Town Times April 5,. 2013 by Town Times Newspaper

Volume 19, Number 52 Serving Durham, Middlefield and Rockfall

www.TownTimes.com

Friday, April 5, 2013

Two top RSD13 leaders resign, search for replacements is on Superintendent Viccaro and CRHS Principal Hauser to depart soon By Mark Dionne Town Times

In an April 2 press release, Board of Education Chairman Kerrie Flanagan announced the resignation of Superintendent of Schools Sue Viccaro. The resignation, effective June 30, marks the second high profile withdrawal from the school district in less than a week. Coginchaug Regional High School principal Andre Hauser announced his departure March 28. He’s taken a new job as principal of Waterford High School. Hauser has been at CRHS for about 10 years serving as assistant principal from 2003 to 2010, when he took over as principal. (See Hauser’s farewell letter page 10 and

Waterford’s welcome announcement page 10.) Viccaro has been an employee of RSD13 for 29 years in jobs that include teacher, pupil personnel director and as the district’s superintendent. The search for a new superintendent began almost immediately with Flanagan calling for a special BOE meeting. She said compared to finding a new principal finding a new superintendent was “a much more arduous process.” According to Flanagan, state law requires that the BOE serve as the executive search committee when hiring a new superintendent. Search committees for principals typically involve BOE members, teachers, staff, and parents.

Hauser

Viccaro

Despite that restriction on the superintendent search, Flanagan emphasized that she would seek out community opinion. “It’s important to get input from the community in filling these positions.” Both positions, Flanagan said, could use interim hires during the searches. By e-mail, Viccaro wrote that she is pursuing other superintendent positions. Looking back on her tenure as superintendent, Viccaro cites the expansion of all -

Tea, if you please

Photos submitted by Nina Healy

use it themselves. In a press release about the new hire, Waterford schools Superintendent Jerome Belair cited Hauser’s work on school climate, community outreach, Coginchaug’s “Bring Your Own Device” policy, as well as Hauser’s management of the building “during an active construction project,” referring to the athletic complex. Waterford High School’s principal is retiring. The school has 850 students and a new building which Hauser called “state-of-the art”. In his letter to faculty, staff, and parents, Hauser wrote, “Over the past 10 years, I have been fortunate enough to work with and learn from countless talented and dedicated educators, students, and community members. I leave Coginchaug now with wonderful memories of my time here and a deep sense of shared pride in the good work we have all done together on behalf of the great kids at CRHS.” With similar sentiment, Viccaro wrote to the Town Times, “District 13 has an amazing staff that do great things for kids every day.”

See Resign, page 10

- INSIDE TODAY’S EDITION -

The 2013 Town Times Community Guide Information for Durham, Middlefield and Rockfall 1279948

Finn Healy, left, attends the Durham Cooperative Nursery School. The school recently held a Teddy Bear Tea Party. Finn invited his younger brother Aidan to join in the fun with his classmates and some friendly bears. The children helped make flower arrangements, snacks, and decorated the table cloth. “This allowed them the opportunity to practice their best manners,” said Nina Healy, the boys’ mother and co-president of the board for the Durham Cooperative Nursery School.

day kindergarten, the formation of four strategic plans, the upgrade of technology and technology offerings, and improved security with a Homeland Security grant as some accomplishments and changes of that time. Hauser will leave CRHS as of April 26. “This came up faster than I thought,” he said of the job swap. When asked to look back on his 10 years in the district, Hauser points to the work done by the entire school to improve school climate. “Anyone who enters from another school immediately comments on the positive school climate.” Hauser also noted his role in the technological changes at CRHS, including his Bring Your Own Device policy. “We’ve put a lot of effort into bringing technology into the schools not just for bells and whistles but to advance instruction.” The facility also changed dramatically during Hauser’s time, most significantly with the athletic complex. “Every time I look at it, I’m impressed with what the community did,” said Hauser, who points out that many students lobbied for the complex even though they would never be able to

This year’s theme:

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle!

Town Times — Friday, April 5, 2013

School Briefs

Sun Fun Run The third annual Sun Fun Run is scheduled for Sunday, April 28, at Lyman Orchards. Proceeds benefit The Sunshine Kids Foundation, an organization dedicated to helping children with cancer. The event features a 3.7 mile run/walk at 10 a.m. and a kids ¼ mile run at 9:30 a.m. Registration is available a half hour before each event. For more information and cost, call (86) 638-4232 or visit www.raceit.com..

Index of Advertisers To advertise in the Town Times, call Joy Boone at 203-317-2313

The Independent Day School, 115 Laurel Brook Rd., Middlefield, has scheduled an open house for Saturday, April 6, from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m., for prospective students and parents. For more information and to RSVP, call Robin at (860) 347-7235 or visit www.independentdaysschool.org.

Open house The Middletown Agriculture Science and Technology Center, 200 LaRosa Lane, has scheduled its annual open house for Thursday, April 11, with two sessions, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. and from 5 to 8 p.m. The public is invited to attend the free event. The day session is geared towards preschool and elementary age children. The evening session is for the general public. There is no admission fee or registration required, although groups of 20 or more are encouraged to pre-register by calling (860) 704-4599, ext. 4594. The open house is to showcase the Agricultural Science and Technology Center

Your

Romeyn, Jordan Santtiago, Emily Sokol, of Durham; Justin Hall, Daniel Piscatelli, of Middlefield. Rochester Institute of Technology, New York - Andrew Gucwa of Durham; Stevie Thompson of Rockfall.

through student displays, demonstrations and handson activities, highlighting key curriculum areas of plant science, animal science, agricultural mechanics and environmental science. The Middletown Regional Agriculture Science & Technology Program is available to high school students from Chester, Clinton, Clinton, Deep River, Durham, East Hampton, Essex, Guilford, Haddam, Killingworth, Madison, Middlefield, Middletown, Portland, Rocky Hill, Old Saybrook and Westbrook. The program is accepting applications for enrollment from students with an interest in agriculture and its related occupations for the 2013-3014 academic year. For more information, call (860) 704-4599, ext. 4594 or visit middletownschools.org .

School records

The Pupil Services Office of Regional School District 13 is scheduled to destroy the confidential special education records of all former students from the class of 2006. This action is allowed by state regulations per authority of the state of Connecticut Office of Public Records Administration and Federal Regulation 34 CFR 200.573. Copies of these records are available following submission of a written request by the student before May 31. Letters should be sent to Amy Emory, director of pupil personnel services, Regional School District 13, PO Box 190, 135A Pickett Lane, Durham, CT 06422.

Scholastic achievements Kari Garvy, of Durham, received second honors at the Cheshire Academy.

Dean’s list Choate Rosemary Hall Katharine Bronson, Eliza

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Friday, April 5, 2013 — Town Times

Banquet will raise funds to help feed people in need By Elisabeth Kennedy Special to the Town Times The Environmental Coginchaug Organization is a group of Coginchaug Regional High School students who are passionate about the environment and trying to improve it. In addition to activities such as cleanups of roads and the school complex and recycling bottles at the Durham Fair, ECO sponsors an annual Hunger Awareness Banquet to raise funds for hunger relief at local, state, and international levels. Nearly 925 million people (3.1 percent of the world’s population) are hungry. The Oxford English Dictionary defines hunger as the “uneasy or painful sensation caused by want of food; the

These Haitian youngsters in this hemisphere, says a exhausted condition caused by want of food; the want or scarcity of food in a country; or a strong desire or craving.” The difference between hunger and malnutrition is that a malnourished body does not have the necessary vitamins and nutrients to grow or fight off disease.

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Haitians at risk of starvation. Long term alleviation of hunger is linked to the alleviation of poverty. World hunger is a symptom of world poverty. If efforts are only directed at providing food or improving food production/distribution, the structural root causes that create hunger, poverty and dependence will remain. ECO will host its Hunger Awareness Banquet, April 5, from 6 to 9 p.m., at the CRHS cafeteria. Soup will be served in hand-made ceramic bowls created by CRHS art teacher Ryan Bothemley. Guest speaker is Elizabeth Kennedy who will talk about Haiti. An admission fee is charged and there will be a dessert auction. All proceeds to hunger relief efforts.

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We strive to bring you the most accurate information available each week, but if you see something in Town Times that is incorrect, give us a call at (203) 3172448, and we’ll do our best to make things right.

Haiti has long struggled to produce enough food, and over half of the food consumed is imported - including more than 80 percent of the rice. Three quarters of Haitians live on less than $2 per day and half of the population earns less than $1 per day, making it difficult, if not impossible, to purchase imported food. Soil erosion continlive in the poorest country ues to wash away topsoil, a local expert on the region. critical component for farming, making crops harder to Nearly 98 percent of world- grow. wide hunger exists in underHurricanes often devastate developed countries lack of crops – destroying not only nutrition and poor sanitation that season’s food supplies make children and adults but the next planting cycle as more vulnerable to illness. seeds are not harvested. In This year’s hunger ban- 2012, Hurricane Sandy and quet participants will learn Tropical Storm Isaac wiped about Haiti, the poorest out crops throughout Haiti, country in our hemisphere. leaving more than 1.5 million

William J. Witkowski, D.M.D. 360 D Main Street, Durham Allan A. Witkowski, D.M.D. (860) 349-1123 We will submit claims to all insurances

Town Times — Friday, April 5, 2013

Frog Friday

Brush pick up scheduled The Town of Durham Public Works Department has scheduled its annual spring curbside brush pick up to begin the week of April 15. Strict guidelines must be followed. Brush should be less than 4 inches in diameter and not longer than 6 feet in length. Brush should be stacked at roadside in an open area, away from mailboxes, trees, telephone poles and other structures. Brush should be stacked perpendicular to the roadway, butt end toward the road. No leaves, stumps, wood or foreign matter will be picked up. Each household will be strictly limited to one truck load during this collection. In an effort to be more efficient, it is recommended that neighbors combine piles on property lines. Loads shall not measure any larger than 4 feet high, 6 feet wide and 8 feet long, unless combined with a neighbor. If loads do not follow these guidelines, it will not be removed. For a schedule of areas to be collected each week, visit www.townofdurhamct.org. The town will make one pass. For more information, call the Public Works office at (860) 349-1816. The town is scheduled to pick up the north end of town, Haddam Quarter Road, Maiden Lane, Foothills Road during the week of April 15.

Frog Fridays are scheduled for April 5, 26, May 17 and June 7 at Highlawn Forest, Rockfall at 4 p.m. Observe pond life such asfrogs, salamander, amphibian eggs, tadpoles, and insect larvae. The program is free of charge. Registration is required. Participants should bring water and a snack; leave pets at home; wear sturdy shoes and children must be accompanied by an adult caregiver. For information, call Lucy at (860) 395-7771 or visit www.EveryoneOutside.org.

Submitted photos

Frogs are the main attraction at Friday pond outings in Rockfall. This group is on the lookout for spring life.

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Friday, April 5, 2013 — Town Times

Town Briefs Farmers’ Market

Canning, Saturday, April 13, at 1 p.m., at the Medical Building at the fairgraounds. Growing Giant Pumpkins, Saturday, May 4, at 1 p.m., at the Medical Building at the fairground. For more information, call Len Baginski at (860) 3493305.

The winter Farmers’ Market is scheduled for Saturday, April 6, from 9 a.m. to noon, at the Dudley Farm, 2351 Durham Rd., New Guilford. Baked goods, eggs, honey, maple syrup, jams and jellies, naturally raised meat, pickles, homemade arts and crafts are featured this month. A chili tasting and judging For more information, call party is scheduled for Satur(860) 349-3917 or visit day, April 13, from 6 to 9 p.m., www.dudleyfarm.com. at Indian Springs Golf Club, Mack Road in Middlefield. A variety of tasty chilies will be available - including A boating safety class is chili with beef and beans, scheduled for April 9, 11, 16, chili verde, venison chili, 3and 18, at 6:30 p.m., at the Mid- bean chili, Basque lamb chili, “I love my vegetables” dlefield Community Center. A fee is charged. Partici- chili, challenge chili, and pants must have a “conserva- beer chili. Corn bread, fixtion number” (ID number on ings for the chili, desserts,

Chili tasting

Boating safety class

a fishing or hunting license) and bring it to first class. For more information and to RSVP, middlefieldpr@ aol.com.

Spring into Spring The Middlefield Lions Club has scheduled its second annual 5K and 10K Spring into Spring for Sunday, April 14, at 8 a.m., at Peckham Park. The event, a challenging run through town, raises funds for the Lions charitable works. For more information and

Open House Sunday, April 7th Noon-4pm

Durham Fair Foundation 360 Main Street, Durham

• Meet some of our crafters & artists • Light refreshments • Raffle - benefit Willy’s Friends (Prizes donated by our crafters & artists)

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The Middlefield Food Bank is low on the following items: green beans, jelly, corn and pasta. Please do not donate expired, dented and rusted cans. Items may be dropped off at Social Services, 405 Main St., Middlefield, or left in the drop box at any time. For more information, contact Antoinette Astle at (860) 349-7121.

Talent Show

The Old Home Day Entertainment Committee has scheduled its first Talent Show for residents of Middlefield, Rockfall and Durham. Imagine an opportunity to perform on stage as one of the idols. The finalists will enjoy this opportunity, win or not win, to share their talent with their friends, families and several hundred fairgoers! Many contestants have said, in other shows, how much they ‘just love to per-

See Briefs, page 23

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The Durham Fair Foundation has scheduled a series of free programs as follows: Bees and Beekeeping, Thursday, April 11, at 7 p.m., at the Durham Library.

soft drinks and coffee will be provided. A fee is charged, which includes entertainment. Local political celebrities, including state Sen. Dante Bartolomeo and state Rep. Buddy Altobello, have been invited to weigh in with their opinions on the chili. Proceeds support the Middlefield Democratic Town Committee and its activities.

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Town Times — Friday, April 5, 2013

Capt. Bob’s book about his ‘journey to heaven’ inspires By Diana Carr Special to Town Times

“He lived well and he died well,” said Cindy Schulte, a Durham resident, speaking of her husband, Bob. That’s evident in his book, “Why Me? Why Not Me.” Captain Bob’s Journey to Heaven Through Surrender, which she had published this past fall.

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about a website called CaringBridge.org, which is a venue for people to get information about their illness, and to reach out to others. Bob’s book is a compilation of his daily postings on the website, which he began as a way to keep his friends and family up-to-date on his condition. People on the website had urged him to turn his entries into a book. After his passing, a woman from their church contacted Cindy and told her she had a publisher for her - and that the publisher loved the book.

“This was a journey through experiencing the unknown,” Cindy said. “He had to rely on his deep faith to get through it. He was funny, and he wrote extremely well. He wrote about his times of great sadness, his fears and how he moved through them, the scares, the times when we thought he was going to be fine. His acceptance at the end is what gave the book its title. “It’s an uplifting book. It’s not morbid at all. When you realize that your days are numbered, you begin to ap-

Photo by Diana Carr

Cindy Schulte holds a copy of her late husband’s book ‘Why Me? Why Not Me?”

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Bob Schulte became “Captain Bob” when he got his captain’s license in 1998. He was lead captain for the Essex Steam Train and Riverboat Company and served as a liaison between the company and the U.S. Coast Guard.) Bob passed away Dec. 24, 2011, after a two-year battle with cancer. After he was diagnosed his daughter, Erica, told him

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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.

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Executive Vice President and Assistant Publisher - Liz White Senior Vice President of Operations and Major Accounts – Michael F. Killian Managing Editor Online/Weeklies – Carolyn Wallach News Editor – Olivia L. Lawrence Assistant News Editor – Nick Carroll Reporter – Mark Dionne Advertising Sales - Joy Boone Advertising Director - Kimberley E. Boath Contributors: Diana Carr, Trish Dynia, Elisabeth Kennedy, Karen Kean, Judy Moeckel, Christine Foster and Michelle P. Carter.

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preciate your life, your family and friends. Bob showed that this is what is important in life. The cancer was a wake-up call. “This is an honest man’s account, showing how he was accepting his life. You see his heart through this book.” An example of Bob’s strength and courage are in the words he posted on July 15, 2011: “Life is good. The grandkids are great. My kids are flying in for a week-long visit this weekend, and the pool is open. “I have been counting my blessings, and they pretty much are composed of memories of families and friends, places I have sailed to, and the one woman who has loved me for 30 years this coming August.” Cindy said getting the book ready for publication was therapeutic for her, and she felt as if her husband was sitting right beside her. “I’m going to get it out there,” she said, “to hospices and libraries. This book can really help people who are going through this.” The book is available on Amazon or at www.westbowpress.com.

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Obituary fee Town Times charges a $50 processing fee for obituaries. For more information, call (203) 317-2256.

Friday, April 5, 2013 — Town Times

Government Meetings Town Hall, 7 p.m. Durham Wednesday, April 17 Planning & Zoning, LiGovernment brary, 7 p.m. Thursday, April 18 Calendar

Public Safety Facility Renovations Planning Committee, Durham Volunteer Firehouse, 6:30 p.m. Water Commission, Town Hall, 7 p.m. Monday, April 22 Board of Selectman, Town Hall, 7 p.m.

(Unless otherwise indicated, all meetings are held in the Community Center.) Wednesday, April 10 Planning & Zoning, 6:30 p.m. Monday, April 15 Planning & Zoning, 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 16 Board of Selectman, 7 p.m. Wednesday, April 17 Inlands/Wetlands, 7 p.m. Thursday, April 18 Board of Finance, 7 p.m. Tuesday, April 23 Zoning Board of Appeals, 7 p.m.

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June 8, at 10 a.m. The parade will step off at Rogers Manufacturing, continue through the center of Rockfall and Middlefield and end at Peckham Park. Any organization interested in being part of the 2013 Old Home Days Parade should contact Carrie Anderson at (860) 346-8954.

THE CRHS SCHOLARSHIP FUND IS PROUD TO THANK THE FOLLOWING SPONSORS FOR DONATIONS THAT SUPPORTED THE 42ND ANNUAL SCHOLARSHIP BALL:

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Middlefield/Rockfall Old Home Days has vendor openings for the June 8 celebration. The event is hoping to add to the menu with foods that promote health and made with natural ingredients. For more information and rates, call Carol

Schweitzer-Schilling at (860) 346-5081 or email carolsschilling@yahoo.com.

• • • • • • • • • • • •

Amato’s Toy & Hobbie Annette Willis A Walk in the Park Bertucci’s Best Cleaners Big Y Blackbird Tavern Bling by Bon Bon The Bottle Shop Bruegger’s Bagel Carmines Pizza Charles Bogan, CPA Coginchaug Regional High School Colors of the Wind Core Club Cozy Corner Creative Hair CT Beverage Mart Curtis Studio Dance Outfitters David Wenzel David & Kathy Lowry Deb Vynalek Personal Training Donald Brombacker DDS Durham Fitness

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Durham Veterinary Hospital Durham Wine & Spirits Emilia L. Menna-Erdmann Empower Endless Stitch Falcon Football & Cheerleading Clubs The Galleria Salon Hartford Distributors & Franklin Fine Beers Heidi Smith Angel Tails Home Depot Home Team Supply Illiano’s Inn at Middletown Jan Wenzel Janet McKinstry Jen Schulten Photography Jerry’s Pizza Jock-in-the-Box Kid’s City Kim’s Cottage Confections Kiwi Spoon Larkin’s Run Liberty Limousine Lino’s Market Lori’s Main St. Grooming

• Lyman Orchards Golf Course • Madison Wine & Spirit • Marriott • Mezzo Grille • Michelis Unisex Salon • Middlesex Music Academy • Middletown Framing • Mondo Grill • New Britain Rock Cats • NoRa’s Cupcakes • 99 Restaurant • Peaceful Healing Massage • Perk-on-Main • Perma Treat • PJ Jewelers • Ramani Clothiers • Ryan Bothamley • Shari Slight • Split Enz • Stacie Markoski • Tesoro Antiques & Treasures • Traveler’s • Tschudin Chocolates • Wild Orchid • Wood-N-Tap

Thanks again for another successful Event! See you next year!

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(Unless otherwise indicated, all meetings are held in the Durham Library. Check the town website at www.townofdurhamct.org for updates.) Monday, April 8 Inland/Wetlands, Library, 7 p.m. Board of Finance Budget Hearing, Coginchaug Regional High School, 8 p.m. Board of Selectman Budget Hearing, Coginchaug Regional High School, 8 p.m. Tuesday, April 9 Library Board of Trustees, Library, 7 p.m. Conservation Commission, Library, 7:30 p.m. Durham Volunteer Fire Company, Durham Volunteer Firehouse, 8 p.m. Wednesday, April 10 Board of Education, Coginchaug Regional High School, 7:30 Thursday, April 11 Zoning Board of Appeals, Town Hall, 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 18 Board of Finance, Town Hall, 6:30 p.m. Agriculture Commission,

Old Home Days

TownOpinion Commentary

In this week’s edition:

The Town Times 2013 Community Guide and other goodies This year’s community guide theme revolves around the environment and the well-known slogan Reduce, Reuse Recycle. One of our regular Town Times contributors, Trisha Dynia, suggested the idea and we thought it was an excellent one. All three towns in our distribution area have taken great strides towards more Earth-friendly practices - as have residents. Photos and stories in the guide, from Middlefield, Rockfall and Durham, illustrate the many ways people have taken protection of the environment to heart. The topic also is timely since the community guide comes out in April, the month when Earth Day is celebrated. Monday, April 22, is Earth Day - but we like to recognize Earth-friendly activities all month long (and of course, in fact, every day is Earth Day.) We invite you to send in your photos, essays, letters, poems, and news about your Earth Day activities. These can be mailed to news@towntimes.com. Please put “Earth Day” in the subject line. The official organization that sets the theme for Earth Day is located at www.earthday.org/2013/. This year, the group is looking at “The Face of Climate Change.” In doing so, it’s inviting visitors to upload their photos which depict environmental changes they see in their neighborhoods. If you do upload a photo, consider sharing it with the Town Times, too. Coming soon, Trish has written a story about how attitudes and practices that affect the environment have changed over time. That story will be published in an upcoming edition this April. Another of our regular contributors, Diana Carr, is working on a series of stories that celebrate the “home arts.” While not directly about the environment, many of the topics she explores concern people who are taking an organic approach to their lifestyle such as last week’s profile of Kathy Duffy, a bread baker who lives in Rockfall. Look for Diana’s upcoming exploration on the joys of hanging out the laundry. Judy Moeckel, also a Town Times contributor, is working on a gardening series that will take her around the towns to find out what kinds of gardens people are putting in and what their secrets to success are. We think these kinds of topics add to the spirit of Earth Day and hope you do, too. If you’d like to suggest a topic for our writers, send your idea to news@towntimes.com. - The editors

Town Times Friday, April 5, 2013

Proposed town budget is ready for your review and input By Laura Francis Special to Town Times For the past 3 ½ months the Board of Selectmen, Board of Finance, department heads and board and commission chairmen have been preparing the FY 201314 budget for your review. On April 8, the Board of Finance will conduct a public hearing to discuss the proposed budget which will take place at 8 p.m., at Coginchaug Regional High School. At the hearing, you will be asked to review the budget and make comments that the Board of Finance will consider before sending the final draft for approval at the Annual Town Meeting on May 13. You will find this budget to be heavily focused on the future with the bulk of new investment in items that are capital in nature with long lasting affect. The operating budget is up by 1.68 percent but the capital and reserve accounts are up 62.9 percent for a total of 7.78 percent increase over last year. The affect on the average home assessed at $200,000 is an additional $116.39. The increase in capital is attributable in part to salary related accounts including an additional five hours for the social services coordinator so that office can be open five days a week and an additional five hours for the assistant assessor who has been asked to do more field work as well as other contractual obligations (approximately $44,000); an appropriation for special programming services from the Con-

Laura Francis, Durham

From The Desk Of The First Selectman necticut State Police for traffic enforcement, community programs (youth, seniors, crime prevention), special investigations (narcotics, burglary, larceny, domestics, assaults, fraud), DUI ( approximately $22,000); DMIAAB (transfer station)(approximately $22.000) and 10 personal property audits (approximately $5,000). The decision to increase the Resident State Trooper budget for special programming versus an additional trooper was not taken lightly. After meeting with the chain of command at Troop F, it was decided that the most cost effective solution at this point was to first use tactical deployment of services to address our most pressing needs before committing to another resident state trooper. I received a very detailed report that will help us assign police coverage to target the above mentioned areas in

Letters policy E-mail letters to news@towntimes.com; mail to Town Times, P.O. Box 265, Middlefield, CT 06455; or 11 Crown St., Meriden, CT 06450 or fax to (203) 639-0210.

- The Town Times will print only one letter per person each month. Letters should be approximately 300 words. We reserve the right to edit letters for grammar

and content. Letters should be on topics of general interest to the community. We do not list names of people, organizations and businesses being thanked. Names of

Town Times can contact you for verification. - Letters must be submitted by noon on Monday to be considered for publication that week.

a very strategic manner to maximize results. We are proposing an increase in the reserve and capital budgets to begin to address infrastructure needs. In my first year in office, two boilers blew and had to be replaced. There was nothing set aside for this nor was there any expectation that they would fail. I vowed that we would do our best to reduce those “surprises” in the future. Since then, we have worked to create pretty solid capital plans to include fleet replacement, building maintenance and infrastructure. We’ve also done building assessments and public works and emergency complex build out plans. This budget will begin to put aside funds for such projects as renovation of town owned buildings on Main Street; replacement of 40 to 70 year old culverts; hardening of communications network between and among all town owned buildings; conversion of the public works fleet replacement to purchase versus leased and various other capital and reserve accounts. There will be a detailed presentation of all projects at the budget hearing. While we had many officials work on the budget, you have the ultimate decision to make. We welcome your input on April 8, at the budget hearing, and your participation at the Annual Budget Meeting on May 13. Check us out online: www.facebook.com/ TownTimesNews

Friday, April 5, 2013 — Town Times

Commentary

Be a ‘guest critic’ for Town Times Everyone has an opinion and we’d like to hear yours, especially when it comes to entertainment, arts and literature, pop culture and whatever else brings enlightenment or enjoyment to your world. If you’ve read a newly released book, seen a current movie, been to a gala event at a gallery, attended a concert, heard a new recording artist or ventured to one of the area’s cultural attractions, why not write about it and tell our readers about your experience? As a guest critic please include the complete name of the book, movie, concert, exhibit or other item you are reviewing. Also, provide a timeframe, such as when you attended the event, the release date of the movie, or how long the exhibit will be open. A review should be short, not more than 500 words, and give readers an overview of the topic as well as your experience or opinion of it. Include your name, address and telephone number for verification purposes. Send your reviews to n ew s @ t ow n t i m e s. c o m and put “guest critic” in the subject line. For questions, use the same email address.

Fey’s ‘Admission’ lacks that elusive rom-com spark Tanya Feke

Diagnosis: Movies By Tanya Feke M.D. Special to The Town Times I remember those college admission days. The application process, the tireless essays, the interviews. Back then, getting in equated to success or failure, and getting in to the school was a rite of passage. It becomes sobering as an adult to realize that what school you went to matters far less than you once thought. It is more about what you choose to take from the experience. In its own quirky way, Admission attempts to resurrect that high school mind set only to squash it again with the Rolling Stones reality of “You Can’t Always Get What You Want”. Tina Fey plays Portia Nathan, an admissions officer at Princeton, the second best school in the country (a running joke throughout the film). Wound tighter than a corkscrew, she decides the fate of thousands of applicants every year. A simple check box on “deny” sends pleading applicants to fall through an imaginary trap

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door into oblivion. Until Jeremiah. Portia learns from a college acquaintance that Jeremiah may well be the son she gave up for adoption all those years ago. That news delivering acquaintance so happens to be the adorable but too-good-to-betrue John Pressman (Paul Rudd), Jeremiah’s teacher from an alternative high school. The producers must have been rubbing their hands together in giddy anticipation on casting. Tina Fey is beloved for her comedic timing and her take charge spirit both on screen and off. Paul Rudd has embodied the ever lovable and handsome love interest from Clueless to This is 40. But the outright lack of chemistry between these usually hilarious stars, not to mention a drab screenplay, leads to a big fat deny. Altogether, Admission fails, more so because of its shameless billing as a ro-

mantic comedy. The studio simply did not know how to market the film so why not target the ladies? A shower scene where Rudd sends Fey a playful kiss. Fey and Rudd out to dinner. Fey sneaking out of Rudd’s house with rumpled clothes. Need I go on? Romantic comedies should be easy. Take a story line that brings together two characters under unusual circumstances, toss in some chemistry, add a dilemma that tears them apart, bring them back together, and voila! As they say in Sleepless in Seattle, “magic”. There have been many successful rom-coms to break the formula ((500) Days of Summer), but the truth is there has not been a decent rom-com in years. Looking to the greats, it is not difficult to see why. Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan, Richard Gere and Julia Roberts. Katharine Hepburn and Cary Grant.

Their chemistry sizzled with every scene, the story hardly mattered. In Admission, the sizzle comes from oneliners delivered by ancillary characters, specifically Portia’s randy mother played by Lily Tomlin. All that Portia really has to offer is the realization that Princeton may not be the end all be all. The school of life is much more interesting.

Admission: 2 stethoscopes Dr. Tanya Feke is a physician at Middlesex Hospital Primary Care – Durham and guest columnist for The Town Times. She has been press credentialed to the LA Film Festival and continues to pursue a love of film. Her reviews are rated on a 5 stethoscope scale. Follow her blog www.tanyafeke.com , Facebook page Diagnosis: Life, or twitter @tanyafeke .

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Town Times — Friday, April 5, 2013

Resign Continued from page 1

The departure of Viccaro and Hauser continues a re-

cent string of high profile turnover in the school district. Four principals have left from the six schools since 2011, two from retirement. There has also been

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turnover in the director of curriculum and business manager positions within the last two years. Business Manager Ron Melnik left the district in 2011, also for a position in Waterford, before returning after his successor, Pam Mangini, left within a year. The BOE chair also changed during this time, from Tom Hennick to Flanagan in July of 2012.

Of the turnover, Hauser said, “I can really only speak to one of them. For me, it’s the right opportunity at the wrong time. It was a question of going for it when it was available.” Asked about the turnovers by e-mail, Viccaro wrote, “While I do believe these are tumultuous times in public education with many mandates and initiatives happening, I

don’t think that has had any influence on administrators leaving D13.” Flanagan said several departures were from retirements. “There’s not much you can do about that,” she said. Flanagan said there had been positive reception to the new principals and there are large numbers of applicants who respond to postings. “It seems that people want to come to D13.”

Waterford School District press release welcomes Hauser I am pleased to announce that Andre Hauser has been appointed Principal of Waterford High School and will join us on May 13, 2013. Mr. Hauser brings more than 17 years of professional experience in education and in journalism to his new position. He holds a 6th year degree in Educational Leadership from the University of Connecticut, an M.A. in Teaching from Sacred Heart University, Fairfield, and a B.A. in Journalism and English from University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill. Employed by Region 13 since 2003, Mr. Hauser is currently Principal at Coginchaug High School and has had significant experience with improving instructional quality through effective supervision. School climate has been a primary focus of his leadership. Mr. Hauser brings strong oral and written communication skills that have assisted in building a strong community outreach approach with non-profits and civic organizations. Coginchaug is piloting Bring Your Own Device as well as tablet-based instruction in U.S. History classes. He sees technology as an integral part of the teaching and learning process in the 21st century. From 2003 to 2010, Mr. Hauser served as assistant principal at Coginchaug High School in Durham-Middlefield. In 2008, Andre was recognized as the Connecticut Association of Schools’ Principal of the Year. As the Assistant Principal at Coginchaug High School, he developed a strong transition program for 8th graders into the high school through a year-long middle school to high school transitional program. He worked diligently with the staff to improve school climate and student behavior through proactive student engagement approaches. During his tenure, he restructured the Region 13 crisis management plan and coordinated the high school’s response to crisis events. In addition, he managed building operations during an active construction project. From 2000 to 2003, Mr. Hauser was employed by the Enfield Public Schools, serving as the English Dept. Chair. As a teacher, Mr. Hauser taught grades 10 through 12 English classes. He also taught English from 1995 to 2000 at Palmer High School in Massachusetts. Andre through-hiked the Appalachian Trail (Georgia to Maine), a 2,150 mile solo backpacking trip, in 1994. Please join me, Assistant Principals Becky Amanti and Gene Ryan and the entire Waterford High School staff in welcoming Andre to his new position in Waterford. Andre resides in Madison with his wife and two sons.

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March 28, 2013 Dear Coginchaug Faculty, Staff, Student, and Parents: I am writing to inform you that I will be resigning from my position as the principal of Coginchaug Regional High School, effective Friday, April 26, 2013, to pursue a new professional opportunity as the principal of Waterford High School. I send you this letter with a mix of gratitude and fondness for the entire Region 13 and Coginchaug community. Over the past 10 years, I have been fortunate enough to work with and learn from countless talented and dedicated educators, students, and community members. I leave Coginchaug now with wonderful memories of my time here and a deep sense of shared pride in the good work we have all done together on behalf of the great kids at CRHS. Thank you again for the trust and the tremendous experiences that Region 13 and Coginchaug Regional High School have given me over these many years. Sincerely, Andre Hauser

Friday, April 5, 2013 — Town Times

Durham Garden Club celebrates 80th anniversary “green gardening” whenever possible by reusing, recycling, and using earth friendly products. The Durham Garden Club is a member of National Garden Clubs, Inc., The Federated Garden Clubs of Connecticut, Inc., and The New England Region of National Garden Clubs, Inc. It meets on the second Thursday of every month except for July and August. The public is always welcome to attend meetings. This is a great

time to join us. For more information, call Flo Flynn at (860) 349-0504. Submitted by Florence C. Flynn, historian Meeting Dates Thursday, May 9, 2013 10:30 a.m. Business and annual meetings. Saturday, May 18, 2013 - 2 p.m. Afternoon Tea - Lyman Homestead . Thursday June 13, 2013 - 10 a.m. Tour of Phelps Homestead and Gardens Simsbury.

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cluding Standard Flower Shows, Silver Teas, plant sales, as well as annual wreath sales. It gives it back to the community by providing quality programs involving lectures, school programs, and workshops about floral design, landscaping, horticulture, birding, and conservation. It donates books and media to the Durham Library and has been involved with their landscaping as well. A generous scholarship is also given to a local graduating high school senior who can further the aims and interest of The Durham Garden Club and The Federated Garden Clubs of CT. The Durham Garden Club promotes and encourages

Shayna has been waiting for a home for a long time. She is a sweet girl who is very affectionate. She will sit on your lap and sleep with you at night. She needs a home where she is the only pet. She is full of love and affection, and just needs some to love her. Please call Catales today at (860) 344-9043 or info@catales.org

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boards. Their awards are on display this anniversary month at The Durham Library along with a new floral arrangement or plant every month. Their brochures are available at the circulation desk. The floral decorations displayed at Strong School StepUp Day, District 13 Graduation and Memorial Day parade are also provided by The Durham Club. The Artistic Design Committee participates in various floral competitions throughout the year including Festival of Trees and Fine Art and Flowers at the Wadsworth Athenaeum in Hartford. The Durham Garden Club raises revenue for all its projects from various events in-

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Eighty years ago, on March 23, 1933, 12 ladies interested in gardening gathered at the Durham Library with Mrs. Stanley Pardee, of the Meriden Garden Club, to organize a similar club in Durham. They were Mary Asman, Gertrude Atwell, Blanche Coe, Josephine H. Francis, Daisy Hall, Annie Page, Gertrude Page, Hattie Page, May Roberts, Mary Stone, Alice Strong, and Carrie Wilcox. It was fitting to return to our roots and have a celebratory meeting at the library. The meeting began with a history of Durham presented by Sarah Atwell. Laura Frances presented The Durham Garden Club with a Proclamation from the Town of Durham thanking the club for all of its service and dedicated members. Ronnie Schoelzel, president of The Federated Garden Clubs of CT, spoke about all the wonderful projects that the state and national clubs have been involved with followed by a lovely luncheon at Time Out Tavern. The mission of The Durham Garden Club is, “To promote interest and activity in all forms of gardening, to encourage education that will lead to keener appreciation of the advantages of garden development, and when possible to use this knowledge for the betterment of our homes and our community.” The first club project focused on the removal and elimination of the Mill Bridge dump. Since that time, the club’s main focus has been Civic Beautification. The Durham Garden Club has maintained a high level of activity and visibility throughout the years. Some of the most recent award winning projects include The Triangle landscaping at the junction of Routes 79 and 17, Project 2000, The Greening of Main Street( which involved replacing diseased trees along. Main Street, The Hillside Project, Blue Star Marker and Gardens at the Town Hall, Daffodil Days Projects, and their efforts to eliminate visual pollution by participating in Adopt-A-Road and eliminating unsightly bill-

TownCalendar

April 5 Friday

Banquet - The ECO has scheduled is annual Hunger Awareness Banquet for Friday, April 5, at 6 p.m., at Coginchaug High School. For a fee, participants will receive a handmade bowl and all the soup and bread they can eat. Elisabeth Kennedy is scheduled to speak about HELO Haiti. All proceeds benefit hunger relief efforts locally and globally. For more information and reservations, contact Susan Michael at (860) 349-7215, ext. 235.

Saturday

Dixieland jazz band The First Church of Christ, Congregational, 190 Court St., Middletown, has scheduled the Heartbeat Dixieland Jazz Band for Saturday, April 6, from 2 to 4:30 p.m. The public is welcome. A fee is charged. For more information and to pur-

chase tickets, visit www.jazzinstarsocom or call (860) 767-1663. Meatloaf supper - United Churches of Durham has scheduled its meatloaf supper for Saturday, April 6, at 6 p.m., in the Fellowship Hall. Menu includes meatloaf, macaroni and cheese, salad, corn and cupcakes. Musical entertainment by Zach and Kara Duo is planned. The event is both a fundraiser and an opportunity to honor the people who maintain and repair the church buildings and grounds. The public is welcome. A fee is charged. For more information, call Liz Cipollina at (860) 6850207. Farmers’ Market - The winter Farmers’ Market is scheduled for Saturday, April 6, from 9 a.m. to noon, at the Dudley Farm, 2351 Durham Rd., New Guilford. Baked goods, eggs, honey, maple syrup, jams and jellies, naturally raised meat, pickles, homemade arts and crafts are featured this month. For more information, call (860) 349-3917 or visit www.dudleyfarm.com. Idol contest - Durham Adult Idol Contest, for ages 18 to 55 and 56 and older, is

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scheduled for Saturday, April 6, at 1 p.m., at the Durham Activity Center. Pick up an application at Durham Town Hall or at towjnofdurhamct.org Recreation. For more information, call (860) 343-6724. Falcons - Durham-Middlefield Falcons has scheduled football and cheerleading registration for the 2013 season for and Saturday, April 6, from 9 to 11 a.m., at the Middlefield Community Center. All boys and girls between 7 and 14 are welcome. A fee is charged. For more information, call Ken Parrilla at6 (860) 657-5637 or kappp@aol.com or visit www.dmfalcons.com.

Sunday

Pasta supper - An Eagle scout pasta supper fundraiser is scheduled for Sunday, April 7, from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Middlefield Federated Church. Proceeds help Alexander Staddon to raise funds to create an outdoor classroom at the church. Tickets are available at the door, by calling (860) 349-3895 or visit the church office. Open house - Colors of the Wind open house is scheduled for Sunday, April 7, from noon to 4 p.m., at 366 Main St. Refreshments, raffle to benefit Willy’s Friend’s. For more information, call (860) 788-2514.

Town Times Friday, April 5, 2013

Monday

Durham 60+ Club - The Durham 60+ Club is scheduled to meet Monday, April 8, at 1:30 p.m., in the Durham Activity Center, 350 Main St. A variety meeting and musical entertainment by the Humble Bees is scheduled after the meeting. A blood pressure clinic is scheduled for 1 p.m. New members are always welcome.

Tuesday

Parents forum - A parents forum is scheduled for Tuesday, April 9, at 7 p.m., at the Coginchaug Regional High School. The agenda includes discussion of a new principal search, RSD13 budget, NEASC evaluation and more.

Wednesday

TOPS meeting - Take Off Pounds Sensibly meets every Wednesday, at 6 p.m., at the Middlefield Community Center. For more information, contact Naomi Klotsko at (860) 349-9558 or Bonnie Olesen at (860) 3499433. Basketball Assn. - The Durham Basketball Associ-

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ation has scheduled its annual meeting for Wednesday, April 10, at 7 p.m., at the Durham Public Library. The purpose of the meeting is to elect new officers to the D.B.A. board and to discuss business. For more information, contact dbal@dbact.org.

Thursday

Luncheon - The St. Coleman Ladies Guild has scheduled a special luncheon for seniors of Middlefield and Rockfall for Thursday, April 11, at noon, at the church. Entertainment by the Humblees is planned. Please RSVP by April 7 at (860) 349-3868.

Friday

4C’s Square Dance Club - The 4C’s Square Dance Club is scheduled for Friday, April 12, from 8 to 10:30 p.m., at the Brewster School, Durham. The caller is Jim DeNigris; cuer is Sue Lucibello. For more information, call (860) 349-8084 or (203) 272-7463.

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Friday, April 5, 2013 — Town Times

Middlefield businesswoman among those honored for achieving success despite obstacles By Joy VanderLek Special to Town Times

Citizen photo by Joy VanderLek

The Cheshire-Wallingford League of Women Voters’ held a recent forum in honor of Women’s History Month. Honorees are, from left: Maura Esposito, director of health for the town of Killingworth; Sylvia Nichols well-known florist, businessperson and Town Council member; and Carol Wallace, president and CEO of Cooper Atkins in Middlefield. Sandstone Group, LLC of Milwaukee, Wisconsin. The two other honorees were Cheshire resident Maura Esposito, current director of health for the town of Killingworth and Sylvia Nichols, a well-known florist, businessperson and Town Council member; and Esposito has a bachelor degree and a master of public health degree. Her community and service work includes sitting on the executive board of the town-wide PTA. “I am honored to be here today,” Esposito said. “Where did we come from and where are we going...We probably have a common thread.” She went on to give appreciation to female fami-

ly members in her past, along with teachers and other mentors. It was not until Esposito took a mandatory class on “public health” class in college that she found herself. “I called my mother and said, ‘I figured it out! I know where I am supposed to be.’” Sylvia Nichols is a nationally recognized floral instructor, designer and spokesperson. She owned her own business in town for more than two decades, was a past Cheshire Chamber of Commerce president, and is a current Town Council Member, as well as manager for a local flower shop. Nichols agreed with Esposito about positive common bonds, but also brought up

you were pregnant!” When her second son began school, Nichols began a career as a floral designer with DeVylder. She wanted to start a floral business of her own by 1970. Along with a partner, she managed to get the ear of a banker when he saw their detailed business plan. However, the banker wanted their husbands to sign for the loan. The women managed to talk him out of it, but only got half of what they wanted—until the following year when the banker saw how well the business was doing. Nichols had been involved with the community through Girl Scouts, volunteer work, and with a vocational training school for design and management, operated in conjunction with the Connecticut Floral Association.

Community supper The Church of the Epiphany, 196 Main St., has scheduled a free community supper for Sunday, April 14, from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m., in the church hall. All are welcome.

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The Cheshire-Wallingford League of Women Voters’ recently held a forum in honor of Women’s History Month. The event, held at the Cheshire Town Hall, delivered a message of empowerment. Three successful, local businesspersons were featured speakers, including Carol Wallace, president and CEO of Cooper Atkins in Middlefield, a company that manufactures digital products for industrial use. Wallace said, “My path was different, in that it began back in 1865 when my family started manufacturing silver in Wallingford. So I’ve been blessed to continue a heritage.” Wallace knew that she had to make her own way before she reconnected with her father and the family business. She was a woman in manufacturing, “a man’s world,” she said. Her path was not always smooth. She worked at Dunn and Bradstreet after graduation from college, then on to the family business for a shortterm. After which, she went to Boston to work at a small computer company. “I had to earn my own stripes, and not relying on my own family,” she said. Her travels took her to manufacturing at Hughes Aircraft in California, and then on to the Midwest, where a client asked for her help in finding “the guy” they needed for a particular position. As it turned out, “the guy” did not work out, so she suggested the company hire her. It did—for a lesser amount of money than had been offered to the male applicant. Today, Wallace has set her own course and is now chairman, president and CEO of Cooper-Atkins. “I had 13 years of working with my father, learning from him and growing the business together.” Among many accomplishments, Wallace serves on the board of the Connecticut Water Company, as well as Zygo Corporation and

the travails women have shared as society slowly evolved to where it is today. In the late1950s, Nichols said, “Women were not encouraged to do a lot in the business world at that time.” In high school, guidance counselors suggested she be a secretary or a teacher. However, Nichols said she also had great mentors and teachers. She wanted to be a physical therapist, but with limited funds, decided to get her degree at a state college. When growing up in the 1940s and 50s, Nichols’ family life, included a mentally challenged sibling and that influenced her decision to become a special education teacher in Meriden. Later, married and wanting start a family, Nichols was required to leave the teaching job she was proud to have. “The rule was you left after three or four months— goodness anyone knew that

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Town Times — Friday, April 5, 2013

BOE will ask for 2.29 percent increase at public hearing By Mark Dionne Town Times

At a lengthy meeting March 27, the Board of Education made additional cuts to the proposed 2013-2014 school budget before approving it for the public hearing scheduled for April 10. The BOE trimmed another $288,000, including a large reduction in health and dental insurance payments ($113,786), the elimination of one bus, and multiple personnel cuts. Including the cuts made at the March 20 meeting and $170,000 in additional revenue, the proposed 20132014 school budget has a net increase of 2.29 percent over the current budget. Since its original proposal with a 4.39 percent increase, the budget has been reduced by $715,851. Personnel Cuts New staff reductions come from different buildings and positions, including two parttime secretaries at Central Office, one part time social worker and half time kindergarten aid at John Lyman, three proposed tutors at the elementary grade level, and one half time special education teacher at Coginchaug Regional High School. At the March 20 meeting,

Town Times photo by Mark Dionne

Like other schools in the district, Memorial Middle School will face staff changes under the proposed 2013-2014 budget. The Board of Education accepted a suggestion to eliminate a science position at the school. Superintendent of Schools Sue Viccaro, asked by the BOE to find spending reductions, proposed the elimination of one contemporary science teacher at Memorial Middle School, three interns, and one-fifth of a science teacher at CRHS. The BOE accepted each proposal. The original budget also eliminated one kindergarten teacher and one 1-2 teacher at Lyman and one fourth grade teacher at Korn. Some, but not all, of the

cuts come through attrition. Two of the cuts that generated much of the discussion were among the less expensive lines - the three tutors at $29,970 total and the one-fifth science position at $15,553. Halfway through the meeting, BOE chair Kerrie Flanagan proposed using capital reserve funds to preserve those positions, but the idea was not accepted. According to several BOE members, the tutors were previously recommended by principals as a low cost way to increase academic performance. The proposed budget keeps three new tutors, who will be used at Strong and CRHS.

During public comment Susan Michael, science department chair at CRHS, spoke against eliminating the science position. According to Michael, without the position more students will end up in study halls instead of desired classes. “Please return the 0.2 position to the science department and return seats in science classes to our students,” Michael asked. The board maintained the cut, citing assurances from CRHS administration that increased class sizes would maintain the science offerings. According to Viccaro, the CRHS administration “took a look at current caps on classes and increased caps and are running a new schedule based on increased class sizes. We know that we’ll be putting more kids into classes.” Class sizes were a focus at the meeting as the board looked to use declining enrollment and increased class sizes as a way to cut the budget. The 3-4 enrollment at Lyman was examined but it was determined that eliminating a 3-4 classroom there would put each class at the maximum and over the class size policy limit for third grade. Special Education The size, expense, and value of special education instructors were also a focus of the meeting, with much of the public comment sections devoted to the topic.

“If you look at the special ed budget relative to the budget as a whole in the district,” BOE member Robert Fulton said. “The increases in special ed are higher than the district as a whole, and have been for three years.” BOE member Jeremy Renninghoff was blunter. “I know some people are going to be very upset, but I have to point it out ... we challenged Amy [Emory, pupil personnel director] to come back with some reduction ... we asked for reduction in expenditures and that’s what we expect.” The BOE accepted the reduction of a half position special education instructor at CRHS, with only member Joseph Ochterski voting against it. One of several parents who spoke in favor of special education, was Fran Paulson from Rockfall. Of her 10year-old-son, she said, “Because of his special ed teachers, he talks today ... And he’d tell you something if you cut special ed because he adores all his teachers and I adore them because they work wonders.” The $34,870,608 budget will go before a public hearing on April 10 at the CRHS auditorium at 7:30 p.m. The BOE has one last opportunity after the public hearing to change the budget before putting it up for referendum.

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Friday, April 5, 2013 — Town Times

Library Briefs Durham Library Hours: Regular library hours are Mondays through Thursdays, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Fridays and Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. 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.

Pre-School Mother Goose (18 to 30 months) Mondays, at 10:15 a.m. Time for Tots (2 1/2 to 3 1/2) Wednesdays, at 10:15 a.m. Preschool Storytime (3 1/2 to 5) Tuesdays, at 10:15 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Bedtime Storytime (2 to 4) Mondays, at 7 p.m. (wear pajamas) To register, call the library at (860) 349-9544.

Children

and up. Registration is requested. CSI Murder Mystery in the Library - Saturday, April 27, 2 to 4 p.m. Use crime scene investigation techniques to determine who the murderer is. Examine the crime scene, fingerprints, DNA, possible murder weapons, and even interview witnesses. Ages 11-18. Registration is requested.

Adults Maximize Your Retirement Income - This workshop will help you increase Social Security benefits, save on taxes, discover hidden benefits and more. Wednesday, April 10, at 6:15 p.m. To register call (860) 349-9544. Bees and Beekeeping The Durham Fair Foundation will sponsor “Bees and Beekeeping.” Learn the importance of bees, the basics of their care. Mark Shadle is the presenter. Thursday, April 11, at 7 p.m. Author Talk - Marina Dutzmann Kirsch will dis-

Series-ous Fun! Book Discussion (Grades 1 through 3): Saturday, April 6, 2 to 2:45 p.m. Book discussion focusing on chapter book series. Refreshments provided. The book is Judy Moody Was In a Mood by Megan McDonald. Lunch Bunch Book Discussion (Grades 4 through 6): Saturday, April 6, from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. Bring your lunch; dessert provided. The book is The Silver Bowl by Diane Stanley. LEGO Club (6 to 12 years): Thursday, April 11, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. LEGOs provided.

CDs will be accepted beginning on Monday, April 1. Please, no magazines, textbooks or encyclopedia.

Levi E. Coe Library 414 Main Street, Middlefield, (860) 349-3857 or www.leviecoe.com. Hours: Mondays-Thursdays, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Closed Fridays. Children’s Room display case Do you have a collection you’d like to share? Are you a community group interested in showcasing your work? If so, please contact the Children’s Department at (860) 349-3857 to use the downstairs display case. Genealogy Program Thursday, April 18, at 6 p.m. Librarian Sharon Dahlmeyer-Giovannitti from Godfrey Memorial Library is scheduled to discuss how to start

Mystery Book Discussion - Tuesday, April 16, at 7:30 p.m. Last Refuge by Chris Knopf will be discussed. All are invited. PALS Annual Book Sale Saturday, May 18. Open at 9 a.m. for special, preview admission and 10 a.m. for general admission. Donations of gently used books, DVDs and

your genealogy using charts, questions and answers. Registration is requested due to limited seating. Fun & Games Day Thursday, April 18, 3 to 4:30 p.m. at the Levi E. Coe Library. Bingo, Twister, and more. Prizes will be awarded. Paint a tile to be permanently displayed in the Levi Coe kitchen. A fee will be charged for each tile, proceeds benefit the kitchen renovation. Paperback Book Sale Saturday, May 4, from 8 a.m. to noon. Donations of gently use books are appreciated. A concert, featuring the Middlefield Ukulele Club, is scheduled from 11 to 11:30 a.m. No registration necessary.

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Russell Library, located at 123 Broad St. in Middletown, is open from 9 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Fridays, and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturdays.

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Teen Knitting Club Tuesday, April 9, 7 to 8 p.m. New members always welcome. Bring your own projects or come and learn how to knit. Needles and yarn available. Ages 10-18, drop in. Teen Advisory Group Saturday, April 13, 3 to 4 p.m. Share your ideas for how to improve the library for teens and enjoy a snack. We will also be decorating the YA area for spring at this meeting. Ages 12-18, drop in. Belly Dancing Class: Tuesday, April 16, 3 to 4 p.m.. Learn the basics of belly dancing with Gina. Ages 16

cuss Flight of Remembrance, a World War II Memoir of Love and Survival, her account of her parents’ travails during World War II and their subsequent lives in the United States. Saturday, April 13, at 2 p.m. Author Talk - Former CT Congressman, Robert Steele is scheduled to discuss his book, The Curse: Big-Time Gambling’s Seduction of a Small New England Town - a Novel. The factional story, based on real events, describes how gambling casinos came to Southeastern Connecticut. Thursday, April 25, at 6:30 p.m.

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16 Meatloaf supper United Churches of Durham has scheduled its meatloaf supper for Saturday, April 6, at 6 p.m., in the Fellowship Hall. Menu includes meatloaf, macaroni and cheese, salad, corn and cupcakes. Musical entertainment by Zach and Kara Duo is planned. The event is both a fundraiser and an opportunity to honor the people who maintain and repair the church buildings and grounds. The public is welcome. A fee is charged. For more information, call Liz Cipollina at (860) 685-0207.

Town Times — Friday, April 5, 2013

Blessed procession Submitted by Kum-Cha Soja

Notre Dame Church Palm Sunday procession from the Prayer Garden to the church on Sunday, March 23. Pictured, Faith Formation (Religious Education) children await blessing of Palms.

How long have you lived in Durham? Since 1999. Why did you move here? Durham reminded me of the community where I grew up (Cheshire), it is rural and there were a lot of younger families. What is your favorite thing about Durham? There are a lot of caring people, and people are connected to one another. What is something you would change? I wish I had extended family who lived here with us. Tell us about yourself My husband Jerry and I have two girls, Megan and Sarah. I work at Middlesex Hospital in the emergency department as a crisis clinician and at Central Connecticut State University in counseling and wellness. I love reading, traveling, and words with friends. What would people be surprised to know about you? I encountered a grizzly bear in the 90s. By Elisabeth Kennedy

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Town Times Friday, April 5, 2013

AARP safe driving Blood pressure The AARP safe driving screenings course is scheduled for Tuesday, April 30, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the Senior Center. A fee is charged. Payment is due upon registration. For more information and to register, call Antoinette at (860) 349-7121.

Book discussion The Middlefield Senior Center, with the Levi E. Coe Library, has scheduled a book discussion of The Shoemaker’s Wife by Adriana Trigiani for Monday, April 20, at 1 p.m. The senior center and the library have copies of the book. For more information, call (860) 349-7121 or (860) 3493857.

Get in shape The Senior Center has scheduled exercise classes for seniors every Monday and Friday, at 7:45 a.m. Yoga classes are scheduled for Wednesdays, at 7:45 a.m. The classes are on a drop-in basis and free to Middlefield seniors, age 60 and older. Bring a water bottle and mat. For more information, call (860) 349-7121.

Luncheon The St. Coleman Ladies Guild has scheduled a special luncheon for seniors of Middlefield and Rockfall for Thursday, April 11, at noon, at the church. Entertainment by the Humblees is planned. Please RSVP by April 7, at (860) 349-3868.

Knitting and crocheting

Free Blood Pressure Screenings are held every first and third Wednesday of each month, at noon, at the Middlefield Senior Center. No appointment is necessary.

Senior exercise is offered Monday, Wednesday and Friday at the Durham Activity Center. Two classes are offered: 9 a.m. and 10 a.m. There is no cost for Durham residents 60 and over.

Durham senior lunches

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Senior lunches are offered every Monday and Wednesday at the Durham Activity Center, 350 Main St. The Elderly Nutrition program is designed to provide nutritional meals, at a low cost to persons ages 60 and over and their spouses. To cover the cost, a suggested donation is welcome. To make lunch reservations, call Amanda Pedersen, senior cafe manager, at (860) 349-3153. Bingo is offered every Wednesday, at 1 p.m., following the luncheon.

St. Luke’s supports successful aging and independent living serving veterans and elders. Free services provided are friendly visiting, out-of-area medical trans-

any questions or would like to sign up for programs or for lunch (monthly menus can be picked up at the senior center or Town Hall) in the Senior Café (serving on Monday, Wednesday and Friday), contact Antoinette Astle at (860) 349-7121. The Durham 60 Plus Club meets at the Durham Activity Center the second and fourth Monday of each month, September through June, at 1:30 p.m. The next meeting is Oct. 22 at 1:30 p.m and newcomers are welcome.

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Senior Bus The Durham/Middlefield Senior Bus is available for transportation to activities on Tuesday and Wednesday. There is no fee for this service. Planned trips include: The Christmas Tree Shops in Manchester and Orange, Yankee Candle in Deerfield, Mass., IKEA, Mohegan Sun, Foxwoods, Evergreen Walk, WFSB Better Yet Connecticut, Stew Leonards, Foot Prints, Maritime Aquarium, Mystic Village and the Thimble Islands, to name a few. The bus schedule can be found at various establishments in Durham, such as the library, the Durham Activity Center, Town Hall and online at www.townofdurhamct.org. Call (860) 3475661 Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., to make a reservation.

General Assisted Living — Assistance with everyday tasks and personal care services tailored to your needs. Enhanced Living — Services and amenities to ease the chores of daily living so you can spend more time enjoying life to the fullest. Short-stay Residency — Not sure if assisted living is right for you or need some additional support for a short time? Come and stay for a while and experience the Pond Ridge lifestyle firsthand. The Hearth — Specialized memory care residence for those with Alzheimer’s or other dementias. Contact us for more information or to schedule a tour. Our monthly fees are very inclusive with no up front community fee. ~ Apartments Now Available ~ 1-800-382-2244 /www.MasonicareAssisted.org Cheshire Road, Wallingford

Dial-A-Ride Dial-A-Ride provides curbto-curb transportation for the elderly and disabled. This service can be used for medical appointments, shopping, banking and other places, and is available five days a week. Call (860) 347-3313 for a reservation. There is a fee.

portation, transportation for elderly veterans to VA hospitals, grocery shopping services, minor home repair, information/resource referral, individual case management, education/advocacy, The Gatekeeper Program, Access4Care and St. Luke’s Apartments on Broad Street in Middletown. For specific information on their services, call (860) 347-5661. St. Luke’s is located at 760 Saybrook Road in Middletown. The Middlefield Senior Center is located in the Middlefield Community Center at 405 Main Street. If you have

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Knitters and crocheters meet every Thursday, at 9:30 a.m., at the Middlefield Senior Center for coffee and knitting. Bring your unfinished project or learn a new one. The group also makes Afghans for the Middlesex Cancer Center and the MidState Cancer Center. Yarn and needles are available.

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TownSports

Town Times Friday, April 5, 2013

Coginchaug football captains collect post-season honors Sean Harper was selected to receive a Scholar-Athlete Award from the Northern Connecticut chapter of the National Football Foundation & College Hall of Fame. He is one of only 23 seniors from the 60 high schools that comprise the Northern Connecticut Chapter to receive this recognition. The award is based on football talent, academic achievement and community service. Harper follows in the footsteps of former Coginchaug player Alec Corazzini (Wesleyan University) who received the Scholar- Athlete Award in 2012. Sean and his parents will be honored at a banquet at the Aquaturf in Southington on Sunday May 19 at noon. Harper, who started at

fullback and defensive end for the Blue Devils, was named the 2012 winner of the Coginchaug football “Foundations of Honor” award which is presented to the four-year senior who best exemplifies the qualities of scholarship, leadership and citizenship. He was also named to the Pequot League’s 2012 All-Academic team. Ian Augur has been selected to play in the Hall of Fame Classic All-Star Football Game. The game will be played at Rentschler Field on Saturday, June 29, at 4:30 p.m.. The game replaces the Governors’ Cup game that featured Connecticut allstars against Rhode Island all-stars. Augur was selected following a tryout that

was open to every high school senior in the state. Augur had previously been selected to the All-Pequot League team and, by a vote of the state’s coaches, to the Connecticut High School Football Coach- Hall of Fame representative Paul es Class S All- Cosgrove, left, with Sean Harper. State Team as a first-team center. This is the prior seasons. Augur also rethird consecutive year a ceived the 2012 Coginchaug Coginchaug player has been football team’s Most Valuable named to the All-State team. Player Award for his play at David Wheeler, 2010 defensive tackle, and Alec Corazz- offensive center and defenini, 2011 linebacker, repre- sive tackle. Submitted by John Bozzi sented the Blue Devils in

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Sports Briefs Men’s League playoffs open

The 2013 Durham Men’s Basketball League playoffs opened last week, and the field quickly went from 9 teams to 4. Despite 4 of the 5 higher seeds winning games, the opening rounds featured one overtime win, one game decided in the final 6 seconds, two games where teams overcame halftime deficits to win, and one that overcame and early 10 point deficit. Without question, it was one of the most exciting opening rounds in recent years. The semifinals will feature No. 1 Torrison Stone against No. 5 Connecticut Sign, and No. 2 Scott Tax Group taking on No. 3 Timeout Taverne this week. No. 8 Around the Clock 59, No. 9 Hitchin Post 57Tied at 57 with 6.3 seconds remaining, Hitchin Post got a questionable foul call on a Steve Markoski defensive rebound, and Markoski hit both shots to lead Around the Clock to victory. A Scott Rogers layup to tie the game missed as the buzzer sounded. Markoski and Pete Donecker would both go on to lead ATC with 24 each. Jonathan Gibbs had 12, Ryan Donceker scored 11 and Matt Thompson added 10 for Hitchin Post. No. 5 Connecticut Sign 69, No. 4 Young Gunz 55The Young Gunz came out firing, taking an early 23-13 lead in the first 6 minutes of play, but fell cold the rest of the way, as Preston Beverly led CT Sign to an upset win. Beverly hit on five 3 pointers in the first half, and by halftime, CT Sign had regained a 40-36 lead. Jason Williams had a stunning opening half for the Gunz, scoring 18 points including a pair of 3 pointers to start the game. But CT Sign tightened up defensively, and the Gunz didn’t see any open jump shots for the final 30

See Sports, next page

Friday, April 5, 2013 — Town Times

Continued from page 18

Adult recreation.

Time for tennis

Photo by Karen Kean

Coginchaug Regional High School boys and girls tennis teams pose at an early s e a s o n practice.

Women’s Open Gym Basketball is scheduled for Mondays, April 8, 22, 29 May 6, 13, 20 June 3, 10 at 6 to 9:15 p.m. at Strong School. Co-ed Volleyball is scheduled for Wednesdays, April 10, 24, May 1, 22, 29 June 5, 12 at 6 to 9:15 p.m. at Strong School.

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minutes of play. Beverly finished with 32 and Anthony Puorro scored 12 including 710 at the foul line for CT Sign. Williams ended with 24 and Greg Bereski finished with 18 for the Gunz. No. 3 Timeout Taverne 50, No. 6 Durham Dental 48 (OT)-Despite going just 4-9 at the foul line in the second half, Pete Doering hit a pair of shots in overtime, and Tommy Ryan and Jason Connelly added some free-throws as Timeout overcame a 5 point halftime deficit, and defeated Durham Dental in a physical and sometimes chippy contest. Durham Dental committed a league record 27 fouls, as Scott McGuiness and Mark Hodges both fouled out while Timeout committed 17. And more could certainly have been called. Doering finished with 16 to lead Timeout, with Scott Chesmer adding 12 and Ryan finishing with 11. McGuiness ended with 20 and Mark Crayton scored 15 in the loss for Durham Dental. Timeout shot a league record 36 free throws on the night, hitting on just 22. . No. 2 Scott Tax 75, No.7 Allstate Fire Equipment 59-Joe Davis scored 16 first half points for Allstate, who led 38-36 at halftime, but Keith Ferguson and Leland McKenna both had big second halves to lead Scott Tax to the 14 point win. Trevor Hanson hit on five 3-pointers for Allstate, and finished with 24. For Scott Tax Ferguson tallied 27 and McKenna finished with 23. Scott Tax went 12-19 down the stretch at the foul line to hold off a late Allstate comeback effort. No. 1 Torrison Stone 76, No. 8 Around the Clock 53-

Torrison jumped out to a 3822 halftime lead and rolled to a 23 point win in the only game of the week that wasn’t a tight contest. Pete Lynch dropped in 13 first half points and 17 overall, matched by 17 from Jeremy Lobo to lead Torrison. Dave Bennett, Mark Pfister and Adam Poturnicki also reached double figures scoring in the win. Steve Markoski and Pete Donecker both finished with 18 and Tim Egan had 10 for Around the Clock. Submitted by Scott Strang

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Town Times — Friday, April 5, 2013

Fate of Olympic wrestling is shock to area coaches By Sean Krofssick and Nick Carroll Special to Town Times

It was announced last month, that beginning in 2020, wrestling will no longer be part of the Olympics. The International Olympic Committee cited the sport’s global participation and popularity – or lack thereof – as reasons behind the decision. Area wrestling fans are grappling with the news that their favorite sport is being

removed from the Games. “I was speechless when I read that this morning,” Maloney High School assistant wrestling coach Ozzie Ramos said. “It took a lot out of me. It’s unbelievable. It’s one of the oldest sports and one of the original Olympic events. I’m surprised because the sport has grown so much in the last 20 years, including the growth of female wrestling.” Ramos is a former Maloney head coach. He said he be-

lieves “The International Olympic Committee is out of touch with what the average man is doing.” Southington Youth Wrestling founder Dave Kanute was blindsided by the announcement that wrestling was being removed from Olympic action. “I can’t believe it,” Kanute said. “There are more frivolous sports out there that are getting more recognition because of television attraction. Wrestling is a slower-

moving sport.” Kanute has deep wrestling roots. The Southington resident has headed SYW for 30 years. The program currently has 96 children. The man who benefits from Kanute’s handy work every year is Southington High School wrestling coach Derek Dion, who was also hit hard by the news. “I think it’s the worst thing I heard about wrestling in a long time,” Dion said. “It’s against the spirit of the

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Olympics. I will never watch the Olympics again. For the IOC to do something like that is unfathomable. It’s an original Olympic sport. And now there is four nights of women’s beach volleyball. “For wrestlers, the Olympics is their pinnacle,” he added. “They train their entire lives for that moment.” Count Berlin High School wrestling coach Jim Day among those stunned and disappointed with the decision of the IOC. “I would not have been shocked if they removed Greco-Roman wrestling, but kept freestyle. That has been rumored for quite a while. But the fact that they’re dropping both Olympic styles; I had had a thought that the Olympics had lost its mission and its direction for a while, with some of the decisions they’ve made, with sports they’ve added, being driven financially as opposed to tradition and history. This just solidifies that opinion,” Day said. “Wrestling was not a money loser for them; they’re just looking for greater profits. That’s kind of scary.” Plainville High School wrestling coach Rusty Spence echoed that. “It seems to me the Olympics are starting to get deluded,” said Spence. “It seems like they have more professional athletes competing and taking away from the amateurs. It’s ridiculous. It’s all commercialized.” “I just think the Olympics are doing a bad thing dropping a sport like wrestling,” Spence added. Meriden resident and Trinity College coach Steven Makien said he appreciates the outrage by the wrestling community, but said it’s probably too late. “The biggest thing is the money and TV ratings and the IOC is concerned with that only,” said Makien, another former Maloney wrestling head coach. “You look at other sports. You can take a person that hasn’t seen basketball before and they can understand it. It’s a difficult thing to explain

See Wrestling, next page

Friday, April 5, 2013 — Town Times

Wrestling

Caps on, everyone

Continued from page 20

Photo by Karen Kean

The Coginchaug Regional High School baseball team prepares for the season - and takes a group photo for good measureduring a recent practice.

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wrestling to someone. That hurts us. “I have a long freestyle background as a wrestler and a coach,” Makien continued. “We knew Greco was going to be eliminated from the Olympics. We hoped they would bring back more weights to freestyle.” Makien said the IOC’s decision could mean the better wrestlers will venture into mixed martial arts. Former Maloney head coach and current Trinity assistant Matt Banas doesn’t think the drop from the Olympics will have an immediate impact on the high school or collegiate levels. “It’s popular because the youth and high school levels are different styles of wrestling,” Banas said. “There are more kids wrestling than there were five years ago. In the short term, wrestling in the U.S. is going to be OK. Long term, who knows?” Kanute said wrestling is a great equalizer and diehards will rally around the sport. “Everyone has an equal chance,” Kanute said. “Whether you’re 41 or 171 pounds, you wrestle people your size. In youth, you keep it to the age and ability. You can wrestle on a team that didn’t win a game all year, but you can be a state champion. The little guy can be a star. It’s an individual sport, but also a team sport. When you are out on that floor there is nowhere to hide. It’s you and the other guy. No other sport really has that.” It appears the tradition and uniqueness of the sport isn’t enough to preserve its spot in the Olympics, however. “I’m hoping that the decision is taken back,” said Day, “but the only thing that’s been consistent about the Olympics is that they are primarily concerned with money; like having professionals play basketball. I’m starting to see the Olympics starting to lose its luster, and I think these decisions will come back to haunt them. But I’m not real hopeful about them turning the decision around.”

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Town Times — Friday, April 5, 2013

Engagement

Newly Married

Daly-Patterson Leech-Tamimi Ian Leech, son of Mark and Marie Leech of Middlefield and Ruba Tamimi, daughter of Mahmud and Wafa Tamimi of Jerusalem, Israel, were married Nov. 25, 2012 in Portland, Ore. A reception at Baci Grill in Cromwell was given by Mark and Marie Leech on March 9, 2013 for family and friends of Ian and Ruba. Ian is a 2002 graduate of Coginchaug Regional High School and a 2007 graduate of the University of Oregon. Ruba is a 2001 graduate of the Rosary Sisters High School for Girls in Jerusalem, Israel and a 2005 graduate of the University of Jordan. The couple resides in Portland, Ore.

Patricia Daly and Edward Daly, of Durham, are proud to announce the engagement of their daughter Sharon Daly, formally of Durham, and Nick Patterson, formally of Summit County, Colo., both of whom now reside in Colorado Springs, Colo. Sharon attended Mitchell College where she earned associate degrees in criminal justice and human development as well as a bachelor of science in behavioral science. Sharon also earned her paralegal certification at Pikes Peak Community College in Colorado. Nick attended Colorado State University at Pueblo and earned his bachelor of science in exercise science and health promotion. Sharon is a paralegal at the 4th Judicial District Attorney’s Office in Colorado Springs, Colo. Nick works as a Golf Pro at Pueblo Country Club in Pueblo, Colo. They will exchange vows this upcoming August in Colorado Springs, Colo.

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Submission reminder Town Times welcomes submissions regarding upcoming events happening in the community. Please specify “calendar item” if you would like your submission to appear in the weekly calendar of events. We do our best to run a submission at least one time. However, due to space constraints, we cannot guarantee a submission will be published on a specific date. To ensure your submission runs exactly as you would like it to, contact our sales representative Joy Boone at (203) 317-2313.

To submit sports information Town Time welcomes news and scores from all sports leagues in Durham and Middlefield. Information and photos can be sent to: Town Times, P.O. Box 265, Middlefield, 06455. Information also can be faxed to (203) 639-0210, or emailed to: news@towntimes.com.

Friday, April 5, 2013 — Town Times

Briefs Continued from page 5

Submitted by JoAnn Rider

Musicians at the Independent Day School in Middlefield recently performed at the Connecticut Music Educators’ Southern Region Middle School Music Festival. Students were selected to participate by audition. Eighth grade student, Sam Houle, of Durham, placed first chair trumpet in the orchestra and performed a solo at the festival.

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Fine music

Middle school students from The Independent Day School in Middlefield recently staged a performance of “Annie”. From left: Shraya Poetti, Rhya Sinnappen, Charlotte Meigs of Durham; Mattina Benedetto of Middlefield; Luke Brennan, Vincent Salabarria, Tim Halvorsen, Derek Socha, David, Larry Hennessy of Middlefield; Madison Combs, Olivia Haouchine, and Rose Esselstyn.

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form’. The audience as well as the performers have an enjoyable time. Typically, there is an overwhelming interest in this show and so this is the time to fill out an application and prepare for a tryout. Opportunities to participate in the talent show are open to all Middlefield, Rockfall, and Durham performers ages 12-100. Consideration for contestants is not taken lightly. Every performance will be evaluated with your talent and hard work in mind. As a selection committee, the firsts priority is to entertain the Old Home Day audience. Therefore, a variety of acts is selected in order to make one exciting event for the audience. Questions call: (860) 3433414. Please return application information to: Bill Currlin, 84 Jackson Hill Road, Middlefield, CT 06455, or E-mail the application information below to: wcurrlin@comcast.net Full time professionals (if your supporting income is derived from your talent) are excluded from trying out for the talent show. Application Information: Name, Address, email, phone number, talent, number performing, audio requirements, and your enthusiasm and interest in entertaining fairgoers. Auditions will be at the Middlefield Community Center, May 18, beginning at 9 a.m.. Please respond by May 1 for convenient audition times.

Scene from ‘Annie’

Town Times — Friday, April 5, 2013

This Is No April Fool’s Joke DON’T LET CONNECTICUT OFFICIALS REMOVE YOUR RIGHT TO KNOW FROM THE NEWSPAPER. KEEP PUBLIC NOTICES IN YOUR NEWSPAPER! Pending legislation may remove your right to read public notices in newspapers, moving them from the public domain to government controlled web sites. We’re concerned. And you should be, too. Public notices are an important tool in assuring an informed citizenry. They have helped develop America into a participatory democracy for hundreds of years and where it counts the most: how your tax dollars are spent, how policy is made and how our futures are charted. They are located in easy-to-find sections of your newspaper. And they are fully accessible to everyone - unlike the internet, which is not accessible to everyone.

Less than 10% of the U.S. population views a local, state or federal government website daily, according to the May 2009 release of U.S. Census Bureau, Annual Estimates of Resident Population. This means more than nine out of ten people may never see a given notice. This compares dramatically to the fact that 83% of adults read a community newspaper every week, according to the National Newspaper Association. Furthermore, a public notice printed in the newspaper produces a permanent record. The internet does not, nor does it assure timeliness. And a newspaper is archived for years; not subject to computer crashes and hackers. Newspapers are easily verifiable, fully transparent and represent a secure third party who has nothing to gain from any notice.

Connecticut’s recent ethical lapses shed a glaring light on the full meaning of this problem. It’s like putting the fox in charge of the hen house. Every public notice, which runs in a Connecticut daily newspaper, is automatically uploaded to that newspaper’s web site and CTPublicNotices.org. Newspapers are your watchdogs. Don’t let that role be changed now. Voice your opinion. To keep your notices in the newspaper, contact your local legislator to oppose Senate Bill #1112 - An Act Concerning the Publication of Legal Notices by Municipalities. Governor’s Office - 860.566.4840 Senate Democrats - 860.240.8600 House Democrats - 860.240.8500 Senate Republicans - 860.240.8800 House Republicans - 860.240.8700

Visit www.ctdailynews.com to contact your legislator today

Tow n Times 1280400