8-5-2011TownTimes by Town Times Newspaper

Volume 18, Issue 17

Serving Durham, Middlefield and Rockfall

District 13 students excel on 2011 CMTs By Mark Dionne Special to the Town Times The results of the Connecticut Mastery Tests (CMTs), released in July and available online, show that Regional School District 13 (RSD13) continued to perform well compared to the Connecticut average. The CMTs score students in grades 3 through 8 in categories of math, reading and writing. Science is included as a subject category in grades 5 and 8. Student scores in each category are reported in levels as Advanced, Goal, Proficient, Basic and Below Basic. One of the methods used to compare schools and districts is the Goal range. As the Connecticut Board of Education explains, “The Goal range includes the Advanced and Goal levels. Scoring in the Goal range is a challenging, yet reasonable, expectation for Connecticut students.” Examining different grades and categories using the Goal range reveals D13 students outperforming the state average. For example, 85.4 percent of grade 8 D13 students reached the Goal range in math, compared to

66.8 percent of state students. In reading, 86.5 percent of grade 6 D13 students hit the Goal range, over 10 percentage points higher than the state average. The district students also tested well in the science category. Over 76 percent of grade 5 D13 students reached the Goal range, 16 percentage points higher than the state average. In grade 8, 84 percent reached the Goal range, over 20 percentage points higher than the state average. In a phone interview, Superintendent Sue Viccaro said, “I’m never satisfied with where we are until 100 percent are where they should be.” Viccaro noted that only school-wide, not individual, results have been released. “We can’t do an in-depth reaction until we get individual results.” The gap between D13 students and the state consistently grew larger in the older grades. A six-point difference in writing for grade 3 became a 22 point gap for grade 8. These patterns could be read as the benefits of a consistently high-quality education in Durham and Middlefield.

“As our kids move toward [grades] 6, 7 and 8, the scores go up,” Viccaro said. Typically in D13, the older grades score around 85 percent in the Goal range. Those scores, Viccaro adds, are “not as high as I would like them to be at the younger grades.” Viccaro also cites the reading subject category as an area of interest, noting a long-standing concern with reading consultants at the elementary level and remedial reading help at the high school level. Acting commissioner for Connecticut’s Department of Education George Coleman noted positive results at the state level, saying in a press release, “It is encouraging to see that our public schools are making progress by increasing the numbers of students who are moving into the Proficient level of performance and from the Proficient level into the Goal level.” Connecticut’s Department of Education presents the results from 2006 to the present in one database. In 2006 the CMT requirement was expanded to include all stuSee CMT, page 16

DMIAAB announces composter project DMIAAB currently has funding for 25 of each Garden Gourmet and Green Cone style composters. Sales of the first units will contribute to the purchase of more, depending on demand.

In this issue ... Calendar............................4 Durham Briefs................15 Middlefield Briefs...........14 Obituary..........................20 Sports..........................20-24

By offering a deep discount to the residents of DurhamMiddlefield, it is hoped that DMIAAB can establish a broad-based program that will ultimately improve our soil, reduce the amount of municipal solid waste, and reduce the costs at our shared transfer station, which will save tax dollars. If the program expands, we would like to make forms available for pre-sales, and a pick-up site in Middlefield will be established.

First come, first served — must be picked up, must show proof of residency. Sunday, Aug. 7, at 11 a.m. at the Durham Volunteer Ambulance Corps building at 205 Main St. The Garden Gourmet, at $27.50, is a traditional above ground bin composter; the Green Cone, at $47.50, is a digester that processes meat, fish, bones, cooked vegetables, dairy, etc. in a chamber below ground level. Make checks payable to DMIAAB.

Friday, August 5, 2011

I spy a lone sunflower...

...and a hot air balloon The sunflower maze at Lyman Orchards, in the shape of a butterfly, opened on July 30, with 1,000 people enjoying its three acres. One dollar from every ticket goes to the CT Children’s Medical Center. The maze, now in its fifth year, will be open until August 28. A tethered hot air balloon gave a bird’seye view of the panorama to about 100 people on July 31 from 9 until 11 a.m. All proceeds from this went to the CT Children’s Medical Center. See more sunflower pictures on page 16. Photos by Diana Carr

Town Times Community Briefs

Tell RSD13 Adult Education what you want Our local Adult Education program has been in operation for over 20 years, and we would like to update our classes with some new ideas and new instructors! We need your feedback to make sure the program is meeting the needs of our residents. 1) What classes would you like to see offered in the fall, winter and spring programs? 2) Do you have a night or two you prefer for a class? 3) Would you like to teach a class and what topic? You do not have to be a resident. Please email your responses to Susan Carroll Nardine at scarroll2@sbcglobal.net, mail to Susan Carroll Nardine, 53 Maryland Drive, Middlefield, CT or call 860-349-2232.

Lake Beseck beach luau Grab some friends, your leis, kick up your heels and

get ready to eat, sing, dance and limbo at the Lake Beseck Beach Summer Luau on Sunday, Aug. 21, from noon to 5 p.m.! The event is sponsored by Middlefield Parks & Recreation and is catered by Cyr BBQ. There will be live music, beach games and more, and the menu will include Pig RoastCyr BBQ style, slow-smoked to perfection and served with apple cider BBQ sauce. There will also be roast beef, pulled pork, BBQ baked beans and corn on the cob. There are only 100 tickets available (adults-$18; children 12 and under-$9). Contact Amy Poturnicki at RAHR25@comcast.net or Chris Hurlbert at MiddlefieldPR@aol.com for tickets.

Memorial orientation Kevin J. Brough, principal of Memorial Middle School, announced that orientation will take place Friday, Aug. 19, at 1 p.m. in the Memorial School media center. The program will welcome incoming fifth and sixth grade students who are new to Regional School District 13 and will provide in-

formation relating to Memorial policies and procedures, as well as giving new students an opportunity to get to know the school. The program will last approximately one hour. Parents are urged to attend, and refreshments will be served.

Swimming pool safety In the state of Connecticut, pools that are designed to hold 24 inches of water or more are required to have a permit and applicable barriers and safe guards. Many of the pools you can buy today for $179 require the additional expense of barriers and safeguards that may easily triple the original cost of the pool. The pool that you have been using for months or years may never have been signed off by your local building department. It may have electrical deficiencies and improper guards. Please call and get a final inspection for it and minimize your exposure. Do not assume that since your backyard is already fenced in, that it is in fact a suitable barrier for a swim-

Index of Advertisers To advertise in the Town Times call Joy Boone at 860-349-8026. Raintree Landscaping ...............21 Executive Offices.......................19 Addy & Sons.......................... 16 Fugge, David, M........................16 Adworks.......................................7 Raney, Jason, DMD..................12 Glazer Dental Associates..........15 Allan’s Tree Service ..................16 Realty Associates......................23 Grant Groundscapes.................19 APEC Electric............................16 Redwood Country Flea Market .10 Griswold Plumbing Services .....19 Assisted Living of Meriden ........12 Remodeling Durham Style........17 Home Works..............................18 Berardino Company Realtors....23 Hunters Pool and Spas .............14 Berlin Bicycle Shop .....................6 RLI Electric ................................20 Huscher, Debbie .......................23 Binge, Bruce..............................18 Roblee Plumbing.......................20 Ianniello Plumbing.....................21 Black Dog ..................................11 Rockfall Co ................................21 Jay Landscaping .......................20 Boylin, William, MD .....................5 Rockwell Excavation & Paving..17 JC Farm & Greenhouse ..............3 Brockett Paving & Construction 20 Joel’s Detailing ..........................11 Cahill & Sons.............................21 Roman Oil Co............................19 Lema, William J., DMD................6 Carlton Interiors...........................3 RSDL Home Improvements......18 Lyman Orchards..........................7 Carmine’s Restaurant .................3 Silver Mill Tours.........................22 Middlefield Remodeling.............21 Celltell Communications............14 Singles Alternatives...................15 Middlesex Community College...3, 5 Centurion Exterminating............17 Middlesex Dance Center...........15 Classic Nails..............................16 Snow Services.............................5 Middlesex Health Care Center..14 Conroy, John, DMD...................13 T-N-T Home & Lawncare..........18 Movado Farm ............................17 Country Landscaping ................21 Therapeutic Massage................17 Neil Jones Home Improvements..17 CV Enterprises ..........................20 Tile Renovators .........................20 New England Dental Health......24 Dean Autoworks........................11 Orthodontic Specialist ...............10 Drummonds Cleaning ...............18 Torrison Stone & Garden ..........19 Palmieri Construction ................14 Durham Dental ............................7 Uncle Bob’s Flower & Garden.....7 Peaceful Healing .......................11 Durham Family Eyecare .............5 VMB Custom Builders...............21 Pet Sitting by Samantha ...........16 Durham Market............................7 Wesleyan University..................13 Pizza King .................................15 Durham Naturopathic Health ....13 Prete Chiropractic Center............5 Erba Landscaping .....................19 Whitehouse Construction..........21

ming pool. Summer is a great time to play outdoors and in the water, so make your backyard as safe as you can for your family and friends. You should direct your questions to your local building department. Pool regulations are the same for all towns in Connecticut. By Richard McManus, Durham Building Department building inspector

Composting 101 at the Durham Farmers’ Market If you are a beginning gardener, or even one who is more experienced, composting is something you definitely want to get in on. Composting involves mixing yard and household organic waste in a pile or bin and providing conditions that encourage decomposition. The decomposition process is fueled by millions of microscopic organisms (bacteria, fungi) that take up residence inside your compost pile, continuously devouring and recycling it to produce a rich organic fertilizer and valuable soil amendment. This can be done on a small or large scale, indoors or outdoors. Composting is smart for a variety of reasons. It provides many benefits: To your yard: Compost is rich in organic matter. Adding it to your soil helps it

Submission reminder The Town Times welcomes submissions regarding upcoming events happening in the community (e-mail us at news@towntimes.com by Mondays at noon). We do our best to run submissions at least one time. However, due to space constraints, we cannot guarantee a submission will be published on a specific date. To ensure your submission runs exactly as you would like it to, contact our sales representative Joy Boone at 860-3498026, or e-mail advertising@towntimes.com for a paid-for ad. Thank you.

Friday, August 5, 2011 retain water, reducing the need to irrigate. A healthier soil makes healthier plants, which require little or no fertilizer and pesticide. To your wallet: A typical household of four could make about 500 pounds of compost each year from its food and yard waste. Purchasing the same amount of compost or potting soil from a garden supplier would cost about $40. To the earth: Of the 31 million tons of food waste Americans send to landfills each year, only three percent is recycled. More composting would reduce the amount of fuel it takes local governments to deal with this mountain of waste. Well-managed home compost also avoids the release of methane, a global warming gas emitted by organic matter decaying in the absence of oxygen in landfills. And composting improves soil quality, reducing needs for water, fertilizer and pesticides. On Thursday, Aug. 11, from 3 to 6 p.m. the Durham Farmers’ Market will host special guests from the Durham Garden Club. They will have general gardening information on hand, as well as literature on the digesters and composter program that the Garden Club and DMIAAB (Durham/Middlefield committee) are starting. Bring the kids by the Durham Farmers’ Market tent, where they can see, touch and learn about the composting worms that live at Memorial School. And, of course, you can shop for locally grown produce and locally proudced baked goods, cheese, etc. For more info, go to www.durhamfarmersmarket.org. See you on the green! (Press release submitted by Tina Hurlbert)

Corrections We strive to bring you the most accurate information available each week, but if you see something in Town Times that isn’t quite right, give us a call at 860-349-8000, and we’ll do our best to make things right.

Town Times goes back to the basics

Friday, August 5, 2011

Summertime: a fine time to recycle and repurpose By Cheri Kelley Town Times

smaller increments; the only issue is storing the larger amount once it is in your home. The solution: repurposed one-gallon-sized pickle jars. It’s so simple. Once you have gotten your fill of crunchy dills, clean out the glass jar thoroughly and let it dry. Paint the non-foodtouching side of the lid to match your décor, and there you go — an easy but beautiful way to showcase and store food. For those who are fans of

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quire an easily cleanable open space and ventilation because they can be done outdoors. See what you can do to repurpose and reuse this season.

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These ideas are only a few among the vast possibilities for repurposing items throughout our homes. Summertime is a great time to do some of the projects that re-

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scrapbooking, this an idea that is both sentimental and a great way to reuse cards throughout the seasons. When creating a scrapbook dedicated to the first year of life for a new baby, the embellishments and stickers can be very expensive. A way to cut down on costs and paper waste is to save all the wonderful cards that new parents receive upon the arrival of their little one. The text and graphics on the cards as well as the handwritten messages can be cut out and layered on colored paper to give scrapbooking pages that added pop and personal touch.

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Every week, we bring new things into our homes in the form of groceries, clothing and home goods; in turn, much goes out to be disposed of. There is a choice that can be made in our everyday living to make a conscious decision to create less waste. Much can be learned from the wise women who lived during the Great Depression, many of whom had no choice but to make do and be creative with what they had. During the Depression, it wasn’t unusual for women to have sewing and knitting skills; not many young people today have sewing machines available to them or a knitting teacher to give them the basic knowledge. A couple of hours in front of a sewing machine can be enough to build a foundation, which could morph, in time, to brilliant designs that would cost a pretty penny at a trendy boutique. With that creativity in mind, a beginner could repurpose textiles that they already have in their homes. Instead of throwing out an adult-sized shirt that may no longer be in usable condition for parents to wear, child-sized clothing can be made from the unblemished part of the garment. A men’s dress shirt could easily be transformed into a child’s skirt or pants. The buttons and zippers on the old attire can be reused for new sewing projects. To go even further, when the child has either outgrown or adorned their repurposed clothing with never-to-come-out grape juice and grass stains, one could take that same clothing, rework it and make it into doll clothes. Three separate functions from one purchase is a great way to use less. Another way to get more use out of well-worn kids clothing is to use one of those washing machine permanent color dyes to camouflage stains. A tie dye project is also a way for kids to get in on the reusing-repurposing action. Here is an idea for both reducing the amount of packaging on groceries that come into the home and for creat-

ing a storage space for those groceries from repurposed items. The first step is to purchase staple foods like rice, flour and oats in bulk. There are companies online that sell bulk foodstuff at wholesale prices. The packaging on bulk orders is typically much less than when purchased in

For more information call the college at 860-343-5800 or visit us online: www.mxcc.commnet.edu *10 lucky winners will receive a $50 gift card to the MxCC Bookstore. Attend a July “REGISTER IN-PERSON” event to enter.

Town Times & Places

4 FRIDAY

August 5 Baked Bean Supper Take a break from the hot kitchen and enjoy an oldfashioned, home-cooked meal without the cooking. Come to the baked bean supper held at the United Churches at 6 p.m. in the airconditioned Fellowship Hall, located at 228R Main St. in Durham. All are welcome; call 860-349-3683 for prices and more info. 4-H Fair at Durham Fairgrounds The Middlesex and New Haven County 4-H Fair is back! Come join Connecticut’s 4-Hers on Aug. 5, 6 and 7 at the Durham Fairgrounds. The fair offers a wide variety of farm animals, tractor pulls, enjoyable countrystyle entertainment and an array of delicious fair foods. New this year is the first ever Just Jam Music Festival. Stop by Saturday afternoon to watch this awesome event. Local bands are invited to participate; all types of music are welcome. The fair is open Friday 5 to 10 p.m., Saturday 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Sunday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, visit facebook.com/MiddlesexandNewHaven4HFair.

SATURDAY

August 6 Television Mass Father John Gatzak, director of the Office of Radio & Television of the Archdiocese of Hartford, and staff will be on location at St. Colman’s Church in Middlefield at the 4 p.m. Mass today. Father James Sucholet will be celebrant and homilist of this special Mass with Father John as Concelebrant. This special Mass will be taped today and aired tomorrow morning, Aug. 7, at 10 a.m. on Comcast channel 11 (WTXX).We ask members of both St. Colman’s and Notre Dame to attend. The ORTV staff asks that you please sit in the front and middle sections so as not to interfere with the camera staff. Dudley Farmers’ Market The Farmers’ Market at the Dudley Farm, corner of

routes 77 and 80 in North Guilford, is held every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. through Oct. 29. Local and organic produce, herbs, eggs, flowers, baked goods, honey, maple syrup, soaps, jewelry, knitted things, gift items and more homemade and homegrown items are sold. Chicken Barbeque Come to St. James Episcopal Church, located on the corner of Route 81 and Little City Road in Higganum, for their annual chicken barbecue from 5 to 7 p.m. The dinner will include chicken, corn on the cob, salads and homemade desserts. Take out dinners are available. For more info and pricing, please contact Wayne LePard at 860-345-4172. Tag Sale & Flea Market Notre Dame Church on Main Street in Durham will have their monthly tag sale and flea market, rain or shine, in their church hall, church garage, parking lot and lawn today from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. A jewelry table and 30 tag sale tables with thousands of items are set up in the air-conditioned church hall. Breakfast and lunch are available for purchase. A recycling box for cell phones will be available as a service project by Mercy High School students Sara and Danielle Richardson and Ashley Scotto. Vendor space is available by calling Bob at 860-349-0356. The next dates are Sept. 3 and Oct. 1.

SUNDAY

August 7 Composters for Sale DMIAAB currently has funding for 25 of each Garden Gourmet and Green Cone style composters. Sales of the first units will contribute to the purchase of more depending on demand. First come, first serve — must be picked up, must show proof of residency. Sunday, Aug. 7, at 11 am at the Durham Volunteer Ambulance Corps building at 205 Main St. Make checks payable to DMIAAB. CT Ballet in Middletown Middlesex Community College welcomes the CT Ballet to its campus for the first time this summer for a free outdoor caravan per-

formance of classic, dramatic and cutting-edge ballets. The special program, which is part of the CT Ballet’s 30th anniversary celebration, will begin at 5 p.m. today at 100 Training Hill Rd. in Middletown. The rain location is in Chapman Hall on campus. In addition to a picnic, guests are invited to bring blankets and lawn chairs to enjoy this free event. There will be a CT Ballet souvenir tent, and food and beverages will be for sale throughout the performance. Parking on campus is free.

MONDAY

August 8 Durham Senior Lunches Every Monday and Wednesday, hot lunches are available for seniors over 60 and their spouses at the Durham Activity Center located at 350 Main St. in Durham. Following the lunches on Mondays is game time which includes billiards, Wii and cards. Bingo starts at 1 p.m. on Wednesdays. For pricing info and to make a reservation, call Amanda Astarita, senior café manager, at 860-349-3153. Middlefield Senior Lunch The Middlefield Senior Café is serving lunch three times a week, on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Reservations are required 24 hours prior, and their monthly menu can be picked up at the center, Town Hall or at www.middlefieldct.org. Sportime Camp Sportime Camp with Alex Edwards is today through Aug. 12. Edwards is a teacher in District 13 who makes learning and exercise fun. He teaches kids the fundamentals of many team sports and how to be “good sports.” The camp meets at Peckham Park in the mornings. Please call Alex Edwards at 860-632-0510 with any questions.

TUESDAY

August 9 Destination Durham Every Tuesday at 1 and 7 p.m. on Comcast Channel 19, Destination Durham will be aired for those living in Durham. DVDs are also

Friday, August 5, 2011

available at the Levi Coe and Durham libraries. Sexual Harassment Prevention Training The Middlesex Chamber of Commerce, 393 Main St. in Middletown, are holding two courses at 10:15 a.m and 12 p.m. called Developments in Sexual Harassment Prevention Training. This session meets the state of Connecticut’s requirements for two hours of sexual harassment training for supervisors and maganers. For more info and fees, call 860-347-6924. To register for the business after work or seminar, please email danielle@middlesexchamber.com.

WEDNESDAY

August 10 Durham Senior Lunches Every Monday and Wednesday, hot lunches are available for seniors over 60 and their spouses at the Durham Activity Center located at 350 Main St. in Durham. Following the lunches on Mondays is game time which includes billiards, Wii and cards. Bingo starts at 1 p.m. on Wednesdays. For pricing info and to make a reservation, call Amanda Astarita, senior café manager, at 860-3493153. Cowboy Documentary A free showing of the documentary Sweetgrass by Ilisa Barbash and Lucien Castaing-Taylor will be held at the Henry Carter Hull Library in Clinton at 6 p.m. Sweetgrass presents a riveting and poetic portrait of the American West just as one of its traditional ways of life dies out. Shot amidst the grandeur of Montana’s Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness, the film follows the last modern-day cowboys to lead their flocks of sheep up into the breathtaking and often dangerous mountains for summer pasture. Registration not required. More information about this documentary, including a preview, is at www.pbs.org/pov. TOPS Join the TOPS meetings every Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. in the Durham Town Hall third floor meeting room. For more info, call

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

THURSDAY

August 11 Summer Concert The Humblebees and the Middlefield Ukulele Club will perform tonight at 6:30 p.m. at Peckham Park Pavilion. Farmers’ Market The Durham Farmers’ Market is every Thursday from 3 to 6 p.m. on the town green through Sept. 8. Today’s theme is composting 101. Visit www.durhamfarmersmarket.org for more info. Summer Christian Institute Cross Street A.M.E. Zion Church, 440 West St. in Middletown, is holding a threesession free institute for all ages — children, youth and adults. The theme is “21st Century Christians: Restoring the Mission.” Today from 5:15 to 8 p.m., tomorrow from 5:15 to 8 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Includes Saturday breakfast, lunch, snacks and workshops in arts and crafts, drill team, martial arts, computer lab, public speaking, music and more. Call 860-344-9527 to register for this free program, open to all.

FRIDAY

August 12 Tot Time The MOMS Club of Durham and Middlefield sponsors a weekly Tot Time. It is held every Friday from 10:30 a.m. to noon at Peckham Park, or, if it’s rainy, at the Middlefield Community Center. This open-age playgroup is available for all residents and their children of Durham, Middlefield and Rockfall. No RSVP is required; just feel free to come on down and join the fun. For more info on the MOMS Club, please contact Ann at momsdurhammiddlefield@yahoo.com.

Something going on? Send your info to news@towntimes.com

Friday, August 5, 2011

Town Times

Middlefield native now a restaurant entrepreneur Scileppi and his experiences there. After high school, Lacz went to the University of Connecticut School of Business, where he majored in entrepreneurship. During college, he learned about marketing, accounting and the foundations of building a good business. He also worked at Willington Pizza during college, which gave him another insight into pizza-making, this time in a Greek-style restaurant. After graduating, Lacz had job offers in sales and finance but that wasn’t where his passion was. He called Scileppi and asked if he had any work for him. It just so happened that Scileppi was opening a new restaurant, and Lacz was the perfect candidate for the job. “He let me run his Meriden restaurant for him for two years. I learned as much as I could and gained front-of-thehouse experience,” Lacz stated. In order to get more culinary experience to round

By Cheri Kelley Town Times There must be something in the area that inspires the love of good food because Durham and Middlefield have put forth many chefs and restaurateurs. One of the success stories is none other than Middlefield’s Mark Lacz.

“I took a little bit from everything — classroom and working experience. After being open for a year, I realized that this was the right

Mark Lacz, formerly of Middlefield, is now coowner of a new restaurant in Rhode Island. Submitted photo

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VE A E H ED W OV M

path for me. I get to utilize my strengths and skills,” Lacz said. Lacz is a young man who had a vision for himself; he worked toward that goal even before graduating high school. Determination and dreaming proved successful for this Middlefield native.

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Lacz grew up in Middlefield, and his parents and one of his brothers still live in town. He credits the inspiration for his interest in culinary entrepreneurship to the time that he worked at Illiano’s Ristorante & Pizzeria in Middletown. Vinnie Scileppi, the owner of Illiano’s, inspired Lacz to want to open his own restaurant. Lacz watched the way Scileppi operated his business. “I would work almost every day when I wasn’t doing a sport. I was working for a good organization and good people and I learned great people skills. He worked a lot, but he loved doing it,” Lacz stated about

out his knowledge for opening up his own restaurant, Lacz worked at David Burke Prime at Foxwoods Casino. At David Burke Prime, Lacz met his eventual partner Kyle Beausoleil who was a sous chef. They worked there for a year and a half and became good friends. When they decided it was time for them to venture out on their own, they brainstormed ideas and, using both of their skills, decided to mix fresh pasta and pizza for a new Italian American bistro and gourmet pizza restaurant. And so, Casa Della Luce in Westerly, Rhode Island, was born.

Town Times Freelance Series: Summer Memories

erbeds into which we would promptly sink, giggling. There were no baths because there was no bathtub. (Presumably Uncle Ed and Aunt Marsha solved this dilemma as they never appeared or smelled unwashed in any way, but for us kids during that magical week in summer, the pump kitchen sink and a swim in the pond were just fine, thank you.)

Buttercup and I: Buttercup doesn’t seem too anxious to return to the barn!

As soon as parental footfalls descended the stairs, we kids would climb out of our feathered nighttime nests and gather around the grates strategically placed in the

room so that heat from the woodstove in the kitchen or the fireplace in the living room could rise, and listen to the adult conversations below while jostling and shushing each other. It was as exciting as only surreptitious listening can be, and it was through those grates that we first learned a few family secrets. One summer, Uncle Ed proudly showed us their newest modern advancement – a chemical toilet in a closet just off the living room. Eventually the pump sink sprouted faucets, but in

Memories made in Maine By Sue VanDerzee Town Times Like several of the stories recently published here by Town Times’ staffers, hay plays a significant part in my childhood memories of summer. The notion of taking a family trip to see sights of interest was apparently foreign in my family, but almost every summer, we did take a trip to visit family friends in Maine who were first friends with my grandparents when my mother was a teenager. Uncle Ed and Aunt Marsha, and later Uncle Ed and Aunt Roberta (when Aunt Marsha passed away and Uncle Ed married the widow next door) lived on a farm in central Maine, in Hampton Highlands, near Bangor. They did not have an indoor toilet or central heating. Aunt Marsha turned out deCheckout Our Website for BIG Savings!

licious farm meals on a huge, black wood-burning stove. They had a rain barrel and a porch. They also had a hayloft in the barn, which was attached to the house by a series of ramshackle sheds and passages, as is customary in Maine farm construction, presumably to keep the farmer from having to go outside in the winter — a truly wise idea. In one of those sheds closest to the house was the outhouse. But the hayloft was where my brothers and I climbed and jumped and swung (and sneezed in the golden motes of dust falling around us). At night, tired from bringing Buttercup, the lone cow, down from the pasture to get milked, scratched and stained red from hours in the wild raspberry bushes, sprouting hay cowlicks from adventures in the hayloft, we children would be put to bed on gloriously puffy feath-

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Above, Aunt Marsha, back row center, was famous for her whoopie pies and other delectables from the woodburning stove. Flanking her on the left is my great-aunt Bertha and my grandmother. I’m front and center. At right, a fourth generation, our son Mark, rides the tractor that “tain’t got no brakes” with Uncle Ed.

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Friday, August 5, 2011 every significant way, “going to Maine” remained the same each year – there was always the long trip (interrupted by a stay at a motel halfway from our home on Long Island), the excitement of first spying the house, the comfort and joy of Uncle Ed’s welcoming hugs for all of us, the delicious food, and the discreet depositing of perhaps $50 on the dresser as we left our bedrooms on the last day of the visit. I realize now that this small token of our thanks perhaps sustained our Maine friends for quite awhile in what was essentially a cashless household where almost everything they needed was raised on the farm or homemade. So strong was the attachment that when I married, my husband and I returned to Maine – not every summer but often enough so that our children retain clear memories of Uncle Ed and Aunt Roberta. Every year we helped with farm chores. By that time, Buttercup and the chickens were gone, but Uncle Ed’s newest project was making cedar shingles, and our children carried wood to “help.” My husband Bob was persuaded one summer to drive the old tractor from the woods with a load of wood for the small shingle sawmill. As he started downhill, Uncle Ed shouted See Maine, next page

Friday, August 5, 2011

Maine (Continued from page 6) through cupped hands, “Careful now, tain’t got no brakes.”

Music at Peckham Park

The Durham Agricultural Commission is planning to start Durham Grown, an online catalog of local agriculture and information, available through the town website. Users can use the site as a search engine to locate farms that offer products of particular interest. To be included in the register, farm owners and businesses will need to fill out and submit a form, which can be obtained at the Town Hall, to the Town Clerk’s office.

The Humblebees and the Middlefield Ukulele Club will perform on Thursday, August 11, at 6:30 p.m. at Peckham P a r k Pavilion.

Discout cards at MFC Middlefield Federated Church is selling a discount card for purchases in 18 local businesses. The card is good from June 20, 2011 to June 21, 2012 and only costs $10.

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Eventually, they sold the farm and moved into senior citizen housing in nearby Old Town, in a refurbished old mill along the Penobscot River. There Aunt Roberta pointed out with pride the community gardens she tended, filled with flowers transplanted from the farm. There our youngest daughter Katie rode her first “elligator” (or elevator). And there we finally bade farewell to a tradition as first Uncle Ed, and then several years later Aunt Roberta, went to their reward – which for befriending a “citified” family from New York over three generations – must certainly be considerable.

Town Times

Our most recent online poll question asked, “With August now here, have you accomplished the goals you set for yourself this summer (read a book/relax more/visit friends)?” By press time, 10 people responded. Fifty percent said “Yes”; 50 percent said “No.” We hope you take the last few weeks of summer to get those things done! Answer our next poll question at www.towntimes.com

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Town Times Opinions

Friday, August 5, 2011

Jake from the Lake a.k.a. the Ice Dog Town Times 488 Main St., P.O. Box 265, Middlefield, CT 06455 http://www.towntimes.com News Advertising Fax Marketplace

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Town Times is published every Friday by the Record-Journal Publishing Co. and delivered to all homes and businesses in Durham, Middlefield and Rockfall. Stephanie Wilcox, Editor Cheri Kelley, Reporter Kimberley E. Boath, Advertising Manager Joy Boone, Advertising Sales Michelle P. Carter, Office Manager Contributors: Chuck Corley, Diana Carr, Alex Ceneviva, Michael Torelli, Mark Dionne and Sue VanDerzee.

I’ve waited quite a while to tell this story. Maybe because I am still pinching myself that we have a dog. Maybe because I was afraid Jake’s original owner would suddenly want him back. Or maybe because there’s been lots of other news to write. But I’ll tell you about it now. Have you heard about the Ice Dog? This past winter, one of the most extreme winters in years, the Lake Beseck community and many kindhearted neighbors came out of their warm, cozy homes to help “capture” what appeared to be a lost dog on the frozen ice of Lake Beseck. There was friendly banter through email about whether this fourlegged animal was a coyote, coy-dog or lost German shep-

herd. He had no collar and had taken up residence in the maze of snowmobile tracks on the snow-covered ice. He was surviving off of dinner leftovers and dog treats left out for him (when the snow melted in the spring, several blankets and dog bowls were unearthed). We printed a photo on the Town Times website and Facebook page, but no one knew anything about this dog. Throughout the weeks that he roamed the lake, not a soul could get within his reach. Until one Thursday afternoon. My mom and I saw him mingling near some ice fishermen. We brought out leftover chicken from the night

Letters to the Editor Thank you The Coginchaug girls’ cross country team wanted to say thank you to Carolyn Adams Country Barn and Wild Wisteria for allowing us to hold our annual car wash fundraiser in their parking lot. Their generosity toward our team for the past several years is greatly appreciated. As a thank you, we just want to encourage everyone in town to support these local businesses — stop in and see the great items they have for sale! We also want to thank all the community members who donated or got their car washed last Saturday. Our car wash was a huge success and helped us to raise money

for the 2011 season! Thank you for the support you show for our team, we all appreciate it! Rachel Viccaro and Melanie Badin (CRHS girls’ cross country team captains)

Error found in July 22 cover story The front page story on 7/22 “Ordinances head to town meeting” has a grossly inaccurate statement. At the end of paragraph one, last sentence...”or into something that connects with a sewer system along Route 66 or around Lake Beseck.” Our storm drains do not connect into the sewer sys-

Letters policy The Town Times intends to present a forum for the lively exchange of ideas and issues. To facilitate the publication of your contributions, several guidelines should be followed. Letters to the editor must be signed, with a phone number included. The writer will be called to confirm authorship. No anonymous letters will be printed. Contributions by any individual or group will not be published more frequently than once a month. Every effort will be made to print all letters received. However, the selection and date of publication will be at the discretion of the editor. Finally, the opinions expressed by our letter writers are not necessarily those of this newspaper. Deadline: Tuesday noon for Friday publication.

tems. Waste drains from homes; toilets, sinks, showers and washing machines are connected to the sewer system, and folks should not, of course, flush anything down them that is not a water waste material, including hygienic wipes, oils, antifreeze, etc. The new ordinance concerns the whole town and the storm drain system. Our storm drains connect directly into the various brooks and river system, Ellen Doyle Brook and Coginchaug River, which ultimately end up in the Connecticut River and on to Long Island Sound. When the Lake Beseck sewer system was installed, a part of that project was to upgrade the storm drain system in the area, but again they are totally separate systems. In cities such as Hartford, the storm drains do connect into the sewer systems and create problems when there are heavy rains that overwhelm the ability of the sewer treatment facilities to process the extra water. The ordinance prohibits any contaminants from being dumped into the storm drain system, whether directly or indirectly. Mary E. Johnson, Middlefield Selectman

Above, Jake living on the ice. Below, comfy at home with my family.

before and got a closer look ourselves. The fishermen wanted to take him home, and it almost looked like they could have. The ice dog was warming up to humans for the first time since we’d seen him. Soon enough, our toes became frozen and we headed back to the house, parting ways with the fishermen. To our surprise, the “Ice Dog” followed. The rest is history. Turns out no one came forward saying it was their dog, and the announcement we put in the local papers and on TV went unanswered. But I think if you ask “Jake from the Lake,” (another neighborhood nickname for this pup), he is happy to be a part of our family now. I tell this story because this past weekend at the Lake Beseck parade, I stood in my driveway with Jake, and many people passing in the parade shouted, “Hey, the ice dog is famous! He should be in the parade!” It reminded me of everyone who helped get this lonely dog off the ice and into a loving home. I also tell it because there are many lovely animal rescue stories out there. You’ll notice our new weekly “Paws Place” where we feature dogs (and cats) that need homes. We hope that, through the Town Times, these pups can have a happy ending too, just like the Ice Dog. Stephanie Wilcox, editor

Paws Place: Lil’ Miss Butterscotch Lil’ Miss Butterscotch is a twoto three-year-old Staffi/Terri mix. She loves people and is great with all dogs. Petite, generous and very loving, she likes to jump up gently and hug you (which might be too much for children 10 years old and younger). Butterscotch is very eager to be with people and wants to do everything right. She is always alert to her person and always gives and seeks out affection. She loves to play and romp around in the back pen, but she is also quite content to lay in the grass, settling down very quickly. Butterscoth is good on a leash; she is small and easy to control. Butterscotch would not only be a stunning family member with beautiful markings on her face, but she would also be a loyal and devoted one. Will you rescue Butterscotch? The Meriden CT Animal Control has public viewing hours every day from 3 to 4 p.m., or call for an appointment at 203-235-4179, located at 311 Murdock Ave. in Meriden (right off East Main St exit on 691).

Town Times Columns

Friday, August 5, 2011

Making info available and easily-accessible to the public At a time when we are working to cut state spending, this summer a new, easy-touse tool is giving the public unprecedented information about how your tax dollars are being spent. The new website, transparency.ct.gov, allows anybody to follow literally every dollar spent by every agency in state government. You can search State Rep. salaries, contracts or browse state agency budgets — all in seconds. Every time the state cuts a check, whether it is to a person, business, town or non-profit, it goes on the website. For decades, we have seen scandal after scandal involving politicallyconnected contractors — now anybody can find out for themselves who is getting contracts and grants and where money is going without waiting for a whistleblower or an investigative reporter. This website is the result of a new law, Public Act 10-155, I co-sponsored last year. We were frustrated that the state was collecting reams of information but not making it available to the public, at least not in an easily accessible way. Even better news? We were able to have the legislature’s independent Office of Fiscal Analysis produce and host the website at no additional

cost to taxpayers. As House vice chairman of the Legislative Committee, which oversees government transparency programs, I believe that the late Supreme Court Justice Louis Brandeis was right when he said that “sunlight is the best disinfectant.” The overwhelming majority of state Matt Lesser employees are honest, hardworking folks. But for the few who are not, all the evidence suggests that they are much more likely to keep to the straight and narrow when they know the public is watching. Of course, this should build public confidence, too. As you read this, the state’s independent watchdogs, which oversee the freedom of information act, ethics, contracting standards and compliance with election laws, among others, are being merged to create an independent super agency called the Office of Governmental Accountability (OGA). This will save taxpayers money on overhead. My priority going forward? Ensuring that the OGA remains strong and politically independent so that taxpayers can feel confident that state government is working for them, not the well-connected.

From The State Capitol

Local Trooper Talk The following is a message from the town of Durham: On Saturday, July 23, TFC Gunn of Troop F in Westbrook investigated a larceny from a motor vehicle located on Fox Lane in Durham. The victim noticed his beverage cooler was missing. The victim inventoried his vehicle and then checked his other two vehicles. At this time he noticed that his assigned, state-owned Dodge Stratus was unlocked. The victim stated the center console lid was in the open position and personal items were missing. TFC Gunn conducted a neighborhood canvass which was met with negative results. Anyone who might have witnessed any suspicious activity are asked to contact

Trooper Gunn at 860 399-2100. Please remember to lock your cars and refrain from storing valuables inside your car. If you notice any suspicious behavior in this area, please call 911. This message was sent out as a neighborhood watch alert to those who have signed up for the SaferDurham Neighborhood Watch system. If you would like to be notified of these messages in the future, please sign up at www.townofdurhamct.org/saferdurham. - Upon arrival to the Durham Middlefield transfer station on Cherry Hill Road in Middlefield after the long Independence Day holiday weekend, workers found illegally dumped trash on the grounds of the

Signing off for now… market and the muTown Times editor sical evenings and Stephanie Wilcox just trips, there is somegave me the word that thing for every age. I’m to move into my Thanks! cave and begin my Today as I type three months of editothis blurb, I have to rial hibernation. In a beat my fingers into way, I enjoy writing submission to type my Town Times blurb the words Powder each month but do unRidge. Suffice it to derstand that during say that the closing the political season, on the sale is moving fair play is in order. at a snail’s pace. FolSo, this is it until the lowing the 90-day smoke clears. due diligence period, As we all know, Jon Brayshaw, Middlefield Alpine needed to line finding summer jobs up their financing, for our youth is next to and the town needed impossible. This year, to tend to the water the issue was hit headdiversion permit. I on by Middlefield and have the permit in Durham with the remy desk, and, acsult being that we found summer employment for 24 cording to Dennis Abplanalp, they kids from age 14 to 18 with the towns have their financing in place. Each themselves and with local business- party has been very careful not to es within the towns. The kids were stub a toe while rushing to a closing. screened and chosen by the Guid- Be patient. At the rate we’re going, ance Department at RSD13. The the closing on the DECD $500K grant wages are completely reimbursed by will take place before the actual sale the “Workforce Alliance” program. closing to Alpine. That’s okay beThe kids learn valuable employment cause I like money at any time. lessons, and we get jobs done that And finally, as we closed out the need doing. We all win. books for last year, we ended with a On August 16, we will be holding a surplus in excess of $200K. A surplus is town meeting to vote on three “ordi- good, contrary to what Hartford tells nances” (required by the state). The us. As for next year’s taxes, put in permain issue deals with illicit (illegal) spective, Mr. and Mrs. “Average” discharges into the town’s storm homeowner will pay $5,418 for their drainage system in the road. What property tax. This is an increase of goes into the storm drains ends up in $143 over last year’s tax. The town opour streams, rivers, lakes and even- eration budget is holding at about $4 tually our iced tea...which is not million, the school at $12 million. good. Copies of the ordinances are And finally, finally, the town’s deavailable at the Town Hall or on our livery of services met up with a real website, http://middlefieldct.org. snag when both finance director Joe As you may recall, we purchased 47 Geruch and my secretary Fran Pac acres of industrial land behind ZYGO met up with unexpected issues that several years ago. Our Economic De- kept them out of the office part of the velopment Commission has been look- summer. The adage that you never ing into a possible deal with a develop- know the value of someone until er to build out some of the industrial they’re gone is so true. We as a town lots. Stay tuned. It may happen and it and me as your administrator are may not. The land on Hubbard Street blessed to have such people working for the town. Both wear many hats is not included at this point. I do want to formally thank Chris every day, some of which you will Hurlbert and our Parks & Rec Com- never know. But let either of them be mission for putting together a sum- absent, and you learn real fast. So, in ending, if the world comes to mer to remember for many of our citizens. With 130 kids enrolled in the an end in August, September or OcSummer Camp program at Memori- tober, I’ll let you know in early Noal School, the beach programs, the vember when I exit the cave. Until Saturday morning farmers’ and flea then, signing off.

From The Desk Of The First Selectman

station. The individual apparently responsible was found and fined for littering. - Police are investigating a breakin on Peters Lane in Middlefield that occurred on June 30, when the home-

owner was asleep in another part of the house. Goods worth an estimated $1000 were taken from the home, including a large flat screen TV and six cans of beer. The break-in happened between 2:30 and 7 a.m.

In Our Libraries

Friday, August 5, 2011

Only one month left for summer pleasure reading By Michael Torelli Special to the Town Times It’s August, and, with the sun forcing heat across Connecticut, sometimes the only thing to do is to stay inside in an air-conditioned room. What is there to do, aside from going on the internet, watching television, and sleeping? There are always books to be read!

Both Levi E. Coe and the Durham Public Library have plenty of novels for adults and kids, and some have been pretty popular this summer. According to librarian Vicki Berry of Levi E. Coe Library, any book written by Rick Riordan has been on request. The Lightning Thief series, for example, has been a huge interest for kids this

summer. Jeff Kinney’s Diary of a Wimpy Kid series has also been on demand. There are also the Nutmeg nominees. According to Berry, who works in the children’s section, these are 10 books nominated by children in grades four through six. There is also a teen set. Kids are able to read the books from February until January of the next year, at which time they vote for their favorites. This year, some of the books that were selected are The Lemonade War by Jacqueline Davies, No Talking by Andrew Clements and Swindle by Gordon Korman. “There are a lot of avid readers,” Berry said. “I think there is a lot of talk among the kids recommending books to each other, which is very exciting.” The same can be said for Durham’s library. According to librarian Valerie Kilmartin, the June stats, circulation and gate count were higher than 2010’s data. In Durham, they have been putting on many pro-

grams for people of all ages. The theme, according Kilmartin, is “One World, Many Stories,” which incorporates international themes. Events this year have been split up by age groups: children, teenagers and adults. Children can experience origami, book discussions and Cajun storytelling. Teenagers can attend a West African drumming class, international movie nights and international cuisine nights. Adults are able to learn belly dancing and seniors can experience Tai Chi. Everyone can tell a story through movement and creativity. The Lunch Bunch kids’ discussion has recently covered books such as Home of the Brave by Katherine Applegate and A Long Walk to Water by Linda Sue Park. For teens, The Whale Rider by Witi Ihimaera and Tripping by Heather Waldorf were novels that were discussed last meeting. Working together with Memorial Middle School, both Levi E. Coe and Durham libraries put togeth-

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er a “Nutmeg Game Night,” which is accessible to children who have read three or more nutmeg books. Trivia questions are asked about the books, and everyone is able to have fun. Last year’s game night was at Durham Library, which had recently outgrown the space provided at Memorial, due to too many kids, Berry said. There are always new bookscoming out and a whole lot more available at your public library. With the number of kids reading, it’s good to take time out of a day to read a chapter or two, and expand into the world of imagination. And if it’s not too hot and humid, take that reading outside on the hammock.

Durham Library Hours: Regular library hours are 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. Visit www.durhamlibrary.org to search the catalog, review your account, register for a program or renew your materials online. For information or to register for a program by phone, call 860-349-9544. Facebook: Receive daily updates on library news and events by becoming a fan on Facebook. Click on the Facebook link on the library’s website. DPL Book Talk: Participate in the library’s new blog about all things book! Just click on the DPL Book Talk link on the library’s website. Art Display: Durham artist Emily Newton will display her artwork in the Activity Room during July. Summer Reading 2011: One World, Many Stories: The library’s annual summer reading program began Monday, June 27. Children, young adults and adults are encouraged to join — weekly prizes are included! Book Lovers’ Circle: The Book Lovers’ Circle will meet on Wednesday, Aug. 3, at 7:30 p.m., when The Widower’s Tale by Julia Glass will be discussed. All are welcome. Copies of the book are available at the library. More Libraries on next page

In Our Libraries

Friday, August 5, 2011 ADULTS: T’ai Chi for seniors with Tom Cushing: Tuesday, Aug. 9 and Monday, Aug. 15. All classes start at noon. Registration is required.

Levi Coe Library Hours: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Thursday; closed Friday and Saturday. Visit www.leviecoe.com or call the library (860-349-3857) for info or to register for a program. You can renew, reserve and check your library record online. Book Donations: The library is accepting items in good condition for our November book sale. We do not accept textbooks or magazines. Thank you. Museum Passes: The library has the following museum passes (free or reduced admission): Beardsley Zoo, CT State Parks & Forests Day Pass, Mystic Aquarium, Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art and CT’s Old State House. Call the library for more info. Children’s August Programs: The summer reading program may be over, but there are other library programs going on in August. Register in person only. Call the Children’s Department for more details at 860-3493857 ext. 2. Aug. 10, 2:30 p.m. Family

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If you need to cancel, please allow 48 hours notice. Practice Job Interviews: Improve your interviewing skills and get the job you want. Bob Carlson will assist you by conducting and evaluating your practice interview, either by phone or at Russell Library. Videotaping the session is optional and confidential; 45-minute sessions are available. Call 860-347-2520 to sign up. Career Coaching: James Kubat, associate director of the Wesleyan Career Center, gives private, confidential career coaching through appointments. Bring a resume (if you have one) to the appointment. Register at the

Information Desk or call 860347-2520. You will receive a reminder call. Computer Classes: Classes introduce beginners to computers and provide a first session on the Internet or Microsoft Word. Advanced classes are offered on programs such as Microsoft Publisher and Excel. The computer classes are offered on a first come, first served basis. Make sure you have the experience necessary to take the class. Come to the Information Department on the date and time that the session is being held. If you have any questions, ask at the Information Desk or call 860-347-2520.

“Brutus” may sound tuff, but this Pomeranian X is adorable! He is the new best friend of Diane Cleary, of Durham.

Russell Library Resume Review and Critique: Confidential resume critiquing and in-depth interview coaching appointments, two Saturdays each month, with Jeff Thierfeld, business professional and consultant. Call 860-347-2520 to sign up for a 45 minute appointment.

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Nesting Craft. Aug. 15, 11:30 a.m. Craft Stick Project. Aug. 22, 2:30 p.m. Coil Pots. Aug. 25, 1 p.m. Ice Cream Social. Aug. 30 at 10:30 a.m. Back to School Storytime. Children’s Story Times: Lyman Orchards and Levi E. Coe Library present a story time with a craft at the Apple Barrel in Middlefield. Registration is optional. Please feel free to call the Levi E. Coe Library at 860-349-3857 or join us at the Lyman Apple Barrel. Aug. 20, 10:30 to 11:15 a.m. “Sunny” story time & craft. Nov. 19, 10:30 to 11:15 a.m. “Gobble” & craft. Dec. 10, 10:30 to 11:15 a.m. “Snowy” story time & craft. Wish List Books: Please donate: Kill Me If You Can by James Patterson and Marshall Kar. If you choose to donate a book, you will get to be the first one to check it out. We will also add a bookplate to acknowledge your kind donation. Call or stop by the library for further details.

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(Continued from page 10) Mystery Book Discussion: The Mystery Book Club will meet on Aug. 16 at 7:30 p.m., when The Big Dig by Linda Barnes will be discussed. All are welcome; copies of the book are available. KIDS and FAMILIES: Afternoon Story Adventures: Join us for stories, songs and a craft on Fridays at 1:30 p.m. Ages two and up. Summer Reading Celebration: Ed Popielarczyk’s Magical Moments, with refreshments, on Monday, Aug. 1 at 6:30 p.m. New Britain Rock Cats: Baseball read-aloud. Tuesday, Aug. 2 at 10:30 a.m. All ages. Denis Waring, From Trash to Tunes: Thursday, Aug. 4 at 10 a.m. for families. Registration required. TEENS: Volunteens: We need teens 12 and up to run the Summer Reading Desk! Register patrons, track statistics, and prepare craft kits. Volunteer for six hours and get a t-shirt and celebrate at a pizza party at the end of the program! Sign up at the circulation desk. Teen Book Club: Tuesday, Aug. 30, at 7 p.m. Registration required. Bubble Rockets: Make rockets that use the power of bubbles to launch. Tuesday, Aug. 3 at 4:30 p.m. Registration is required.

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Town Times

Durham resident creates recording studio By Cheri Kelley Town Times

Above, John West in his studio. Photo at bottom of page, the instruments in the studio. Photos by Cheri Kelley

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In that home is a high-end recording studio called West End Recording Studios where West gets to enjoy his musical interests. The studio portion took five years to complete; it is a comfortable space for small groups and can fit six or eight musicians. The control room is completely sound-proof; it was built on rubber pads and has double walls with suspended insulation to absorb any sound or vibration.

West End Recording Studios was meticulously designed for proper acoustics without any interference from electrical sources for the recording process. The studio is decked out with an arsenal of instruments, from guitars and West’s grandfather’s banjo, to a piano and drums and many things in between. This is a benefit to musicians who come and use the space as the time to set up the instruments and the microphones can be daunting. Artists are cer-

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Music and craftsmanship are two things with which John West, of Durham, surrounds himself every day. His home started as a small cottage built in the 1940s. While living with his wife, Christine, in the small original space, West built a unique magical home from the timber found on the land that has been home to three generations of his family.

The room contains recording equipment not easily found outside of an artistic metro center. Twenty-four different tracks can be recorded at the same time, giving West the ability to control each layer of the music. Generally, he will record the foundation first, then vocals are added in layers. There are full talk-back capabilities in the control room as well.

tainly welcome to bring their own instruments, but it is not required. West has always had a love for music; he started classical piano lessons at age six under the instruction of Nel Larsen, and he loved drums and percussion instruments. “I would beat on my mother’s tables and anything that was around,” West shared. He then moved on to learning multiple instruments, including the guitar and harmonica. West was in a number of bands over the years, one called Heartland, which opened for country artists like Rascal Flatts and Billy Ray Cyrus. His current band, CJ West and the Downtown Train, is a mix of country, classic rock and rhythm and blues. For more information on the band and to see where they are playing, check out their website www.downtowntrainmusic.com. West and the band practice in the studio space, and he started recording friends and then friends of friends, and now works with musicians throughout the area. He works either by the hour, song or session, depending on what is needed. West also has the ability to do musical transfer work. He can convert any media, such as cassettes and eight tracks to a more updated form. West has been able to create a lifestyle where he combines all his passions: he has brought his love for the outdoors in with the beautiful woodwork throughout his home; he also finds music and recording to be a peaceful part of his day. He is very thankful to be able to fulfill his creative side on a daily basis.

Friday, August 5, 2011

Town Times

Meet the Town Times Staff: Joy Boone

So now you’ve met us all at Town Times!

Meet the Town Times’ sales representative Joy Boone. As the sales rep, Joy’s job is to sell display advertisements to appear in Town Times. Because this weekly paper is free to all residents and businesses in Durham, Middlefield and Rockfall, it’s supported by the local advertisers who advertise their businesses in the paper. Joy has worked in advertising sales in this community for over 30 years. She has worked for the Record Journal, the Town Times’ parent company, since 2002 and worked for the Town Times three years prior to that. Joy enjoys spending time with her four grandchildren as well as playing tennis and gardening. She has lived in Durham for 35 years but is originally from Kentucky. You can contact Joy at advertising@towntimes.com or by calling 860-349-8000. (By Town Times intern Alexandra Ceneviva)

Stop by to visit us at our Main Street Middlefield office during business hours. We’re more than happy to answer your advertising questions, consider story ideas, welcome photos for print and hear what’s going on out there in the community. After all, we’re your source of news for Durham, Middlefield and Rockfall, and we have been for 18 years! See you around town...

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Middlefield Town Briefs

Middlefield Government Calendar (Unless otherwise indicated, all meetings are held in the Community Center.) Wednesday, August 10 7 p.m. — Water Pollution Control Authority Tuesday, August 16 7 p.m. — Board of Selectmen Wednesday, August 17 7-10 p.m. — Inland Wetlands & Watercourses Agency 7 p.m. — Metacomet Regional Windfarm Committee Thursday, August 18 7 p.m. — Middlefield Board of Finance 7 p.m. — DMIAAB at the Durham Library

Friday, August 5, 2011

Food bank donations needed

— a relaxing afternoon with friends and neighbors. Sign up early! Please call Antoinette at 860-349-7121 for pricing and to register.

The Middlefield Food Bank is very low on soup, jelly and cereal. These items can be dropped off at the Social Services office in the Community Center during business hours Monday through Friday or left in the box next to the office anytime. Please call Antoinette Astle at 860-349-7121 for more information.

P&Z reviews agricultural regulations

Summer BBQ Come to a summertime barbeque at the Middlefield Senior Center on Friday, Aug. 19, at noon. Enjoy hot dogs, burgers, potato salad, baked beans and watermelon. The sounds of summer and patriotic songs will be played by John Valerio on his keyboard. It promises to be a lazy, hazy end of the summer

While the Planning and Zoning Commission (P&Z) intended to review a request from resident Lori VogelBrown to reduce the setback required for non-animal farm buildings, the application was withdrawn before the commission’s July 27 meeting. Though the request was withdrawn, town planner Geoff Colegrove felt the commission should still look at their agricultural regulations. Colegrove pointed out that Middlefield does not currently differentiate between public and private agricultural uses and thought the commission should consider

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making a distinction between the two. Colegrove explained that Vogel-Brown owns a private horse riding arena on Cherry Hill Road and that there is another such arena on Peters Lane. He stated there is a significant difference between whether a facility is public or private, as a public facility has to deal with traffic and parking in a way that private facilities do not. Because of the increasing popularity of such facilities in the state, he recommended the commission review current regulations in other parts of the state to discuss at the group’s next meeting. The commission also discussed changing the regulations for the Industrial District by putting in a use table. Currently, the industrial regulations in Section 06 allow any use which isn’t hazardous. Colegrove explained that the request for a change comes from First Selectman Jon Brayshaw. Colegrove said Brayshaw’s concern is that the industrial regulations are “so broad that it becomes arbitrary what’s appropriate [to the zone].” Further defining uses would better portray what is and is not appropriate to the zone. To refine the use table, Colegrove recommended the commission consult the use tables for the Commercial District and the Design Development Districts, which contain very specific to broader categories of use. A letter also came before the commission, with Park and Recreation director Chris Hurlburt informing them that while the Peckham Park Farmers’ Market has not been performing very well, he still would like it to run through August. The commission felt that the letter was not requesting permission to continue the market, but instead stating it as a matter of fact. Commission members took issue with this, as they understood that Hurlburt would not run past July without seeking permission from the commission. While the commission decided not to take action, Colegrove stated that Park See P&Z, next page

Town Briefs

Friday, August 5, 2011

P&Z

(From page 14)

and Recreation should be â&#x20AC;&#x153;put on noticeâ&#x20AC;? for next year. He will write a letter informing them that they must first speak with the P&Z Commission and apply for a permit should the organization try and re-open the market in 2012. (Chuck Corley/In attendance)

Middlesex United Way funds two local programs

(Unless otherwise indicated, all meetings are held in the Durham Library. Check the town website at www.townofdurhamct.org for updates.) Monday, August 8 7 p.m. â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Board of Selectmen in the Town Hall third floor meeting room 7:30 p.m. â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Clean Energy Task Force 7:30 p.m. â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Inland Wetlands 8 p.m. â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Public hearing on Public Works salt shed proposal at Town Hall Tuesday, August 9 7:30 p.m. â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Library Board of Trustees 7:30 p.m. â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Conservation Commission 8 p.m. â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Durham Volunteer Fire Company at the Durham Volunteer Firehouse Tuesday, August 16 7 p.m. â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Board of Finance at the Town Hall 7 p.m. â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Agriculture Commission at the Town Hall

Middlesex Dance Center

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SUMMER DANCE Still time to join us!

Aug 8: Elementary Nutcracker Ballet Camp (ages 6-8), Student Swan Lake Ballet Camp (ages 9+), Jr& Sr Ballet Aug 15: Preschool Cinderella Ballet Camp (ages 3-5), Elementary Funky Jazz (ages 5-8), Student Funky Jazz, Teen Hip Hop Aug 22: Tap classes for all ages and levels

To advertise your business, call the

Town Times (860) 349-8000

Join us for our 20th Anniversary Season - enroll today by mail! Supply Sales & Open Houses Aug 27, 9am - 12pm Aug 30 & Sept 1, 4 - 8pm

1 FREE PIZZA TOPPING With purchase of large Pizza (Must bring ad)

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Durham Government Calendar

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W N NE ATIO C O L

on Sept. 7, please contact Middlesex United Way at 860346-8695 or visit www.middlesexunitedway.org and click on â&#x20AC;&#x153;Volunteer.â&#x20AC;? Middlesex United Way advances the common good by creating opportunities for a better life for all. The focus is on education, income, health and housing â&#x20AC;&#x201D; the building blocks for a good quality of life. United Way recruits people and organizations who bring the passion, expertise and resources needed to get things done. You are invited to be part of the change by giving, advocating and volunteering. Middlesex United Way serves the towns of Chester, Clinton, Cromwell, Deep River, Durham, East Haddam, East Hampton, Essex, Haddam, Killingworth, Middlefield, Middletown, Old Saybrook, Portland and Westbrook. (Submitted by Matt Plourde)

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Middlesex United Way Board of Directors recently approved fund distributions in the amount of $964,304 for fiscal year 2011-12. This amount is $45,000 more than was allocated in 2010-11. This funding includes support to 49 programs in Middlesex County, the installation of multiple Born Learning Trails on Day of Caring on September 7, two future requests for proposal in Education and Housing and $30,000 for new opportunities this fall that will help United Way reach its Five Year Goals for the Common Good. Programs in Durham and Middlefield supported by Middlesex United Way are: Regional School District 13 receives $12,500; and Durham-Middlefield Youth and Family Services receives $9,000. One of United Wayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s partners in the School Readiness initiative is Durham-Middlefield Youth & Family Services (DMYFS). Betsy Dean, executive director, says, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Durham Middlefield Youth and Family Services, with support from the Middlesex United Way, is able to pro-

vide asset-building and leadership programs to middle school and high school students in our district. DMYFS works with high school students to become peer leaders, and this year they presented programs on healthy relationships and mentoring eighth grade students as they prepare for high school. Teen Power is a substance abuse prevention program run by teens for peers in their school. The students plan events around substance abuse prevention with the support from DMYFS staff. There is a lot of positive energy around what we do, and we could not do it without the support of the United Way.â&#x20AC;? Leading the program review and fund distribution each year are Community Impact volunteers who bring experience and expertise in health and human services. Four volunteer teams, based on the four focus areas, meet regularly throughout the year, evaluate program performance and financial health and analyze program results. United Wayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Community Impact Council then makes funding recommendations to the full board of directors for final approval. Kevin Wilhelm, Middlesex United Way executive director, notes, â&#x20AC;&#x153;This hard work is done by dedicated individuals who volunteer their time to make important decisions. They have a passion for giving back and strengthening our community.â&#x20AC;? If you are interested in becoming a Community Impact volunteer or would like to volunteer on Day of Caring

Friday, August 5, 2011

Town Times

Lyman Orchards Sunflower Maze grand opening

CMT (Continued from page 1)

Photos by Diana Carr

On July 30, the sunflower maze opened at Lyman Orchards, and the weather was perfect for a nice stroll through the maze. A hot air balloon carried people into the skies to get a look at the design below: a butterfly.

Town Times Service Directory 1212066

Allan’s Tree Service ~ professional care at its best ~

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dents in grades 3-8. The results are also used at the federal level to comply with the No Child Left Behind law. The database allows searching by district, school, year and grade. The results are not publicly separated by Contemporary and Integrated Day programs. Filtering the results by John Lyman and Korn schools reveals that the programs were close in math in 2011 with scores within two percentage points of each other for grades 3 and 4. The Integrated Day program scored higher on three of the four comparisons possible in the other subjects, including percentage point differences of 10 and 16 in grade 4 writing and reading, respectively. On comparing schools, Viccaro said, “I would never encourage parents to do that.” Noting that every year is different, she added, “I don’t think you can use one variable to look at the effectiveness of a school system.” “I think it’s one indicator. I don’t think it’s the be-all and end-all,” Viccaro said. While parents have been known to look at test scores when choosing a school system, Viccaro recommends using the CMTs on an individual level and bringing areas of concern to a teacher or principal’s attention. Standardized testing has caused controversy among parents and educators by occupying weeks of school time and by reducing schools and students to a test score. Parents of students who took the CMTs in 2011 will be mailed individual results in September. The database is available at www.ctreports.com.

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

To advertise your business, call the

Town Times 860-349-8000

Friday, August 5, 2011

Town Times

Pet-sitting offered to locals Annual Lake Beseck Day Parade By Cheri Kelley Town Times

affinity for “tough” dog breeds, especially pit bulls,” explained DiVito. “I’ve alFor all those pet lovers out ways had a soft spot for the there who never know what underdogs!” DiVito works out of to do when they have to Durham and Midleave their furry dlefield predomifriends behind for nately but will a period of time, travel to surroundthere is a new ing areas if somebusiness in the one is in desperate area, Pet Sitting need of a healthy by Samantha. An enthusiastic line-up of old cars, and safe environOwner Samantha floats, boats and walkers paraded ment for their pet DiVito provides through the Lake Beseck neighborhood while they are pet sitting services away. She says she for the annual parade on July 30. of any nature, inis very flexible and cluding daytime will accommodate visits while you most pet-sitting work, full-time vacation coverage, Samantha DiVito needs, but points Photos by Stephanie Wilcox overnight stays, exercising, out that she prefers to watch Residents and state and local the pets in the pet owner’s obedience and bathing. dignitaries showed up full of “I have been pet sitting home because it is best for spirit for the parade, which since I was a young girl and the animal to keep their rouended with a picnic at the hope to teach animal biology tine as consistent as possible. For more information, call at the college level somebeach, featuring brief speechday,” said DiVito. “I would 860-918-0298 or e-mail samanes at the microphone and lots also love to rehabilitate ani- thadivito@yahoo.com. of fun and sun. mals professionally. I am a member of Bikers Against Animal Cruelty and love the opportunity it provides to rescue and care for ani006132 CT Lic. # 11216 mals.” DiVito was born in Durham and has lived here her entire life. She is a recent college graduate with a BS in Animal Biology from Texas A&M Corpus Christi. Home Improvements LLC She is currently getting her Roofing Systems • Vinyl Siding • Replacement Windows • Complete Excavation Service • Septic Systems Installed Storm Doors/Windows • Prime/Patio Doors master’s in education at the • Bulldozer and Backhoe Work • Screened Top Soil Skylights • Porch Enclosures University of New Haven FREE Estimates Reg. #517277 Licensed & Insured and is working as an educaNo Obligation Fully Insured neiljoneshomeimprovements.com tion intern at Coginchaug Regional High School — “I love kids as much as I love CENTURION EXTERMINATING LLC LLC animals,” DiVito shared. Connecticut Business PEST CONTROL SERVICE License #B-2045 She has years of experience working with numerTERMITES • ANTS • ROACHES • RODENTS • BEES • SPIDERS • FLEAS • TICKS ous types of animals, even completing an internship at Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo 6 Way Road BA LMT CIMI CMC where she worked with SWEDISH MASSAGE Suite 110 License #004365 REIKI wolves, buffalo, prairie dogs Middlefield, CT 06455 Family Owned & Operated DEEP TISSUE MASSAGE and pronghorns. While in Joe Simmons, Sr. 860-349-7063 Mention this ad and receive Joe Simmons, Jr. CHAIR MASSAGE Texas, she helped rescue sea $10 off any pest control service License #S-2712 License #S-4909 Major Credit Cards Accepted PREGNANCY MASSAGE turtle nests along the www.ridofbugs.com INFANT/CHILD MASSAGE CLASSES GIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE seashore and cared for injured dolphins, pelicans, sea turtles and sea gulls. DiVito also did an independent study where she helped rebuild the local zoo. Most recently, she was a camp counselor at The Dog Cabin in Middletown, where she Adults and children cared for up to 50 dogs at one time in a communal space. “Needless to say, I have a BOB SIEFF PH./FAX 860-349-2387 NEW Route 17, Durham, CT lot of experience with aniSummer Programs www.movadofarm.com mals of all kinds and have an 1212103

L J O NE I E

Town Times Service Directory

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Friday, August 5, 2011

Town Times

Girl Scouts are moving up!

Kids cooling off Right and below, on Friday, July 22, Durham road foreman Kurt Bober and the Public Works Department staff set up an outdoor cooling station at Allyn Brook Park to keep our local kids cool in the oppressive heat and humidity. The kids sure seemed to enjoy the water. Photos submitted by Kim Garvis

Some of the members of Junior Girl Scout Troop 62199 enjoyed a summer afternoon at Mountain Fun climbing park in Wallingford.

Local news Local events Local issues Every week in the

Town Times

Submitted by Dawn Mendoza

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ull’s

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Friday, August 5, 2011

Town Times

BASREP summer programs

Photos submitted by BASREP

On July 12, the BASREP children participated in various educational science experiments with the “Mad Science” program. Each child learned the three stages of matter: solid, liquid and gas. Most agreed that the best part of the activity was making silly putty and being able to take it home! Above, Fiona Barrett with the representative from “Mad Science.” Top right, Brendan Coppola shows off his silly putty.

Above, on July 22, the BASREP children enjoyed a visit from Delta Airlines pilot William Rempe. First Officer Rempe regaled the children with stories of his travels all around the world! It was a very “uplifting” ending to our “Let’s Get Carried Away” week!

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Roman Oil Company Learn how to protect yourself from high oil prices this winter.

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With coupon. Not combinable. Expires 9/1/11

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Three young parishioners, students at Mercy High School, will be conducting an ongoing service project. Sara and Danielle Richardson and Ashley Scotto will be collecting used cell phones and their attachments. A box will be placed at each Notre Dame Church tag sale, as well as in the “cry room” of the church, to collect donated items. Please place cell phones, chargers, batteries and other attachments in a plastic bag and place in one of the boxes. If you think your donation has a monetary value, you can also leave your contact information (including phone number), and a church receipt will be made out to you for the value of your donation. Items deemed of no value will be recycled in a green manner. Thank you for supporting this green initiative! Collection boxes are also available at Carmine’s, the Durham Market and Mercy High School.

Town Times Service Directory 1207750

Cell phone recycling program

Rob Grant

Durham

Sales Representative

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Town Times Obituar y

Marie E. Michalowski Marie E. Michalowski, 95, wife of the late Walter H. Michalowski, died on Sunday, July 31, after a brief illness at Masonic Health Center in Wallingford. Born May 3, 1916, in Meriden, Marie was the daughter of the late John J. and Bessie (Semivan) Stopko. A longtime Meriden resident, she attended local schools and owned and operated the Cloverleaf Restaurant with her husband Walter until 1968. Marie relocated to Middlefield in 1961. In 1983 Marie retired from New Departure in Bristol after 37 years of service. During her retirement, she volunteered at St.

Stanislaus Church in Meriden and St. Colman’s Church in Middlefield. Marie was known for her pierogis and babka bread for fundraising events and her devoted desire to help others in their time of need. She spent the last five years as a resident of Ashlar Village in Wallingford. Marie had a passion for traveling and spending time with her loving family, especially her grandchildren. She is survived by her sons: Walter F. Michalowski and his wife Ann of Meriden, Richard C. Michalowski and his wife Dorothy of San Diego, CA, William J. Michalowski and his wife Michele of Middlefield and Robert P. Michalowski and his wife Elaine of East Haven; a brother, John Stopko of Meriden; 11 grandchildren: Chris Michalowski and his wife Pina of East Hampton, Amy Gortz and her husband Ken of Norfolk, VA, Timothy Michalowski and his wife Allison of Putnam Valley, NY,

Richard Michalowski of Oceanside, CA, Michael Michalowski and his wife Kendra of Middletown, Tara Michalowski of Wallingford, Jessica Michalowski of Middlefield, Craig Michalowski and his wife Dyanne of North Branford, Ryan Michalowski of North Branford, Ashley Ross and her husband Kevin of Branford and Cathy Woods of Old Lyme; six great-grandchildren: Grace and Connor Michalowski of East Hampton, Elley and Jack Gortz of Norfolk, VA, Nicola and Quinlan Woods of Old Lyme, 3 special nieces: Shirley Griffey of Richmond, VA, Patricia Edwards of Mechanicville, VA and Lynne Stopko of Rocky Hill. She was predeceased by a brother Frank Stopko. Her family would like to thank the staff at Masonic Health Center, Ramage 2 and Sturgess 3 for all the care and kindness given to Marie. Mrs. Michalowski’s family received relatives and friends

Friday, August 5, 2011

on Wednesday, August 3, from 5 p.m. until 8 p.m. at the Stempien Funeral Home in Meriden. Her funeral was held on August 4 at the Stempien Funeral Home. Burial was at St. Stanislaus Cemetery, Ann St. Ext., Meriden. To send an online expression of sympathy, please visit www.towntimes.com. In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Marie may be made to the Masonic Health Center, 22 Masonic Ave., P.O. Box 70, Wallingford, CT 06492.

Thomas Joseph Dumas, Sr. Thomas Joseph Dumas, Sr., 85, of Middlefield, died on Wednesday, July 13, 2011. He was the beloved husband of the late Catherine Adducci Dumas. He and his wife were well known as the owners of Dumas Family Tree Farm. Tom was involved in the Durham Fair and was a veteran of

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Results of Durham Rec's Fun Run #5 Sunny summer skies allowed fun running for all age groups on Tuesday, August 2. Here are the results: Ages 0-4 years (one lap): first Lucas Edwards, 2:22; second Aaron Wickam, 2:30; third Cooper Woodward, 2:40; fourth Allison Vigue, 3:15 Ages 5-7 years (one lap): first Alyssa Woodward, 1:38; second Chris Hoyeski, 1:44; third Luc Stankewich, 1:45; fourth Maya Oumsou, 1:50; fifth Gage Rovelli, 1:57; sixth Allyson Woodward, 2:07; seventh Julian Volenec, 2:14; eighth Mark Edward, 2:21 Ages 8-10 years (two laps): first Tyler Woodward, 3:16; second Paris Stankewich, 3:37; third Alexis Oumsou, 3:31; fourth Hayden Rovelli, 3:38; fifth Ashley Woodward, 3:59 Ages 11-14 years (0.9 mile course): first Samantha Vigue, 5:10; second Jackson Volenec, 6:06, third Jill Taber, 6:35 Adults (note that time is for new 3.5 mile course): Lavinia Vigue, 24.33; Paul Cieniewicz, 24:58; Karen Woodward, 26:25; Guy Pulino, 28.38; Scott Ely, 30:36 The Fun Runs are free to all with registration starting at 6 p.m. each Tuesday evening at the Coginchaug track. The next Fun Runs are scheduled for Aug. 9, 16 (and possibly Aug. 23). For more info, visit the Town of Durham web site. Submitted by Dave Bellemare

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Town Times Sports

Friday, August 5, 2011

Return of the Durham Rec Track Clinic By Dave Bellemare Track Clinic Director Despite last week’s oppressive heat and humidity, almost 20 athletes, ranging from fourth to ninth grade, braved the conditions to attend Durham Rec’s Track & Field Clinic, which was held at the new Coginchaug track and athletic facility.

Swanson, Bailey Maus and Hannah Goulis. This annual event is a wonderful way to introduce your child to a fun and healthy sport. Mark your July 2012 calendar now!

Far right, athletes practicing high jump drills. Right, Alex Wyskiel showing great hurdling form. Photos by Bailey Maus

Town Times Service Directory Alex Boothroyd heads to the finish line in the 8x100 relay.

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The athletes were grouped roughly according to age and then coached through events, such as shot put, javelin, discus, high jump, long jump, hurdles, sprinting/running and relay races. The new track and facilities afforded each athlete the opportunity to immediately practice what they had been taught. The athletes were coached by select members of the Coginchaug boys’ and girls’ track teams. On the final night of the week-long clinic, a mock track meet was held where 50-meter hurdles, shot put, long jump, and 8x100 meter relay events were contested. While no team winner was declared, each athlete got to demonstrate their individual talents and their competitive spirit. Successfully completing the clinic were Jessica Stanwood, Tucker Fowler, Francesca Andranovich, Emily Christenson, Emma Axelrod, Alex Wyskiel, Connor Zolnik, Ryan Gossart, Jared Anderson, Kate Annecchino, Eric Debrum, Sam Titus, Allie Alsup, Allison Machnik, Kyle Strang, Ashleigh Halligan and Alex Boothroyd. The superb coaching staff consisted of Tyler Sibley, Jennie Ochterski, Monika Malek, Lauren Trombetta, Lora Manley, Rachel Foley, Rachel Kowalski, Natalie

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Town Times Sports

Friday, August 5, 2011

Coginchaug Football Club goes a long way for Blue Devil players By John Bozzi CRHS football coach The Coginchaug Football Club (CFC), comprised mostly of the parents of current and former Coginchaug football players and cheerleaders, has made a significant contribution to the football program. The club’s mission is to support and promote the Coginchaug football and cheerleading programs.

Club president Gary Paxton expects 2011 to be an historic season. “The new athletic complex has generated an incredible amount of energy in the community,” Paxton noted. “It’s going to be an unbelievable year to be involved in the football program.” In a little over a year since its founding, the CFC has donated over $15,000 worth of athletic equipment to the school. The club has focused

Silver Mill Tours Great Wall of China Exhibit Franklin Institute, Philadelphia Dec. 3, 2011; Jan. 21, Feb. 29, Mar. 17, 31 & Apr. 4, 2012 $83

new uniforms was unanimously approved. “The cheerleaders want to thank the Coginchaug Football Club for purchasing the additional uniforms,” coach Hill said. “This gives the cheerleading team a total of 20 girls who can enjoy cheering while having fun supporting the team.”

When cheerleading coach Sherry Hill saw a dramatic increase in the number of girls who signed up for cheerleading at Coginchaug this spring, she sought and received permission from school administrators to expand the football cheerleading squad. The approval, however, came with the condition that the school would not pay for uniforms for the added cheerleaders, so Hill turned to the football club for help. At the club’s April meeting, coach Hill’s request for funding for the five

The club also provides some “little extras” for Blue Devil football players and cheerleaders. The CFC pays the team’s summer passing league fees, provides postgame snacks and drinks, hosts the team’s season ending awards banquet and purchases graduation gifts for senior players and cheerleaders. The club’s most ambitious and far-reaching project may be its creation of a $500 college scholarship. ScholarSee Club, next page

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But it’s not just football players who benefit from the efforts of the CFC. The club has also provided several thousand dollars worth of equipment and upgrades to the high school’s weight room, equipment that every student at Coginchaug is able to use. Club donations include a new squat rack, lifting bars, speed boxes, a step-up station, benches and 1,000 pounds of olympic plates. “By purchasing these necessary items for the

school with privately-raised funds, the club both saves taxpayers money and frees up athletic department funds for other sports,” explained club vice president Hans Pedersen. “Although we’re motivated by the football program, our efforts really benefit the entire community.”

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on providing necessary items for the team that the school’s athletic budget doesn’t cover. The donated equipment includes a fiveman blocking sled, a oneman tackling sled, a dozen blocking dummies, three lineman chutes, 60 practice jerseys, game-day coaches’ headphones, a water wagon and a 40-foot storage trailer to keep it all in.

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Town Times Sports

Club

(From page 22)

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few hours a week or a few hours a season, the Coginchaug Football Club has a project for you.”

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Because it is an approved non-profit 501-3C organization, donations to the Coginchaug Football Club are tax deductible. Donors may specify that their donations go toward the scholarship fund, the purchase of athletic equipment, or for general operating expenses. Anyone interested in more information about the football program should visit the club’s website, www.coginchaugfootball.com. To join the club, contact Gary Paxton at gpax-

ton@comcast.net or 860-3496953. “We have a lot of fun,” Paxton noted. “Whether you’re able to volunteer a 1212157

tirely by volunteers. “The club’s success is a result of the efforts of its members,” Paxton explained. “By working at the concession stand, or a pancake breakfast, or selling 50-50 raffle tickets or in any of a hundred other ways, you can become a part of the football program. There is nothing more rewarding than knowing that you helped the team achieve victory.”

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ship candidates, who must be four-year football players, are judged on their records of academic achievement, participation in extracurricular activities and community service. The scholarship’s inaugural recipient was Josef Danczuk. “Josef was an outstanding candidate who excelled on the field, in the classroom and in the community,” stated scholarship selection committee member Bob Corazzini. “His involvement with the Boy Scouts and his record of community service made him a deserving recipient.” Danczuk, who won varsity letters as a sophomore, junior and senior, was named to the 2010 All-Pequot Conference team as an offensive center. The Coginchaug coaching staff presented Josef with the 2010 “Foundations of Honor Award” which is “presented to that four-year football player who demonstrates the best qualities of scholarship, citizenship and leadership.“ Danczuk’s career 3.8 GPA earned him the recognition of graduating with “Honors and Distiction.” He was also a member of the National Honor Society and the Latin National Honor Society. Danczuk will attend the University of Maryland where he plans to major in civil engineering. “The scholarship is a great honor,” he stated. “It’s great to know that all the time and effort that the parents, coaches and players put into the Coginchaug Football Club goes not just for football gear, but also into helping players in college.” Danczuk plans to put the scholarship funds to good use. “It will probably go straight toward my tuition bill,” Danczuk

surmised. Next year the club plans to create a second scholarship that will be awarded to a football cheerleader. A wide variety of fundraisers bankroll the club’s activities. Players and cheerleaders hold car washes and solicit pledges to run in the Washington Trail road race. Members sell ads for the team’s program books and organize the season-opening “tailgate” party. Food booth sales at the Durham Fair, youth football clinics and the sale of “Coginchaug football” apparel also help fund the club. But perhaps the club’s most visible fundraiser is Melynda Granger’s ‘Big C” project where for $25, you can show your support for all Coginchaug athletes by having a three-foot tall white “C” painted on your driveway. The fundraisers and support activities are staffed en-

DURHAM

Friday, August 5, 2011

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Town Times Sports

Friday, August 5, 2011

Dance group takes home trophy

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On June 26, the Triple Threat Dance Company, which has studios in Durham and Wolcott, participated in the Starpower national competition held at Mohegan Sun. Over 52 dance studios were represented at the competition. Local residents placed second in the Battle of the Stars and won the showmanship award with their small group tap number, Coffee in a Cardboard Cup. Four other dances placed in the top five of their divisions. Their large tap line, Commander, was given the Entertainment Award for the competition. Triple Threat has been ranked the number one dance studio in Connecticut and a top 20 studio in the Northeast by the Federation of Dance Competitions (FDIC). Triple Threat senior lyric number, Rock Your Soul, was chosen to represent the entire Northeast in Dallas, Texas. In photo is the Coffee in a Cardboard Cup group, which includes Durham residents Hannah Pakech, Gabby Pakech and Nikki Woznyk. The dance was choreographed by Rob Merante. Submitted by Nancy Pakech

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