecticut urban search and rescue team and fire trucks. There will be kid’s games and a magic show at 10:30 a.m. Local groups will sell food, drinks and snacks and the Over the Hill gang will hold a classic car show. Admission is $5 for everyone three and over. Dudley Farm Market The Dudley Farm, corner of Routes 77 and 80 in North Guilford, will hold their weekly farm market from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. rain or shine. The market features produce, shell fish, beef and lamb, maple syrup, honey, baked goods, pickles and crafts. For info, call 860-349-3917. Vocal Chords The Middlesex Hospital Vocal Chords will present a spring concert at 7:30 p.m. at Portland High School, 95

High St. in Portland. Enjoy songs from Broadway, the Great American Songbook, patriotic, Motown and classic pop. Tickets are $18 for adults, $15 for seniors and youths under 12, and are available by calling 860-3468045 or 860-342-3120. For info, visit vocalchords20.org.

SUNDAY

May 23 Youth service The Church of the Holy Trinity, 381 Main St. in Middletown, will hold a youth service at 10:15 a.m. featuring music by the Church of the Holy Trinity youth and the Joyful Noise Praise Band. A community picnic, weather permitting, will begin at 12:15 p.m. Cost is $5 per person, which buys a hotdog or hamburger, chips and a drink. For more info, call 860-347-2591 or visit www.holytrinityct.org. Community Supper A free community supper will be held at the Church of the Epiphany, 196 Main St. in Durham, from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. All are welcome and invited. Jubilee Concert The New England Chamber Choir and Orchestra will present Music for Spring at 7:30 p.m. at St. Peter’s Church, 30 Saint Peter Lane in Higganum. The concert is free, but donations will be accepted. For info, visit www.NewEnglandChamberChoir.org.

MONDAY

May 24 60+ Club The Durham 60+ Club will meet at 1 p.m. in the United Churches fellowship hall at the corner of Rt. 68 and Main Street in Durham. There will be a variety table and social time. Newcomers are welcome. Concert The Strong School Choir will perform at Strong School at 7 p.m. Breakfast Meeting The Chamber of Commerce breakfast meeting from 7:45 to 9 a.m. at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Cromwell will feature Chris Palmer, United Football League head coach. Call 860347-6924 for info and tickets.

Friday, May 21, 2010 TUESDAY

May 25 Grant Proposal Writing Russell Library, 123 Broad St. in Middletown, presents a workshop for nonprofits and individuals from 9:15 a.m. to noon. Learn key online tools for finding funders, creating searches to develop lists of prospective donors. Register by calling 860-347-2520 or send e-mail to infodept@russell.lioninc.org. DARE Memorial School’s DARE graduation program begins at 6:30 p.m. Anime Film Series Children ages 11 and older are invited to see the movie My Neighbor Totoro from 4 to 6 p.m. at Russell Library, 123 Broad St. in Middletown. Light refreshments will be served. Call 860-347-2528 for info. Heritage Quilters Heritage Quilters of Wallingford will meet at Masonicare, Masonic Avenue in Wallingford. This evening’s program will be “Art Quilts Off the Wall” presented by Sisters in Cloth. Guest donation $5. Refreshment and social time at 6:30; meeting at 7 p.m. For info, call 203-269-2065. Business After Work The Middlesex Chamber of Commerce business after work event will be held at the New Britain Rock Cats game. Enjoy an all-you-can-eat buffet 5:30 to 7 p.m. before the game against the New Hampshire Fisher Cats. Visit www.MiddlesexChamber.co m or call 860-347-6924 for info.

WEDNESDAY

May 26 TOPS Durham TOPS Club meets every Wednesday at 6 p.m. on the third floor of the Durham Town Hall. For info, call Naomi Klotsko at 860-349-9558 or Bonnie Olesen at 860-349-9433. Free Movies The Middlefield Senior Center will present free movies at 1 p.m. on Wednesdays at the senior center. Today’s movie is Mall Cop. Free Skin Screening Midstate Medical Center will offer free skin screening in the radiation oncology waiting area at MidState Medical Center from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Registration re-

quired by calling 203-694-8353. Book Fair Korn Elementary School, in Durham, will host a Scholastic Book Fair to raise funds for library/media center books and encourage summer reading. Open during school hours through May 28, and on Saturday, May 29, from 9 a.m. to noon.

THURSDAY

May 27

Concert CRHS spring chorus concert will be held at 7:30 p.m. Farmers Market Enjoy a traditional farmers’ market on the Durham green today and every Thursday from 3 to 6 p.m. Love Letters: A Discussion A. R. Gurney’s witty play of correspondence between a staid, dutiful lawyer and a lively, unstable artist will be discussed at the Wallingford Library, 200 N. Main St. at 3:30 p.m. Call 203-265-6754 or visit www.wallingford.lioninc.org to register. Retirement Party Gail Freeman, a teacher at John Lyman School, will retire after 36 years working in District 13, and the school will celebrate from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. with cake and punch. Everyone is invited to attend.

FRIDAY

May 28

Business Networking The local chapter of Business Networking International will meet in the United Methodist Church, 24 Old Church St. in Middletown, at 7:30 a.m. Contact Kirk Hagert at 860-349-5626 for info.

SATURDAY

May 29

Dudley Farm Market The Dudley Farm, corner of Routes 77 and 80 in North Guilford, will hold a farm market from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. rain or shine. The market features produce, shell fish, beef and lamb, maple syrup, honey, baked goods, pickles, crafts and more. For information, call 860-349-3917. Book Fair The last day of the Korn School Scholastic Book Fair to raise funds will be today from 9 a.m. to noon.

Town Times

Friday, May 21, 2010

Board of Ed cuts $133,729 after budget defeat Touch-A-Truck tomorrow By Stephanie Wilcox Town Times

tion or sports programs. “They consistently overbudget,” Renninghoff said, which was the catalyst for the petition. About 45 people, mostly from Middlefield, signed the petition between May 11 and May 12, which requested the board adopt modifications, specifically: 1) to reduce the overall budget by $650,000; and 2) to create a contingency expense line item (like the towns have for snow removal and police overtime) for special education costs and other things that come up in the middle of the year. “It has no legal impact, but we did it to show the board that despite the room not being full of people (at meetings), there are people out there who believe our point of view,” said Renninghoff. The board commented on the petition and said it is unfortunate that people are getting misinformation. Mary Jane Parsons said regional boards of education are not allowed to have contingency funds, according to state statute, “and personally I would love it if we could.” (See article on page 1 for further discussion of this issue.)

This lifesize Lego firefighter will be there when the Middlefield Volunteer Fire Company’s toucha-truck event is held tomorrow, May 22, from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Peckham Park in Middlefield. There will be construction vehicles, large trucks, the Connecticut urban search and rescue team and, of course, fire trucks. There will be kid's games, a magic show by Christopher at 10:30 a.m. and an appearance by Rocky, mascot for the New Britain Rock Cats. Local nonprofit groups will be selling food, drinks and snacks and the Over the Hill gang will hold a classic car show. Admission is $5 for everyone over 3.

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.

860-349-2152 www.carminesdurham.com for our menu

Carmine's Pizza & Italian Take-Out We Deliver!

(860) 349-5411

Sharon McCormick Design, LLC The Family Practice For Your Pets

Fine Interior Design

Sudesh Kumar DVM, MS, PhD 178 Parmelee Hill Road Durham, CT 06422 Phone 860-349-3485 1158521

Fax 860-349-8649

40 Main Street, Suite 201 Durham, Connecticut 06422

Providing Quality Care for Your Pets Through Medicine Surgery Dentistry Radiology Behavior Counseling Wellness Programs and More

860-349-1349 www.sharonmccormickdesign.com

1159554

www.durhamdvm.com

1157612

1142953

P O S T M A S T E R: Send address changes to Town Times, P.O. Box 265, Middlefield, CT 06455.

Tile & Grout Clean & Seal

1158513

Hoping it will be enough to pass the 2010-11 proposed education budget at the next referendum, the District 13 Board of Education (BOE) voted to cut $133,729 from their original proposal. This leaves a gross budget of $34.7 million, or a 2.77 percent increase over the current year. Roughly $93,721 of the cut came from a list that Superintendent Susan Viccaro and business manager Ron Melnik came up with before the May 12 board meeting. It included eliminating about $14,000 from electric costs due to installing solar panels at Lyman and Memorial schools, $51,000 from ACES tuition because of lower enrollment numbers over the years, and about $38,000 for switching to a new student information system. While scrutinizing line items, the board turned to the capital plan where they eliminated $15,000 for cafeteria equipment. After much angst, the board made a final cut of $25,000 from the salary line item, but left it so Melnik and Viccaro would ask adminis-

trators if they could go back and find other areas to cut $25,000 without having to touch salaries. Prior to the budget discussion, the board listened to a long public comment session. The biggest concerns expressed were the “abysmal turnout” of voters at the first referendum, confusion over the district’s fund balance and making reductions without affecting students, staff and programs. Some residents spoke in support of the budget, some against, and a handful of residents were attending a BOE meeting for the first time, anxious to voice their opinions. The board voted to hold a district meeting on May 24 where the public will have the chance to ask questions on the new proposal. The referendum to vote on the proposed net budget, which is $31.9 million, or a 2.1 percent increase, was set for May 25. Middlefield petition During public comment at the May 12 meeting, Jeremy Renninghoff alerted that members of the Middlefield Board of Finance had initiated a petition that said the school board can reduce the budget without reducing faculty, staff, educa-

Voted Greater Hartford’s Best Interior Designer

Town Times

Deadline for submission of articles and events for the Friday edition of the Town Times is the Friday before. Send your information to news@towntimes.com.

Friday, May 21, 2010

District 13 Teacher of the Year

X530 Terry Reilly with Brewster principal Nancy Heckler. E n d s M a y 3 1 s t

$700 OFF1 ON X530 SELECT SERIES" TRACTORS WITH QUALIFYING ATTACHMENT PURCHASE

IF YOU CUT, TILL OR HAUL, NOW!S THE TIME TO BUY.

X304 SELECT SERIES # $400 off 1 with qualifying attachment • 17-HP* • 42 inch mower deck

Z445 EZtrak" # $200 off 1 • 25-HP* • 54 inch mower deck

LA155 # $150 off 1

District 13 Teacher of the Year, Terry Reilly, was surrounded by family, friends and colleagues at the reception held in her honor on May 18. “She is one of the most humble people I’ve ever met,” said Superintendent Sue Viccaro about Reilly, a speech and language pathologist at Brewster School. “And it’s amazing what she pulls out of our littlest people.” Brewster principal Nancy Heckler and district pupil personnel director Amy Emory also shared their thoughts on Reilly as an exceptional educator and person. When Reilly spoke, she thanked her family, Reilly with grandson Nathan. colleagues and parents. “It’s not just me, it’s all of you, too,” she said. About her job, Reilly said, “It’s fun. I love what I do, and the kids are the best part.”

Band Geeks!

• 22-HP* • 48 inch mower deck

1159328

MIDSTATE TRACTOR & EQUIPMENT 562 S. MAIN STREET MIDDLETOWN, CT (860) 347-2531 WWW.JOHNDEERE.COM Offers valid 5/1/2010 through 5/31/2010. 1Prices and model availability may vary by dealer. Some restrictions apply. See your dealer for details and qualifying attachments. Available at participating dealers. *Engine horsepower information is provided by the engine manufacturer to be used for comparison purposes only. Actual operating horsepower will be less. John Deere’s green and yellow color scheme, the leaping deer symbol and JOHN DEERE are trademarks of Deere & Company.

AD4KKBU1AI45716 AD4KKBU1AI45716-MST3X100521TT-BW-00323295

Members of the CRHS wind ensemble helped to open the play Band Geeks at the Goodspeed’s Norma Terris Theater in Chester. After a short parade through the town, ending at the theater, the band was greeted by members of the cast. The musicians also entered the arriving audience with some lively music. Pictured are Real band geeks having a good time, from left, Adam Twombly, Bobbey Ober, Joe Oblon and Zach Lavigne. Photos by Kathy Twombly

Town Times

Friday, May 21, 2010

Bids and agreements approved by Durham BOS Celebrate Memorial Day By Stephanie Wilcox Town Times

Brook Park. Old/new business Francis reported that she is meeting regularly with others regarding Blue Trail Range, and they continue to find ways to improve safety from stray bullets. Currently, legal research is being conducted to see how other states address problems like this. After the meeting, Francis reported that only one resident had emailed her in response to a letter sent to residents in the surface danger zone mapped out and sent from resident Pat DiNatale. The email was in support of DiNatale’s concerns. There was a meeting with FEMA to start the storm cleanup project in town where Francis learned that there could be over $100,000 in damages, with an approximate 75

The Middlefield VFW Post 10362 is proud to invite the public to help celebrate Memorial Day on Monday, May 31, at 8 a.m. They will gather at the Middlefield Town Green. We must never forget that true heroism is remarkably sober and very undramatic. It is not the urge to surpass all others at whatever cost, but the urge to serve others at whatever cost. Each man stands with his face in the light of his own drawn sword, ready to do what a hero can. That is one of many reasons they assemble on this day. Come to this very solemn celebration of gratitude to these fallen heroes.

Memorial Day Food Drive

After much success last year in our first year, the Durham Fair will once again be holding a food drive during the upcoming Memorial Day parade. All items collected will be donated to the food pantries in Durham and Middlefield for distribution. Please bring your items to the parade and we will collect them as we go lym_SS55_5_17:Layout 1 5/3 by on our float. Thanks for your support! See you at the parade! Apple Barrel open every day, 9am-6pm

PICK YOUR OWN SEASON STARTING SOON!

See Durham BOS, page 10 1150582

The Board of Selectmen discussed a truck replacement for Public Works with road foreman Kurt Bober at their meeting on Monday, May 10. Bober explained as part of the truck replacement plan, he has been trying to figure out what truck is the best fit and how it will be funded. After considering trucks already on the ground, Bober said the price range he is looking at is $71,000 to $78,000. First Selectman Laura Francis briefly clarified to the board that Bober was seeking an alternate bid option that allows an agency to use a simple negotiation with “appropriate legitimate suppliers.” The board approved his request to seek this alternate option and will hear back from him. Another Public Works items on the agenda was awarding bids for catch basin cleaning services, which went to Janet’s Sweeping Property Care, LLC for $16.99 per basin, traffic guidelines,

which went to Atlantic Pavement Marking, Inc. and sweeping service. Because only one bid was received for sweeping service, the road foreman was directed to negotiate with at least two suppliers, one of whom shall be the sole bidder of the original bid. Agreements and requests The selectmen approved entering into a 12-month agreement with I.T. Resources, LLC. Francis explained this is the company Regional School District 13 uses, and the town was able to realize savings by negotiating for the school’s price. Another 12-month agreement was approved, this one a portal service provided by Cott Systems that enables residents to view land records online and print them for a free. The system is no-cost to the town for installing and will be more convenient for the public than going to the town hall. The board approved a request from Durham Wine & Spirit to have a wine tasting booth at the 2nd Annual Pet Fair on May 16 at Allyn

Sign up online for fruit picking notifications! Breakfast on the Deck! Starting May 22 Available Sat,Sun,and Monday holidays

Heating, & Cooling • Large Volume Discounts

elcome Busses W

• Emergency Burner Repair • New Installation on Boiler/Furnace Durham, CT

(860) 349-4328

1158522

J. Marotta

S1-394808 P1-282720

32 Reeds Gap Road, Middlefield• 860-349-1793

lymanorchards.com

1149440

Your

Complete

Auto

Repair

Facility

Locally Owned & Operated Honest And Dependable Service

1151322

16 MAIN STREET, DURHAM 349-3368 WWW.GLAZERDENTAL.COM JASON GLAZER, DMD • KATE GLAZER, DMD

1149453

• State-of-the-Art Dentistry • Friendly, Caring, Clean Atmosphere • No More Silver Mercury Fillings • Dr. Kate is a Children’s Dentist

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

Town Times Opinion

Friday, May 21, 2010

What I learned this week 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 is delivered to all homes and businesses in Durham, Middlefield and Rockfall. Sue VanDerzee, Editor Stephanie Wilcox, Reporter Brian Monroe, Advertising Director Joy Boone, Advertising Sales Wendy Parker, Office Manager Contributors: Betsy White Booz, Chuck Corley, Trish Dynia, Kathy Meyering, Judy Moeckel.

While I have covered municipal budget processes here and in other small Connecticut towns for over 25 years, there’s always something new to learn. That’s why we invited the finance directors of both of our towns as well as Regional School District 13 to have lunch at the Town Times office on Monday. They seemed quite grateful for the opportunity to educate us (reporter Stephanie Wilcox and myself), hoping that we could somehow translate some of the finance-speak that infuses their daily work lives into “plain English.” We hope we’ve done that, at least a bit, in the article starting on page 1. Meanwhile, we learned more about contingencies and reserve funds and surpluses ourselves. Perhaps the standout lesson from our lunch, however, was the notion that we are indeed all in this together. While residents call for the defeat of one budget or another, in fact, the defeat of one has repercussions for all. If the Board of Education budgets as tightly as some citizens wish they would and a roof leaks or well dries up, then the Durham and

Middlefield town budgets will have to shoulder the costs of whatever repairs or fixes are necessary. If the state does not come through with the Educational Cost Sharing funds promised or a severely challenged child moves into town, again the towns will bear the costs if there is not enough money in the District 13 coffers to do so. This does release residents from the responsibility of scrutinizing and questioning both town budgets, as well as the District 13 education budget, but it should make taxpayers look a little farther and deeper into what happens “if...” It’s messy indeed this budgeting process, but it’s one of the things that binds us together as citizens, willingly or unwillingly. So pay attention, vote in the school budget referendum on Tuesday, May 25, at your regular polling place, and if you live in Middlefield, consider attending and voting at the budget town meeting on Tuesday, June 1. Win or lose, we will all live with the results in the next year and beyond. By Sue VanDerzee

Letters to the Editor

Thanks for the new ‘outdoor classroom’

through an open area that is mowed once a year. It will be terrific for the insect study by the first grades and study of plants and seed dispersal by the second grades. Wildflower seeds will be sown and specific plants selected to attract butterflies. All classes may use any of the bench seating in either the woods or open meadow for inspiration in language arts. Thank you so much, Paul, for a wonderful addition to the outdoor education program and Brewster School. Marcy Klattenberg and Lorrie Martin, District 13 outdoor education teachers

We would like to thank Paul Van Steenbergen for his Eagle Scout project that benefits all grades at Brewster School. Paul, with the support of Troop 27, once again has enhanced study of the natural world for the whole school. Two previous Eagle Projects by Steven Spooner in 1993 and John Start in 2004 gave us the Wolf Tree Trail and outdoor classrooms (bench seating) in the forest. The trail is used for monthly walks and journalkeeping by the first grades. Troop 27 periodically performs maintenance and spreads new wood chips.

Disappointed in Bailey

Paul’s project created another outdoor classroom in a different habitat, with a trail

I expect more from our elected officials. As a selectperson, Mr. Edward Bailey

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.

enjoys the ability to discuss budgetary issues with superintendent of schools Susan Viccaro and other school board members, in private. I believe it is our selectperson’s responsibility to work with the school board to come up with a school budget that is acceptable to the school system and to the community and then advocate for the good of the community. Promoting a negative position in this situation is destructive to the community and should not be tolerated. Andrew Meigs, Durham

Vote ‘no’ again Seriously, RSD-13 Board of Education, instead of trying to analyze a meager 18-vote difference deciding the fate of the 2010-11 budget in its first referendum, could you please take notice of the 876 “NO” votes? These residents have sent a message. They don’t like this budget. In this economy, which has stagnated negatively for what seems like forever, this board and the current administration, along with the teachers’ union, still maintains a stronghold on entitlement and appear to believe that the disproportionate weight of salaries, benefits, stipends, dues and fees, in this and every previous budget, are all justifiable.

This district has recently voted on and received the okay to build a new multi-million dollar athletic facility and upgrades to other areas where there will now be an unavoidable increased need for spending annually. I.E., new uniforms, new practice equipment, more kilowatt hours for lighting and facility usage, increased septic usage, additional payroll, additional insurance coverage … and the district still gets its raises. A few years ago there was a major district-wide multi-million dollar renovation project … and the district still got its raises. Every year where there has been friction and rumblings of discontent, threats are made to cut everything from athletics to supplies and perhaps increase class size … and the district still gets its raises. When does the district sacrifice? When does the district make a combined effort to become part of a solution in helping to ease the burdens of the cash-strapped communities that are continually supporting them? Many of our other municipal employees, not to mention your own custodians, cafeteria staff and nurses, enjoy union benefits and contracts, yet are willing to give back what they can. It’s become routine for our board to maintain binding ar-

bitration excuses to not even try to propose a budget that is acceptable in these difficult times. Other cities and towns have made hard choices in trying to reduce the heaviest line item in their education budgets, and this district should be doing the same. These two towns are not immune to the effects that this recession has had on our great nation and within our great state of Connecticut. Another “NO” vote please! Maggie Neri, Middlefield

BOE member speaks on fund balance and sports complex

Some townspeople have the impression that Regional District 13 is a fat cat sitting on a fund balance of millions of dollars and overtaxing the citizenry each year to build up its coffers. Others think the district is building a lavish sports complex with an expensive new football team, beyond the needs or desires of the townspeople. First, here’s the real story about the fund balance. There is no munificent fund balance. At the end of each budget year on June 30, there should be a

See Fund/Sports, page 18

Town Times Columns

Friday, May 21, 2010

Saving energy, dollars and the environment, all at once

Why we voted against the state budget as proposed

I have many clients who proudly share Bob with me stories of the energy audits they have done on their homes. The fact that homeowners are inclined enough to call and have these audits done is inspiring – energy conservation should be on everyone’s mind. However there is one thing about these audits that causes me great concern; auditors are fervently promoting compact fluorescent lighting (CFLs) as viable solutions to energy conservation. While I believe their intent truly is to help the homeowner reduce energy usage and save money, I’m concerned that they are losing sight of the long-term environmental implications which also cannot be ignored. What are often understated or even misrepresented facts are the hazards of the CFL. According to www.Earthled.com, the average CFL contains 1 milligram of mercury. What you may not know is that it only takes one milligram of mercury to contaminate 1,400 gallons of drinking water. This particular site goes on to say that at current disposal rates, Lake Geneva will be contaminated within eight years. Imagine if more and more people continue to use CFLs and don’t dispose of them properly. Think about our own small community in which many of us get our water from wells. How would you know if your well was contaminated? I for one do not want to see the hazardous effects of mercury on my children, grandchildren and generations to come. The environmental and long-term health effects of CFLs are not the only reasons to think twice before installing them in your home. Most CFL lamps are not rated to be used in recessed lights, and if they are, most recessed lights are not UL-listed to be used with CFLs. When a CFL lamp is inverted, as in a recessed light, the life expectancy of the lamp is dramatically reduced. It is not uncommon for me to see them improperly installed. So what smart options do you have that can help reduce your energy costs and save money while not causing fur-

Sometimes the est electric rates in the right decision isn’t alcontinental United ways the popular one. States. Older residents Last week, Democin particular are afratic legislative leadfected. According to ers and the Republican AARP, seniors pay a governor agreed on a much higher percentplan to balance the age of their income in 2011 state budget. A lot electricity bills than State Senator Ed Meyer, of hard work went into the population as a achieving a compro- and State Rep. Matt Lesser whole. mise that the legislaAs your legislators, ture and governor we simply refuse to could live with. Deadd to your electric mocrats and Republibill. Additionally, the cans were soon celeraids on the energy efbrating. ficiency fund means that 1,000 green These things are never easy, and we jobs at private companies performing certainly respect the work of our col- energy audits are now at risk. leagues in achieving a budget without Connecticut is also in danger of lostax increases and no cuts in funding to ing its remaining farms, as the budget Connecticut’s towns. However, there sweeps away funds that were supposed were too many other problems with to save dairy farms. Five million dolthe final budget for us to vote for it. lars from the Community Investment We had many concerns about the Act (CIA) fund will be transferred to budget, but foremost is the redirect- the state’s general fund. CIA funds ing of fees on your electric bills to help come from a land records filing fee that pay down the state’s deficit. was created specifically to fund things For years, electric rate-payers have like open space and farmland preserbeen paying a special fee for energy ef- vation. That’s particularly bad for ficiency; the fund supports programs towns like Durham and Middlefield that help reduce electricity usage in clinging to their agricultural heritage. Connecticut that ultimately save famReal leadership in Hartford means ilies and business money. This budget fighting for what is right, even if our raids that fund, redirecting 35 percent voices are sometimes lonely ones. Ocof that money away from energy effi- casionally, that means standing up to ciency into Connecticut’s general the governor and our own party. fund. That is simply outrageous. We must address Connecticut’s Additionally, the fund extends a fee long-term fiscal problems. Unfortuthat was set to expire that went to- nately, this budget relies on a number ward paying off the cost of old power of one-time fixes and leaves the state’s plants and redirects it — in its entire- underlying fiscal issues for a new legty — to the state’s general fund. The islature and a new governor to deal total cost to electric rate payers? Ap- with. But, as your legislators, we did proximately $1 billion. not run for office to make only easy Connecticut already has the high- votes or avoid tough decisions.

ther harm to Mother Earth? The standard Isleib incandescent flood lamp for the recessed light placed on a dimmer is one alternative. Dimming an incandescent lamp by just 15 percent can save the equivalent in electricity and extend the lamp life by over four years. The typical user wouldn’t notice the change in lighting, but would certainly appreciate the cost savings in both electricity and fixtures. Another more exciting alternative, which I have started using in my own home, is the new LED lamp. The LED or light-emitting diode, offers many great features: 1. They can be dimmed. 2. They do not contain hazardous materials. 3. They use exceptionally low wattage with high light output. 4. They are available in color ranges we are accustomed to (a common complaint regarding CFLs is the ugly light it produces). 5. They have an exceptionally long lamp life, up to 50,000 hours as opposed to 750 hours for a standard incandescent and 6,000 to 15,000 for CFLs. LEDs do have one downfall; they are a little more costly than their competition. However, as demand for this viable alternative increases, cost is certain to decrease. And of course using them will reduce energy consumption and require fewer replacements. I don’t know why the energy auditors are not readily providing homeowners with these other options, but I do know that the public is lacking a very significant piece of the overall picture. Whether or not you have energy auditors visit your home, or just choose to implement energy and cost savings initiatives on your own, I hope you will consider some of the alternatives I have offered and question the all-too-often unchallenged promotion of CFLs. Licensed electrician Bob Isleib owns RLI Electric, LLC in Durham and will provice an occasional column on electricity and energy issues.

Let There Be Light

From The State Capitol

Thanks from the Durham Fair Association

Web update Thirty-one folks answered our poll question this week: “If you did not vote in the District 13 education budget referendum last week, why didn't you?” Not surprisingly, most of those who bother to go to a website and answer a poll will be the same people who will bother to vote so 61 percent of our respondents said that they had voted. Clearly, they are a more involved group than the town at large who mnaged to turn out at rates just above 20 percent. Next largest group (16 percent) “didn’t know about it” which seems impossible to us; 13 percent “forgot,” which seems entirely possible; and 10 percent are labeled themselves as “lazy or just don’t care.” Next vote is Tuesday, May 25. Remember now!

State Senator Ed Meyer, left, and State Representative Matt Lesser, right, received awards from Durham Fair president Gene Chiapetta for their amendments to the mass gather bill in the recent legislative session.

Town Times

Friday, May 21, 2010

Two locals run — not against each other — for state office By Stephanie Wilcox Town Times

Last week, John Szewczyk and Lisa Davenport, both of Durham, were nominated for state office at their respective conventions. To our knowledge, it’s been years (if it ever occurred) since two such local residents have both run for state office, one as a senatorial candidate and the other a house candidate. So this year breaks the mold, and we decided to introduce the candidates to you. Lisa Davenport - Candidate for 12th Senatorial District (Durham, Madison, Guilford, Branford, North Branford, Killingworth) Tell us a little bit about yourself: I’m a business owner for an interior design business, and I have a business partner of 12

Lisa Davenport years in Glastonbury. My husband Joe and I have been married 20 years, and we have two kids, Ashley, a senior at Coginchaug, and Joey, a sixth grader. When my daughter was about 10 months, I went to Paier Col-

Durham IN BLOOM Rose $ Boutonniere

Rose $ Wristlet

Exotic $ Flower Wristlet

Please order by 5/22/10

Coginchaug High Only 1154146

Phone: 860.349.9555 Fax: 860.349.9556 Jamie Stanley 28 Main St., Durham, CT 06422

lege of Art in Hamden to study interior design. I’m very active in the community: I’m a Sunday school teacher with the United Churches of Durham and I’m active in the church’s Kentucky Mission trip; I serve on the high school scholarship committee; I am part of the school district strategic planning process; I’m a big supporter of troops, in fact I was a co-host for Operation Home for the Holidays where we brought home 700 troops. How long have you lived in Durham? My family moved to Durham from Meriden when I was nine years old. My maiden name is Gudelski. I graduated from Coginchaug High School and attended Middlesex Community College. When Joe and I first got married, we couldn’t wait to get out of a one-horse town, so we went off to the big city…Middletown. When we got pregnant, the first thing we wanted to do was come back home to Durham to raise our family where we had grown up. It’s been fun because our kids have had a lot of our teachers. There’s lots of history in town, especially for Joe who is third generation in Durham. What led you to run for state office?

Interior Decorating

WINDOWS PLUS All Style Window NFRC CERTIFIED

Best Prices Guaranteed! Tax Exempt “Energy Star” Fed. tax Credit Qualified

FREE ESTIMATES 1-877-567-5914•203-269-8723

Creative Affordable Solutions For Your Home or Business Call Nancy Trott for your Appointment 1158448

ON SALE

ENERGY WE ENERGY ALSO OFFER: ENERGY ENERGY STAR STAR COMPLIANT “CASH &COMPLIANT CARRY” SALES STAR STAR COMPLIANT COMPLIANT Contractors & Do-ItYourselfers 1159030

Made in U.S.A.

Nationaly Rated Energy-Efficient Windows

,INC.

Furniture & Interior Decorators 60 Chamberlain Hwy., Kensington (860) 828-4176

21 North Plains Ind. Rd., Wallingford, CT • Visit Us At www.windowplusinc.com• CT Reg # 574938 • fully Insured

Berlin Batting Cages

860-349-1123

1156771

1150611

William J. Witkowski, D.M.D. 360 Main Street P.O. Box 177 Allan A. Witkowski, D.M.D. Durham, CT

arts Go-K re Two Miniatu es rs u o Golf C Bumper Boats Batting Cages 4 Activities 1 Location berlinbattingcages.com Great for Birthday Parties Open 7 Days

1801 Berlin Tpke Berlin (860) 828-7518

I always had some interest in politics. I ran for the Planning and Zoning Commission last year and got a taste of the political process, and I can no longer stand by and just watch. One of the reasons I decided to run is because I want my kids to be able to stay here in the town. These days so many young people are having to move out. With my experience as a small business owner and with my people skills and negotiating skills, I really think I can make a difference in the senate position. I’m looking forward to working with John — we are going to win. John Szewczyk - Candidate for 100th House District (Durham, Middlefield, Middletown)

John Szewczyk Tell us a little bit about yourself: I graduated from Coginchaug in 1995 and majored in

Durham BOS percent reimbursement to the town. Francis explained that funding was cut for the Middletown Area Transit (MAT) rural route service, however, officials have allowed service to continue while a study of transportation needs in the region, including Durham, is conducted by Midstate Regional Planning Agency. There is no cost for the study, and there will be no interruption of services, such as the senior bus and Dial-A-Ride. Francis also announced that seven bid packages have

Deadline

political science and education at Trinity College. During college I was active in Durham and the school district where I coached sports for nine years. After graduating in 1999, I joined the Hartford Police Department, and I’m in my eighth year now. I did some teaching at the police academy for new recruits and as a field training officer. I’m also a member of Notre Dame church. How long have you lived in Durham? I was born and raised in Durham. This is a community that really took care of my family over the years, my mother especially, and that’s part of what keeps me here. That’s part of why I like it. It’s about giving back. What led you to run for state office? I did an internship at the state capitol in college, so I had an interest back then. I served on the Public Safety Committee and was elected to the Board of Assessment Appeals. In 2007 I ran with Laura Francis as a selectman and we won. I learned a great deal from Laura in serving on the Board of Selectmen, and I’m looking to continue to serve in a different function as a state representative. I think Durham and Middlefield (and Middletown) deserve quality of representation at our state capitol. Lisa and I will do that. (Continued from page 7) been purchased for the Maiden Lane project, which will be opened on May 17. The voluntary production team, consisting of residents, students, etc., has begun training for COMCAST community access TV. They are taking part in four education sessions where Francis hopes it will help the town be able to cover events. “I think this will be a fun activity,” said Francis. “There are many ways to highlight interesting things in Durham, and I hope it leads to taping of meetings.”

for submission of articles, tag sale ads and calendar events for the Friday edition of the Town Times is the Friday before. Send info to news@towntimes.com.

Firefighters in Town Times

Friday, May 21, 2010

Fire at Lake Beseck intersection on Tuesday evening

Ethan Rand, Brian Dumas and Jeff Dicostanzo review the operation on the new “combi” tool. Photo submitted by Steven Tyc

Middlefield gets new fire tools

The Middlefield Volunteer Fire Company recently purchased two new pieces of equipment. A Combination Rescue Tool or “combi tool” as it is known, was put into service in early May. The tool, which is used for motor vehicle extrication, has a “Jaws of Life”-type spreader and cutting blades that can perform two separate operations. The tool can be used to pry vehicles apart after being involved in accidents. The blades portion can be used to gain access to the insides of vehicles, such as cutting off as roof. The new unit was needed as most vehicles now are made from very high strength steel, alloys and composite materials. This replaced one of the original rescue tools that was put into

service in 1984 and was not able to cut many of the newer vehicles. The unit will be stored on the department rescue truck with other rescue tools.

A fire occurred in a small, one-story cottage-style home in the Lake Beseck neighborhood on Tuesday, May 18, around 7 p.m. After being alerted that a fire had started in a bedroom at the corner of Kickapoo and Huron roads, firefighters from the Middlefield Volunteer Fire Company, assisted by Durham and Westfield tankers, had the flames under control within 10 minutes. Less than 500 gallons of water was needed to suppress the flames. The new underground water storage tank at the beach parking lot was used for the first time in fighting this fire. According to firefighters, the cause of the fire is unknown, but likely electrical. Neighbors said they heard pops and explosions from windows breaking. The extent of the damages is not known, but the one person who lived at the home got out safely. (Stephanie Wilcox)

Above, firemen battle the smoke and fire in the Lake Beseck cottage. Photo by Middlefield Fire Department

Also purchased was a slide out bed for the medical response utility truck. The slide out bed extends the back of the truck and enables firefighters to fully utilize all storage space in the back of the vehicle. This improves efficiency, but mostly firefighter safety. The combined value of both new pieces of equipment was $7,500. They were purchased entirely with company money from fundraisers at no cost to the taxpayers of Middlefield and Rockfall. The fire company wishes to thank residents for their continued support.

★ SUMMER DANCE ★ July 19 - Aug 19 ★ REGISTER NOW

Middlesex Dance Center 1158819

500 MAIN ST • MIDDLEFIELD • 345-7586 www.middlesexdancecenter.com

Open House: June 12, 9am-12pm

Photos by Richard Parker

Uncle Bob’s

An Authorized Unilock dealer

Florist & Garden Center

3 GAL. Azalea $ 16.99

Uncle Bob says... Bulk up for Spring! • Bulk Mulch • Top Soil • Flowering • Processed Stone Hanging Baskets • Decorative Stone • Flowering Trees • Unilock Pavers • Annuals • Wall Stone • Perennials • Fieldstone • Cobblestone • Shrubs • Blue Stone • Paver Tiles • Professional Installation Delivery Available Available Landscaping Services

1158828

Different classes each week to choose from!! ★ 3 Preschool Classes (ages 3-5) ★ 2 Elementary Ballet Classes (ages 5-8) ★ 2 Elementary Jazz & 2 Elementary Tap Classes ★ Ballet, Tap, Jazz & Lyrical, and Hip Hop Classes for ages 9+

Above, the hose snakes from the underground water tank up Kickapoo Road to the site of the fire. Left, firefighters at work.

Service is our most important product

Low Prices, Great Quality and Service...What Else is There?

191 Meriden Road (Rte 66) Middlefield 704-8414 Funerals, Special Occasions or Just Because...

Middlefield Town Briefs

Middlefield Government Calendar Monday, May 24 8 p.m. — District 13 budget meeting at CRHS auditorium Tuesday, May 25 6 a.m.-8 p.m.— Referendum on the revised District 13 education budget; vote at the Community Center 7 p.m. — Zoning Board of Appeals at the Community Center Wednesday, May 26 6:30 p.m. — Planning and Zoning at the CC 7:30 p.m. — Board of Education at Brewster School Tuesday, June 1 7 p.m. — Levi E. Coe Library Association at the library 7:30 p.m. — Midstate Planning, 100 DeKoven Dr., Middletown

Town meeting

Friday, May 21, 2010 (Continued from page 1)

man’s compensation insurer, fore voting on the budget. Taking the “why wait” due to the company undertack, Durham has already ap- funding its policies. When the proved a town budget despite company was forced to pay the lack of an approved educa- several claims at once, the tion budget for the regional towns it insures suffered indistrict the two towns share. creased bills that amount to The Middlefield board won’t hundreds of thousands of dolbe able to set the mill rate un- lars for some towns. Although til after the school budget is there was legislation proposed approved, or if it is not ap- that would have allowed the proved during the upcoming towns to pay the bill over an referendum, they can make extended period of time, this an educated guess. However, legislation failed and both even if there is no approved First Selectman Brayshaw education budget by June 22, and Board of Finance member they must decide and set a Lucy Petrella feel that the mill rate so tax bills, which town will need to pay all are due on July 1, can be sent $60,000 at once. This is the last out. Any changes to the school item that must be finalized. budget after this point will reSo, there will be a re-conquire that the town send out a vened town meeting on Monsupplementary tax bill reflect- day, May 24, at 7 p.m. in the ing the revisions. Community Center, but it will As for MIRMA, this is the be quickly suspended for a one item that must be dealt Tuesday, June 1 meeting, same with on the town side of the time and place, at which the budget. At issue is a $60,000 bill town budget should actually be Boston;Around Clock Heating & Cooling;B14014;3x6 voted upon. to MIRMA, thethetown’s work-

$1,400 $1,500 $ 500 + $ 500 $3,900 up to

Lennox® Rebate*

up to

Tax Credit**

up to

CT Utilities Rebate

up to

CT Appliance Recovery Rebate Total

Between the rebates and the tax breaks, you’re gonna need a bigger jar.

$129 A/C System Tune-up

Senior Center

Bocce season is here! Opening day will be Tuesday, June 1, at 5 p.m. Please call the center by May 26 if you are interested in joining. This is a very low key, relaxed group that meets once a week, and there are always some good stories and a lot of laughs. It’s the best way to spend a summer evening. Call the Center if you would like to come. Wednesdays at the movies are back! The May/June Movie line-up will be May 26: Mall Cop, June 2: Maid of Honor, June 9: The Proposal, June 16: Why Did I get Married? June 23: The Wedding Date and June 30: Pride and Prejudice. Brief synopsis and starring actors are posted at the Center. Looking forward to June, we will be screening movies with a wedding theme. On Wednesday, June 2, at 12:30 p.m. please plan on attending “What you Need to Know About Shingles.” This very important topic to seniors will be presented by Middlesex Hospital Homecare. No registration is necessary for the presentation, but if you would like lunch before the workshop, call the center at least 24 hours prior to make a reservation. The “AskMe3” program will be offered on Monday, June 14, at 12:30 p.m. CRHS Honor Society students will be presenting key questions and information to assist you with making the most of all doctor’s appointments.

See Seniors, next page Checkout Our Website for BIG Savings!

SAVE 5.00

203-239-2226 860-349-4422

On Tune-UP! 1159333

Email: sales@atchvac.com Call For All Your Home Comfort Needs!

SAVE

10% ON ALL CA RACKS R

SAVE 10% OFF HELMETS

www.BerlinBicycle.com 1154942

1144284

Ct Lic #’s 386421 and 309113 Offer expires 6/30/2010 *Rebate offer is valid only with the purchase of qualifying Lennox products. **See dealer for details and visit www.energystar.gov for more information on the credit guidelines and list of qualifying heating and cooling equipment. © 2010 Lennox Industries Inc. See your participating Lennox dealer for details. Lennox dealers include independently owned and operated businesses.

855 Mill Street, Berlin

(860) 828-1132

Friday, May 21, 2010

Seniors (Continued from page 12)

A free glucose/cholesterol screening will be held at the Senior Center on Thursday, June 17, at 8 a.m. Fasting is recommended. This is sponsored by the town of Middlefield and Middlesex Hospital Homecare. No registration is necessary. Call director Antoinette Astle at 860-349-7121 if you have any questions or wish to sign up for any programs.

Public hearing on commercial development on Route 66 continues

The majority of the Planning and Zoning Commission’s meeting on Wednesday, May 13, was taken up by the public hearing to discuss Tradewinds, LLC’s proposal to build a retail center on the corner of Lorraine Terrace and Route 66. The applicant’s representative, Matthew Crescimano, presented sam-

Middlefield Town Briefs ples of the building materials planned for the project. The buildings will be made of Cambridge brick, Williamsburg slate shingles, hardie board and lightly tinted, nonreflective glass. The only materials that the commission commented on were the plywood used in the buildings and the bituminous concrete planned for the curb. Commission members stated that they would prefer more durable materials be used. Since the project was initially proposed, the applicant has also made a few changes to the plan. No longer will a drive-thru be included on the lot, with the previously proposed restaurant or coffee shop now designated as a retail building. The percentage of glass used in the buildings has also been reduced, while the number of parking spaces has gone up from 47 to 51. In light of the change of one building from a coffee shop to a retail building, the applicant’s traffic engineer, Bruce Hilson, informed the commission that the expected rate of traffic to the location has also drastically changed. Rather than generating 1,800 trips per day to the site, Hilson anticipates the site only seeing 200 trips per day.

Resident Tom Rogers had some doubts about the number of trips to the site and used the proposed laundromat as an example. Though Rogers cited a few statistics for washing machine use at a laundromat to claim that the site would generate more than 200 trips per day, Hilson and Crescimano explained that individual customers use multiple machines to wash laundry for their families – thus, one trip might result in the use of five machines. While no one could solidly dispute Hilson’s trip number to the site, the commission asked him how often a traffic study was done after a business went up to confirm the numbers given during a proposal. According to Hilson, this is rarely done except with particularly large developments. Despite the drop in expected traffic to the site, the residents of Lorraine Terrace remained opposed to the project. Individuals such as Dennis Bishop recommended that Tradewinds access the location from Route 66 rather than Lorraine Terrace, with Bishop stating that he found no reason why Tradewinds couldn’t receive a curb cut

difference between what can’t be done and what is simply expensive to do. Unfortunately, the final decision to allow a curb cut onto Route 66 lies with the DOT, who can’t act officially on the application until after the commission has voted on it. But while the final decision may be out of the town’s hands, residents explained why they don’t want the site to access Lorraine Terrace. Part of the reason is to maintain the quiet of the neighborhood, while another contributing factor is to keep the street safe for children and anyone else who walks on the road. Other than traffic, residents were also concerned about the site’s hours of operation. Crescimano told the commission that the laundromat might run from 4 a.m. to 11 p.m., which some residents felt was too early. Crescimano said it could

from its site to Route 66. Bishop based this on a discussion he had with State Representative Joseph Serra, who in turn spoke with a contact at DOT. Despite Bishop’s claim, town planner Geoff Colegrove said it was “Irresponsible to bring forth that information without context,” as Serra and his DOT contact might be unaware of the site’s present access from Lorraine Terrace. While Colegrove called Bishop’s information “hearsay,” Rogers mentioned that the information the commission has so far comes from the developer, and thus is biased. Another point Hilson brought up was that a curb cut onto Route 66 wouldn’t be feasible because of the proximity of Lorraine Terrace itself as well as other businesses opening out onto Route 66. According to Hilson, the property would require a substantial grade fill to allow it access onto Route 66. However, Bishop pointed out that there’s a

See Middlefield P&Z, page 16

ORTHODONTICS

Dr. John Conroy www.conroyortho.com Creating Beautiful Smiles! 1149388

• 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 This lovable Cockapoo puppy named “Dylan” was happy to receive a makeover both at the Black Dog, and in life when he was adopted by Pam from a New Jersey Reserve Group!

1158820

We are now accepting donations to help Willy’s Friends.

1157825

TheGrooming Black Dog Grooming Salon Salon

Over 25 years experience

Donna DellaRipa

349-5638 • 11 High Meadow Lane, Middlefield

Our Schools in Town Times

Friday, May 21, 2010

Math night was held on April 21 at Brewster School. It was an evening when students brought their friends and family to explore the world of math. There were special projects to make and take, graphs for students and their families to help build, objects to measure and problems to solve. There was even a snack to measure and mix. Stations were set up throughout the school, and students and their families participated in a variety of activities. TJ Murphy from Coginchaug was one of the student volunteers at Brewster School math night. He is helping first grader Evan Brown make an abacus at the station called Fun Facts. Submitted by Patti Checko

Life should be measured not in years but — in moments.

Masonicare’s all-inclusive Assisted Living can provide a helping hand — so you can enjoy the special moments that each day holds. Take pleasure in the lifestyle of our vibrant, active community. Join a Tai Chi class, attend a lecture with friends, or take a leisurely stroll along our beautifully landscaped grounds and 9-acre pond. The privacy and spaciousness of our apartments provide the comforts of home, as well as support of everyday living. And the security of our acclaimed senior healthcare services offers peace of mind — including our newest level of care, The Hearth, a special memory care “neighborhood.” Come live well with us.

1147694

S ENT TM R APA OW N ! BLE ILA VA

For a no-pressure, personal tour on the Masonicare at Ashlar Village campus in Wallingford, please call 1-800-382-2244 Learn more at www.Ashlarvillage.org

Above, Allison Strang, a kindergarten student, “bought” a pencil by identifying coins and paying the correct amount at Cash In. Right, kindergarten student Seth Overton with his Terrific Tetrahedron.

Dancing at Korn School The Adam Battelstein and Friends dance group performed at Korn School on Friday, April 9. Their performance “LocoMotion” combined science and dance using the elements of locomotion, from friction to balance and stability. S e c o n d graders from Brewster also enjoyed the show as one of their transition activities with the third graders. Photo submitted by Eileen Chupron

Friday, May 21, 2010

Our Schools in Town Times

Second grade students at Brewster School in Durham celebrated Cinco de Mayo this month. Students were treated to homemade goodies supplied by parents, played Mexican-themed games, and listened to and enjoyed a live Mariachi band performance. Students have just completed a year-long study of Mexican culture, including the geography, arts and language of the Mexican people. Photos submitted by Patti Checko

R W Q , K V D O 6S J Q L Q U D H / 6XPPHU

23; )26300-2+ *36 &38, 7911)6 '6)(-8 %2( '328-29-2+ )(9'%8-32 '3967)7

â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Mobile Edâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; at Korn School

Students at Korn School enjoyed Mobile Edâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s production â&#x20AC;&#x153;Imathinationâ&#x20AC;? held on May 5. Imathination encourages children to think outside the box and to use their â&#x20AC;&#x153;imathinationâ&#x20AC;? to envision all the ways in which math affects their lives everyday. Students baked a gigantic three-tiered cake using â&#x20AC;&#x153;mathmagicalâ&#x20AC;? measurements. Volunteers raced to create a bridge using only mathematical principles.

<RXU .H\ 7R 6XFFFHVV

2I[ GVIHMX WXYHIRXW QYWX ETTP] XS XLI GSPPIKI FIJSVI VIKMWXIVMRK JSV GPEWWIW :MWMX SYV [IFWMXI SV GEPP XLI %HQMWWMSRW 3JÂ˝GI EX 1\'' HSIW RSX HMWGVMQMREXI SR XLI FEWMW SJ VEGI GSPSV REXMSREP SVMKMR WI\ HMWEFMPMX] SV EKI MR MXW TVSKVEQW ERH EGXMZMXMIW 8LI JSPPS[MRK TIVWSR LEW FIIR HIWMKREXIH XS LERHPI MRUYMVMIW VIKEVHMRK XLI RSR HMWGVMQMREXMSR TSPMGMIW (MVIGXSV SJ ,YQER 6IWSYVGIW EX 1\'' 8VEMRMRK ,MPP 6SEH 1MHHPIXS[R '8

1159167

Photo submitted by Eileen Chupron

:MWMX YW SRPMRI ERH GPMGO SR XLI Âą'PEWW 7GLIHYPIWÂ˛ PMRO YRHIV Âą)HYGEXMSREP 3TTSVXYRMXMIWÂ˛ XS Â˝RH SYX QSVI EFSYX SYV X[S WYQQIV WIWWMSRW 1E] .YRI

.YRI .YP] 8V] SRI SJ SYV SRPMRI GSYVWIW SV XEOI E GPEWW GPSWI XS LSQI MR 1MHHPIXS[R ERH 1IVMHIR ;I LEZI WSQIXLMRK JSV IZIV]SRI

Town & Librar y Briefs

Durham Government Calendar Durham Library Hours: Regular library hours are 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. Visit www.durhamlibrary.org to search the catalog, review your account, register for a program or renew your materials online. For information or to register for a program by phone, call 860-349-9544. PALS Book Sale: The annual book sale is scheduled for Friday, May 21, from 6 to 8 p.m. and Saturday, May 22, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday’s hours are a preview with an admission fee. Book lovers should not miss this sale, since there is always a terrific selection of titles for adults and children,

(All meetings will be held at the Durham Library unless otherwise noted. Check the town Web page at www.townofdurhamct.org for updates and changes.) Monday, May 24 7 p.m. — Board of Selectmen at Town Hall 8 p.m. — District 13 Board of Education presentation of the amended budget at CRHS auditorium. Tuesday, May 25 6 a.m.- 8 p.m. — Referendum on the amended District 13 education budget; vote at Korn School. 7 p.m. — Ethics Commission Wednesday, May 26 7:30 p.m. — Board of Education at Brewster School Tuesday, June 1 6:30 p.m. — Public Safety Committee 7:30 p.m. — Midstate Planning, 100 DeKoven Dr., Middletown Wednesday, June 2 7:30 p.m. — Planning and Zoning Commission Wednesday, June 9 7:30 p.m. — Board of Education at Memorial School

COLONY FORD of MERIDEN Be Proud! Buy American! Stop by

COLONY FORD 2010 Ford Focus

and Discover Why More Americans Are Choosing

2010 Ford Escape

2010 Ford Fusion

2010 Ford Taurus

2010 Ford F-150

2010 Ford Edge

Mfld. P&Z

2010 Ford Mustang Convertible

Ron DaSilva

Marilyn Deal

Paul Pashley

Al Lalla

General Sales Manager

Business Manager

Sales Manager

Sales Person

Jim Morico Sales Person 1159268

Ken Ford

Angel Lozada

Jess Evon

Fran D’Agostino

Gene Quail

Sales Person

Receptionist

Service & Parts Director

“Your Hometown

Dealer”

Easy to get to from I-91, Rt. 15, and 691

1179 East Main Street, Meriden Adjacent to Valencia Liquor

203-238-1100 • www.ColonyFordMeriden.com

as well as tapes, CDs and DVDs. The library is now accepting donations of books and media in good condition. No textbooks or periodicals please. All proceeds go to support library programs and new initiatives. Tuesday Night Movie: Come watch the movie Dear John (PG-13) on a large screen the day the DVD releases on Tuesday, May 25, at 6:30 p.m. Popcorn and water will be provided for free. Teen Book Club: The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins will be discussed on Wednesday, May 26, at 7 p.m. This book club is for students in grades seven through nine. Lainey Melvin’s Spring Spectacular Puppet Show: Kids of all ages are invited to watch a fun and interactive puppet show at the library on Saturday, May 29, at 10:30 a.m. The Book Lover’s Circle will meet on Wednesday, June 2, at 7:30 when Benjamin Franklin: An American Life by Walter Isaacson will be discussed. Copies of the book are available at the library. Everyone is invited to join this informal discussion. The Mystery Book Discussion Group will meet on Tuesday, June 15, at 7:30 p.m. to discuss Bangkok 8 by John Burdett. Copies of the book are available at the library. Everyone is invited to join this informal discussion. Check out new titles: The Map of True Places by Brunonia Barry, The Skorpian Directive by David Stone, Strip by Thomas Perry, Hannah’s List by Debbie Macomber, The Red Thread by Ann Hood, Tomorrow River

open as late as 5 or 6 a.m., though he would prefer not to open it any later. Residents also had concerns about light and sound on the site. While photometrics for the site were presented to the commission, Crescimano admitted that the type of lights to be used on the site have not yet been decided upon. As for sound, Crescimano felt that there wasn’t anything unusual about the sound levels for the site, particularly since there will no longer be a drive-thru with an outdoor speaker. However, he agreed to test the likely decibel levels for the site

Friday, May 21, 2010

by Lesley Kagen, Revolutionaries, a New History of the Invention of America by Jack Rakove and From Elephants to Mice, Animals Who Have Touched My Soul by Dr. James Mahoney. The Cross Gardner by Jason Wright is now available in large print.

Levi Coe Library

Hours: The library is open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays, and on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Visit www.leviecoe.com or call the library at 860-3493857 for information or to register for any program. You can also renew, reserve and check your library record on the website. The library will be closed Saturday, May 29, and Monday, May 31, for Memorial Day. Library Passes: Connecticut State Parks and Forests Day Pass can be checked out for two days and is used to cover the cost of parking at state parks and forests where there is an established parking charge. The pass can also be used to cover the admission fee for up to two adults and four children at state historical sites and exhibit centers at Dinosaur, Fort Trumbull and Gillette Castle parks. Pass is valid through Dec. 21, 2010. Old State House pass provides free admission for up to two adults and two children; checks out for two days. At the Old State House, expect to find historically restored rooms, guided tours, an exhibit blending U.S. history, state government, citizenship, and an interactive floor dedicated to Hartford history. (Continued from page 13) should the commission desire him to. Regardless, the commission chose to continue the public hearing until their next meeting on May 26. As for the rest of the meeting, commission member Bill Waff told the commission that the used car lot on Route 66 seems to be spreading out again, despite past attempts by the commission to clean the site up. Colegrove said he hasn’t followed up on inspecting the site, though the ZEO, Alan Johansen, is supposed to be working on it. (In attendance/Chuck Corley)

Town Times

Friday, May 21, 2010

Taxes (Continued from page 1)

Durham/Middlefield Youth & Family Services Unless noted, all events take place at the Youth Center in the Middlefield Community Center. Office Hours: 3:30-5:30 Tuesdays-Fridays; phone 860-349-0258. Friday, May 21, Dance Friday, May 21, for fifth and sixth grade from 7 to 9 p.m. $5 per person Monday, May 24, CPR class From 6 to 9 p.m. CPR for children and infants. Call to reserve a spot by May 19. Friday, May 28, Family Bingo Night Friday, May 28, from 7 to 9 p.m. Fee is $5, kids under five are free June 5 Kids’ Carnival hosted by Girl Scout Troop 62890 Saturday, June 5, free community kids carnival from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Food will be available to purchase.

1159546

shows $1,189,348 in the current fund balance plus another $600,000 in surplus they expect but won’t know for sure until June 30, 2010, the end of the current budget-fiscal year. All of this money is counted as income to offset the costs of the 2010-11 proposed budget. “What would happen if we ended a budget year exactly on target would be that we’d have to raise from somewhere – probably taxes – the money we can add in now as surplus from the previous year,” explained Melnik. “Either way, the district would need to find the money, and if we end with a surplus, it means that we were able to pay for those unexpected expenses, like failing oil tanks or a bad snowstorm (District 13 owns and maintains, including plowing, Pickett Lane in Durham), that always come up in every budget year.” What would happen, continued Geruch, if the Board of Education didn’t have the money would be that the towns would be responsible for paying the unexpected expense from – guess where? – the towns’ contingency funds, which they can budget for, or their fund balance accounts. Guess whose money funds these accounts? The same money that funds the BOE budget – yours. Melnik also pointed out that two years ago District 13 changed from budgeting using average salary numbers to

budgeting using actual salary numbers, and the difference in doing so is dramatic. Since changing, the average surplus in the salary account went from $746,453 and $949,415 for 2006 and 2007, respectively, to $102,831 and $301,927 for 2008 and 2009. “It doesn’t get any more accurate than that,” said Melnik. He admits that the Board of Education’s biggest fear is having to go back to the towns in May to absorb uncertainties. “In September, we can usually find some money somewhere to take care of a pressing need,” explained Malavasi, “but in May (near the end of the fiscal year), it’s not so easy.” In turn, the town’s biggest problem in budgeting is not knowing the state numbers. Melnik agreed; it’s hard to prepare the budget in December counting on state income that might not be known for up to six months. “And, we’re trying to look 18 months in the future,” Geruch said. Another issue on their minds is that both the towns and the school are concerned about the possibility of losing 14 percent of state dollars next year due to the expiration of federal stimulus funds which the state has used partially to fund town and school aid. A decrease of this size, if it materializes, will greatly impact the 2011-12 budgets. “We’re looking at substantial tax increases next year or substantial cuts in services,” said Geruch. “We’ve done the easy nickel and dime stuff, and now we’re mortgaging our future.”

17 Joseph and his Dreamcoat

Photo by Judy Moeckel

Ian Kopcik as Joseph in Epiphany’s production of the dreamcoat musical last weekend. The wonderful coat was fashioned by artist Suzy Balay of Durham.

GIGANTIC CLOTHING & FOOTWEAR

TENT RAIN OR SHINE

SALE TOPS • JEANS • SHORTS SHOES • SNEAKERS & more FRI. MAY 21st (11a - 6p)

MENS LADIES KIDS

SAT. MAY 22nd (10a - 6p)

RACKS

SUN. MAY 23rd (11a - 5p) $

RACKS

All First Quality Brand Name Merchandise

1144283

874 BERLIN TURNPIKE, BERLIN CT (860) 828-6547 OPEN MONDAY-FRIDAY 9:30-9, SAT 9:30-6, SUN 11-5

More Letters to Town Times

18 Fund/Sports

(From page 8)

surplus, and that surplus varies depending on how successful the district has been at

estimating costs and revenues and depending on how frugal the district has been. If

there were no surplus, the district would not be operating responsibly.

Friday, May 21, 2010

1159553

Sometimes the surplus is large, especially when something that was planned for didn’t happen or revenues came from the state that weren’t expected, such as $65,000 in June 2009. Sometimes the surplus is small due to legal expenses or special education costs, such as, for example, a severely handicapped student moving into the district. On July 1st, the surplus becomes what is called the fund balance, and it is applied to the following year’s budget. The actual fund balance number is not really known (though the business manager and the board’s financial committee have a good estimate of what it will be) because an outside accounting firm does the financial audit in August and September and their report is not presented until December. Because the budget is always voted on in May, the exact number of the fund balance cannot be known when the budget goes to a vote. Also, sometimes the state’s contribution is not known when the budget goes to a vote. So, any budget that you vote on is the best estimate of the costs and revenues of the coming year. Add to this the fact that the district, like any responsible large business, hopes to have a cushion to absorb unforeseen problems such as when a town doesn’t pay its share on time, or revenues from the state are late or cut in Hartford. Normally a business would have a contingency fund, but unlike towns, the district is not permitted to have a contingency fund. It is permitted, however, to have a fund balance, which it can carry over to the next year. It is also permitted to have a capital reserve fund such as the one created by the board in 2008 equal to one percent of the total budget. During the budget preparation meetings this year, the Middlefield Board of Finance, cognizant of the financial woes of its citizens, made a strong case that the district’s fund balance was too large to carry over to the next year, so Board of Education members agreed to cut the fund by $600,000, effectively eliminating much of the cushion. Some members were reluctant to cut so much since state revenues are in jeopardy once again and because they worry about not having a cushion to carry over

See Fund/Sports, next page

Friday, May 21, 2010

Fund/Sports (From page 18)

moval of the existing track and the construction of the new track and field will be under $1 million. Those who wonder about adding facilities for football in District 13 might be surprised to learn that the Board of Education created a football team together with Vinal Tech in 1999. The number of players grew so much that the CIAC ruled that Coginchaug had to have its own team and could no longer combine with Vinal, beginning in 2010. Meanwhile, football leagues for grades two through eight developed in both towns and now include over 100 registered players and 57 cheerleaders in the Durham/Middlefield youth football and cheerleading program, generating broad demand from both towns for a District 13 football program. It is unfortunate that misinformation about the fund balance and about the scope of the bond issue projects has spawned mistrust and fueled votes against the school budget. I urge voters to ask any further questions you may have before the next referendum and to vote â&#x20AC;&#x153;yesâ&#x20AC;? on May 25 for the revised 2010-11 budget. Merrill Adams, member D-13 Board of Education

Support Szewczyk John Szewczyk has done a terrific job as our selectman

in the town of Durham. He has been accessible to his constituents. He has worked well with members from both political parties. He has fought for small towns like Middlefield and Durham, ensuring we are not forgotten by our state government. He has been active in the community outside of politics as well. Along with being a terrific selectman, Szewczyk is a lifelong resident of this area, a working class Hartford police officer, a graduate of Trinity College and Coginchaug Regional High School and a dedicated athletic coach. He knows our towns, our people, our schools. Most importantly, when you talk to him about the issues, he understands them and has provided real solutions, unlike many other politicians. I am most impressed with his desire to make the tough decisions needed to balance our state budget so both the economy and the job market will improve. Please support John Szewczyk for State Representative. Middlefield and Durham deserve him. Vera Geremia, Durham

Durham-Middlefield community. Thanks to the efforts of several parents, the students from the Spanish Honor Society at CRHS, and my colleagues Marilyn Horn and Kate Martino, we had a very successful and thoroughly enjoyable â&#x20AC;&#x153;Fajita Fiesta.â&#x20AC;? Fiesta del Norte entertained the more than 200 people who attended the event this year, and, as usual, JalapeĂąo Heaven in Branford provided us with excellent Mexican food. The many area businesses who donated items for our silent auction made it a huge success. Your generosity is greatly appreciated! Finally I want to give a big â&#x20AC;&#x153;graciasâ&#x20AC;? to the custodial staff for their valuable assistance and for putting in so much time and

effort to help make this event a fun evening for all. The Spanish Honor Society at CRHS raises funds to sponsor a student in Oaxaca who, with our help, will graduate from high school next month and continue his studies at the university level. Our funds are also used for various charities and to offset travel costs for student members who attend school-sponsored trips. Nancy Alberico, CRHS Spanish Honor Soc. advisor

Thanks for your support The Durham Animal Response Team (DART) wishes to send a resounding THANK

See DART, next page

Come Celebrate the

ÂĄFajita Fiesta Success! The tenth annual â&#x20AC;&#x153;Fajita Fiestaâ&#x20AC;? at Coginchaug was an example of the wonderful volunteer spirit and support that is such an integral part of the

ALL EARS

5VFTEBZ +VOF t QN UP QN Aqua Turf Club, Plantsville, CT 5JDLFUT QFS QFSTPO t $IJMESFO VOEFS UP CFOFGJU 5IF 'SBODJTDBO -JGF $FOUFS 'SBODJTDBO )PNF $BSF BOE )PTQJDF $BSF .FSJEFO $5

1155715

HEARING AID SERVICE, INC.

45 '3"/$*4 "8"3% George Grande 'PSNFS QMBZ CZ QMBZ UFMFWJTJPO BOOPVODFS GPS UIF $JODJOOBUJ 3FET BOE POF PG &41/ T GJSTU 4QPSUT$FOUFS sportscasters

â&#x20AC;˘ FREE Hearing Evaluation & Consultation â&#x20AC;˘ SERVICE Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s what makes us different â&#x20AC;˘ FREE In-Home Service for all area patients, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Let us come to you.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;˘ We Fit Most Major Brands Serving Central CT Since 1985 78 Marlborough St., Portland (860) 342-4940 12 Curtis St., Meriden (203) 237-7546

+*. $"-)06/ $0..6/*5: 4&37*$& "8"3% Al Terzi &NNZ "XBSE XJOOJOH CSPBEDBTU KPVSOBMJTU BOE $IBOOFM &ZF8JUOFTT /FXT BODIPS $03103"5& 410/4034)*1 "8"3% ESPN, Inc. 1154784

to the 2011-12 budget during a time of state austerity. Middlefield Board of Finance members also took exception to the districtâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s method of estimating salaries, saying that instead of using the known actual cost for certified and uncertified staff, the board of education should lower the estimate because there has usually been a surplus in this category. Board of education (BOE) members did not reduce the salary account, believing that the $600,000 reduction in the fund balance was sufficient aid to taxpayers and hoping that there would in fact be some surplus at the end of the year. After the 2010-11 budget was defeated, the BOE cut almost $134,000 more, of which $25,000 would come from the salary account if it could not be eliminated elsewhere. Now for the second concern, the athletic complex. Voters approved a $4,995,000 bond issue for two new roofs at Lyman and Memorial, three elementary school wells, seven tennis courts, one track and one field in the middle of the track to be used for physical education classes, soccer teams and a football team plus parking and rest room facilities. The track and tennis courts, 40 years old, were patched often and could not be reconditioned any more. Seating and lights, a refreshment stand, and protective fencing were part of the plan to be added now if there was enough money or, if not, then at some future time. Private donations from athletic boosters paid for the plan. A committee of local citizens selected the final plan and presented it to the Board of Education. After the board approved the plan and the voters approved the bond issue, the bond money accrued interest in the bank until legal issues about the track and field could be resolved. Unfortunately, the kids wouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have their sports fields when expected, but fortunately because of the delay and the economy, some construction costs were lower. The roofs were completed for about $2 million and the completed wells were another $500,000. Of this $5 million bond issue, the cost of the re-

Still More Letters to Town Times

Silent Auction CFHJOT BU QN

SPONSORED IN PART BY

(SFBU 4QPSUT .FNPSBCJMJB

%JOOFS BU QN 5P SFTFSWF TFBUT

Town Times

20 DART

(From page 19)

YOU to all the people who supported our recent tag sale. Your support was outstanding! We appreciate your donations and purchases. The profits will remain in Durham to benefit animals and their owners. We also want to thank those of you who “signed on” as new volunteers. We are happy to welcome you to our ranks. We ap-

preciated the use of the Durham Fair-owned lawn and apologize for hindering your mowing efforts. We also want to thank Brenda from Main St. Feed and emergency management director Francis Willett for keeping everything organized. Most of all, thanks to our families for picking up the slack at home on such a nice weekend while we served our community.

Friday, May 21, 2010

Second annual Pet Fair a huge success

Sue White for DART

SUDOKU ANSWER

CROSSWORD ANSWER

Above, Pickett Lane is crowded with dogs and people. Below are Stella, Sonny and Simon, all chihuahua mixes, adopted from Protectors of Animals by Cathy Barber and Mike Kosiba of Wethersfield. They say, “they are the loves of our lives...it makes a big difference to adopt rather than breed more puppies.”

1144298

Above right, Dev Khalsa craddles this kitten from Middletown Animal Control. Below, “Kail” is a “mutt” from the animal shelter in Meriden. He is sitting with Haley Photos by Judy Moeckel Dalessio of Madison.

1996 - 2010

YEARS OF EXCELLENCE Assisted Living Services, Inc.

Your best choice for Independent Living. • Competent, reliable, caring, and trustworthy staff that come to your home.

... is Connecticut’s LARGEST Supplier of Decking Materials and pressure treated lumber Always FREE DELIVERY throughout the state. NO MINIMUM!

• We specialize in elder care services that promote independence and dignity.

Free Computer Deck Design Service

• Homemakers • Companions • 24-hour Live-in’s “They’ll be happy ... You’ll be happy” • Personal Care Attendants

Assisted Living Services, Inc. CT. Lic. 0000124

(203) 634-8668

1157347

Serving Central Connecticut

Free in-home consultation available by RN.

Most orders are delivered within 24 to 48 hours! 1290 Farmington Ave.

504 West Main St.

38 Gypsy Ln.

Berlin, CT

Cheshire, CT

Meriden, CT

860-829-1842

203-272-5351

203-235-4487

1156247

Employees are bonded and insured and have had national criminal background checks.

Service Unequaled!

Town Times

Friday, May 21, 2010

St. Sebastian celebrated in annual event By Frank LoGiudice Special to the Town Times

“E Chiamamulu Paisanu! Primu Diu E Sammastianu!” Translated to English, this means “He’s one of our own! First God and then Saint Sebastian.” This Italian chant began in Middlefield on Sunday, May 16, at Saint Sebastian’s Cemetery in Middlefield for the 89th anniversary celebration of Saint Sebastian’s Church in Middletown. The “I Nuri” were dressed in white with red sashes and ran barefoot (or in stocking feet) through the streets of Middlefield and Middletown. Approximately 75 people ran from the cemetery to the church, and another contingent of “I Nuri” were stationed at the corner of Main and Washington Streets waiting for the High Mass in honor of Saint Sebastian to be concluded. They came from near and far. Once the

mass was over, the “I Nuri” ran inside the church holding red flowers chanting “E Chiamamulu Paisanu! Primu Diu E Sammastianu!” From there the statue of Saint Sebastian was taken out of the church and paraded through the city streets for everyone to see. Why do the “I Nuri” do this? There are several reasons such as preserving tradition, 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. A young “I Nuri” runs along Rt. 66 from St. Sebastian’s Cemetery in Middlefield to St. Sebastian’s Church in Middletown. “I Nuri” can be women or men, young or not so young. Here a group of women make the pilgrimage from the

Ladies’ Night

cemetery in Middlefield to the church on Wasington Street. “I Nuri” return the statue of St. Sebastian to the church after parading it through downtown Middletown. Young and old, men

and women, honor St.

T o w n Ti m e s S e r vi c e D i r e c t o r y

Residential Roofing Specialist Dan Jacobs Owner Dependable & Reasonable

Insured & Licensed

CT Lic. #00558904

860.349.1774

860-349-6597

Free Estimates

Committed to Excellence

1148109

TONY’S MASONRY LLC “Old World Craftsmanship”

Notre Dame sale

1156945

Stonewalls • Stone Design • Fireplaces Outdoor Kitchens • Patios • Brick & Stucco Swimming Pools • Porches • Special Steps Waterfall & Sidewalk Work • Repairs • etc. Licensed • FREE Estimates Over 30 Yrs. Exp. Any Size Job Guaranteed CELL (203) 982-5267 OFFICE (203) 753-0746 www.bestbuiltwalls.com

yyyy yyyy yyyy yyyyy yyyy yyyyy yyyy yyyy yyyyy

Home Improvement & Repairs Specializing in Bathroom Remodeling

CT Lic. 0612088

• Painting/Dry Wall • Tile Flooring • Basements/Skylights • Decks/Patios/Sheds • Odd Projects • No Job Too Small

1157799

RSDL 1147104

Notre Dame Church on Main Street in Durham will have their monthly rain or shine tag sale and flea market on Saturday, June 5, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. The sale features household goods, dishes, craft and sewing supplies, furniture, clothing ($2.50 per bag), antiques, collectibles, over 1,000 books, and anything and everything you might need or want. A jewelry table and 30 tag sale stables with thousands of items are set up in the air-conditioned church hall. Breakfast and lunch will be available in the church hall. Vendor space is $15, available by calling Bob Smith at 860-349-0356.

1150629

1156055

Back by popular demand, there will be a second annual Ladies’ Night at the Elks Club in Middletown on June 3 from 5 to 9 p.m. There will be 24 vendors who will apply makeup, give chair massages, fortune telling, jewelry, martini tasting, etc. There will also be a DJ and a buffet table. Donation is $15 per individual, or $120 to reserve a table. The money raised will go toward helping complete the Elks patio. For tickets or information, call Nancy Currlin at 860-343-6818.

Town Times photos by Frank LoGiudice

Robert Trombetta 860-798-5374 Middlefield, CT

Arts in Town Times

Region 13 Summer Theater Camp

The Young People’s Center for Creative Arts (YPCCA) has openings available for our one-week summer theater camp Aug. 2-6 at Coginchaug High School. Camp will meet daily from 8:30-3 p.m. and is open to students in grades 612. Cost of the camp is $150 if you register before June 1, and $175 thereafter.

Students enrolled at the Young People’s Center for Creative Arts - Durham will choose from a variety of workshops including Show Choir,

Acting, Broadway Chorus and Voice. Mornings at the camp will be spent in these workshops, and afternoons will be devoted to rehearsing selected scenes and songs from the musical Little Shop of Horrors. The two performances on Friday evening will feature all of our campers performing pieces from both the workshops and Little Shop of Horrors. The staff of YPCCA is made up of professional actors and teachers from throughout

Connecticut. Students and staff of the program have gone on to work and perform at such venues as Long Wharf Theater, Goodspeed Opera House, Hartford Stage and the Eugene O’Neil Theater. YPCCA has over 25 years of experience with youth theater and is thrilled to bring their knowledge to Region 13. More info and online registration available at www.ypcca.org or by calling 860-2672911. Come and join us center stage this summer at YPCCA!

Friday, May 21, 2010

‘Ole Blue Eyes’ tribute at Trinity-on-Main By Larry Kellum Special to the Town Times An American institution named Frank Sinatra died on May 14, 1998, at age 83. To commemorate that historic day, Trinity-on-Main in New Britain paid homage to the legendary singer/actor by presenting a cabaret evening of his music, as performed by 47-year-old Berlin native Rob Zappulla and his traveling

T o wn T im es S e rv ic e Di re ct ory 1159766

It’s the business tool you can’t afford to be without!

Addy & Sons Landscaping 349-1314 • 349-3297

Receptionist High-Speed Internet Conference Rooms

6 Way Road, Middlefield www.execoff.com

1153215

Executive Offices

Decorative Walkways, Patios and Retaining Walls

65 offices from $350-up (860) 349-7000

Backhoe and Loader Work • Planting Trimming • Harley Raking • Pruning Insured • Free Estimates CT Lic. # 579167

CENTURION EXTERMINATING LLC LLC

Dave Monroe

Business PEST CONTROL SERVICE Connecticut License #B-2045

We Service All Brands

203-265-7328 203-756-6028 860-426-1040

Family Owned & Operated

Joe Simmons, Sr. License #S-2712

Guardian Pet Fence

1154979

Wallingford Waterbury Southington

860•349•0426 Joe Simmons, Jr. License #S-4909

www.ridofbugs.com

The Best Fence You’ll Never See.® 1158715

Commercial • Residential • Industrial • Licensed • Insured

APEC ELECTRIC

All 1150606

Purpose Electrical Contractor

Silver Swan

LLC

“There’s no better time than when it’s dirty” - Protect your investment!! Cell (203) 747-6321 Direct Toll Free (877) 339-7359

860-349-0303

Lic.# E1123497

www.guardianpetfencect.com

Carpet Cleaner/Installation/Repairs

"Electrical Construction Built on Quality" “ N o J o b To o S m a l l ” Joseph W. Fontanella

1121059

TERMITES • ANTS • ROACHES • RODENTS • BEES • SPIDERS • FLEAS • TICKS

Ralph Phoenix Middlefield, CT

Insured

RESIDENTIAL

COMMERCIAL 1159764

LEHET FENCE, LLC Chainlink, wood, and vinyl fence installed. Quality guaranteed

1155883

860 305 7889

FREE ESTIMATES

Planeta Electric LLC

Lic.# 102065

Lic.# 123670

seven-piece orchestra. No somber requiem here - this was a festive, cheerful 12th anniversary to an almost soldout house. This landmark church, along with Middletown High School’s new performing arts center, is rapidly becoming another Bushnell or Palace Theater. Midstate residents now have four performance venues to see everything from jazz trios to full scale opera. When interviewed prior to the show, Zappulla made it clear that he is not a Sinatra impersonator, and he makes no attempt to look like him. The Kensington entertainer is an accomplished singer/musician in his own right and has made a very impressive career singing Sinatra’s hits all over the country, sounding exactly like him one minute, and a reasonable facsimile of, the next. Allegedly, the great star had 957 songs in his repertory, most immortalized on disc or film. Obviously, Zappulla only selected a handful, and enthralled his audience with nostalgic memories of “Summer Wind,” “Fly to the Moon” and “Young at Heart,” to name a few. Several patrons were even observed waltzing in the adjoining reception room! Predictably, no tribute to this giant could end without a rousing encore of “New York, New York,” which sent the entire theater into a standing ovation. Deserving special mention was celebrity pianist James Argirio. For the last four decades, both on stage and television, he has accompanied and/or done arrangements for a staggering list of Hollywood luminaries that includes Cher, Wayne Newton, Sammy Davis, Mel Torme, Florence Henderson — the list is as long as the Nile River. His presence added a touch of glamour to an already upbeat evening. Nearly every weekend from now until the end of June, there’s something happening at Trinity-on-Main — swing bands, barber shop quartets, comedy, Ukrainian music something for everyone! Call 860-229-2072 or visit trinityonmain.org for tickets/more information. It’ll be worth the trip to New Britain.

In Our Schools

Friday, May 21, 2010

Coginchaug High School honor roll for quarter three Seniors earning honors are James Asplund, John Bascom, Caroline Batchelder, Caitlin Breen, Sarah Bugai, Nicholas D’Aquila, Nicole Demoranville, Conor Finley, Eric Hewitt, Guinevere Kotlarz, Laura Lyman, Indiana McCormick, Sheehan Michael, Andrew Porter, Laura Reimer, Marie Roberts, Ryan Russell, Michael Sbona, Benjamin Shoudy, Katie Smith, Michael Smith, Matthew Solomon, Jeffrey Tiedemann

and Paige Trusty.

manski and Nicole Timbro.

Juniors earning honors are Kyle Backus, David Bedding, Jennifer Benson, Cassidie Cade, Jonathan Champagne, Hannah Elliott, Zachary Faiella, Maura Fehon, Raymond Graham, Laura Hargreaves, Amritpal Khalsa, Elbridge Luther, Taylor Maus, Jason Monnes, Larissa Mozzicato, Lauren Mozzicato, Sarah Oppelt, Jennifer Roth, Tyler Sibley, Ryan Sirois, Amy Solomon, Jocelyn St. Pierre, Nathaniel Szy-

Sophomores earning honors are Emily Carria, Alec Corazzini, Rachel Foley, Alec Giacco, Derek Heer, Mark Kelly, Devin Kokoszka, Abigail Kotlarz, Emma Lerman, Brittany Lowry, James Malcolm, Alexis Martowski, Tanner Pedersen, Ashley Pen, Justine Plourde, Frank Posca, Amanda Presutti, Spencer Root, Brandon Russ and Megan Sherman-Baumann.

Bates, Jacquelyn Benson, Dina Canalia, Laura Ciarlo, Kyle Dupre, Olivia Ericksen, Christine French, Donald Guenther, Melissa Handy, Benjamin Kelly, Jonathan Levine, Kyle Monroe, William Neri, Kaylee Powers, Sofia Robinson, Sean Rogers, Katherine Scibilia, Leah Slawinowski, Korinne Stockdale, Natalie Swanson, Conner Thrall, David Trombetta, Lauren Trombetta, Caroline Whitaker, Mary Yale and Jessica Zerillo.

Freshmen earning honors are Molly Ahearn, Connor

T o wn T im es Se rv i ce Di re ct or y 1157805

1153835

PAVING

SEPTIC

• Quality Driveways (25+ years Experience) CT REG.# 580903 • Concrete Sidewalks • Drainage Work & Water Problems • Lot Clearing & Tree & Stump Removal In Durham Call Charlie

(860) 349-0157

WHITEHOUSE INSTALLATION & REPAIR

Randy Whitehouse CT Lic. #554559 Durham, CT

LICENSED & INSURED We work 24/7

(860) 349-1904 Fully Insured

Office: Office: (860) 426-1578 Fax: (860) 426-1676 Office: (860) (860) 426-1578 426-1578 Fax: Fax: (860) (860) 426-1676 426-1676 Office: Office: (860) 426-1578 426-1578 Fax: Fax: (860) (860) 426-1676 426-1676 Email: Email: chassebuild@aol.com Email: chassebuild@aol.com chassebuild@aol.com Email: Email: chassebuild@aol.com chassebuild@aol.com

Kitchens Kitchens ••• Additions Additions ••• Basements Basements ••• Doors Doors Kitchens Additions Basements Doors ••• Windows • Decks Windows • Decks Windows • Decks Fully Fully insured. CT License #0621224 Fully insured. insured. CT CT License License #0621224 #0621224 Fully Fully insured. insured. CT License License #0621224 #0621224 1157775

1158710

Movado Farm Inc. 1147108

1157807

❋ Carpentry ❋ Repairs ❋ Skimcoating ❋ Windows & Doors

❋ Kitchen/Bath Remodeling ❋ Painting ❋ Sheetrock & Taping ❋ Basement Finish

Lic. #574850

Phone: (860) 349-8384

Michael & Whitney Lagace Diane Planken

227 Little City Rd Higganum, CT

Riding Lessons Adults and children

NEW Spring & Summer Programs

349-8728 Route 17, Durham, CT www.movadofarm.com

Allan’s Tree Service ~ professional care at its best ~ • Pruning • Cabling • Tree & Stump Removal • Spraying & Disease Control • Bucket Truck

1149766

BOARDING • TRAINING • LESSONS • SALES www.whitneyridge.com • (860) 345-3948 • whitneyridge@gmail.com

Ct.LIC#61798

Allan Poole, Licensed Arborist Phone 349-8029 Established 1976 • Fully Insured • Work Guaranteed in Writing

1150605

Seniors earning high honors are Shelby Artkop, Amanda Bedding, Randy Bertrand, Shaina Bradley, Kathryn Carria, Danielle Charette, Ryan Ciarlo, Olivia Cocchiola, Derek Cuneo, Ashley Davenport, Makayla Davis, Rachel DiSilvestro, Jeffrey Ducki, Heidi Emack, Emily Field, Mark Flannery, Samuel Frey, Andrew Gucwa, Kyle Hassmann, Erica Jones, Eric Kelly, Emma Kuehnle, Brian MacDuff, Anthony Matalote, Elizabeth Meiman, Jonathan Monroe, Jeremy Newell, Robert Ober, Joseph Oblon, Dylan Pedersen, Sierra Querns, Kate Riotte, Caitlin Rogers, Edward Ruddy, Breanna Rzeczka, Michael Sheldon, Emily Shoemaker, Christopher Smith, Gregory Smith, Kathryn Smith, Lauren Stafford, Stevie Thompson, Caroline Thomson, Chelsea Tuttle and Sarah Woolley. Juniors earning high honors are Darryl Abbott, Kelsie Annelli, Alec Bandzes, Kelsey Bogen, Amanda Boyle, Kaitlynn Chabot, Jessamin Cipollina, Josef Danczuk, Taylor DelVecchio, Gretchen Donovan, Zhining Fang, Hannah Fowler, Jamie Garuti, Julia Gossner, Hannah Goulis, Roe Granger, Benjamin Hamilton, Erin Holden, Mackenzie Hurlburt, Nicole Jubelirer, Silas Jungels, Aubree Keurajian, Lora Manley, Jean Ochterski, Michelle Palma, Tresa Roberts, Thomas Ryan, Brooke Sheridan, Emily Spence and Henry Willis. Sophomores earning high honors are Melanie Badin, Melissa Conway, Tyler Davis, Elizabeth DiVincentis, Ethan Donecker, Sarah Ertle, Kevin Gawron, Marielle Handley, Meagan Hettrick, Zachary LaVigne, Benjamin Plant, Colin Plant, Marissa Puchalski, Emily Romanoff, Jesse Siegel, Jacob Teitelbaum, Alyssa Tiedemann, Adam Twombly, Erikson Wasyl and Rebecca Weir. Freshmen earning high honors are Katie Bednarz, Michelle Berry, Skyla Bradley, Caitlynn Chabot, Kristen Ciarlo, Justin Etheridge, Annalee Forline, Sean Harper, Nicole Ianniello, Mackenzie Kane, Rachel Kowalski, Patrick McDermott, Colleen McLaughlin, Victoria Orozco, Jessica Solomon, Kayla Votto, Carli Wallace, Jessica Williams and Alicia Zanelli.

Town Times Sports

Friday, May 21, 2010

Coginchaug Little League tryouts for majors and minors on June 12 Championship Coginchaug Little Boys’ Minors on Saturday, year farm players (age tions. soccer game

League will hold tryouts for Boys’ Majors on Saturday, June 12, at the Durham majors’ field at 1:30 p.m. for players who will be between 9 and 12 before May 1, 2011. All players interested in playing in the majors’ division during the 2011 season must tryout and bring cleats and glove. Contact Nick Faiella at 860-3441670 with questions. Coginchaug Little League will hold tryouts for

June 12, from 9 to 10:30 a.m. at the Allyn Brook girls’ major field for all farm players that are seven or older by May 1, 2010. Players should bring a glove, wear cleats and be prepared to field grounders and catch popups. The tryout scores will be used to place all second

eight as of May 1) on minor league teams and enable first year farm players (age seven as of May 1) to move up to minors based on ranking and roster a v ailability. Tryouts are first come first served basis. Contact Tom Wenchell at 860349-9455 with ques-

Coginchaug Little League will hold tryouts for Girls’ Majors on Saturday, June 12, from 9:30 to 10:15 a.m. for 11-and 12-year-olds, and from 10:15 to 11 a.m. for nine and 10-year-olds at the high school JV softball field. All players interested in playing in the Majors Division during the 2011 season must tryout and bring cleats and glove. Contact Rick Quirk with any questions at 860-349-3520.

T o wn T im es S e rv ic e Di re ct ory

Kids’ carnival

1150432

V.M.B. Custom Builders “No jobs too big or small” Mike Gerchy OWNER/BUILDER

Insured

Free Estimates

Best Water

“Complete Jobs From First Stud To Last Touch Of Paint” Fully Insured & Licensed HIC #614488

Best Price 1153298

POOL WATER

1156951

(203) 237-3500

“Pool Water Pete”

Mountain Spring Water

sea breeze concrete “we dig and pour and either or”

Residential Wiring Specialist Landscape Lighting Design • Install • Service

Martin T Rochette Haddam - Durham - Madison Lic. #005694

Lic. & Ins. EI 183930

Bruce Binge

SPRING SPECIALS: • $100 OFF First Month’s Board with 3 Month Agreement • Buy a Lesson Package of 4 and Get a 5th Lesson FREE

860-638-7421 www.fivestarperformancehorsesllc.com

Contractor 1153218

Boarding, Training, Lessons, Showing English & Western Adults & Children

Custom Building & Remodeling

1156910

280 Old Pent Road, Guilford, CT 06437 4 minutes from Durham Center Five Star Performance Horses LLC erincecchini@yahoo.com

Bring your family to a fun day of games, crafts, stories, face painting and more. Girl Scout Troop 62890 of Middlefield is hosting a community kids’ carnival with Durham/Middlefield Youth and Family Services. The event is the culmination of many months of planning to earn the Silver Award, which is the highest award for Cadettes. Activities for all ages will be held all day on Saturday, June 5, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Community Center in Middlefield. Come touch a tuck, visit with firefighters, work an excavator, get your face painted, scoot in a scooter race or get your friend wet in a water balloon fight. The carnival will be held at the Middlefield Community Center, rain or shine. The members of 62890 are: Morgan Cahill, Danielle Drop, Mary D’Orvilliers and Emily Tuttle. All are welcome to come share some fun with family and friends! For infor, call Susan D’Orvilliers at 860-349-2454.

Golf tournament

1156941

Tel. 203-245-2684 Tel. 860.349.8486 Cell. 860-662-0728

1153873

complete site work including septic systems

1148112

860-349-3033 Mowing, Mulch, Edging, Hedges, Spring Clean-ups, Topsoil & More

Specializing in Historic Renovations and Custom Cabinets, Additions, Decks & Roofs 35 Maiden Lane Durham, CT 06422 (860) 398-0785 VMBCustombuilders@live.com

The boys’ Under-14 Travel Soccer team has advanced to the Round of 16 in the statewide Connecticut Cup by beating Southbury 3-0. Their next match will be played at Coginchaug Regional High School on Saturday, May 22, at 10 a.m. against a very tough team from Norwalk – the NCSC Thunder. Please come out and show your support for Coginchaug’s future stars! Admission is free.

• New Homes • Additions • Kitchens • Garages • Decks All Types of Remodeling & Renovations HIC #0606486

Call after 5 pm (860)

347-1445

Attention golfers and sponsors, Thursday, Aug. 5, is the 13th annual Liberty Bank-Riverview Hospital Auxiliary, Inc golf tournament. It will be at Portland Golf Club in Portland. For more information, contact Rob Rougeot at 860-7044243 or email Robert.Rougeot@ct.gov or Liz Tringali 860-343-7404 or email etringali@libertybank.com.

Town Times Sports

Friday,May 21, 2010

Dave Devaux announces retirement from Time Out Taverne softball

A few weeks back, this reporter talked about his career while discussing league business. Pointing to a scar on his lower leg, Dave reminisced, “I was working, making some

deliveries when someone noticed blood on my sock, kind of like what Curt Shilling had in 2004 only a lot worse. Apparently, I sustained an inchand-a-half deep gash from something I had walked around. I was only halfway through work, so I wrapped it in some gauze, finished up the deliveries, then played a softball game that evening in Middletown.” Asked the outcome of the game, Dave replied “We won a lot in those days.” It was only after the

game that Dave sought medical treatment. The wound was treated by an incredulous medical staff. Paul Nelson has agreed to take over commissioner duties for the league. Bob Dynia becomes the fourth manager in the gray wonders’ history. The TOT team, as well as the league itself, owes a huge debt of gratitude to Dave. He has worked with league managers recently to ensure a smooth transition with the new commissioner, as well as

securing insurance coverage for the league and playing fields for several teams. This was in addition to work and family duties. His presence with the team will be sorely missed. Thank you, David, and all the best to you, Patty and Andrew. P.S. – Dave said he would attend as many games as possible with Patty and Andrew. Look for the manager to attempt to insert him in some surprise pinch-hitting roles. (Don’t tell Dave!)

T o w n Ti m e s S e r vi c e D i r e c t o r y

DAVID M. FUGGE YOUR REMODELING SPECIALISTS

Professional Service

> Kitchens > Bathrooms > Roofing > Siding > Window Replacement > Decks > Additions > Gutters/Leaf Guard

Since 1976

Fully Licensed and Insured

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

1156947

Antique & Fine Furniture Refinishing & Restoration 1155648

CT License #559832 HIC Locally owned and operated

Call today for a FREE estimate. 860.349.1758 Ask for Tray CELL 860.790.6290

860-349-0467

Specializing in Service & Repairs of Plumbing Systems

Serving Durham, Middlefield and East Wallingford

1147106

1153208

• 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

(203) 907-5236

e Lawn Ca e r t n ai Lawn Mowing re 860-663-3107

Ernie Laudano • STONE & MULCH DELIVERED 1153872

1152196

• Hedge Trimming FREE ESTIMATES • FULLY INSURED Serving Durham and Middlefield since 1985

203-457-9652

L J O NE I E

Mark Mark L. L. Turcio Turcio Painting Painting Interior & Exterior

Home Improvements LLC

349-8771

1158514

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

Free Estimates 1-year guarantee on all work

1156939

The Time Out Taverne’s men’s 40 and over softball team suffered a major blow with the retirement of playermanager-commissioner Dave Devaux. Devaux cited family, personal and physical reasons for his departure. A new member was added to the Red Sox Nation when Andrew Devaux was born to Dave and proud mother Patty in February. The three live in Meriden. Dad stated that he wanted to be able to walk to Andrew’s Little League games when the time comes. Years of softball playing have taken its toll physically, accentuating his decision that the time was right to step away. Dave came to the “Old Man’s” softball team in 2003 and made an immediate impact on a mostly mediocre team. He holds the majority of single-season TOT records, starting in 2003 with 34 hits and six triples. His highlight season was 2004, where he raised the bar with a .806 batting average, .837 onbase percentage, 11 home runs, 30 runs batted in, 25 runs scored, six sacrifice flies and a 1.750 slugging percentage. On June 21 of that year, he blasted four homeruns in one game (over a nine-foot high fence 295 feet from home plate) against perennial power Deep River to end a losing hex that lasted over a decade. Devaux’s departure goes beyond someone who just manned the field. The late Hal Levy was a founding member of the Middlesex County 40and-over men’s softball league. For many years he was also commissioner of the league, as well as being manager of the TOT team. In declining health a few years ago, he turned to Dave to take over the reins of not only the TOT team but also the league. Dave performed these duties with the utmost of dignity, especially in light of the team’s recent decline in victories. Dave’s softball career spanned 30 years, including playing for TOT in the now-de-

funct Durham-Middlefield men’s softball league. For many years, he played in multiple leagues each season in Middletown, Portland, Marlborough, New Haven and other area towns. He often played two or three games each evening, through heck and high water.

By Bob Dynia Special to the Town Times

860-349-2022 CT Reg.# 570395

Town Times

Friday, May 21, 2010

Berardino Realtors celebrates 10 years on Main Street, Durham By Stephanie Wilcox Town Times

Berardino’s great-grandfather Arthur C. Bradley was a prominent builder with A.C. Bradley Construction in Meriden in 1891. Decades later, when Arthur’s granddaughter Shirley, who was active in the family real estate business, married John DiBerardino, the family business merged.

On May 1, 2000, Berardino Realtors opened its doors on Main Street in Durham, an exciting accomplishment for Jay Berardino, whose longterm goal was to bring the 100-plus-year-old family business to the town. Today, marking 10 years in Durham, they look back at the reasons this was one of the best decisions.

Jay Berardino and son Jason, left, of Berardino Realtors.

Berardino, who entered the family business in 1974, spent years working out of the Meriden office while keeping an

T o wn T im es S e rv ic e Di re ct ory Locally owned & operated for 23 years

860-828-3445 860-747-6188 860-836-0144

860-349-0119

Berlin, CT Plainville, CT • Low Monthly Monitoring Fee • Free Takeover and Conversion • Burglar • Fire • Closed Circuit TV • Intercom • State Licensed • Free Estimates • Fully Insured

www.torrisonstone.com HIC LIC # 566924

1159765

• Sanding • Staining • Installation • Refinishing • Repairs Specializing in Custom Designs & Quality Workmanship

1156917

Architectural & Landscape Design • Build Natural Stone • Residential & Commercial Design Professionally • New Construction & Renovation Designed into • Landscape Design & Installation Buildings & • Green Design & Energy Efficiency Landscapes

Free Written Estimates • License #00564185 • Insured 25 Years Wood Flooring Experience • CWFloor@aol.com

www.rockfallnortheast.com

info@rockfallnortheast.com 860-575-1297

CLountry andscaping

LLC

Phillip E. Mason Jr.

ARI.0010296

(860) 349-6355

BUYING OR SELLING REAL ESTATE?

Where Prompt Service and Quality Results Are Guaranteed

“Your Local Realtor”

1156943

• Landscaping Design/Installation • Bluestone/Paver Patios & Walk Ways • Retaining Walls from Block, Fieldstone and Boulders • Paver/Bluestone/Fieldstone Steps • Grading • Masonry/Concrete Work • Drainage Work • Hydroseeding • Dry Wells • Lawn Repairs • Tree Removal • Overseeding • Brush Removal • Excavation

“Dedication, Expertise and Integrity Working for YOU every step of the way”

James V. Caramanello, CRA 203-314-3421 (Cell)

860-349-1918

CT Certified RE Appraiser

•

CT Licensed Realtor

Affordable Excavation LLC Serving Durham & Middlefield for over 20 years. “No Job Too Small”

Cahill Septic Service

Foundations, Demo work, Grading, Drainage systems, Trenching, Erosion control, Brush & Stump removal, Yard clean-ups, etc.

Est. 1965

270 Main St., Middlefield 860-349-8551

1153871

1150608

• Septic tank cleaning • Septic systems installed & repaired • Sewer drain cleaning • Portable restroom rentals

Reasonable Rates - Fully Insured Jim Fowler 860-906-4320 Lic. #0579509

1155077

jvcrealtor@yahoo.com Middlefield Resident Prudential CT Realty

www.countrylandscapingllc.com Owner Nick Onofrio

1148111

Call for Spring Specials

(cell) 1157750

ROBERT KULESZA

eye on office openings in Durham, where he saw lots of potential for growth. “I was intent on moving the business to Middlesex County for years; this area is the golden triangle from my perspective,” said Berardino. “But Durham is a very difficult town to get into, believe me. There are precious few little offices.” He paid particular attention to the building at 40 Main Street for 15 to 20 years, so when he saw an opening, the homework was already done. Berardino invested about $100,000 to open the office in Durham and then spent 360 days in the office that first year. Though he didn’t intend to, he eventually closed the Meriden office to focus on Durham. Some days, he enjoys working here so much that “It doesn’t feel like work.” Since operating out of Durham the last 10 years, Berardino said the achievement he is most pleased with is bringing son Jason into the family business. When Jason, the fifth generation, joined in 2002, he helped guide the company into the modern era. Jason said he grew up in the business through conversations at the dinner table and in spending time at the office. Though he went to school to be a history teacher, he soon learned it wasn’t for him. “I enjoy selling real estate,” said Jason, who knows real estate from all angles, thanks to having learned every job in the business. “It’s a sense of pride to be in the family business. It has it’s pros and cons, but I learned quite a bit more here than if I was selling anywhere else.” According to the elder Berardino, the other nice thing about a family business is a Berardino always has a hand in the transaction. “Jason and I oversee everything, and with our reputation on the line, we’re intent on delivering the highest quality of service,” he said. The family business has made over 5,000 transactions, one more thing Berardino says he is proud of. “We’re not the biggest real estate company in the area, but we’re recognized

See Berardino, page 27

Town Times

Friday,May 21, 2010

Real Estate Page Berardino for our service,” he shared. The service has a lot to do with the connection to clients. He recommends people who are looking to buy or sell their home to find a realtor who connects with then empathetically and has a genuine concern to represent their best interest. Also, one of the more stressful things in a person’s life is the transfer of a home, Berardino explains, adding that anticipating the stress and recognizing that it’s go-

What Berardino likes best about running a business in Durham is the wonderful people he encounters. He says Durham and Middlefield are completely full of surprises — almost invariable pleasant ones — and, he emphasizes, “The towns never cease to surprise me with what they have to offer.”

We’re on the Web: http://www.towntimes.com

360 Main Street Durham, CT 06455 Phone: (860) 349-5300 Lisa Golebiewski, ABR, GRI

Broker, Owner

Cell: (203) 623-9959

Cell: (203) 631-7912

A set of car keys were lost at Peckham Park on Monday, May 17. They are attached to a Red & Blue Boston Red Sox baseball key chain. If you find them, please call 860-614-9670.

40 Main St., Durham 860-349-0344 www.berardino.com

Rent

A Durham resident for 35 years, Carol is uniquely qualified to represent your real estate interests! Whether buying or selling, call Carol at 860-349-0344!

Tag Sale 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 1153879

Multi Family Tag sale on Saturday, May 29, (rain date May 31) at 351 Baileyville Road (Route 147) in Middlefield. Items include fishing ponds and equipment, clothing (large and other sizes), household items, plants, and lots of stuff. Buy an item and receive a surprise. This sale will benefit TOPS.

Helping you make a Positive Change

48 Main Street Middletown

How would you like a yard big enough for six puppies and a dozen friends, a private cul-desac road to ride your bike, and your own playscape? There is a family room with its own fireplace that would be great for slumber parties, an unfinished bonus room that can make a 4th bedroom or a cool play room and everything is so clean. All a kid could ask for! Tell your parents the house is ready to move in and it’s a heck of a value at $449,000.

DURHAM BRING THE HOT DOGS With all the work being done, there is nothing to do but enjoy the summer on your humongous deck next to a babbling brook. Fabulous 3 bedroom Ranch, completed updated, with hardwood floors, family room with skylight, level backyard, custom built shed and a 1 car garage. Have it all for only $265,000. DIR: Tuttle to 62 Clementel.

DURHAM TIME TO ENJOY If you’re an active adult and looking to make things easier, come see this great 1 bedroom condo in Hill Hollow. It’s quietly set back in the heart of the historic district. This is an end unit with no stairs and parking right in front. Enjoy the scenic views from your screened in porch. And the best part, everything is within walking distance. Yours for only $132,900.

MIDDLEFIELD LAKE BESECK RENTAL WITH WATERFRONT

Carol Kleeman 1159500

Needed to Rent: Two rooms and a bath for a widow and her old cat in Durham. Please call 203484-5093.

DURHAM ATTENTION KIDS

OPEN SUN. 12-2

Experience makes the difference.

Pamela Sawicki-Beaudoin

1159518

(Continued from page 26)

ing to be like losing a loved one or a job, is the best advice he can give.

1159368

Lost Keys

1148245

Music festival: A Tribute to Motown

Connecticut’s premier music event, the 10th annual Berlin Lions Music Festival on Saturday, June 12, at the Berlin Fairgrounds, will be “A Tribute to Motown.” Connecticut’s own Eight to the Bar, along with the Ultimate Motown tribute band Souled Out and the music of ‘60’s national recording artist Cornell Gunter’s sensational Coasters, will be featured. It starts at 3 p.m. There will be six full hours of music. Tickets available at Kensington Auto Service, Ltd., Kensington Opticians and Roger’s Market in Berlin. Advance tickets are $15; $20 at the door. Children 15 and under are free. Kids’ activities include face painting and inflatables. The event is held rain or shine and proceeds go to the Low Vision Center in New Britain and Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. Visit www.berlinmusicfest.com or kensingtonauto1@sbcglobal.net. Phone: 860829-0296 or 860-828-0063.

This is truly a dream rental opportunity. This updated 1400 sq ft, 3 bedroom, 1 1/2 bath home is meticulously maintained with hardwood floors throughout, updated kitchen, central air, huge deck, lush green lawn and the best direct waterfront on Lake Beseck with a place to park your own boat. For only $1600, it won’t last, call today for an appointment.

Friday, May 21, 2010

Town Times

You heard us and we simply say “Thank You.” Over the past few months, this newspaper and every newspaper in the state of Connecticut have run a series of full page advertisements about pending legislation which would remove public notices from the printed page and public view in favor of government run web sites. We believe this is wrong. And so did the thousands of concerned residents who responded.

This legislation was defeated and removed from the list of approved bills. We take this opportunity to say, “Thank You” for your support. We know only an informed and motivated citizenry will keep America free and strong. Please call for corrections at 203-317-2308 - after 5 pm call 203-317-2282 Ad#:TOWN TIMES LOGO Pub:PERM Date:07/21/07 Day:SAT Size:6X2 Cust:TOWN TIMES Last Edited By:EALLISON on 7/20/07 12:20 PM. Salesperson: Tag Line: Color Info: TOWN TIMES LOGO - Composite

Public notices must remain public.

1159501

Tow n Times