7-16-2010 Town Times newspaper by Town Times Newspaper

Volume 17, Issue 14

Serving Durham, Middlefield and Rockfall

The summer of 1970: Middlefield fights planned rock festival at Powder Ridge By Trish Dynia Special to the Town Times As the summer of 1970 commenced, heat waves were interrupted by thunderstorms that freshened and cooled the air, children giddily embarked on barefoot freedom from the classroom, and headlines screamed of mounting casualties in the Vietnam War. The nation was still numb with shock from the May killing of four Kent State University war protestors in Ohio. Connecticut residents heard that the Black Panther murder trial would be held in New Haven in the fall for the slaying of organization member Alex Rackley whose body had been found the year before near the Coginchaug River in Middlefield. It was rare that a sleepy little town like Middlefield made national headlines, but the town’s 4,400 inhabitants were about to find themselves reluctantly in the spotlight again because of a planned rock music festival at Powder Ridge July 31 to Aug. 2, capitalizing on the 1969 Woodstock festival in Bethel, N.Y. On Thursday, July 9, lawyers for Middleton Arts International, an organization planning the large rock festival at Powder Ridge, faced off against lawyers representing two Middlefield businesses and 24 residents at the Bridgeport Federal Court where Judge Robert Zampano presided. On Monday the festival’s promoters had filed a removal petition to shift the matter from state to federal court, claiming that the promoters’ constitutional rights had been violated when Middle-

field officials waited until July 2 to inform them that the concert could not go on. The complaint stated that until July 2, “The town and others led the promoters to believe that there would be no fundamental restriction or objection in principle to the production of the festival except for details on health and sanitation…” Middleton Arts claimed they had spent substantial sums of money on national advertising and fees to the numerous artists who had agreed to perform at the weekend concert. Lawyers for the Middlefield residents stated that the rock festival would violate local health and zoning laws and would be a nuisance to the residents. They also felt the matter should be decided on the state, not federal level. Complicating the already convoluted mess was the fact that an ordinance passed in March to establish regulations for the holding of special events such as this was published a week later in the legal ads of the Middletown Press, but amendments to the ordinance, approved in April, were not published until two days before the July 9 hearing and a full two months after publication was required. See Powder Ridge, page 11

In this issue ... Calendar............................4 Durham Briefs ...........15-16 Honor Rolls .....................24 Libraries .................14 & 24 Obituaries .......................27 Spotlight..........................21 Sports ..............................26

Friday, July 16, 2010

We love our pets!

Clockwise from top left, Chris Gargamelli and daughters Anna and Isabelle brought Jasmine to the Durham Library’s pet parade on Saturday, July 10. Top right, Kate Mitchell and Connor with Sadie. Directly above, Gabby Bel-

lacicco with Dingo the guinea pig and Jill Taber with Peanut, her pet rat. Left, Sebastian Mitchell gives Sadie a drink of water from a cup. Below, Cari and Caity Hill brought their well-dressed guinea pig Chewey to the parade. Bottom left, Chewbacca Burtt demonstrates pooch push-ups on command from Lisa and Madison Burtt.

Help wildlife affected by oil

The Durham Animal Response Team (DART) will be assisting organizations in the Gulf area that are rehabilitating wildlife affected by the recent oil spill. They are collecting donations now through July 29, which will be delivered to multiple rescue groups in Louisiana that are cleaning and rehabilitating wildlife. These groups are currently in need of sheets, towels, disposable bed pads, Q-tips, gauze pads, toothbrushes (NEW sealed in box), Dawn dish soap (original blue formula), Pedialyte Liters (unflavored), Pepto Bismol (original liquid), newspapers, cardboard boxes (medium to large size),

Town Times Community Briefs duct tape, aluminum foil and nitrile gloves (no latex—petroleum products break these down). The local drop-off locations include Durham Town Hall and Brenda’s Main St. Feed. For more information, contact DART member Tiffany at tiffanyhesser@hotmail.com.

Local author at R.J. Julia’s Durham native Freddie Wilkinson has just published his first book, One Mountain Thousand Summits— The Untold Story of Tragedy and True Heroism on K2. It is a gripping account of a mountain climbing disaster that occurred in 2008 which resulted in 11 deaths. Freddie will be at R.J. Julia’s in Madison on Wednes-

Index of Advertisers

Community supper This month’s community supper, hosted by Notre Dame and the Church of the Epiphany, will be held at the Church of the Epiphany, 196 Main St. in Durham, on Sunday, July 25, from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. The dinner is free and open to the public. All are invited; all are welcome.

Car show Boy Scout Troop 41 will

hold a car show featuring the Charter Oak FireBirds on Saturday, Aug. 7, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. (rain date Aug. 8) at Perrotti’s Country Barn, 288 Baileyville Rd. (Route 147) in Middlefield. All cars and motorcycles pre-2000 are welcome. Entry fee is $10, and there will be dash plaques to first 50 entries. At 2 p.m. the people’s choice trophies will be awarded. There will also be food, music and raffles. The proceeds will benefit Troop 41’s high adventure trip scheduled for next year.

Under Milk Wood A company of 10 residents of Ashlar Village will give a performance of Dylan Thomas’ play Under Milk Wood Thursday, July 29 at 2 p.m. at the Wallingford Public Library, 200 North Main Street/ Under Milk Wood is an inspired and irreverent account of life and love in a

small village in Wales. All are welcome to this free performance; no registration is necessary. Please note the play has been edited for time.

Corrections We strive to bring you the most accurate and up-to-date information available each week, but if you see something in Town Times that isn’t quite right, give our news department a call at 860-3498000, and we’ll do our best to make things right. In the story about the girls’ dog-walking business, it was Mickey Fowler, not Sy, who signed up his dog. An alert reader pointed out, after reading the article on the Brown family reunion, that Ellis Island did not open till 1892, and therefore Johannes Braun must have entered through another N.Y. venue (perhaps Castle Garden at Bettery Park). In light of the fact that Ellis Island has come to stand for the N.Y. doorway to America, we are most pleased that Braun chose to come here.

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To advertise in the Town Times, call Joy Boone at 860-349-8026. Home Works..............................23 Adams Home Improvement ........3 Addy & Sons..............................22 Ianniello Plumbing.....................24 Adworks.....................................13 J. Randolph Kitchens ................27 Affordable Excavation ...............22 Jay Landscaping .......................22 Allan’s Tree Service ..................27 J.C. Farm & Greenhouse ............7 Amato’s Toy & Hobby ...............28 Joe Riff’s Music .........................11 Anderson Lawn Care ................26 Ken Marino Sales & Service .....13 APEC Electric............................27 Las Eng .....................................26 Appraisal One Associates.........23 Lino’s Market ...............................3 Awning Place.............................12 Lyman Orchards..........................7 Be Free Solar ............................26 Lyon & Billard ............................18 Berardino Company Realtors3, 20 Masonicare..........................11, 17 Berlin Bicycle Shop ...................12 Middlesex Community College .17 Binge, Bruce..............................22 Middlesex Dance Center...........10 Black Dog ..................................11 Midstate Medical Center ...........19 Brenda’s Main Street Feed .........7 Mountain Spring Water .............26 Brockett Paving & Construction...23 Movado Farm ............................24 Cahill & Sons.............................25 Neil Jones Home Imp................21 Carlton Interiors.........................10 Pet Stop.....................................24 Carmine’s Restaurant .................3 Petruzelo Agency Ins. ...............14 Centurion Exterminating............23 Planeta Electric .........................24 Classic Wood Flooring ..............27 Raintree Landscaping ...............22 Commercial Paving...................27 Realty Associates......................20 Conroy, John, D.M.D.................19 RLI Electric ................................25 Country Landscaping ................25 Roblee Plumbing.......................21 Ct. Home Additions ...................22 Rockfall Co. ...............................21 CV Enterprises ..........................25 Rockfall Northeast.....................21 Dean’s Stove Shop .....................6 RSDL Home Imp.......................24 Desjarlais, Marsha, realtor ........20 Rudolph’s Landscaping.............10 Durham Auto Center ...................5 Sans-Souci ................................13 Durham Dental ............................7 Sea Breeze Hauling ..................21 Durham In Bloom ........................3 Sharon McCormick Design .........5 Erlich, Wolf, M.D........................16 T-N-T Home & Lawncare..........24 Executive Offices.......................25 Torrison Stone & Garden ..........25 Family Tree Care ......................23 Two Mikes Electric ....................26 Fine Work Home Imp. ...............26 Uncle Bob’s Flower & Garden.....2 Fosdick, Gordon, M.D. ..............12 VMB Custom Builders...............27 Fuel & Service .............................7 Whitehouse Construction..........21 Fugge, David M.........................27 Whitney Ridge Stables..............23 Glazer Dental Associates..........13 Gossip .........................................6 Windows Plus............................10

day, July 21, at 7 p.m. to present, discuss and read from his book. The book may be purchased then, at other local book stores, or on-line at Amazon.com. It is published by New American Library, a division of Penguin Press. Freddie was born and raised in Durham. His first experiences with climbing began here. He now lives in New Hampshire where, when not writing, he is an accomplished climber and guide. He is the son of Brad and Mary Wilkinson of Durham.

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Christen Bertz, chair of the Local Wellness Council (LWC), has announced that a random, anonymous survey of adults in Durham, Middlefield and Rockfall is being conducted by MCSAAC and the LWC. The survey deals with adult attitudes towards tobacco, alcohol and substances. It will be mailed out to random local addresses in the next few weeks, and Bertz asks that residents who receive the surveys answer and return them in the stamped envelope that will be provided. She emphasizes that these surveys are anonymous and honest answers will help the LWC tailor programs to meet local needs.

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Some specific and early changes Dean hopes to make are the hiring of a part-time program director, and the establishing of a DMYFS Youth Advisory Board, which would be comprised of middle and high school students. “I would love to have youth

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According to Dean, a primary objective of the DMYFS program is to implement as many of the 40 developmental assets identified by the Search Institute as essential in creating “Healthy Communities, Healthy Youth.” These assets focus on building blocks in areas like promoting positive values, empowerment, positive identity, commitment to learning,

and more. The DMYFS will be offering programs and curriculum in support of the assets that address important skills and values, such as equality and social justice, safety, positive peer influence and self-esteem.

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feel supported by the community. I want parents and kids to know they can come to us as a resource,” she said.

Although the DMYFS is currently operational, Dean expects the program to really ramp up around October. “Right now we are in the design stages, working toward developing new programs and initiatives.”’ Dean encourages anyone interested in volunteering or those seeking more information to contact her at the DMYFS office, 860-349-0258, Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The website is www.dmyfs.org.

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Spend just a few minutes with Betsy Dean and you can see the enthusiasm she has for her new role as executive director of the Durham Middlefield Youth and Family Services. “We (DMYFS) want to be known for our role in supporting youth, families and the community as a whole,” said Dean, describing her vision for the future of the organization. Apart from enthusiasm, she brings over 26 years of experience working with the YMCA and has a Bachelor’s degree in Physical Education/Health. Dean, who joined DMYFS just two weeks ago, has worked diligently towards her vision and has already collaborated with the school district, law enforcement officials and local government to apply for a $50,000 grant. The grant would allow DMYFS (and partners, including the Rushford Center) to implement a teen dating violence intervention and prevention program. The collaboration of effort amongst community members is just one example of Dean’s belief that everyone, especially youth, benefits when communities work as a team. “I want our youth to

volunteers to sit on the board to help create and drive some of the program development, she said.” In addition, she is reaching out to parents and community members for volunteer support, since there is no shortage of goals to be reached. “Right now, we can really use volunteers for our Apple Crisp Booth at the Durham Fair,” Dean noted.

Betsy Dean, the new executive director of DMYFS, Dean has over 25 years of experience with the YMCA of Southeastern Connecticut, where she designed, implemented and managed programs to support youth development. She lives in Westbrook with her husband and three children and raises alpacas part-time.

By Karen Koba Special to the Town Times

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Town Times & Places

4 FRIDAY

SUNDAY

July 16

July 18

Letterbox Hike Come take a short hike and learn how to letterbox at 4 p.m. at Wadsworth Falls State Park. Sign up at the Durham, Middlefield or Middletown libraries or by emailing Lucy at everyoneoutside@att.net. Shakespeare & Music ARTFARM presents Shakespeare’s As You Like It tonight at Middlesex Community College, 100 Training Hill Rd. in Middletown. Live music with Eric Kuhn begins at 6 p.m. and the play begins at 7 p.m. Bring picnics, blankets or lawn chairs. The event is free, but a $20 donation is suggested. For info, call 860-3464390 or visit www.artfarm.org

Shakespeare & Music ARTFARM presents Shakespeare’s As You Like It tonight at Middlesex Community College, 100 Training Hill Rd. in Middletown. Live music with Phil Rosenthal begins at 6 p.m. and the play begins at 7 p.m. Bring picnics, blankets or lawn chairs. The event is free, but a $20 donation is suggested. For info, call 860-346-4390 or visit www.art-farm.org. Music Dave Downs will perform at 11 a.m. at BrewBakers on Main Street in Middletown.

SATURDAY

Free Movie The Middletown Senior Center, 150 Williams Street offers a free movie every Monday at 12:30 p.m. Today’s movie is Play the Game with Andy Griffith and Paul Campbell.

July 17

Dudley Farm Market The Dudley Farm farmers market will be held from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the corner of Routes 77 and 80 in North Guilford. The market features produce, shell fish, beef and lamb, maple syrup, honey, baked goods, pickles and crafts. For more information, call 860-349-3917. Berry Fest Lyman Orchards annual berry fest will include breakfast on the deck, a berry scavenger hunt, free face painting, horse drawn wagon rides, blueberry pie eating contest and more. Visit www.lymanorchards.com for a full list of events. Shakespeare & Music ARTFARM presents Shakespeare’s As You Like It tonight at Middlesex Community College, 100 Training Hill Rd. in Middletown. Live music with Nzinga’s Daughters begins at 6 p.m. and the play begins at 7 p.m. Bring picnics, blankets or lawn chairs. The event is free, but a $20 donation is suggested. For info, call 860-346-4390 or visit www.art-farm.org

Wilkinson will be at R.J. Julia’s in Madison at 7 p.m. to present, discuss and read from his book One Mountain Thousand Summits— The Untold Story of Tragedy and True Heroism on K2. It is a gripping account of a mountain climbing disaster that occurred in 2008 which resulted in 11 deaths. Summer Concert The free summer concert series continues at Allyn Brook Park in Durham with the Joe Riff’s kids playing at 5:30 p.m. and the Whitehouse Experience at 7 p.m.

MONDAY

July 19

TUESDAY

July 20 PFLAG Meeting Greater New Haven Shoreline Chapter of PFLAG (Parents, Friends and Family of Lesbians and Gays) meets to offer support, information and education and to advocate for LGBT loved ones. Meetings are held at the Church of the Redeemer 185 Cold Spring Street, New Haven, the third Tuesday of each month at 7:30 p.m. For info e-mail greaternewhavenpflag@yahoo.com or call 203-458-0493. Summer Sounds Bring your blankets or lawn chairs and enjoy the music of the John Valerio Band at 7 p.m. on the South Green at Union Park.

WEDNESDAY

July 21 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. Local Author at RJ Julia Durham native Freddie

Music at the Mansion The Wadsworth Mansion concert series continues tonight with the Michael Cleary Band, Hartford’s answer to the Allman Brothers, playing great songs, monstrous solos, epic jams, funky grooves and wacky humor at 6:30 p.m. The grounds will be open for picnicking at 5:30 p.m. Parking is available at the Mansion, Snow School and Mercy High School. Concerts will be held in light rain, or the threat of showers. For more information, visit www.wadsworthmansion.co m or calling 860-347-1064. Garden Luncheon The Middlesex County Historical Society invites everyone to help celebrate the restoration of its gardens with a luncheon at 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. The luncheon features finger sandwiches, fruit, homemade pastries and cookies, iced tea and lemonade. Reservations are $20 per person and are required by calling 860-346-0746.

THURSDAY

July 22 Salsa Social Green Street Arts Center, 51 Green St., will host an evening of hot music, open dance floor and summer refreshments. Tickets are $8 and $5. Visit www.greenstreetartscenter.org for information. Free Concert Enjoy the Sounds of Broadway from 6:30 to 8:15 p.m. on the grounds of Masonicare, 22 Masonic Ave. in Wallingford.

Friday, July 16, 2010

Bring lawn chairs and blankets and enjoy the music. The grounds are available for picnickers at 5 p.m. Call 203-6795900 for information. Farmers Market

SUNDAY Enjoy a traditional farmers’ market on the Durham green today and every Thursday from 3 to 6 p.m. Free Music Enjoy a free concert in the Luis Lopez Community Garden, on the corner of Main and Green Streets in Middletown from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Tonight, the Downshift Band, combining gospel, swing, R&B, soul and rock and roll.

FRIDAY

July 23 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. Emeka Okafor Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce breakfast meeting at Crowne Plaza Hotel in Cromwell from 7:45 to 9 a.m. will feature Emeka Okafor former UConn basketball star. For ticket information, call 860-347-6924. Baked Bean Supper United Churches of Durham will have a baked bean supper beginning at 6 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall on the corner of Main Street and Route 66. The suppers include baked beans, scalloped corn, macaroni dishes, salads and homemade breads and pies. Dinners are $7 for adults and $4 for children under 10. All are welcome.

SATURDAY

July 24 Worship Service On the fourth Saturday of every month from 5 to 6 p.m. the Church of the Holy Trinity, 382 Main St. in Middletown, holds a worship service featuring music by the Holy Trinity Praise Band, followed by a light supper. For more info, call 860-347-2591 or visit www.holytrinityct.org.

July 25 Composers’ Choir Middlefield Federated Church on Main St. will host a composer’s choir concert at 4 p.m., followed by a discussion with the composers. Tickets are $10, available at the door. Community Supper This month’s community supper, hosted by Notre Dame and the Church of the Epiphany, will be held at the Church of the Epiphany on 196 Main St. in Durham, from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. The dinner is free. All are invited; all are welcome.

MONDAY

July 26 Free Movie The Middletown Senior Center, 150 Williams Street, offers a free movie every Monday at 12:30 p.m. Today’s movie is Invictus with Morgan Freeman and Matt Damon.

TUESDAY

July 27

Summer Sounds Bring a lawn chair or blanket to enjoy the music of the Ken Morr Band performing folk and rock music at 7 p.m. on the South Green at Union Park in Middletown. Quilters Heritage Quilters of Wallingford will meet at Masonicare, Masonic Avenue, Wallingford. This evening’s program will be “Technique Night” with demonstrations by Judy Ciemier, Darlene Merriam and Pat Damiata. Heritage Quilters meets at this location on the fourth Tuesday of each month. Guests and new members are welcome; guest donation $5. Refreshment and social time at 6:30, meeting begins at 7 p.m. call 203-269-2065.!

Town Times

Friday, July 16, 2010

So what the heck is an LWC anyway and why should I care? By Sue VanDerzee Town Times What group works behind the scenes to fund programs and events that help build healthy young people and communities? Where can you go with an idea for a program or an event that will make our residents healthier and our community stronger? What do Durham Middlefield Youth and Family Services, MADD Power Camp attendance, the Coginchaug EDGE (Excellent Decisions Guiding Everyday) group, the GoFar running program at District 13 elementary schools and Memorial Middle School, Community Round-Up (CRU) and the recent mock car crash at CRHS have in common? All of these various programs and initiatives came out of a largely invisible group meeting once a month for 10 months of the year. That group is the Local Wellness Council, formerly the Local Prevention Council. Local Prevention Councils were an outgrowth of, surprisingly enough, the local Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce. Back in the early 1990s, the Middlesex Chamber decided that alcohol and substance abuse were of concern to area businesses. In response, this very active and proactive Chamber formed a group to talk about and deal with these issues. That group was the Middlesex County Substance Abuse Action Council, or MCSAAC (mick-sack). At about the same time,

state government began to see a role for regional councils to look at these issues as well. They divided the state into RACs, or Regional Action Councils, and MCSAAC became the Middlesex RAC. As part of the directive to have a regional approach, MCSAAC representatives went to each town in Middlesex County and sought to establish a group that would meet regularly and hopefully include representation from different groups, such as businesses, parents, schools, churches, youth organizations, police etc. In Durham and Middlefield, the group was always a two-town affair because the towns shared both a school district (Regional District 13) and a Chamber Division (the Durham Middlefield Division). Early members of the group included representatives from Liberty Bank, Notre Dame Church (Sister Eileen Bettencourt), the schools (health teacher Liz Welsh), the towns (Pam Basilicato, social and senior services director in Middlefield) and the police, as well as just plain interested citizens. Barbara Carlin and Cam Moss, both of Middlefield, were part of a group that had started a Safe Rides program, Don Ginter of Middlefield was interested in giving young people something to do, and I was a relatively new Durham resident with two kids in the school system who had become involved with establishing parent groups above the elementary level. As this group met, it became

clear that providing healthy activities for young people in our then more rural towns was a priority for some. That group spun off the Durham Middlefield Youth and Family Services organization. Liz Welsh worked within the school, first encouraging and paying for attendance at summer MADD Power Camps where youth from across the state could meet and plan strategies for reducing alcohol and drug use. Then she started student groups who worked for safe and healthy decisions among their peers. EDGE is the latest of these groups. The whole group applied for funds from MCSAAC via various federal and state grants, as well as grants from private foundations. These funded trips to Outward Bound for at-risk youth, and speakers for parents and the community, including the very funny Anthony Wolf twice. Wolf is the author of Get Out of My Life, But First Could You Drive Me and Cheryl to the Mall? Wolf’s later books include “Mom, Jason’s Breathing on Me!” (sibling rivalry), It’s Not Fair! Jeremy Spencer’s Parents Let Him Stay Up All Night (tougher parts of parenting), Why Did You Get a Divorce? And When Can I Get a Hamster? (divorce), and Why Can’t You Shut Up? (relationships). Other speakers have

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the groups they interact with to strengthen the community through various programs and strategies. A follow-up to this survey is being mailed soon to a group of 500 randomly-selected adults in Durham and Middlefield. It is hoped that all of the recipients will reply honestly and anonymously and return the survey in the accompanying stamped envelope to help the LWC best move forward with new initiatives for building strong communities. Meanwhile, kids keep going to MADD Power Camp and coming back with creative ideas like white-out day, messages to prom-goers, red ribbon campaigns and the mock crash to try at the high school. If belonging to a very informal, behind-the-scenes support group whose goal is networking and supporting leaders in the community to develop healthy citizens and communities, then call the District 13 Central Office anytime before school starts to find the date of the first LWC meeting in September. That number is 860-349-7200. Monthly meetings are held at 12:30 p.m. in the conference room of the District Office, last about one hour and produce a healthy sense of accomplishment. Anyone of any age who values healthy communities is welcome.

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been sponsored, including one who talked about body image at Strong School and others who spoke about the many components of safety and health at all levels of District 13. A few years ago, Jen Schulten, a parent representative from John Lyman School, showed up with the idea of starting a running program called GoFar at the elementary schools to encourage healthful exercise among kids. About the same time, new CRHS guidance director Beth Galligan came to a monthly meeting and enthused about a program she had worked on in her last school called CRU, or Community Round-Up, in which kids of different ages (third grade-high school) collected food and donations for area food banks. As the group decided to support these new initiatives, the desire to change from a seminegative name (Local Prevention Council) to a positive one (Local Wellness Council) emerged. The group voted to change their name to more accurately reflect the focus on promoting healthy kids, families and communities. The LWC also participated two years ago with MCSAAC in an assets survey of the community, which was an anonymous student survey whose results will help the LWC and

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Town Times

New sign for Durham

Friday, July 16, 2010

Local man writes about mountain climbing tragedy By Joe Adinolfi Special to the Town TImes

The newly-installed Durham Public Safety Committee’s safety message signboard stands on the front lawn of the Durham Firehouse on Rt. 17. The safety reminder messages will be changed on a monthly basis. This message board was an Eagle Scout Project by Kyle Backus. Submitted by Frank DeFelice

Send us your news, events and information. Remember: The deadline for each Friday’s paper is the Friday before. Send your information to us at news@towntimes.com.

Freddie Wilkinson’s mountaineering expertise has taken him across the globe to countries as distant as Nepal and Argentina, but his journey into the world of mountain climbing began right here in Durham. Wilkinson, whose first book One Mountain Thousand Summits – The Untold Story of Tragedy and True Heroism on K2, an account of a mountain-climbing disaster at K2 in 2008 that resulted in eleven deaths, was recently published by New American Library, was raised in Durham and began climbing in the early 90s. “I started climbing when I was in sixth and seventh grade, going to Prime Climb Climbing Gym in Wallingford, and I also remember around the same time going for lots of hikes with my folks out to Bear Rock in Durham,” Wilkinson said. Wilkinson quickly discovered a host of quality climb-

ing spots in and around central Connecticut, nurturing his nascent interest in the sport. “There’s great climbing all around central Connecticut,” Wilkinson said. “Connecticut has trap rock. It’s featured so there are holes you can grab on to and little edges and cracks. It has good friction, which is really important for rock climbers so your feet will stick to the rock and small footholds better.” Wilkinson, who lives in Madison, New Hampshire, is now 30 and has been climbing for 17 years. In that time he has worked as a guide at Mount McKinley in Alaska and currently volunteers his services as an emergency rescue worker, helping to rescue trapped or injured climbers. Being an experienced mountaineer, Wilkinson followed the news of the tragedy in the mainstream media, and noticed aspects of the coverage that, to him, just didn’t seem right. “It seemed to me that the story was really convoluted

and it was being reported with a profound degree of pessimism,” Wilkinson said. Wilkinson immediately began his own investigation, traveling to Nepal three times to interview the Sherpa guides, whose role in guiding the survivors to safety was both heroic and largely ignored by the mainstream media . He also traveled to Colorado, Alaska and the Netherlands to seek out other key players in the tragedy. Wilkinson started writing about the tragedy on his blog on The Huffington Post. He was later approached by a friend who worked at Rock and Ice and asked to turn his posts into a story, which was published in the magazine’s October 1 issue. That story was soon expanded into his book. Wilkinson said that the difference between his coverage and the media’s coverage reinforces the idea that history is composed of not just one, but a multitude of different perspectives. “There should never be just one version of history,” Wilkinson said. “The Sherpas were not the people who journalists really wanted to seek out and interview – they were more interested in the western climbers who were up there.” Wilkinson will be at R.J Julia’s in Madison at 7 p.m. on July 21 to present, discuss and read from his book.

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Town Times

Friday, July 16, 2010

Honoring some of Middlefield’s unrecognized citizens By Betsy White Special to the Town Times

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See Cemetery, page 20

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Burial Grounds. “Mary Hooper was very involved in the project,” says Lynette. “With Ruth’s help and Mary’s supervision, we would hold two or three workshops every year to work on the cemetery.” But while there were markers to identify prominent families from the area, names like Coe and Miller, there was a whole area of unmarked graves, as well. Lynette decided to take on the task of researching at least some of those names. The project led her from a box of postcards moved from the Levi Coe library basement to the Historical Society in the Community Center, to books of records

servant, then that person would be named in the will as being ‘left’ to perhaps another family member or a friend,” she explains. “That’s how I came across some of the names (on the list).” Ruth Brown assisted in the search, at times, by going through state archives and records. Are there more names to be uncovered? “Yes, definitely,” admits Lynette. “I could have

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The next time you’re driving up Jackson Hill Road in Middlefield, stop for a visit to the Old North Burial Grounds. Even if you don’t have time to wander amidst the grave markers, take a moment to read the names on the handsome new sign posted on the fence surrounding the graveyard. Eleven people are listed, and they died a long time ago – the earliest as far back as 1818. There are two remarkable things about these seemingly unremarkable names. The first is that, until the sign was posted last month, there was no way to know that these folks were buried in the cemetery, since they are in the socalled “common grave area,” where no grave stones exist. The second is that they are all African Americans, and, according to Middlefield historian Lynette Brayshaw, there are more names – of more African Americans – yet to be uncovered. Lynette recalls that it was between 15 and 20 years ago that the Middlefield Historical Society, with the assistance of Ruth Brown, head of “grave restoration” for the state, decided to take on restoration of the Old North

source, to date. The book, History of Middlefield and Long Hill by Thomas Atkins, was published in 1883. One chapter is entitled “Record of the Dead of Middlefield, kept by Hezekiah Hale, Joshua Stow and others.” Alphabetized by last name, Lynette says a careful review of those names provided a clue to the heritage of some, as the letters “col” are included, indicating “colored.” It was the windfall she had been hoping for. “That book was my Bible,” she states. Lynette says another key method of identifying names of possible African Americans buried in the cemetery was to look through old wills. “If people ‘owned’ a slave or

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Town Times Opinion

Friday, July 16, 2010

Letters to the Editor

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Town Times is published every Friday by the Record-Journal Publishing Co. and is delivered to all homes and businesses in Durham, Middlefield and Rockfall. Sue VanDerzee, Editor Stephanie Wilcox, Reporter Brian Monroe, Advertising Director Joy Boone, Advertising Sales Wendy Parker, Office Manager Contributors: Joesph Adinolfi, Betsy White Booz, Chuck Corley, Trish Dynia, Kathy Meyering, Judy Moeckel, Tori Piscatelli.

Good news for Nina

I just wanted to follow-up with my friends in Durham and Middlefield and let you know that I won the Live from Lexington contest!!! I will travel to the World Equestrian Games this fall as a live blogospondent along with my fellow finalist. I’m so incredibly excited and humbled by the outpouring of support from my family, friends, fans and Town Times readers!!! Thank you so much for your interest in this story! All the best, Nina Akerley Blog site address: equinewriter.spaces.live.co m/?lc=1033

Ricky Fowler fan found!

For the last two weeks, the Town Times published a small “want ad” attempting to

find a “soon to be eighh grade girl from Durham.” We are happy to say, the student has been found! While attending the final round of the Travelers Championship on Sunday, June 27, in Cromwell, Clarissa Backus was enamored with the upand-coming golf idol Ricky Fowler. After following Ricky’s group all the way through to the 18th hole, and having a few conversations with Ricky’s uncle, Clarissa tried to find Ricky around the clubhouse to get a last view or even possibly an autograph. After awhile it appeared that her attempts to see him again would go unrealized. At that point an angel (in the form of an eighth grade teacher from Meriden) and volunteer for the Travelers came out from behind the security lines carrying caddie bibs. The volunteer was asked if Fowler’s bib was there, and if it could accidentally on purpose be dropped into the hands of Ricky’s new number one fan. The angel did the

Special election letter rules In order to allow the largest number of citizens to express their opinions on the November elections, we set a few special election season letter rules. Number one, the deadline for election letters will be Monday at 5 p.m. Number two, election letters will be limited to 250 words. Also, in order to allow as many people as possible to weigh in, we will not print letters that have already been printed in another publication. The last week before elections (deadline Oct. 25), only positive letters of support will be accepted. Of course, only signed letters with phone numbers, so we can verify authorship, will be printed.

right thing by saying “No.” After seeing the star-struck face of Clarissa and feeling compassion, the volunteer snuck Clarissa behind the security lines to where the golf stars were being interviewed by TV cameras. After awhile they had to leave the area, but Clarissa was very grateful for this volunteer’s actions and attempts to see Ricky. So close, yet so far away, but very satisfying due to this angel’s kindness. Fast forward two weeks later when, after looking for a landscaper in the Town Times, a small green box (which was missed a few days earlier) caught the eye of Clarissa’s dad. The writing in the box was a search for … oh, my gosh, Clarissa! It was the angel from the golf tournament, whose name is Teresa. The call was immediately made and excitement was expressed on both ends of the line.

ful gift, not just the autograph but a sense of community, caring and the good of human nature. Luke Backus, Durham

What’s going on at Merriam Tree Farm? What’s going on at the Merriam Tree Farm? Last fall the Ross Road and Spring Streets areas were cleared of trees and brush. Large piles of mulch were left behind. Rumor has it that four houses are going in there. I have been watching the corner and see that there is NO progress. Shouldn’t cement be being poured and houses constructed in the good weather? My first concern is why no action has been taken towards building these houses. My second concern is the habitat for deer and other animals. Why take down the trees and forest that provide housing and food and then do nothing? I know that deer live there as one morning at 9:45 a.m. they were wandering on Spring and Middlefield Streets, when normally they would be back in the woods for the day. Can anyone give help to understand? Thank you. Ellen L. Cassady, Rockfall

Kept safe by kindness Clarissa and Teresa After clarifying information that only the two parties would know, a meeting was scheduled for Clarissa and Teresa to meet. Teresa (the angel) was able to see Ricky Fowler later that day and had him sign an autograph for Clarissa. The autograph read: “Good luck in the eighth grade – Ricky Fowler.” The exchange was made at the Durham Firehouse and everyone was extremely happy. What a satisfying moment! This act of kindness, along with the help of Sue VanDerzee from the Town Times, has given Clarissa a wonder-

On Thursday, July 8, around 4 p.m., I was driving eastbound on Route 66 when I realized I had a flat tire. I pulled over and tried for quite a while, unsuccessfully, to loosen the lug nuts on my tire, while keeping a nervous eye on the traffic speeding by me. To my good fortune, a gentleman by the name of Del stopped and offered his assistance. Soon after, another gentleman (driving a white van with his family) who had seen me struggling and had turned around from the westbound side of 66 also stopped to help. These kindhearted people, who risked their safety to help me (my flat tire was on the same side as traffic), got me back on the road

again, and out of harm’s way. I write this letter to thank them again, and to share an experience that shows that there are plenty of good people around, and that seemingly small acts of kindness really do make a difference in the lives of other people. I also thank the drivers who, when they were able to, moved out to the farther lane to give us a greater feeling of safety. Jacqueline Nelson, Rockfall

Szewczyk will do good, not harm Matt Lesser proves the point that sending representatives to Hartford who claim to work full time for you is a sure way to wind up with laws that do more harm than good. Recently I received two mailings from Mr. Lesser. They were paid for by you, the taxpayers. Being an incumbent, he is privileged to have taxpayers pay for campaign mailings under the guise of officially informing citizens what’s happening in Connecticut. Mr. Lesser could have reduced legislators’ expenses this year. He voted NO. The mailers explain how Mr. Lesser lowered your electric bill (mine is up), balanced our state budget (give me a break) and saved the Durham Fair (after having cast a vote last session that would have closed the Fair). His excuse, he didn’t read the bill before he voted. That’s ok because we all know that reading bills is boring. It’s time to elect someone who will do something more than play at politics. John Szewczyk is a decorated police officer, a Durham selectman and a volunteer youth basketball coach. A vote for John Szewczyk is a vote for laws that promote jobs and economic activity, i.e., laws that will do more good than harm. Robert S. Poliner, Durham

Town Times Columns

Friday, July 16, 2010

Cooper has much to teach Ever since I was a reacted to life events Kathy Meyering little girl, I’ve had a the same way we hustrong affinity to animans do. Since then, mals. Our backyard I’ve learned that was wooded and loud while they are much with chattering more guided by insquirrels and calling stinct than emotion, birds. I spent hours out there, trying animals are a rich source for learning to lure a bird to some birdseed on my how to live life better, one day at a outstretched hand, or peering into time. Recently, National Public Radio the tree tops for the sight of a yellow- host Faith Middleton interviewed bellied sapsucker. I whispered to Karen Winegar, the author of a book horses before I had ever heard of the on the benefits of animals to humans, horse-whisperer, composed and sang in particular rescue animals. In the songs to newborn calves, dreamed of interview, Winegar shared some stotalking to lions. I went through a ries about several remarkable anirather predictable array of pets: mals and their ability to heal from Goldie the fish, Yertle the little tur- horrible abuse and neglect The jacket tle, a hamster named Buffy. To me, of her book Saved: Rescued Animals they were sources of wonder and and the Lives They Transform, puts amusement. forth the idea that “what rescued aniBut I desperately wanted a dog, mals do best and most astonishingly something my mother was not keen is forgive.” about. One day I noticed a lost puppy I find stories of forgiveness and rewandering around the schoolyard, demption particularly moving these and nearly grabbed him out of the days. Perhaps it’s because at our age, arms of another child, claiming he we’ve had lots of opportunities to forwas “mine.” give and to ask for forgiveness. I don’t Sammy became my first rescue ani- think it ever comes easy, though. It inmal. We never did find out where he volves admitting we are wrong and came from or what his story was. All I letting go of the past. Children utter know is, he loved us and we loved those two words, “I’m sorry,” a lot him. After Sammy, a series of other more readily than we do. Animals stray animals walked into my life — don’t even look for apologies. They several cats, and now my dog. simply move on. When I was a child I often humanized my pets, assuming they felt and See Boomer, next page

Baby Boomer Bytes

Pool safety: A summer concern Children, summer when the water in the and water are a trio pool is disturbed. Frank DeFelice, for the made to be together. Position reaching Durham Public Safety Com. poles and throwing But this trio can also be a deadly combinawater safety aids tion, especially if you along both sides of or your neighbors own the pool. a pool. Few of us realWatch your chilize just how risky dren at all times backyard pools are; even the small when they are in the pool. Have a cellportable ones. Remember these safety phone or poolside telephone nearby, rules to protect your children from se- so that you don’t have to leave the area rious or fatal injuries: “even for a second” to answer teleChildren are fascinated by water phone calls. and will go to extraordinary extremes Establish and enforce water safety to get to it. Check your town building rules, and make sure that a responsidepartment for regulations on mini- ble adult is present at all times when mum fencing requirements around the pool is in use. backyard pools and hot tubs. GeneralDon’t leave rafts or toys in the pool; ly, fences should be a least 5 feet high as these may temp youngsters. and without footholds. Gate closures Treat wading pools as you would a should be self-closing and locks full size swimming pool. Small chilshould be installed high enough up dren need very little water to drown. from the fence to keep children from Enroll yourself and your children reaching them. Consider multiple bar- in a water safety and swimming riers between the children and the course. Don’t allow swimming lessons pool. An extra fence, locked door or to give you a false sense of security. other barrier between the child and Children and adults alike will panic the pool may give you enough time to and forget what they have learned if discover the child missing and inter- they run into problems in the water. cept a potential drowning. Install water alarms, which react See Pool, next page

Guest Column

Heat wave means making tough choices among plants It was finally rainAlice ing when I started this article. Last week’s heat wave gave me more reasons to worry than just whether my 10-yearold would survive soccer camp during days when the heat index soared above 100. I fretted over a tough choice in the garden. Which plants should I water and which plants do I sentence to survive these desert conditions without a drink? The choice stemmed from a worry planted in my mind growing up as a kid in Middlefield. I lived in an old farm house with what I assume was an old well. Every summer during a heat spell, my mum reminded us to watch our water usage for fear that “the well will run dry.” She worried aloud whether her plants would pull through the drought. She focused her hose only on her favorites and the newly planted. That warning stuck with me. I have no idea if my well would actually run dry. I’ve lived in my current house for only three years so I don’t know how long my well water would last without rain, but last week I decided to choose between my plants, providing water for some and denying others. The family vegetable garden got first priority. My brother has spent most of his spare moments planting and tending these crops. We already have a pesky rodent eating our root vegetables and losing the garden to a lack of water would be unbearable. Since the tomatoes actually like it hot and dry and spraying water on the leaves invites blight, my brother snaked a soaker hose through the rows of the other vegetables. It works well in times like these, slowly dripping moisture at the roots where plants need it most. The next in line for a drink at my house last week were the potted plants. Pots can’t hold water like the earth, and plants simply dry out faster. I have trouble watching the

money I spent on annuals crisp up and burn. Plastic and fiberglass pots retain moisture much longer than terra cotta. After potted annuals, I watered my favorite plants and anything new to the garden. One shouldn’t add new plants or transplant during heat spells, but I don’t always follow the rules. As mentioned for the vegetables, deep watering only at the base of each plant conserves water. It takes more time, but it works best. So, who got cut off? Established shrubs and drought-tolerant perennials remained parched, as well as anything too far from the house that required me to drag the hose a long way. I get lazy in humidity. One ignored plant did not fare well — a blue hydrangea that sees little shade. It now bares ugly brown blooms that droop their heads in sorrow, below.

Blair

Garden Guru

Just after I knew there was no return for these flowers, my friend Julie sent me a quote from Jane Austin: “What dreadful hot weather we have! It keeps me in a continual state of inelegance.” It sums up the state of both me and my shrub. Oh well, lesson learned. I’ll add that bush to the water VIP list next year. See a list of drought tolerant plants I use in my garden on my website at www.slendergardener.blogspot.com.

Web update Our poll question last week elicited 59 answers. The question was: Will you or someone you know use the new skateboard park? Most respondents — 73 percent — said no, while 27 percent said yes. However, the comments were interesting for this poll. There were a few comments about the type of person who might use the planned skatepark not being desirable, as well as rebuttals of that point of view. However, the most interesting exchange concerned where the $60,000 to build the skatepark was coming from in a tight budget year, followed by an explanation of Middlefield’s method of budgeting for Park and Recreation, which grants them all income from their user fees, followed by complaints about that method. This should make an interesting topic of discussion for Middlefield’s Board of Finance during the “off-budget” season. Go to www.towntimes.com to answer next week’s poll, and remember, comments are always welcome on any story.

Town Times

Bird of World Cup soccer fame

Friday, July 16, 2010

Boomer Kate Annecchino holding her Vuvuzela bird model, left, a rare South A m e r i c a n species. Its cry causes an annoying sound which is why itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s so rare and close to extinction (especially in the Annecchino house!). In honor of World

Cup soccer, Kate and her family created this bird out of a vuvuzela that she bought from her Victory Soccer Camp at Choate this week. At right, Katie annoys the outdoor creatures!

I look down at my dog Cooper, a rescued lab from New Orleans, and realize how true this is. I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know his story either, but I can tell his life was less than happy. My guess is he was probably beaten, since he still flinches whenever I raise my hand to pat his head. He gets anxious if I raise my voice. He is obsessed with being by my side, to the point of jumping up on his hind legs to look through a window when he is out and I am in, or vice versa. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve done nothing to deserve this trust and devotion, and canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t even claim to have redressed any wrongs his former owners inflicted on him before they abandoned him. But I find his hopeful enthusiasm for another good day inspiring. So I am taking a moment to be grateful for Cooper. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m grateful for the fact that he is

(Continued from page 9)

able to show trust, affection and attachment to me and my family. Cooper is a great dog. Slobbery, yes, and heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s having a little trouble in the bathroom department. On top of that, he has heartworm. I wonder at our bad luck, since last year we had to put our dog Po down after nursing him through a year-long battle with bladder cancer. But since I believe there is always something to be learned from even the most trying situations, I am jolted by the thought that someday I may be incontinent and drooling, or called upon to care for a loved one in such a state. I know this seems like a stretch, but taking care of Cooper gives me a chance to practice the spiritual as well as practical skills I will quite likely need in the not-so-distant future.

Photo submitted by Lou Annecchino

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Town Times

Friday, July 16, 2010

11 judge ordered night sessions in order to have the case decided before the first day of the concert, July 31. Dozens of witnesses for festival planners testified on logistics such as traffic flow, health and food services, and overall safety. Local residents, business owners and the first selectman testified regarding the chaos they felt would ensue if 50,000 people descended upon Middlefield over a three-day period. Property owner Zemel and concert coordinators offered to limit the ticket sales to the present level (approximately 22,000 had been sold to date), and First Selectman Meckley stated that he felt he could sign off on a permit limiting the crowd to approximately 18,000 to 20,000. This witnessstand revelation took Middlefield plaintiffs and their lawyers by surprise, and it was determined during further testimony that this was his personal opinion and not one that would necessarily be backed by the full board of selectmen. Testimony and closing ar-

Powder Ridge (Continued from page 1) Those amendments, which limited the number of people who could attend open-air events and required a plot plan demonstrating that adequate means had been provided for parking, drinking water, refuse disposal, etc. were the basis on which the town had denied the festival permit. Because an ordinance cannot legally go into effect until 15 days after publication, the festival promoters argued that they were not bound by the amendments, and therefore the permit could not be denied based on those amendments. During day-long testimony, First Selectman Arthur Meckley stated that he had denied the permit the week before based on the ordinance and amendments, and further stated that the lack of timely publication was an oversight on the town’s part. In other testimony, a festival public relations manager stated that land had been rented nearby that would hold 20,000 cars, chartered buses would shuttle the audience to Powder Ridge and a vendor had been found to establish food service. Powder Ridge owner Louis Zemel testified that arrangements were being made for phone banks and additional water service. On July 10 Judge Zampano decided that the case presented to him did not suggest that constitutional rights and interstate commerce were involved, and he referred the matter back to the State

Supreme Court. The two sides next faced off again in Middletown’s Superior Court, presided over by Judge Aaron Palmer. Early in the hearings, both sides stipulated that the controversial ordinance did not apply to the festival, and the judge informed both sides that he

would decide the case on three grounds: zoning laws in place prior to July, will the concert be a nuisance, and would state health regulations be complied with. “That will be the permissible scope of the evidence,” said Palmer.

Niclole L’Heureux of Durham hugs her Maltese buddy “Casper!!”

During his summing up, Palmer said, “The plaintiffs had proved that a festival with 50,000 in attendance generating 15,000 cars was a prima facie nuisance.” (Translation: self-evidently the festival would be a nuisance to Middlefield.)

Also, a thorough reading of Magary’s articles on the testimony depicts the judge as being hostile to festival lawyers and their witnesses throughout the hearing. During testimony by John Lyman Jr. about the possibility that concert-goers might cross rope

See Powder Ridge, page 19

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Middletown Press writer Alan Magary, who covered the hearing in its entirety, stated in his July 22 article, “While Judge Palmer did not say what his decision was, there were strong indications he was leaning toward issuing an injunction.”

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Town Times at Durham Rec

Friday, July 16, 2010

Summer intern Tori Piscatelli visited the Durham Rec program on Monday morning and caught lots of young residents having fun. Right, Aleah Querns admires Kaitlyn Gribko’s treasure.

At left, TJ Isleib, Terrance Murphy and Carmine Andranovich are the best of friends. Below, Alyssa and Jessica, inset, and Taylor make pictures with chalk. Bottom photo, Jessica enjoys the twirly slide.

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The living organism that causes fungal infections thrives in dark, damp environments. Since toes are often covered by socks and shoes, they are the ideal location for fungal growth. Fungus can cause the toenails to appear yellowish or brownish in color. The nails may become thick over time and crumble. The resulting appearance can be unsightly, and the added thickness of the toenail can ultimately cause pain. Fungal spores can be transferred onto bare feet in locations such as gyms and swimming pools. Wearing some sort of sandals or water shoes can help keep feet from directly touching the floor. If you are exposed to any threat of fungal infection, wash your feet and dry them thoroughly. Feet are susceptible to nail problems of all kinds, including fungal nails, nail infections, and ingrown toenails. It might be because of all the time they spend in dark, moist places, or it might be due to the lack of attention they receive. Whatever the cause, your podiatrist is well equipped to help provide the cure, from medication to surgery to a change in footwear. Don’t take another step until you see us for family footcare at AFFILIATED FOOT CARE CENTER, LLC. Office hours in Middlefield are Mon. 9-5, Wed. 3-7, and Fri. 9-5; Tues. & Thurs. 9-5 in Wallingford.

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All Durham Rec photos by Tori Piscatelli

Town Times at Durham Rec

Friday, July 16, 2010

13 Clockwise from top left, the first session of Little People’s camp gathers for a group photo; friends come in all sizes at camp; enjoying Allyn Brook during a very hot week; gathering for a game of four square; and more water fun and exploration.

More Durham Rec photos on page 28.

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Below, Allie Kenned y plays horsey for Olivia Bates.

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Registrar of Voters

The registrars of voters will be in their office at the Community Center, 405 Main Street, on Tuesday, July 27 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. to register voters. At this time the registrars will hear requests by persons removed for adding their names back to the registry list.

Senior Center

The Middlefield food pantry is currently in need of the following items: canned soup (especially meat-based), canned fruit, canned green beans and cereal (hot and cold). The above listed items are most needed (please, no tuna). The food bank is located at the Middlefield Community Center, 405 Main Street, Middlefield. Donations may be left there during weekday business hours. (If the office is closed a box is also located next to the office.) Your generosity is greatly appreciated. They cannot not accept dented, rusted, or out-of-date food. Please contact Antoinette Astle, social services director, at 860-349-7121 with any questions.

Middlefield Town Briefs

Look to the wind As part of the town’s efforts to use more green energy, Middlefield has been working with the city of Middletown in an attempt to harness the wind power running through the Metacomet region. These efforts are spearheaded by the joint town committee, the Metacomet Regional Wind Farm Committee, which recently applied for an American Reinvestment and Recovery Act grant in the hope of funding a wind study of the Metacomet region. Unfortunately, the grant was not to be, with the state turning down the committee’s request and leaving the project unfunded. As of yet, no alternate source of funding yet exists. However, the committee is scheduled to meet soon, according to Chairman Bob Yamartino, at which time he plans on reviewing other potential funding sources for a wind study. Yamartino’s currently looking into the Department of Energy, which he believes may be willing to fund the project. Once the project is funded, however, Yamartino wants to purchase three meteorologi-

cal towers to study the strength of the wind at various heights in the Metacomet region. These towers would then go into a loan bank run by Western Connecticut State University for use by anyone in the state. While Yamartino claims that the town could put up towers for wind power without performing a study, the study will allow the town to figure out the best height to install the towers, as well as how many to build and where to place them. Partly this is an economic concern, in order to get the most energy from the towers. However, Yamartino conceded that “The towers will be extremely visible,” as they could measure up to 80’ tall and may number from as few as half a dozen or up to as many as twelve. Though Yamartino is personally fine with the sight of the towers – he originally wanted to put one in his own backyard – he understands the problem other residents may have with the sight of them and currently plans to build them away from any homes. Connecticut may not have

Friday, July 16, 2010

Middlefield Government Calendar (Unless otherwise indicated, all meetings are held in the Community Center.) Tuesday, July 20 7 p.m. — Conservation Commission Wednesday, July 21 7 p.m. — Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Agency Monday, July 26 7 p.m. — Board of Selectmen Tuesday, July 27 7 p.m. — Zoning Board of Appeals Wednesday, July 28 6:30 p.m. — Planning and Zoning quite the amount of wind turbines of states such as California, but Middlefield isn’t the only region in the state where these towers might be used. New Haven already installed one wind tower at the beginning of the year, while both Portland and a few towns in the northwest region of the state are looking into using wind turbines. While the Metacomet study is intended to find out the best height to build at, it won’t be the first study performed in the region. Prior wind studies already find the location as a viable source for wind power. According to Yamartino, the town of Portsmith Abby in Rhode Island put up a 60’ tower and generated over $300,000 in revenue over a three-tofour month period. But before anything goes up, first must come the study. At his best guess, Yamartino

estimates that Middlefield won’t see any wind towers go up for at least three to four years. Only after the town receives funding for the project, and only after the wind patterns are studied for a year, and only after the town receives all the necessary permits to begin construction on the wind towers. But once the towers go up, it is expected that they will generate 10-20 percent of Middlefield’s energy needs. This energy is currently intended for sale into a power grid, in an effort to lower the town’s taxes. It may be years until any benefit comes from the study, but in the meantime, the committee’s meetings are open to the public. The group hasn’t met in the past couple of months, but Yamartino plans for them to meet again this July to decide just where to go next for funding.

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Friday, July 16, 2010

Planning and Zoning

Conservation Commission time to review the latest subdivision plan and offer an open space recommendation. Corona told the commission that the plan already includes a 10 percent conservation easement and that there are no plans to increase this, but the P&Z still chose to keep the hearing open. One other significant issue that was considered during the meeting was how the fairgrounds were used this past Memorial Day weekend. The commission read a letter from resident Jan Guarino, who found the recent BOMB Fest held on the grounds to be â&#x20AC;&#x153;disturbing.â&#x20AC;? The letter cited noise and obscenities as issues with the festival, and Guarino was concerned about how the grounds may be used in the future. Commission members such as Frank DeFelice shared similar sentiments, with DeFelice noting that a Boy Scout troop left the festival due to the language used at the event. In light of this, the commission discussed meeting with the Fair Association in order to discuss the groupâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 1986 permit that describes what they are allowed to do on the site with an eye to avoiding any problems in the future. Town planner Geoff Colegrove told the commission that he had already sent out a letter asking to meet with the association, but that he has yet to receive a response. In his role as the ZEO, Colegrove also reported on a number of zoning enforcement issues. He informed them that Tom Russell has cleaned up most of his property, but that thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s still a dump truck body and asphalt littering the land. He noted that Russell plans to use the asphalt for a driveway. The commission chose to take no further action against Russell at this time. Greenland Realty has also compacted its driveway, and Colegrove found that it is now â&#x20AC;&#x153;basically dust-free.â&#x20AC;? Commission members also brought some of their concerns to Colegrove. Mike Geremiah said that Colegrove should watch the farmerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s market on the Town Green, as he thinks it may be turning into a flea market. Due to his association with the market, commission member Joseph Pasquale offered to speak

with the market master about how the market is used. As for Pasquale, he noted that an automotive business running out of the DiNatale storage units on Route 68 has yet to receive its required certification from the DMV. While the commission understood that the town must first approve the business before DMV could grant its approval, they noted that the deadline for DMV certification was back in March. No action was taken, with Pasquale simply informing Colegrove of the missing certification. The final matter the commission took care of was to release $17,000 of a $21,000 bond for 39 Ozick Drive. The remaining $4,000 was kept to inSee P&Z next page

Durham Government Calendar (All meetings will be held at the Durham Library unless otherwise noted. Check the town Web page at www.townofdurhamct.org for updates.) Tuesday, July 20 7 p.m. â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Board of Finance at Town Hall 7 p.m. â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Agricultural Commission Wednesday, July 21 7:30 p.m. â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Planning and Zoning Commission Monday, July 26 7 p.m. â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Board of Selectmen at Town Hall Tuesday, July 27 7 p.m. â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Ethics Commission Tuesday, August 3 6:30 p.m. â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Public Safety Committee 7:30 p.m. â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Midstate Planning, 100 DeKoven Dr., Middletown Wednesday, August 4 7:30 p.m. â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Planning and Zoning Commission Monday, August 9 7 p.m. â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Board of Selectmen at Town Hall 7:30 p.m. â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Tuesday, August 17 7 p.m. â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Board of Finance at Town Hall

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The Planning and Zoning Commission held a public hearing on Wednesday, July 7, for a subdivision on 155R Harvey Road. This subdivision would create two additional lots at the 15-acre site, which would allow for the construction of a two-bedroom home and four-bedroom home. This proposal met with opposition from a number of residents along Harvey Road, with resident Ray Kalinowski stating that it would be â&#x20AC;&#x153;to the detriment of a quiet place out in the boonies.â&#x20AC;? He and other nearby residents claimed that the subdivision would further damage the rural character of the road; many residents felt that the character of the area was already damaged by development. According to resident Mike Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Hara, he was told by his realtor when first moving in that only one other house would be built near his home, and he wouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be able to see it. He stated that not only could he see the house when it was built, but that two more soon followed. Residents also criticized the condition of Harvey Road, with people such as John Gudelski pointing out that the road is deteriorating in places and that an increase in traffic along the narrow road could be dangerous to the pedestrians who regularly use it. Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Hara added that he has been told for the past six years by Durham public works foreman Kurt Bober that the road would receive necessary repairs and improvements and still nothing has been done. While the applicant for the subdivision canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be forced to improve the condition of the road, Harvey Road residents felt that the conditions werenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t ideal for bringing in construction equipment. Residents also cautioned the commission to stay aware of possible runoff issues that may arise due to taking out fill. The applicantâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s representative, attorney John Corona, informed the commission that the land is relatively flat and doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t need much excavating, The commission also discussed keeping the public hearing open to allow the

Durham Town Briefs

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Durham Town Briefs

16 P&Z

(From page 15)

sure the maintenance of the trees planted on the property. (In attendance/Chuck Corely)

The Registrars of Voters will hold an evening registration session from 6 to 8 p.m. to enroll new voters on Tuesday, July 27, in the office on the sec-

ond floor of the Durham Town Hall. The registrars will be available to hear requests by persons removed from the preliminary registry voting list to add their names back to the list. Aug. 5 is the last day to register by mail to vote or change from unaffiliated to a party affiliation for the Aug. 10 primary. Residents may change their party or enroll in person up until noon on Aug. 9. Residents should appear in person with identification.

Friday, July 16, 2010

Summer fun at Durham Library IWWA discusses Hours: Regular library Children’s events: Mystic hours are 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Aquarium touch tank on Sat- ‘fixing’Allyn Mondays through Thursdays urday, July 17, at 10:30 a.m. PiBrook and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Fridays rate cartooning with Rick 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. E-Books are Available: If you have a Sony Reader or Barnes and Noble Nook, downloadable e-books are now available online from the library. Simply visit http://lion.lib.overdrive.com and follow the instructions for downloading e-books to your device. You must have a valid Durham Library card. Drop-in programs: Story times are held in July on Mondays at 10:30 a.m. for ages oneand-a-half to two-and-a-half and on Tuesdays at 10:30 for ages two-and-a-half to five. There will be a special Rock Cats story time on Tuesday, Aug. 17, at 10:30 a.m. Enjoy a summer celebration with a magic show and dessert on Tuesday, Aug. 3, at 6:30 p.m. Movies at the library: Enjoy free movies on Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m. at the library. On July 20, the movie The Sea Hawk will be shown at noon; on July 20, Pirates of the Caribbean: the Curse of the Black Pearl; and on July 27, Lady in the Water.

Stromski on Wednesday, July 21, at 6:30 p.m. for ages eight and up. Sea serpent stories, crafts and games on Saturday, July 24, at 10:30 a.m. for ages four to seven. Hula show on Wednesday, July 28, at 1 p.m. for all ages to learn about Hawaii, sing, play instruments and hula dance. The Mystery Book Discussion Group will meet on Tuesday, July 20, at 7:30 p.m. to discuss The Mephisto Club by Tess Gerritsen. Copies of the book are available at the library. Everyone is invited to join this informal discussion. Henna Program: Register for a henna program to be held on Wednesday, July 28, at 6 p.m. Teen Book Club will meet on Wednesday, July 28, at 7 p.m. to discuss The Christopher Killer by Alane Ferguson. The Book Lover’s Circle will meet on Wednesday, Aug 4, at 7:30 p.m. to discuss Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follett. Copies of the book are available at the library. Belly Dance Program: Women 16 years old and up are invited to learn about and experience the fun of belly dance on Thursday, Aug. 12, from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Registration is required.

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Discussion over the state of Allyn Brook was central to the Inland Wetland and Watercourses Agency’s (IWWA) meeting on Monday, July 12. The commission reviewed the state of the brook right now, with chairman Dick Eriksen stating that it “just doesn’t exist anymore” [in White’s Farm] and that it eventually “diffuses into the wetlands.” He pointed out that it will require more than just removing a few trees and dirt, and that the town currently lacks the equipment to properly fix the damage done to the brook. According to Eriksen, clearing out the brook will require spending at least $20,000, before factoring in the efforts of Public Works. Unfortunately, the commission is unsure at this time just where funding for the repairs will come from. While state money may be available, this will require preserving the natural habitat along the brook. However, while a plan for the clean-up must eventually come before Inland Wetlands, the matter currently rests with the DEP. Inland Wetlands is awaiting a response from the DEP on what to do, while the DEP are trying to contact fishery people about what to do with the brook. Once DEP has spoken with fishery experts, Eriksen stated that the next step will be for the DEP to work with Inland Wetlands, the Board of Selectmen, the town engineer and other entities to figure out what to do next. Eriksen hopes to call a public hearing on what to do with the brook in the next month or two, and by fall to have an idea of how the town will fund the project. Once the clean-up is finished, the commission expects that maintenance will be required every year to keep Allyn Brook clear of debris and sediment, due partly to the silt runoff from an upstream dam that has been breached. However, Eriksen anticipates it taking at least a year to begin cleaning up the brook, due to the amount of planning required, as well as all the permits and need for funding.

See IWWA, page 23

Town Times Local Fun

Friday, July 16, 2010

Local talent at Allyn Brook in free concert On Wednesday, July 21, the free concert series continues at Allyn Brook Park in Durham. The main act is the Whitehouse Experience playing classic rock at 7 p.m. Opening for the Whitehouse Experience at 5:30 p.m. will be three groups of local kids who have been taking music lessons at Joe Riffâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Music in Middletown. The group of 11-year-olds is Michael Ahern on piano, Matthew Breece on drums and Dominic Nuecci on guitar.

The 13-year-olds are Alyssa Soucy on guitar, Noah Lyke on guitar and Austin Jacinto on drums. The group of 17-year-olds consists of Dan Levitski on drums, Tyler Schmitt on guitar, Kyle Pegolo on guitar and Brian Santangelo on bass. These kids have been working on perfecting their music and have even recorded a CD. Come out to see some very talented local folks. Bring a blanket, chair and a picnic and enjoy the evening.

Peckham Park celebrates the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;60s

Oddfellows presents Twelfth Night Oddfellows Playhouse Summer Shakespeare Academy presents mainstage performances of Twelfth Night, William Shakespeareâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s romantic comedy, on July 22-24. These productions are the culmination of an intensive four-week Shakespeare-inperformance program for high school students and feature 15 talented teenagers from throughout central Connecticut. Have you ever been at a party that has just gone way too long? Twelfth Night, directed by Jeffery Allen, is that party. On the 12th day of partying, the world of Illyria has flipped upside down. Servants dress as their masters,

the masters dress like their servants, and women dress like men. For one last glorious night, there are no rules or authority â&#x20AC;&#x201C; except the rule of fun! Into this chaotic merriment, stumbles Viola, who was shipwrecked upon the shores of Illyria and separated from her brother Sebastian. Viola and Sebastian, unaware that the other has survived, stumble into an upside down world of gender reversal, drunken merriment and romance. Romantic confidence and confusion provides the entertainment. Oddfellowsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Summer Shakespeare Academy, led by Jeffery Allen, combines theater training and rehearsals

for performance for students ages 14-18. The challenging and fun program offers instruction in acting and movement, stage combat, text analysis, voice, diction, improvisation, and understanding Shakespeareâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s historical and cultural background. Durham teens Emma Lerman and Jessamin Cipollina are featured. All performances will be at Oddfellows Playhouse, 128 Washington Street, Middletown on July 24, 25 and 26 at 7 p.m. Tickets are $15 for adults and $8 for students and seniors. Group rates available. For reservations or more information, call Oddfellows Playhouse at 860-347-6143.

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.LGV RQ &DPSXV )XQ VXPPHU HQULFKPHQW SURJUDPV IRU WK WR WK JUDGHUV Kicking off the Summer Concert Series will be the band â&#x20AC;&#x153;California Dreamers.â&#x20AC;? Forty years ago this was the music heard at the Powder Ridge Rock Festival, so they thought it only fitting to bring this band in on Saturday, July 31, from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at Peckham Park. Come down to Peckham Park early and see the memorabilia from the original event. (Anyone having pictures, newspaper clippings, etc. who would like to display them, contact Chris Hurlbert at Park and Recreation.) Dress in your best tie-dye and compete in the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Flower Childâ&#x20AC;? pageant. Come early

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and get good seats. California Dreamers is a dynamic, seven-piece band recreating the music of the Mamas and the Papas and the late â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;60â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s â&#x20AC;&#x153;Flower Powerâ&#x20AC;? generation. Their family-friendly show is comprised of Mamas and Papasâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; catalog of great music, plus hits by The Hollies, The Byrds, the Zombies, The Association and other late â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;60â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s icons. A California Dreamers show will transport you back to the sights and sounds of the times, with song after song from Woodstock, Monterey Pop and other great festivals of the era. Come experience a show near you,

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Music at the Village 1165384

The public is invited to a summer concert, with Bob Giannotti at the Village at South Farms, located at 645 Old Saybrook Rd. in Middletown, at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, July 29. Bring the whole family, dance and sing along with Connecticut favorite Bob Giannotti and enjoy a relaxing evening under the stars. This event is free and open to the public. Refreshments start at 6 p.m. and the concert begins at 6:30 p.m. Seating is limited, so please RSVP to the Village at South Farms by calling 860-344-8788.

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Around Connectiut with Grandkids in Town Times

18 By Sue VanDerzee One of the joys of a being 50+ is having grandchildren.

A tradition over the last several years has been inviting those of our seven grandchildren who are available to

spend some time with Grandma and Grandpa over the summer. This year we went to sever-

Friday, July 16, 2010

grandparents — and parents, too, for that matter. So take advantage of all that our state has to offer for kids.

al spots around the state, all of which were thoroughly enjoyed by all. We offer them for the consideration of other

The Dinosaur Place at Nature’s Art in Montville: At left, Aaron enjoys finding dinosaurs along a path through the woods, which also features a maze and a “volcano” that “erupts” every hour. There’s also a large splash pad enjoyed by Piper and Aaron, below. Go to www.thedinosaurplace. com for information and directions.

Mystic Seaport: Mystic has two venues enjoyed by kids — an aquarium and the Seaport (not related but close to each other). The Seaport features old boats, historic buildings, hands-on activities and boat rides such as the one enjoyed by Jared VanDerzee, 9, and Aaron Abby VanDerzee, 4, above. Left, Piper VanDerzee, 5, hoists a flag during a skit by Mystic employees with lots of audience participation. Kids five and under are free and a special Children’s Museum allows children of all ages to pretend fish, sail, sleep in ship’s bunks and solve puzzles. Go to www.mysticseaport.org for Photos by Sue VanDerzee more.

The Connecticut Science Center in Hartford: Below left, Piper, was intrigued by the huge marble run. Bottom right, Jared admires the palm tree made entirely of plastic cutlery. Go to www.ctsciencecenter.org. The exhibits are endless, interactive and fascinating, including a Kids’ Space for the younger set and absolutely stunning views of Hartford and the Connecticut River for all. Annual memberships are about twice the price of a single ticket — and that’s a bargain!

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Town Times

Friday, July 16, 2010

Powder Ridge

Hi, big fella

(Continued from page 11)

lines and take fruit from the orchards, Judge Palmer interjected, “You don’t have to sell me on the idea that 50,000 people will create a threat to the orchards. I’m saying it could be a threat. I’m not making a finding. Fifty thousand people are a danger to anything.” This and many similar comments elicited applause and laughter from the complainants. Palmer issued an injunction to stop the Powder Ridge Rock Festival on Monday, July 27, but ticket-holders were already arriving. On Wednesday, property owner Zemel was determined to respect the injunction but had no idea what to do with the 4,000 people who had already descended upon Powder Ridge. An unnamed Middleton Arts promoter rallied the crowd to make the festival happen in spite of the judge’s ruling. “If you care about this, let’s make this festival go,” he said. On Thursday, Zemel asked the state police for help in removing the festival promoters from the property, and emergency services/medical personnel geared up for a mass event. Middlefield citizens were instructed to go to the Chestnut Hill School (now John Lyman Elementary) to obtain resident passes because a ban on out-of-town traffic was imminent.

First Selectman Meckley pled with citizens to be kind and understanding to the people who would be descending on the town in the next few days, explaining, “They are the victims of a greedy organization (Middleton Arts) who promoted the festival even after it had been banned.” Local residents received disturbing fliers in their mailboxes, purportedly from an organization called Yippie (Youth International Party), which promised that there would be violence if Middlefield tried to keep the concertgoers out. Another flier was distributed, purportedly from “The Free and Angry Tribes of Woodstock Nation,” that warned: “So we say to you people who are getting paid off to let this festival go on that you ought to be prepared for 100,000 all over this area. If the people of Middlefield overreact, don’t expect us not to.” State police were unable to determine who had distributed the threatening fliers, and concert supporters claimed that they were bogus attempts by Middlefield naysayers to scare people about the concert. Local authorities asked the citizenry to remain calm as the long weekend progressed. See next issue for the second installment on the “long weekend” itself.

This ig snapping turtle has been crawling around the Chestnut Hill area by John Lyman School. Please slow down if you see it.

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20 Witness to history

Cemetery

Steve Sutton and his partner at New England Sign Carvers posting the completed sign last month on the Old North Burial Grounds fence in Middlefield. The “common grave” area, where those on the sign are buried, is located at the back left corner of the cemetery.

(Continued from page 7)

Photos by Sue VanDerzee

District 13 Help wanted Part-time custodial positions available in District 13, mostly evening hours, occasional days. Download and complete general application from District 13 website: www.rsd13ct.org, under Employment section and mail to Robert Francis, supervisor of buildings and grounds, P.O. Box 190, Durham, CT 06422. Deadline for receipt is Aug. 6. EOE.

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kept going, but then I would never get done!” And so, armed with the 11 names (and details) that she had, Middlefield Historical Society members moved forward with plans to have the names posted on a sign outside the burial grounds. Steve Sutton of New England Sign Carvers – who designed and also makes the plaques placed on Middlefield’s historical residences – was contracted last May to make a similar sign. Funds from the town’s “cemetery fund” paid for it. The new sign was posted in June, and Lynette is delighted with the result. “These people had no headstones, because they had no one to represent them,” she explains, “no family to pay for that kind of thing. A lot more (people) are buried in the common grave,” she says, pointing out that the cemetery dates back to Revolutionary War days. And they are probably not all African

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Americans, Lynette stresses, since farmhands, transient workers and others also might not have had the benefit of family or fortune to buy an individual burial plot and erect a headstone. In case you can’t get there for a visit right away, the list on the sign reads: Blanford Freeman, age 75, died Dec. 1818. Phileman Freeman, age 70, died May 18, 1820. Peter Freeman, born in Africa, age 80 or 90, died Dec. 1820. David Freeman, lived many years in the Old Wetmore House, now Methodist parsonage, spent last days in Eli Coe’s house on Powder Hill Road, died 1826. Phyllis, widow of Peter, died Oct. 16, 1836, once a slave of Dr. Rawson, age 82. Old Pomp slave of John Birdsey, left in care of Abel Birdsey, he was blind and was last of the slaves in Middletown, died 1831. Asaph Carter, died June 12, 1823. Jesse Caple’s wife drowned Nov. 17, 1821, Middle Haddam. Jesse Caple’s daughter Emily died March 12, 1824. Jesse Caple’s child died May 1828. So what project is Lynette working on these days? It seems that a man from the Washington, DC area contacted her several years ago. Working on behalf of the government, he is tracking military personnel buried around the country. Always willing to help, Lynette has been compiling a list of Middlefield veterans buried in town. She has already uncovered more names than were originally known, and she’s looking forward to sharing the information with the DC official when he comes calling on the Middlefield Historical Society.

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Town Times Spotlight

Friday, July 16, 2010 Alan Ge, a junior from Durham, has been named to the honor roll for the spring term at the Loomis Chaffee School in Windsor. Pat Bandzes, Sandy Frederick and Debbie Sommers, of Middlefield, were three of the top four equestrian fundraisers for the “Freedom Ride,” one of the major annual events for Manes & Motion, a non-profit organization that uses equine-facilitated activities to improve the well-being of individuals with physical, cognitive and/or emotional disabilities. The ride was held on June 26 at Lords Creek Farm in Lyme. Katherine C. Clark, majoring in Communications/Public Relations, and Eric J. Murphy, majoring in Mathematics, have been named to the dean’s list for the spring semester at Marist College. Both students are from Middlefield and are members of the Class of 2013.

Matthew Zachowski; from Middlefield, Katharine Selberg, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Lars A. Selberg, and Kristine Yamartino, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Robert C. Yamartino Sr. Daniel Cowett, of Middlefield, majoring in Social Science at Southern New Hampshire University, has been named to the dean’s list by earning a GPA of 3.0 to 3.49. Michelle Zambrello, of Rockfall, daughter of Christine Magnano and Philip Zambrello Jr., was named to the dean’s list at Central Connecticut University with a GPA of 3.54. She is majoring in Elementary Education. Alexandra Muzik, from Durham, majoring in Information Technology, and Michael Bertrand, of Middlefield, majoring in Business Administration, have been named to the president’s list at Southern New Hampshire

Brenda Weise was named to the dean’s list for the spring 2010 semester at Central Connecticut State University

Melanie Poole, of Middlefield, a senior at Connecticut College is spending the summer interning for the Aspen Center for Environmental Studies in Aspen, Colorado. To be eligible for funding, students take part in a four-year program that helps them combine academic interests and career goals. The program includes career advice and workshops on resume writing, interview techniques and business communications. Students who complete the program are twice as likely to secure a job or admission to an advanced degree program

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The following local students were named to the spring term 2010 dean’s list at Choate Rosemary Hall in Wallingford: from Durham, Bailey Bennett, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Lyle Howard Bennett, Katharine and William Bronson, daughter and son of Mr. and Mrs. Nathaniel Richardson Bronson III, Maris and Hannah Nyhart, daughters of Mr. Nicholas M. Nyhart and Rev. Kathleen McTigue, Emily Sokol, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Jason E. Sokol, and Alexandra Zachowski, daughter of Mr. and Mrs.

On Saturday, June 26, Washin-ryu Karate-do Master Hidy Ochiai visited the Middletown dojo to test several students for advanced belts. Mike Moan, seventh degree black belt instructor-incharge at the dojo, is pleased to announce the following local promotions: Martin Malek and Adrian Tubis, both of Durham, were promoted to Shodan (first degree black belt) and Matthew Malek, of Durham was promoted to Sankyu (third degree Brown Belt)/

Town Times Welcomes New Citizen

Bethany Smith made the honor roll at Shoreline Christian School in Madison. Bethany is the daughter of Darren and Christa Smith of Middlefield.

1164069

Among the 58 Xavier High School students recognized in National Spanish examinations, three were Durham students earning Premio de Excelencia (honorable mention) from the 50th percentile through the 74th percentile: Taylor Bonin, Greg Brown and Tushar Vig.

Springfield College has named Daniel Sawicki, of Durham, to the dean’s list for academic excellence for the spring 2010 term. Sawicki is a Business Management major.

with a 3.7 GPA. She is a 2007 graduate of Coginchaug, and the daughter of Kathy Weise of Middletown and Larry Weise of Durham.

T o wn T ime s S e rvic e Di re cto ry

Amanda Judson, of Durham, graduated cum laude from Union College with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology. Jessica Robison, of Middlefield, has been named to the spring semester dean’s list at Hofstra University.

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Town Times

Meet Your Greens!

Celebrate the one-year anniversary of Meet Your Green! aboard the RiverQuest on July 20, from 6:15 to 8:30 p.m., boarding at Eagle Landing State Park in Haddam. Meet Your Greens! is Middlesex County’s monthly green drinks happy-hour network providing opportunities to make connections and exchange news about environmental issues in Middlesex County. Based on the popular Green Drinks in CT and nationwide, this informal gathering of people drawn from the community, nonprofit groups and the business world offers time to brainstorm ideas and plant seeds for collaboration. Meet Your Greens! is marking its first birthday this summer. Thanks to the generosity of Captain Mark Yuknat and crew, you are invited to party aboard the good ship RiverQuest for an early evening summer cruise on

the Connecticut River. Operated by Connecticut River Expeditions, the RiverQuest provides the general public access to the lower Connecticut River and educates passengers on the river’s ecology and beauty. This is BYOB — bring drinks and snacks for yourself and, if you can, a little extra to share. Meet Your Greens will supply cups, napkins, etc. They will leave at 6:30 p.m. sharp. Space is limited, and reservations are required by emailing Claire Rusowicz at crusowicz@rockfallfoundation.org. Reservations will be accepted up until noon on July 20. There is no physical address for Eagle Landing State Park; for GPS, use 22 Bridge Rd in Haddam, 06438. For info on RiverQuest, call 860-662-0577 or visit www.ctriverexpeditions.org/ riverquest.asp.

Friday, July 16, 2010

Calling all animal lovers-mascot needed Middlesex County Community Foundation announces the 2010-11 mascot contest for the ARF! Animals: Respect and Friendship fund. Dogs, cats, birds, fish, horses, even llamas and ferrets, any one of hundreds of companions could be the first mascot of the Middlesex County Community Foundation’s ARF! Animals: Respect and Friendship fund. In 2008, a Middlesex County family of animal lovers established ARF!, an endowed, community based fund dedicated to helping animals and their human friends in Middlesex County. This family believes people have a strong responsibility and obligation to preserve the basic dignity that comes with sharing the world with all living creatures. They also believe that pets, in particular, provide unqualified love, true companionship and, in some cases, essential services to the

disabled, elderly and those in need. The fund aids local nonprofit organizations that care for animals and funds such things as shelter and comfort; training animals and people for shared gifts of companionship; therapy and assistance; rescue, protection and adoption; prevention of cruelty; and services to the disabled. MCCF is searching for that special pet to focus attention on the efforts of a fund designed to support organizations doing great work in the area of animal welfare and care. “Animals play a vital role in our quality of life and well-being. There are so many stories just waiting to be told about the love and companionship our pets provide,” said Cynthia Clegg, president and CEO of Middlesex County Community Foundation. “An annual mascot for the ARF! fund will bring those stories to the forefront and emphasize how animals help us all.”

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The winner of the ARF! contest will be featured in Community Foundation newsletters, brochures, the annual report, the website and other informational venues. The mascot will also be featured in ARF! notes about educational events and programs, featured stories, animal-related tips, and other items throughout the year. A group of volunteer judges will review and vote on the submissions. The winner of the contest will be announced at a special event on Thursday, Aug. 26, at the Centerbrook Meeting House in Essex. Special guest William Berloni, a widely recognized expert in animal behavior, dedicated advocate of rescue work, and well-known animal trainer for stage and screen, will announce the winner of the contest and speak on the topic of animal welfare and companionship. Prizes will be given in other categories as well, including “Top Dog,” “Purrfect Feline,” “Largest Companion (Pet),” and “Oldest Friend.” Further details about contest requirements and submissions may be found at www.MiddlesexCountyCF.org, e-mail questions to Info@MiddlesexCountyCF.org, or calling 860347-0025. MCCF is accepting story submissions from Middlesex County residents through Wednesday, Aug. 4. Stories should be no longer than one page in length and may be accompanied by up to two photographs. Submissions can be e-mailed to Info@MiddlesexCountyCF.or g or mailed to Middlesex County Community Foundation, 211 South Main Street, Middletown, Connecticut 06457. All stories and photos submitted may be used by MCCF in newsletters, e-news updates, reports, website pages and other marketing and public relations venues. Middlesex County Community Foundation welcomes conversations with good people who want to do great things. For more information, call 860-347-0025 or e-mail info@MiddlesexCountyCF.org.

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Town Times

Friday, July 16, 2010

Please protect the Bobolinks at White’s Farm in Durham Bobolinks travel all the way from Argentina in South America (6,000 miles) to nest and raise their young in the fields of White’s Farm in Durham. The bobolink, a member of the blackbird family, is about the size of a robin. Males have a beautiful yellow feathers on their heads and white /black feathers on their backs. They sing glorious songs to attract their mates in the trees and other high points of the field in the parking area of the Durham Fair around the pump house.

The male bobolinks arrive first in April. The females arrive later. They nest in the grasses around the pump house, raise their young until they are ready to depart for Argentina in late July and early August. Many birders come to see them. The dog-walkers and plane-flyers enjoy their song, flights around the fields and co-exist in peace.

Beth Manley, Durham

Guest Column only one remaining pair (where there had been many). I have been photographing them, and the other wonderful critters down there, almost daily, for two years (see my photos attached- these are Durham bobolinks). I don’t know who to ask. Would it be possible not to mow the field down until the birds are ready to depart for Argentinean parts unknown? I understand it is a field with low quality hay (humanly speaking, though not birdly speaking- it’s full of seeds, slugs, caterpillars that I have seen in the mouths of the papa birds (see attached photo 3). The red-winged blackbirds or some think the tri-color blackbirds also nest in the fields, es-

pecially when the cattails are mowed down. But the young red winged blackbirds seem to be flying and able to adapt. Unless there is a very good reason why the field must be hayed in early July, could we consider the needs of these Durham Treasures? If we wait to mow it until August or better yet September, the birds will have a chance to grow and thrive before their 6,000 mile trip south, and the parking lot will still be ready for the Durham Fair. Themes of protecting our environment abound at the Durham Fair and are only words when we can easily protect habitats in our own environment by just delaying what we normally do at White’s Farm. If anyone is interested in learning more about what I’ve seen, I made a video about White’s Farm that I donated to the Durham Library for others to enjoy: Reflec-

tions: The Beauty that is White’s Farm. (Editor’s note: The Durham Conservation Commission is in charge of managing the White’s Farm property, and according to one of their co-chairs, would be hap-

py to consider any way that they could be helpful to the native wildlife, including Boblinks. The Conservation Commission meets the second Tuesday of most months at 7 p.m. in the Durham Library.)

IWWA

(Continued from page 16)

While the commission was also scheduled to meet with Kurt Bober to discuss various FEMA-related stream projects and fire pond dredging, Bober was unable to attend. These projects involve the cutting of vegetation from the ponds and streams, but the commission was unsure whether their approval was required for the work. They agreed to table the item until their next meeting, or to call a special meeting if required. (In attendance/Chuck Corley)

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Levi Coe Library

Hours: The library is open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays. Visit www.leviecoe.com or call the library at 860-349-3857 for information or to register for any program. You can also renew, reserve and check your library record on the website. Butterfly Release: On Tuesday, July 20, at 10:30 a.m. Miss Vicki will read butterfly stories to start the program. Then they will release the Monarch butterflies, which they had raised from eggs, into the butterfly garden. Registration is required. Go Green with Girl Scouts Storytime: On Tuesday, July 20, at 2 p.m. a member of the Girl Scouts of Connecticut will read a nature story and then lead the children in a related craft. Kindergartners through second graders will enjoy this program. Registration is required.

Friday, July 16, 2010

Coginchaug High School fourth quarter honor roll Seniors earning high honors were Shelby Artkop, Randy Bertrand, Shaina Bradley, Sarah Bugai, Kathryn Carria, Danielle Charette, Ryan Ciarlo, Olivia Cocchiola, Makayla Davis, Jeffrey Ducki, Emily Field, Katharine Francis, Samuel Frey, Andrew Gucwa, Kyle Hassmann, Erica Jones, Eric Kelly, Hannah Kowalski, Elizabeth Meiman, Jonathan Monroe, Jeremy Newell, Robert Ober, Joseph Oblon, Sierra Querns, Kate Riotte, Caitlin Rogers, Edward Ruddy, Ryan Russell, Breanna Rzeczka, Michael Sheldon, Emily Shoemaker, Gregory Smith, Kathryn Smith, Chelsea Tuttle and Sarah Woolley. Seniors earning honors were James Asplund, Amanda Bedding, Nicole Demoranville, Rachel DiSilvestro, Heidi Emack, Mark Flan-

nery, Sarah Kirsch, Taylor Lauretti, Laura Lyman, Anthony Matalote, Indiana McCormick, Andrew Porter, Laura Reimer, Marie Roberts, Michael Sbona, Benjamin Shoudy, Katie Smith, Lauren Stafford, Stevie Thompson and Paige Trusty.

Spence. Juniors earning honors were Kyle Backus, Kaitlynn Chabot, Jessamin Cipollina, Gretchen Donovan, Carleen Doyle, Hannah Elliott, Zachary Faiella, Timothy Heller, Silas Jungels, Elbridge Luther, Larissa Mozzicato, Lauren Mozzicato, Tyler Sibley, Jocelyn St. Pierre, Gina Stratmann, Nicole Timbro and David Wheeler.

Juniors earning high honors were Darryl Abbott, Alec Bandzes, David Bedding, Jennifer Benson, Kelsey Bogen, Amanda Boyle, Josef Danczuk, Taylor DelVecchio, Kelly Dorsey, Kelli Dupre, Zhining Fang, Maura Fehon, Hannah Fowler, Jamie Garuti, Julia Gossner, Roe Granger, Benjamin Hamilton, Erin Holden, Nicole Jubelirer, Aubree Keurajian, Amritpal Khalsa, Jessie Maniscalco, Lora Manley, Jean Ochterski, Michelle Palma, Tresa Roberts, Jennifer Roth, Thomas Ryan, Brooke Sheridan, Amy Solomon and Emily

Sophomores earning high honors were Melissa Conway, Tyler Davis, Elizabeth DiVincentis, Ethan Donecker, Sarah Ertle, Kevin Gawron, Marielle Handley, Meagan Hettrick, Devin Kokoszka, Alexander Kovacs, Zachary LaVigne, Benjamin Plant, Colin Plant, Marissa Puchalski, Emily Romanoff, Jesse Siegel, Jacob Teitelbaum, Alyssa Tiedemann, Adam Twombly, Erikson Wasyl and Rebecca Weir.

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Sophomores earning honors were Megan Andrulis, Stacey Backstrom, Emily Carria, Nicole DeBaise, Shawn Donovan, Melissa Gerardi, Alec Giacco, Emily Halligan, Derek Heer, Katelyn Hill, Brock Hoyt, Mark Kelly, Abigail Kotlarz, Brittany Lowry, James Malcolm, William Malcolm, Monika Malek, Samantha Mancinelli, Maria Manna, Alexis Martowski, Shelby Matus, Andrew Paxton, Tanner Pedersen, Ashley Pen, Justine Plourde, Amanda Presutti, Spencer Root, Brandon Russ, Ryan Salke, Laura Scianna, Carley St.Amand, Steven Tyc and Rachel Viccaro. Freshmen earning high honors were Connor Bates, Jacquelyn Benson, Michelle Berry, Skyla Bradley, Kristen Ciarlo, Justin Etheridge, Annalee Forline, Melissa Handy, Nicole Ianniello, Anne Linden, Colleen McLaughlin, William Neri, Victoria Orozco, Jessica Solomon, Natalie Swanson, Lauren Trombetta, Ashley Vanaman, Carli Wallace, Jessica Williams and Greta Wilt. Freshmen earning honors were Katie Bednarz, Connor Brennan, Dina Canalia, Sean Cavanaugh, Caitlynn Chabot, Dominique Coppola, Kelly Donovan, Kyle Dupre, Molly Fehon, Mallory Figoras, Christine French, Donald Guenther, Alan Haberern, Eva Hanks, Sean Harper, Rachel Kowalski, Jonathan Levine, Emory Manguilli, Floriana Manna, Patrick McDermott, Kyle Monroe, Logan Porter, Kaylee Powers, Evan Rand, Sofia Robinson, Sean Rogers, Matthew Schock, Katherine Scibilia, Leah Slawinowski, Natalie Spence, Christopher Sullivan, Benjamin Szymanski, Steven Thody, Conner Thrall, Kayla Votto and Mary Yale.

1165531

Thomas Edison honor roll

1160519

The following students, from Durham, have all made the honor roll for trimester three at the Thomas Edison Middle School. Philip Anderson, Bailey Basiel, Flannery Keenan, Cassidy White-Ryan and Hamzah Yaghi.

Town Times

Friday, July 16, 2010

State stops disability payments, says BMXer not disabled By Jason R. Vallee Special to Town Times

far back as 2004. The state is seeking to recoup payments made after that time. The exams indicated that she had no issues with her shoulder, and a further exam for a left tennis elbow in July 2008 also indicated “she had full motion in her right shoulder,” according to the board’s decision. Although Layman said she would appeal, no documentation had been presented as of Monday appealing the decision, said Steven Jensen, comptroller’s office spokesman. Jensen said her benefits had already been cut and would not be restored unless she wins the appeal. When asked about the appeals process, he referenced a letter sent to Layman that requires she submit the appeal with proper medical documentation showing that her injury had not completely healed. “This finding was the

result of a long and thorough investigation during which Mrs. Layman was given ample opportunity to respond to our evidence,” Comptroller Nancy Wyman said Monday in a written statement. “I am pleased to say that in this case the system worked to the benefit of Connecticut’s taxpayers.” Staff with the office declined to comment on whether the decision would lead to a criminal investigation. State police said they had no pending investi- Gina Layman gation into the matter as of Monday.

Photo by Dave Zajac

We’re on the Web: www.towntimes.com

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A prominent BMX rider, from Middlefield, could lose her disability benefits and have to repay the state more than $100,000 following a decision by the state Medical Examination Board for Disability Retirement. In the decision, released through the Office of the State Comptroller Monday, the board denied continuation of a $2,391 monthly disability pension to Gina Layman, 39, a former correction officer from Middlefield, after an investigation determined she showed no signs of disability in medical examinations in April 2004 and April 2007. “The board reverses the finding of continued permanent disability previously granted in 2002 and finds that Ms. Layman was no longer permanently disabled for the essential duties of her position,” the decision reads. Layman, the director of the Falcon BMX track in Meriden and recent competitor in the BMX World Championships in Australia, said she would appeal the decision. In a phone conversation Monday, Layman said she suffered “a legitimate injury while working for the state in 1996.” She said the ruling made her feel as if she was being penalized for attempting to recover as much as she could and moving on in life as she was instructed to do by the board in 2000. “I’ve done nothing wrong. When the injury happened they told me to live life the best I could and that’s exactly what I’ve done,” Layman said. “I’m not a fraud. I did not cheat the state.” She declined further comment. Friends and family members reached Monday also declined comment. Documents released by the comptroller’s office said Layman became the target of an investigation by the board last year after publication of an article in the Record-Journal about her BMX success. The article was sent to the comptroller and a message was left anonymously by phone indicating that she

was receiving benefits - a total of $28,692 a year, according to state records - for a 30 percent permanent disability suffered in her right shoulder in 1996, according to the office. State documents said Layman was injured while trying to restrain an inmate during a fight at the prison on Whalley Avenue in New Haven while working for the Department of Correction. She had started with the department in 1994 and was granted the disability following a hearing in 2000. But after learning from the May 1, 2009, article that she was involved in activities which included serious training such as “sprints, weightlifting and sweat sessions with her martial arts master,” the board looked into the matter and discovered she had passed medical exams to become a volunteer firefighter in Middlefield as

Town Times Sports

Swim program at Camp Farnam open to all

Time Out Taverne softball team suffers worst loss of season By Bob Dynia Special to the Town Times The Time Out Taverne 40 and Over men’s softball team ran into a buzz saw on Monday, July 12, getting mercied by defending league champion Mad Murphy’s 27–1. The gray wonders stayed in the game for one inning. After spotting the visitors four runs in the first, a twoout single by Kevin Rowe scored Wills Evers. The visitors proceeded to put on a

hitting clinic the rest of the way against TOT hurlers Bob Edwards and George Miller. With this being a family newspaper, further coverage of events would be unfitting. The Coginchaug elders managed only 10 hits over seven innings, with Daryl Edwards, Tom King and Scott Vertucci collecting two singles apiece. TOT travels to Nolan Field in Portland on Sunday, July 18, for an 11 a.m.

Friday, July 16, 2010

contest against last year’s league runner-up Café 66. The team returns home on Monday to complete the first half of the season, facing United Concrete. Home games are played at Vinal Technical High School; park at the lot at Mercy High School on Randolph Road and come across the street to the field. The team invites family and friends to come out and support the team and their favorites.

Fun Run Three Durham Fun Runs are held every Tuesday evening at 6:30 p.m. at the high school for adults and high school students. The following participated in the third one, held on Tuesday, July 13. Larry Hodge came in first at 23:33, followed by Lauren Hodge at 24:35, Melissa Reynolds at 25:05, Mike Marino at 25:13, Guy Pulino at 26:52 and Bill Varhue not timed.

Chris Ely has run swim programs for over 30 years, and now she brings her wealth of experience to Camp Farnam in Durham. From July 19 to Sept. 3, there will be a number of programs offered at Camp Farnam’s newly renovated pool. Camp Farnam is located off Maiden Lane in Durham just after the intersection of Bear Rock Road and just before Herzog’s Farm and the intersection of Johnson Lane. Turn right between the split rail fences and the camp is approximately a half-mile up the road. Early morning adult lap swim: Monday-Friday, from 6:30 to 8:30 a.m. $60 per person. Family swim: Monday, Wednesday and Friday, from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. $60 per family. Competitive swim clinic: For swimmers new to competitive swimming, every Mon-

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Mercy Clinics Girls’ Basketball Clinic at Mercy High Mercy High School’s varsity basketball coach will conduct a girls’ basketball clinic at the school in Middletown the week of July 2630. All girls in grades 6-9 (as of Sept. 2010) are invited to participate. The clinic begins each day at 9 a.m. and ends at noon. The cost is $135 per player and all participants will receive a new basketball. Girls’ Field Hockey Clinic at Mercy High Mercy High School’s varsity field hockey coach will conduct a girls’ field hockey clinic at the school in Middletown the week of Aug. 2-6. All girls in grades 6-9 (as of Sept. 2010) are invited to participate. The clinic begins each day at 9 a.m. and ends at noon. The cost is $135 per player. To register call the Mercy Development Office at 860347-8957 or visit www.mercyhigh.com for information.

Golf tournament

CT LIC. #184029

day from 6:30 to 7 p.m. for seven weeks. $55 per child ages 8 to 14. Beginners diving clinic: Fridays, Aug. 6 or 20, from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. at $20 per child. Registration and payment must be done in person at Camp Farnam on any program date or on Saturday, July 17, from 8 to 10 a.m. Payment by check only.

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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 860-704-4243 or e m a i l Robert.Rougeot@ct.gov or Liz Tringali 860-3437404 or email etringali@libertybank.com.

Town Times Obituaries

Friday, July 16, 2010

Sophie A. Burban

June Betts Lyman June Betts Lyman, 96, formerly of Middlefield, passed away peacefully in her sleep June 1, 2010 at her home in Littleton, N.H. There will be a celebration of her life in Middlefield at the Lyman Farm Homestead

on Monday, July 26, from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., following a graveside service at the Middlefield Cemetery at 10:30 a.m. Friends and family are invited to attend either or both of the gatherings. She married Henry H. Lyman Jr. of Middlefield on Sept. 24, 1941. She is survived by her daughter, Sally Lyman Cook of Barnet, Vt.; grandchildren, Robin Bradley of Cary, N.C., and Roger Blease of Bangor, Pa.; and four great-grandchildren. She was predeceased by her husband in 2002 and daughter, Barbara, in 1977.

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Tag Sale On Saturday July 17, at 20 Burt Drive, Middlefield from 8 a.m. to noon. Directions to house: From Route 66 to Route 147 to Way Road to Chestnut Hill Road to Burt Drive. Follow until you see 20 Burt, it’s the fourth house on the left side of the road.

Philanthropy, 28 Crescent St., Middletown, CT 06457. To share memories or express condolences online please visit www.biegafuneralhome.com.

T o wn T ime s S e rvic e Di re cto ry

Nanny Wanted I am looking for a parttime nanny for three yearold twins wonderful, fun loving (boy and girl) in Durham, (two days a week/20 hours a week), preferably on Tuesday and Thursday. Call Penni at 203-915-8550.

deceased by her sister, Genevieve Anyzeski King. She was also predeceased by her long-time friend and companion, John Hanisch of North Branford. A funeral liturgy will be held Friday, July 23, at 10 a.m. at St. Stanislaus Church in New Haven, and Sophie will be laid to rest beside her husband, John Burban, in All Saints Cemetery in North Haven. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made, in Sophie’s memory, to the Middlesex Hospital Weiss Hospice Unit, c/o Dept. of

1161103

Sophie (Anyzeski) Burban, 90, of Burban Dr., Branford, wife of the late John F. Burban, died peacefully in her sleep early Thursday morning, July 8, 2010 at Middlesex Hospital Hospice Unit, Middletown, with her family by her side. She was born April 22, 1920, in New Haven, daughter of the late Joseph Anyzeski and Marianne (Poplawski) Anyzeski. Sophie is survived by her devoted family: a son, Frederick Burban and his wife, the late Veronica Burban of North Branford, and three daughters: Geraldine Gormley and her husband Timothy Gormley of Bow, New Hampshire, Marcia Jean Youngquist and her husband Marc of Middlefield, and Sharon Swisher and her husband Rick of Fairbanks, Alaska. Sophie also had four loving grandchildren: Christine DeChello and her husband Patrick of Middlefield, Carla Standish and her husband David of Guilford (daughters of her son, Frederick), and Dr. Timothy Gormley and his wife Miriam of Richland, Washington, and F. Joseph Gormley, Esq. and his wife Erin of Crownsville, Maryland (sons of her daughter, Geraldine Gormley). Sophie also left behind ten greatgrandchildren: Justin Stan-

dish, Scott Standish, Emily Standish, Drea Standish, Timothy Gormley, Gillian Gormley, Gretchen Gormley, John Gormley, Mathew Gormley and Benjamin Gormley. Sophie was one of ten children, and is survived by her brother, Zigmund Anyzeski of Branford, and her sister, Helen Anyzeski Gerard of Cheshire. She was predeceased by her twin brother, Stanley Anyzeski and brothers John, Vincent, Henry, Edward and Michael Anyzeski. She was also pre-

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Town Times at Durham Rec

Friday, July 16, 2010

From top left, announcing for the Talent Show; above center, hanging out on the swings; right, practicing pyramids; and left, an informal parade heads towards more fun at the Durham Rec summer program. Photos by Tori Piscatelli

AMATO’S Annual Summer Sale Thursday, July 15 thru Saturday, July 31

2 WEEKS ONLY !

Special savings on your favorite Toys and Hobbies ! ! !

20% Off

Thomas The Tank

Reg. Prices

Entire Train Dept. 10 - 50% Off (Reg. Prices)

Books, Crafts, Games

Bandz

Huge Selection New Styles Weekly!

Selected Styles

Buy 2 Get 1 Free!

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70th Anniversary Train Exhibit with 7 Operating train layouts

Visit AmatosToyandHobby.com for Exhibit Hours

Race Sets & Accessories all Reduced!

New Selection of Cars & Sets

All R/C at Special Prices ! 20% Off All R/C Parts

MODEL KITS

Rockets, Wooden Ships, Wooden Planes, Plastic Models all

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* Bring in this Card and $ave an extra $500 off your total purchase of $6000 or more.

SALE HOURS

Buy now for the Holidays! 1166410

No Layaways. Prior sales excluded. Discounts off regular list prices. No Rain Checks.

Toy and Hobby Stores

395 Main Street, Middletown, CT 06457 (860) 347-1893 283 Main Street, New Britain, CT 06051 (860) 229-9069

Mon., Tues. & Wed. 10 - 6, Thurs & Fri. 10 - 8*, Sat. 9:30 - 5, Middletown Sun. 7/25 12 - 5 * New Britain Thurs & Fri. 10-6