Town times jan10

Volume 20, Number 39

Serving Durham, Middlefield and Rockfall

www.TownTimes.com

Friday, Januar y 10, 2014

Snow worries mount up in Durham

By Mark Dionne Town Times

At the two December Board of Selectmen meetings, Durham officials have expressed frustration over snow removal issues in town.

Homeowners and plowing services have in past storms caused problems for traffic and continued snow removal by depositing snow from driveways into the streets.

Speed bumps of hardened snow across roads and mounds of snow left on the sides of the streets from driveways create a hazard for traffic. Department of Emergency Management Director Frances Willet, who attended both BOS meetings, said that the improperly deposited snow was also a hazard for emergency vehicles operating after a storm.

According to a town ordinance: “No person shall deposit any snow, ice, leaves or other debris onto any portion of any public town road, street or sidewalk, so as to impede or render unsafe any manner of use or travel upon said public town road, street or sidewalk.”

There is a potential $50 fine for each offense.

Although the winter of 2013-2014 has been so far less dramatic than recent winters, snowstorms have already brought out the town plows. Town officials at the BOS meetings after the snowfalls suggested they may need to be more aggressive enforcing the ordinance.

Another ordinance requires homeowners with adjoining sidewalks to clear the sidewalks of snow within 24 hours of the end of a snowstorm. If a homeowner

fails to clear the snow, the town may do so at the home owner’s expense, with an additional $5 fine.

It is also unlawful to park on Durham streets between 11 p.m. and 7 a.m. from Nov. 1 to April 1 or anytime during a declared snow emergency.

The board also discussed publicizing the town’s policy on replacing mailboxes damaged by snowplowing.

According to the town’s policy, distributed by Francis, “The Department of Public Works will not be responsible for mailbox damage from snow being propelled against the mailbox during snowplowing activities.”

For mailboxes damaged by direct contact from a snow plow, the Department of Public Works will determine the cause of the damage improper mailbox installation or plow operator error.

This mailbox needs to be shoveled out. |(Mark Dionne\Town Times.)

In the case of operator error, damaged mailboxes will be replaced with a standard mailbox and post.

The Public Works’ policy suggests that homeown-

ers install their mailboxes 12 inches away from the road edge and 40 to 44 inches above the road elevation and not let snow pile up around the mailbox.

Mini Mustangs help Willy’s Friends

By Mark Dionne

success because a snowstorm forced it to be rescheduled from the previous weekend.

The M i n i The change was not a deterMustangs, a local rent however, as donations youth horse club, proved.

The group raised almost held its fifth annual food drive and $450 and over 150 pounds of fundraiser, Dec. food at the event.

The Mini Mustangs were 21, on the Durham town green. The formed six years ago under event was to ben- the direction of Pat Bandzes efit Help Willy’s and Debbie Sommers, of Friends, a group Middlefield, as a group of that collects do- what Bandzes called “young, nations to support crazy, horse girls.”

“We are a 4-H horse club,” a n i m a l shelters and rescue groups. said Bandzes. “Our club Fundraiser or- is primarily educational, ganizers were ini- but we also do community tially concerned service.”

The original Mini about the event’s Town Times

Mustangs are now in middle school and high school.

“They’re not so mini any more, but that’s still our name,” Bandzes said.

The club has since relocated to Chester, but still consists of mostly Durham and Middlefield members. The food drive has been a part of the Mini Mustangs’ community service through the years. According to Bandzes the original event involved a trail ride and a door to door collection with horses, but that was not the most convenient method. Then the event, called “Riding for Rudolph,” became stationary, first on the Middlefield town green and for the last

two years on Durham’s town green.

At this year’s food drive, one horse was dressed up as Rudolph and another as Rudolph’s helper and residents could meet, pet and get pictures with the horses while making a donation to Help Willy’s Friends.

“They’re a good group of kids,” said Mark Paturzo, founder of Help Willy’s Friends. “They do it for us every year and the locals kind of know after a while and will come down with food and supplies or cash.”

“We’ve been helping shelters and rescue groups for See Mustangs / Page 4

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Town Times | towntimes.com

Winter: We love, hate or endure it

By Diana Carr

Special to Town Times

but when there’s snow it’s hard to function. Any kind of work or project is hard, you can’t find things in the yard, you can’t work underneath your car, you have to shovel.

I used to enjoy winter sports, but not so much anymore.

Skiing is expensive, and I don’t want to fight the cold.”

Sharon Hall: “I just can’t wait until the spring. I don’t like the cold, the ice, the snow. I don’t mind winter around the holidays, for about a month, but that’s it.

Then it can leave.”

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These girls are loving winter. Alexandra and Elizabeth Nick, of Durham, were on the slopes recently for a day of skiing at the newly opened Powder Ridge. | (Submitted by Cindy Nick) the changing seasons in New England. I don’t mind the cold, as long as it’s in the 20s or above, but I don’t like the

snow. I call it white dirt. Over the years I’ve had to work in it and suffer in it. When it’s cold you can still do things,

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The razzle dazzle of the holidays is behind us, and now it’s time to settle down for that “long winter’s nap.”

For some, that means depression; fatigue; irritability; trouble concentrating; insomnia; and overeating, especially of carbohydrates, and its associated weight gain. It’s called seasonal affective disorder — often referred to by its apt acronym SAD. The syndrome is a result of chemical changes in the body brought on by winter’s decreased sunlight.

Research on the topic reveals that in this country SAD occurs in about five percent of adults, with up to 20 percent of people having some symptoms of the condition, with an increase in incidence in people who live farther away from the equator. Relief can be found through such things as the use of light boxes, exercise, a healthy diet, and supplements.

But many folks do not suffer from SAD and, in fact, find that winter comes bearing gifts. Others are ambivalent or, at the least, not exactly enthusiastic.

Town Times recently spoke to a few locals, to get their opinion on this oft-maligned season.

Holly Pearce-Bisson: “I don’t like winter as much as I used to. I loved it when I had my Siberian Huskies and I would go dog sledding, but

I don’t have them anymore.

Winters are hard because I lose business, and I have to shovel three houses – mine, my parents because they go to Florida for the winter, and the house where I have my hair salon. During the winter I do puzzles, work on my income tax for April, and when I get real bored I ride along with my husband when he plows.”

Brenda Eddy: “The worst part is the lack of sunlight, but I really like winter because I would rather put on layers of clothes than put up with the humidity; I’d rather be bundled up than sweating.

And I’d rather shovel snow than rake leaves. Sometimes I make snow angels, and I enjoy looking out at the variety of wildlife that comes to my feeders. I love snow, the serenity of it. But being stuck in your home is another thing.

The storm we had last year with all that snow was scary.

I don’t like feeling trapped, like I can’t get out of the house because of the snow.

I felt like Jack Nicholson in The Shining.”

Karen Augeri: “Winter is my favorite season. It’s so beautiful after a snowfall, and I love going for a walk when it’s snowing. Even shoveling, when the sun is shining, can be pleasant. And though I love being outside, it’s also a great time to hibernate. It’s so cozy sitting by the fire.”

John West: “Winter is a good thing because it’s like a cleansing. I’ve always loved

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Friday, January 10, 2014

Advertising

Families Need to Know First!

by Paula Mazo What’s worse than having your loved one die in a car accident?

Having neighbors call crying that they saw your truck on the news and it was reported the driver was killed instantly only to be told by law enforcement they can’t respond to your inquiries at this time—or even in a few hours. This is the painful predicament our family was in last week when our son died.

Unfortunately in talking with people who deal with these sit-

uations our experience is not out of the ordinary. It is imperative that local law enforcement and local news crews reach a better balance between the families’ need to know about their loved ones’ deaths first and the public’s need to know about tragic events.

When Austin drove across someone’s lawn and into a tree, the only information the public needed to know immediately was that the roads in that area were tem-

Advertising porarily closed. The news crew could have shown a far away shot of the accident scene until we were notified but instead they chose to zoom in on the back of our truck which showed unique decals (which they may not have realized we added) but which immediately alerted close friends of the tragedy.

Viewing the video online ourselves we were also able to pause it and view the interior of our vehicle—all this before we had been officially informed of son’s death!

We are calling on news agencies to report only vague information until the family has been notified. Local law enforcement and first responders should not have to work under tarps to accomplish this. It’s up to the news crews to use common sense and be sensitive to what is going on.

By all means brag that you were the first news crew on the scene, the first to report the tragedy, but don’t inadvertently also be the first to tell loved ones by showing a close up

Thank You to Our Wonderful Community!

On Tuesday, December 31st we held a memorial service for our son, Austin, who died in a truck accident the day after Christmas. We had planned calling hours from 11am to 1pm, a service at 1:00,

and a reception immediately afterward all at Fellowship Church in Middletown, CT where we have a wonderful church family.

Amazingly, at about 1:15 the sanctuary, coffee bar area and foyer were packed with people, many of them standing, and there were still hundreds of folks outside in frigid temperatures in a line that stretched down the hill and all the way to the main road when the ushers had to close the doors so we could start the service!

photo of the scene before the family even knows what’s going on. Wouldn’t you want things to be handled that way if it were your family member who had died?

We have been told it was obvious even to non- medical personnel who were first at the scene that Austin had died instantly in the crash.

Law enforcement has policies and procedures in place to ensure these things are handled properly, including the fact that only the State Medical Examiner’s office is authorized to process the deceased. dent in the hospital but this will allow others to have the opportunity as well.

by Paula Mazo What’s better than celebrating the life of your loved one with a group of family and friends? Celebrating it with more than a thousand people because you live, work and volunteer in a wonderful community that rallies around those in their time of need!

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In the receiving line, we were blessed with so many kind words one-on-one and during the service many folks came forward and shared with everyone special thoughts about Austin. It was a privilege to share the reason for the hope within us and how because of the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ we know we will see Austin again someday when we get to join him in heaven. Many people liked Austin’s stylized drawing of the word hope which

we used on the program and some have already had it tattooed on themselves in his honor!

More than one person shared with us that this was the first memorial service they felt better after than before and we hope others will be blessed as well as we are working on uploading the video to the internet so those who missed it may watch.

We had originally videotaped the service so Austin’s friend, Dave, could watch it while he recovers from the acci-

We are so blessed to be part of a community of wonderful people who care about others. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for all your love, prayers and support as we keep on keeping on after losing our precious Austin. From a wave, smile, and kind word, to a dish of food, trip to the transfer station and help shoveling, to flowers, plants and fruit baskets, to countless hugs, cards and prayers we have been overwhelmed by your love and support!

Neighbors are planning a memorial at the

This means officers at the scene had to wait for them to arrive and do their part before Austin’s identity could be confirmed. No decent law enforcement official would want to inform us our son was dead if it wasn’t actually him driving!

The media needs to follow standards of decency and decorum and let the law enforcement or medical professionals with special training inform families of their loved ones’ deaths. Getting the scoop while inflicting pain and suffering on friends and family and putting public servants in an untenable position is not acceptable. site of Austin’s Eagle project at the Coe Hill Sanctuary on School Street in Middlefield, the Vinal Technical High School PFO is collecting donations for a memorial project there and this Saturday, January 11th at 10 am there will be a drive in Austin’s honor from Vinal Technical High School to Hammonasett State Park. The $10 donation made by each driver will go to a memorial in Austin’s honor.

Thank you, Lord, for bringing us to Middlefield where we could experience such a wonderful home town in good times and in bad.

Love and God bless, Jim, Paula & Emery Mazo 63180R

A4 Friday, January 10, 2014

Town Times | towntimes.com

Mustangs From Page 1

seven years now,” Paturzo said. “We’ve helped nearly 200 shelters and organizations since our inception.”

Paturzo expressed appreciation for the dedication and generosity of the Mini Musta ngs a nd the community.

Paturzo said that the food has already been distributed. Because of spoilage potential, donated food has to be turned over quickly.

Monetary donations give the organizations flexibility to help animals. One of the needs that is not always met in food drives is cat food, Paturzo said, which can go both to shelter’s and to help feed homeless cats. Noting the increase in demands and the increase in donations to Help Willy’s Friends, Paturzo

said that the next goal for his organization is a permanent warehouse.

The largest event for Help Willy’s Friends, the annual pet fair, also involves the Mini Mustangs. In the past the horse group has set up a table at the fair and while they did their own fundraising, they collected donations

for Help Willy’s Friends.

“We try to do something nice for each other,” Paturzo said.

According to Bandzes, the Mini Mustangs and Riding for Rudolph get bigger every year. The group plans to continue their community service and their association with Help Willy’s Friends.

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Making friends was all part of the fun during a holiday fundraiser to benefit Help Willie’s Friends.

Above, members of the Mini Mustang gang came to Durham recently to raise money for animals in need.

Below, horses eat hay and otherwise make themselves at home on the town green. |(Submitted photos.)

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Town Times | towntimes.com

Happenings

Friday, January 10, 2014

Seniors another volunteer) for approximately two and a half hours.

Training and instruction is provided.

For more information and to volunteer, call the Senior Center at (860) 349-7121.

Dial-A-Ride will transport a.m. to 3 p.m. Lunch is served seniors to doctor appoint- on Mondays, Wednesdays, ments within Middlesex and Fridays at noon. Make a County. It is necessary to be reservation at least one day registered with Dial-A-Ride. in advance, by visiting the A fee is charged. The Senior Center or call (860) Dial-A-Ride service operates 349-7121.

Monday-Friday, 6 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Saturday, 8:30 a.m. Senior Center to 4:30 p.m.

Scrabble For more information, call Programs The Middlefield Senior The Senior Center offers a Center has a Scrabble game. Dial-A-Ride (MAT) at (860) knitting group, a card group, 347-3313.

An interested person is looka bridge group, an exercise ing for a Scrabble partner.

60+ Club group, a yoga group.

The 60+ Club is scheduled For more information, call Office hours and (860) 349-7121. to meet Monday, Jan. 13, 1:30 senior lunch AARP tax aide p.m., at the Durham Activity The Senior Center office AARP offers free tax-aide Center, 350 Main St. A blood Middlefield/Durham hours are Monday-Friday, 9 pressure clinic and Bingo is planned. New members are Senior Bus The Senior Center has a 17 welcome. passenger bus that transports seniors to out of county docVolunteer tors’ appointments and twice Here’s a way to reduce a week trips. The bus is free; opportunity your college costs!

The Middlefield Senior participants pay for their Center is looking for volun- lunch. To reserve a spot on teer servers for the lunch the bus, call (860) 347-5661.

For more information, call program. Lunch is served Monday, Wednesday and the Senior Center at (860) Friday at noon. Volunteers 349-7121. usually work in pairs (single persons will be paired with Dial-A-Ride The Senior Center is exploring the possibility of starting a TOPS group that will meet during the day.

A meeting to discuss the topic is scheduled for Wednesday, Jan. 15, at 1 p.m.

TOPS “Taking Off Pounds Sensibly” is a weight loss support group. Yearly fees are charged.

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to Durham and Middlefield low and moderate income taxpayers, especially those 60 and older.

The program is scheduled for Feb. 4 through April 7, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the Middlefield Community Center, 405 Main St., by appointment.

If tax counselors do not have adequate knowledge or a return is too complex, participants may need to seek another qualified counselor or paid tax assistance.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, call Joan at (860) 349-7121.

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Town Times | towntimes.com

Schools School reconfiguration a lengthy process For many Durham and Middlefield residents, two workshops conducted by the architectural and education planning firm Drummey Rosane Anderson, Inc. drove home the potential of school closings within the district.

At those meetings, held Oct. 29 and Dec. 11, as well as at the Dec. 18 Board of Education meeting, the public responded to the situation with opinions as well as questions.

Members of DRA and the BOE have emphasized that no decisions have been made and that new options will be introduced based on feedback.

“We’re at the very beginning of the process,” said BOE

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the Contemporary Program but housed them in the same buildings, a characteristic that drew negative feedback from some parents.

Those Dec. 11 ideas can be seen by using the “Facilities Utilization Study” link at the top of RSD 13’s web page.

A third public workshop will take place later in January. According to Fulton, the BOE will meet with DRA on Jan. 16 and schedule the workshop, so it will take place after that date.

Fulton said he expects the future meetings to produce “a further refinement” of options with “practical implications.” The BOE will have to consider implications such as costs and savings, disruption to the schools, timing, educational results, and adaptation to curriculum and

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chair Kerrie Flanagan at the panel’s Dec. 18 meeting. Her statement echoed words from DRA’s Jim Barrett, at the Dec. 11 workshop. He said, “We’re still early on in the process.”

Speaking to the Town Times, Bob Fulton, chair of the Education Resources Committee and the ad-hoc School Utilization Review Committee, said that the early meetings were designed to create a “widely cast net of options” and stimulate discussion.

The first options were revealed on Dec. 11 and i nvo lve d c l o s i n g Ko r n Elementary School, Lyman E l e m e n ta r y S c h o o l , o r Memorial Middle School, either singularly or in some combination. Those configurations maintained both the Integrated Day Program and

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tion and budget processes, as well as implementation of the Common Core State Standards.

“When do you vote on all this?” John Kelly asked the BOE on Dec. 18.

According to Flanagan, there is no set date for the process and a timetable will depend on the number and complexity of the viable options. “It’s not an easy thing to look at. We have a lot of information to gather and the first step is to get all of the people’s opinions on the table and get all the options ... there will be some [options] that will be obviously ruled out and the ones that remain will require a lot further investigation for the board to be able to make a decision.”

There is no vote scheduled to approve anything at this date and the authority to make the changes will likely result in different votes.

Managerial changes, such as programming changes, can be made with a vote of BOE members. Significant changes are likely to have an impact on the budget, which is voted on annually by members of the public.

Substantial construction could require bonding put to a public referendum for approval.

Without the plans in hand, approval of those plans is even further down the road.

According to Fulton, in other districts significant renovation follows a three to five year process from inception to creation. “You have to plan it well in advance and the further in advance you are the less certain it is.”

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technological changes.

“I think the most that we can expect from that is a narrowing down to a few options because, really, each option is going to require a lot of work,” said Flanagan at the Dec. 18 BOE meeting. “The board will not be taking action for next year’s budget.”

Timing of the potential reconfiguration is one of the questions parents have asked.

Barrett presented demographic predictions to describe the district’s situation and used the school year 2016-2017 as his example.

According to Barrett, without reconfiguration in 2016 Strong School will have 271 students in a building with a capacity of over 480 students. Also according to the 2016 projections, Memorial Middle School will hold 278 students with a 368 capacity while Coginchaug Regional High School will have 539 students in a 652 capacity building.

At the elementary level, the projections have Brewster Elementary School (capacity 242) at 191 and Korn Elementary School (capacity 176) at 131. Lyman Elementary School (capacity 268) is projected to be closest to its capacity with 253 students.

This stage of the reconfiguration will end when DRA presents the BOE with what is expected to be several options. Then the board will have to begin what Fulton describes as “a deliberative process” involving public input and consultation with administration. Any changes, Fulton said, will also have to take into consideration the district’s new evalua-

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Town Times | towntimes.com

Friday, January 10, 2014

Ronald McDonald House Charities of Connecticut and Western Massachusetts plans to award a total of $50,000 to 25 local high school seniors this academic year through its scholarship program.

Eligibility requirements for the RMHC scholarship are be eligible to enroll in and attend a two-or four-year college with a full course study and reside in a participating area.

Scholarship recipients will be selected on the basis of academic achievement, financial need and community involvement.

Applications are available by calling 1-855-6704787 or online at www. rmhc-ctma.org/scholarships. Deadline to apply is Jan. 21, 2014.

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RSD #13 announces kindergarten registration and visits the programs is to visit both programs. The district urges prospective parents to visit all three schools and to view at least one classroom at every grade level. Only by visiting can you get the true flavor of the three schools and the two instructional programs.

Parents may visit the schools now through Jan. 31 to observe classes and to discuss any specific questions or concerns.

Visits, which are designed for adults, should be scheduled ahead of time to allow for optimum opportunities to observe the programs.

Appointments to visit can be made by calling the individual schools. Parents may call Lyman School at(*60) 3497240 to visit the Integrated Day Program. To visit the Contemporary Program, call Brewster School at (860) 349-7227 and Korn School at (860) 349-7210.

Once parents have visited both programs, they will need to make a decision about the program for which they will be registering their child. According to Regional District #13 Board of Education policy, this decision must be made by Feb. 1.

Any child not registered in a

Press release Parents of children living in Durham and Middlefield who will be 5-years-old on or before Jan. 1, 2015 must register them to attend kindergarten in September 2014 or apply for a waiver of attendance.

In Regional District #13, children may attend kindergarten in either the Contemporary Program or the Integrated Day Program. Parents need to choose the appropriate program for their child prior to kindergarten registration.

School visits and information available at the schools will assist parents in making their choice.

The Contemporary Program serves children in grades K-4 and is housed at Brewster School for grades K-2 and at Korn School for grades 3 and 4. The Integrated Day program serves students in grades K-4 at John Lyman School. While the two programs share many similarities, they also have some distinctive differences that must be considered when deciding which program is best for each child.

The best way to understand the differences between

specific program by that date may not be able to attend the program chosen by his/her parents(s). Scheduling an appointment for kindergarten registration confirms program choice.

Kindergarten registration for the 2014-2015 school year will take place Monday, Feb. 3 through Wednesday, Feb 5.

Appointments will be available between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. daily with hours extended to 6 p.m. on one evening. Parents wishing to register their child for the Contemporary Program should call Brewster School at (860) 349-7227 for an appointment. To register a child for the Integrated Day program, please call John Lyman School at (860) 349-7240 for an appointment. Once the registration appointment has been made, the school will send a registration information packet. This information will include a residency form and questionnaire, a student information/emergency form, a school entry health questionnaire and a parent questionnaire, which should be completed and brought to registration along with a copy

of the child’s birth certificate.

Please make sure that the residency form is completed in its entirety and notarized. If the family has a child already in district, the residency form is not required. Your child should attend the registration appointment with you.

Please share this information with others you may know who have children eligible for kindergarten in the fall of 2014.

Any parent of an eligible kindergarten child who wishes to hold his/her child out of school for another year must sign a form at the office of the superintendent of schools.

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Town Times | towntimes.com

Library Briefs Durham Public Library

Programs for Kids: Bouncing Babies (birth to17 months). Mondays at 11 a.m. Drop in.

Mother Goose Storytime (18 to 30 months). Mondays at 10:15 a.m. Drop in.

Time for Tots (2 ½ to 3 ½ years). Wednesdays at 10:15 a.m. Drop in.

Preschool Storytime (3 ½ to 5 years). Tuesdays at 10:15 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Drop in.

Bedtime Storytime (ages 2 to 5 years). Mondays at 6:30 p.m. Drop in.

Story Magic (Grades K to 2). Saturdays at 10:30 a.m.

Drop in.

Kids in the Kitchen (8 to 11 years). Wednesdays, Jan. 15 and 29, Feb. 5 and 12 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Observe, learn, try, saute, boil, bake, mix, fry taste, enjoy.

Games, Games, Games (Grades 3 to 5). Thursday, Jan. 16, from 4 to 5 p.m. Bring friends and test your skills at Apples to Apples, Sorry, Scrabble Jr., and other fun games. Drop in.

Lunch Bunch Book Discussion (Grades 4 to 6).

Bring lunch; dessert provided. Saturday, Jan. 18, at 12:30 p.m. Discuss “How to Steal a Dog” by Barbara O ’ Con nor. R e g i st r at ion

required.

Magic Stor ybook Fairy Stories (ages 4 to 8).

Thursday, Jan. 30, 6:30 p.m.

Act out fairy stories with music, props and scenery.

Programs for Young Adults: Knitting Club (ages 10 to 18). Tuesday, Jan. 14, 7 p.m.

All levels welcome. No registration, drop in.

After school movie (ages 13 to 18). Wednesday, Jan. 15, 3:30 p.m. Movie to be announced. No registration, drop in.

Practice SAT test (high school students). Saturday, Ja n . 18 , noon to 3 p.m .

Prepare for the SAT by taking a practice test. Register at the desk or call (860) 349-9544.

Stop Motion Movie Making with Legos (ages 12 to 18). Wednesday, Jan. 22, 6 p.m. Learn to create a movie using the stop motion technique and Legos. Pizza and beverages provided.

Register at the desk or call (860) 349-9544.

Program for adults Mystery Book Discussion.

Tuesday, Jan. 21, at 7:30 p.m.

Discuss “Child 44” by Tom Rob Smith. Copies of the book are available at the library.

See Library / Page 9

Covers for “12 Kinds of Ice” and “Song of Fire and Ice” wallpaper available for computer screens. | (Wikipedia)

Libraries offer hefty selection for winter reading

By Julie Sopchak

Special to Town Times

Trying to find ways to occupy time during the cold winter months can be difficult, but local library directors have compiled a list of what they believe to be the season’s top picks for curling up and diving into a story.

“Winter is a great time to start reading a nice, long series,” said Southington Library Director Susan Smayda.

“The Burgess Boys”, by Pulitzer Prize-winning au-

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thor Elizabeth Strout, is an adult fiction about siblings from a small town in Maine who run into some trouble. Readers soon discover a deep, dark secret within the family as the story unfolds.

“TransAtlantic”, by Colum McCann, is about voyagers who flew across the Atlantic Ocean. The flights are based on true events, but the author fictionally ties all of the pilots together through a family that was in the inner-workings somehow of each trip.

“Untethered Soul”, by Michael Singer, is a book that is part of a growing trend of mindfulness and meditation.

This particular book helps readers to get in touch with their inner selves and discover true inner peace.

“Team of Rivals”, by Doris Kearns Goodwin, puts a different spin on the Civil War era by examining Abraham Lincoln’s cabinet members, which had a great rivalry amongst them.

In “Aloha Quil t”, by Jennifer Chiaverini, readers might be able to at least pretend they’re in warmer climates as the main character gets an opportunity to go to Hawaii and teach quilting rather than facing the winter months alone after a divorce.

But, if you want to stay in the cold, there’s “Twelve Kinds of Ice”, by Ellen Obed, which is a series of vignettes

written entirely about, you guessed it, ice. The book reveals the different types of ice seen throughout the winter.

Good reads for the younger audience include “First Light”, by Rebecca Stead, a young adult fiction about an expedition to a glacier, only to discover an entire civilization has been living underneath it.

“A Song of Ice and Fire”,

by George R.R. Martin, made popular by HBO series Game of Thrones. Originally planned as a trilogy, there are now five volumes with two more in the works.

“The Archy McNally” series, by Lawrence Sanders and Vincent Lardo, follows Archibald “Archy” McNally through a series of lighthearted mysteries in Palm Beach.

“The Millennium Trilogy”,

by Stieg Larsson, includes three books that follow Lisbeth Salander and Mikael Blomkvist: The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, The Girl Who Played with Fire, and The Girl Who Kicked the Hornets’ Nest. The series is recommended for a mature audience.

Of course, this is just a small sample of what local libraries have to offer, and perhaps browsing through the shelves might be a good way to find a hidden gem.

Advertise with us! Call Joy Boone at 203-317-2313

Town Times | towntimes.com

Friday, January 10, 2014

A9

Seven easy steps to a healthy New Year common drug used to treat breast cancer. “Exercise has been shown to have so many Indulge in a little too much benefits from maintaining eggnog and cookies this hol- weight to reducing fatigue iday season? The New Year to improving overall quality is a great time to consider of life,” says Jennifer Ligibel, adding some healthy hab- MD, a breast cancer specialits into the daily routine. ist in Dana-Farber’s Susan F. Maintaining good health Smith Center for Women’s doesn’t have to be hard. Cancer and senior author of Ex per ts at Da na-Fa rber the study.

Here are some inexpensive Cancer Institute offer seven easy strategies that can help ways to work out, but always just about anyone get on the consult a doctor first.

- Using the stairs rather road to good health and possibly help reduce cancer risk. than an elevator.

- Walking or riding a bike One: Get walking Staying fit and healthy can rather than driving.

- Taking an exercise break be as simple as going for a walk. According to stud- or quick walk at work.

- Using a stationary bicyies, people who exercise after diagnosis of a number of cle or treadmill while watchcommon cancers, including ing TV. - Trying a new team sport. colon and breast cancers, Two: Eating a rainbow have a lower risk of cancer recurrence. “You don’t have of color Next trip to the grocery to be a marathon runner, but the more you exercise, typ- store, skip the snack aisle and ically the greater the ben- head straight to the store’s eficial effect,” says Jeffrey produce section. Ta king Meyerha rdt, M D, M PH , that little detour to avoid Clinical Director of Dana- processed sugar and fat can Farber’s Gastrointestinal help reduce calories and provide many healthy beneCancer Treatment Center.

A recent study showed fits. Focusing on a diet high that exercise can even help in fruits and vegetables will with joint pain related to a increase antioxidants and Press release

Library

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The goal is to eat colorful produce like carrots, pomegranates, tomatoes, grapes, squash, eggplant, berries, and broccoli. The brighter and richer the pigment, the

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“In the nutrition world, we like to say if it comes from the ground and it stains your shirt, you want to be eating it,” says Stacy Kennedy, MPH, RD, CSO, LDN, a nutritionist at Dana-Farber.

Kennedy also says drink plenty of water and try to limit red meat. She and her

Dana-Farber nutrition colleagues offer a wealth of information and recipes on Dana-Farber’s nutrition website and Dana-Farber’s free nutrition app, Ask the Nutritionist: Recipes for Fighting Cancer.

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Library hours are: Monday through Thursday 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Saturdays 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.; closed Fridays.

The library is scheduled to be closed Monday, Jan. 20 for Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Program Saturday, Feb. 8, at 1 p.m.

- Meet Eric D. Lehman, author of “A History of Connecticut Food: A Proud

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For more information and i n for m at ion , c a l l (8 6 0) to register, call (860) 349349-9544.

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From Page 8

Getting outside for a walk will help you stay fit and connect with friends and neighbors.

Be sure to dress appropriately for the weather.

A10 Friday, January 10, 2014

Town Times | towntimes.com

Opinion Letters to the Editor

Real peace

To the editor: In response to Pastor Roy’s thoughtful essay on religion, patriotism and peace, I offer these observations: If organized religion is to survive, it must resolve its chronic schizophrenic view of war.

War is wrong, period.

There is no just or honest war.

Killing others is barbaric.

Revisionist history shows that most, if not all, major wars were triggered by falseflag “terrorist attacks,” which are inside jobs. 9/11 is no exception — begin with the “Project for a New American Century” written 20 years ago and then look at all the scientific and video evidence.

Suicides now outnumber casualties as military men and women realize they have sold their bodies and minds to empire builders. And when they retire ill and dismembered, their care is woefully lacking.

“Peacemakers” from Afghanistan to Zimbabwe are really invaders to steal resources and conquer natives.

Join many others in praying that each soldier and each citizen have a change of heart, lay down their weapons and

come home. We cannot wait.

Old ways have never worked because they’re based on fear. We and our children cannot continue to be “canon fodder.”

Each of us can usher in the kingdom of heaven by releasing outmoded beliefs, opening our hearts to love-based, cooperative living, and respecting each other and our beautiful planet. That would bring a real and lasting peace.

Sue McIntosh, M.D. Durham

Wishes fulfilled To the editor: I write to extend my sincere thanks and gratitude to those people who so generously contributed to the 19th annual holiday gift drive sponsored by the Probate Court.

This year, gifts were distributed to residents of four health care facilities: Water’s Edge Health & Rehab Center, Apple Rehab and Middlesex Health Care in Middletown and Aurora Senior Living in Cromwell.

Gift “wish lists” were provided to the court by the staff and residents of the four facilities. I am pleased to re-

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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.

Executive Vice President and Assistant Publisher – Liz White Senior Vice President of Operations and Major Accounts – Michael F. Killian Senior Vice President and Editor – Ralph Tomaselli News Editor – Olivia L. Lawrence Assistant News Editor – Nick Carroll Reporter – Mark Dionne Advertising Director – Kimberley E. Boath Advertising Sales – Joy Boone Office Assistant, Press Releases – Marsha Pomponio

Commentary port that the “wish lists” of over 125 people were met. I would particularly to thank the many local attorneys who participated.

A special thanks to my clerks for their tireless efforts in coordinating this wonderful event.

Joseph D. Marino Probate Judge Middletown District

Government Meetings (Unless otherwise indicated, all meetings are held in the Durham Library.

Check the town website at www.townofdurhamct.org for updates.)

Monday, Jan. 13 Town meeting, Town Hall, 8 p.m.

Tuesday, Jan. 14 Conservation Commission, Library, 7 p.m.

Library Board of Trustees, Library, 7:30 p.m.

Wednesday, Jan. 15 Planning & Zoning, Library, 7:30 p.m.

Thursday, Jan. 16 DMIAAB, Middlefield Community Center, 7 p.m.

Tuesday, Jan. 21 Board of Selectman Budget Meeting, Town Hall, 5 p.m.

Town Green Tree Design Committee, Library, 6 p.m.

Board of Finance, Town Hall, 6 :30 p.m.

Agriculture Commission, Town Hall, 7 p.m.

Wednesday, Jan. 22 Senior Citizen Board, Durham Activity Center,1 p.m.

Joint Board & Commission Meeting, Town Hall, 7 p.m.

Board of Education, Memorial School, 7:30 p.m.

Monday, Jan. 27 Board of Selectman budget meeting, Town Hall, 5 p.m.

Tuesday, Jan. 28 Ethic’s Commission, Town Hall, 7 p.m.

Find us on the Web: www.towntimes.com

Post-Christmas chore evokes lifelong memories

By Susan J. Zoni Special to Town Times

Ta k i n g d o w n t h e Christmas tree is considered by most to be a nasty, messy chore, taking far too much time out of the end of a busy season.

For me, it’s a joyous time of reminiscence. Each piece that I remove holds a precious memory.

You see, my tree is not pre-lit or pre-decorated, nor mono- or duo-tone, strewn with beautiful wired ribbons. There is no uniform color scheme or theme of vacations, animals or world historic places.

As I take off each treasured item, I hold in my hand the history of my life with my husband since our marriage 38 years ago.

The green plastic stars and the blue popcorn ball represent the very first year, when we had nothing – no money, no time, and no past together. We trekked to a local discount store and scooped up what nobody else wanted.

I’ve been a school music teacher, a church organist and a piano teacher for a zillion years, and have been thanked with a knitted mouse playing a golden piano, a violin with bow, multiple horns, notes and a few music scrolls.

Then came the children.

Baby’s first Christmas, the gold-sprayed macaroni on cardboard, the wooden cutout star hand painted in preschool, the wreaths with old Christmas cards from Sunday school, the Popsicle stick reindeer and oh, so much more. Each is a precious memory from a time long past.

My mother-in-l aw ’s photo from 1985 is embedded in a plastic tree. She added ornaments to many of her Christmas breads and after all these years, various angels, cherubs and drummers remain.

This year one ornament wiggled with every vibration in the room. Dave’s cousin saw it and remarked, “What a cute little reindeer!” She had forgotten that she attached it to her annual gift of homemade cookies just last year.

There are a few historic items as well. My greataunt long ago gave me her German hand-blown glass beads, hand-strung on very old, weak and yellowed string. I broke only two beads this year. Auntie Fran’s red heart that was quite new hangs near her WWII-era bell, blue paint flaking off and most of the glitter long gone. Mom’s p i n k- s t r i p e d p o i n t e d glass oval brings back my childhood.

The funniest is a blue glass piece about 12-inches long, curled like the toes of Aladdin’s shoes. I picked it out of a dumpster when a neighboring office was closing. I thought it was beautiful then, and still do.

It is stored as lovingly and carefully as all the rest.

The lights are now off, the needles are vacuumed, the boxes are stowed in the corner of the cellar. All is calm all is bright – in my mind, awaiting next year and the revealing again of distant and new memories of love and life.

Susan Zoni is a lifelong Southington resident and an employee of the Record-Journal.

Town Times | towntimes.com

Friday, January 10, 2014

A11

Commentary

Rethink throwaway culture grinding your cell phone in a blender just to get the upgrade to the newest advancement, that’s a One of latest societal problem. trends is the what I call It’s incredibly wasteful the “electronic upgrade.” and unnecessary.

While people have alOf course, the compaways coveted the latest gadget, the frequency with nies that sell these devices heartily encourage the frewhich modern consumquent upgrades. ers upgrade to the newThe birth of planned est model as soon as it’s obsolescence, when manreleased has skyrocketed ufacturers of the 1950s disto an almost absurd level (Example: People camping covered that if they made their products to be deout in front of stores). cent rather than long-lastYes, most of us want ing, people would have to the best of the best of the buy replacements more best, and many of us can afford it. So, whenever the quickly.

These days, we’re next generation of the iPskipping over the step in hone comes out, or the latest Dell laptop is released, which products break before we trash them. many of us want it.

Considering the sufMeanwhile, what hapfering in the world, I’m pens to the fully-funcpretty ashamed to think tional devices that about the encouraged are suddenly slightly trend of upgrading exoutdated? pensive products when I’m waiting for Pixar’s it’s unnecessary. The idea next film, featuring handof needing a new tablet held anthropomorphized because the one you want gadgets, feeling like the has a slightly better resocharacters in “Toy Story” lution for clearer pictures when they’re neglected is suggestive of being for the newer products.

I can see the sad face on spoiled, particularly when there are people throughthe original iPod Nano’s screen, mournfully watch- out the world who would simply like their drinking ing from a shelf as its water to be clearer. owner excitedly peels the So what if your brandclear plastic film off the new laptop can’t also be a newest model, the new one wearing a smug smirk. tablet? So what if you have the disposable income to Smirking, that is, until it buy the next release? If joins the other Nano on your cell phone still works the shelf a few months perfectly, keep using it. later.

At the very least, find a When a Blackberry good use for your “used” croaks, when the iPod’s electronic device: sell it, screen is accidentally shattered, when the phone donate it, give it away to a friend, or repurpose it. will no longer make calls, So, please, if you deswhen the laptop can’t perately want the latest charge, yes, then it’s a generation device, make fair time to purchase a sure your old device new model. But if you’re doesn’t have to fear incinpouring coffee on your eration at the dump. computer’s keyboard or

By Andrea Melone Special to Town Times

Advertise with us! Call Joy Boone at 203-317-2313

Avoid prolonged exposure to cold for your pets. Keep them warm and dry to protect their health and ensure their safety.

Keep pets safe from winter hazards Press release Winter weather isn’t just hazardous to people, it can be dangerous for pets, too. The Fidelco Guide Dog Foundation offers key points to keep pets warm and safe.

During a storm, keep pets inside. A pet needs shelter and insulation from the cold. Cats and dogs may have fur coats, but they aren’t equipped to be out in freezing temperatures for long periods of time.

Domesticated animals are not adapted to the cold like wolves or bobcats. A good rule of thumb - if it’s too cold for you to stay outside, it’s too cold for your pet.

If you absolutely must keep an animal outside, be certain it has an insulated shelter, access to plenty of fresh (not frozen) water and increase food to two times the normal serving. A pet’s energy requirements increase to maintain body temperature (for example, shivering) and those living in a very cold climate have a greater caloric need just to stay warm than the average dog that lives indoors.

When pets need to go outside during a storm, limit exposure and make sure dogs are leashed and

wearing an ID tag. During heavy snowfall, dogs can lose their scents and become lost. Dogs become lost during the winter more than any other time of the year.

Keep candles, heat lamps and space heaters away from pets, children and flammable materials. Inspect any pet heating blankets or pads for frays and exposed wires and never leave a pet unattended with such a device.

Duraflame logs are actually made of sawdust pulled together with wax. The two ingredients make an attractive snack for dogs.

Ingestion will usually just cause mild gastric upset; however, the problem arises if the dog eats a big piece which could cause an intestinal obstruction. It’s best to leave these logs out of reach of pets.

After the storm, protect those paws. Ice and snow can easily collect between paw pads. Check paws periodically, especially if they are limping or walking awkwardly. Keep dogs off the ice and away from frozen bodies of water. Thin ice poses a danger for pets (and humans). Even a walk on an icy sidewalk puts pets at risk of injuries like torn ligaments and footpads.

Salt, antifreeze (ethylene

glycol) and chemical deicers on roads and sidewalks are dangerous for pets. Dogs that lick their paws and fur and ingest these substances can become ill. Wipe paws, legs and stomach with a warm, wet washcloth after walks and outdoor play.

There are two “safer” chemicals used in antifreeze in the United States, Sierra and LowTox. Just because they are considered safer does not mean they are nontoxic. For example, it would take only one teaspoon of ethylene glycol antifreeze to be deadly to a seven pound cat. It would take only a few ounces of the safer form to cause problems for larger animals.

Take extra care with puppies and older dogs, especially those with arthritis. Wet, cold weather can worsen arthritis symptoms. Medical conditions, like diabetes, can affect a pet’s ability to regulate body temperatures. Never leave young, old or sick dogs outside unattended at any time.

And, winter does not necessarily mean the end of bug season. Likewise, winter does not mean you should stop using heartworm or flea and tick prevention.

Submitted by The Fidelco Guide Dog Foundation.

A12 Friday, January 10, 2014

Town Times | towntimes.com

Boy scouts Get to recycle stitchy trees Boy Scout Troop 270 of Durham has scheduled its third annual Christmas tree removal fundraiser.

As a service to the community, scouts will pickup and dispose of resident’s Christmas trees on Saturday, Jan. 11.

Donations are appreciated.

To s c h e d u l e a p i c k u p, c a l l ( 8 6 0 ) 3 4 9 -2 3 70 o r e m a i l Troop270DurhamCT@ aol.com.

Follow us on Twitter: @TheTownTimes

EMERALD CITY BOUND

Durham Recreation has scheduled its Get Stitchy program for Tuesday, Jan. 14, 7 to 9 p.m., at the Durham Activity Center, 350 Main St. Get Stitchy is an open sew event for quilters and sewers. Participants may work on projects in the company of other sewers, and exchange tips and ideas. Bring your project and sewing machine (including extension cord.)

For more information and to to sign up, contact Pam Carey at (860) 3490453 or carey_clan@ sbcglobal.net or Vicki Berry at (860) 343-0879 or vberry11@comcast. net.

The John Lyman Parents Association and PaperHouse Productions announced the casting of its 2013/2014 production of the “The Wizard of Oz.” Set to play the role of Dorothy are, from left: Yazmin DeJesus, Ellie Castiglia and Jordan Moore. Over 100 Durham and Middlefield students, from first to eighth grade, are scheduled to be part of the production, performing on April 25 and 26. | (Mark Dionne/Town Times)

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Dane E. Monroe MIDDLETOWN — Dane Ethan Monroe, 56, of Middletown, beloved husband of Jessie (Brockett) Monroe, passed away on Tuesday, Dec. 31. 2013 at his home.

Born in Hartford, he was the son of the late Lyle and Lucille (Higgins) Monroe.

Dane, affectionately known as “The Bear”, had lived in Durham for most of his life before moving to Middletown in 2009. He was employed at New Haven Savings Bank for many years. In his spare time, he enjoyed doing crossword puzzles in his “man shed”.

His friendly disposition and generous nature made him a friend to many. Dane was always willing to lend a hand or help someone in need and was the epitome of selflessness. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

Besides his wife, he is survived by a son, Timothy S. Monroe and his wife, Hollen, of Middletown; as well as three daughters, Savanna Derosier, of Middletown; Victoria Derosier, of Middletown; and Amber Monroe, of East Windsor; and one granddaughter, Hannah-Lynn Goode. He is also survived by five brothers, Kerry Monroe, of Killingworth; Lance Monroe, of Higganum; Scott Monroe, of Middletown; Shawn Monroe, of Haddam; and Kyle Monroe, of East Haddam; as well as their wives and several nieces and nephews.

Dane was predeceased by a daughter, Tabbatha L. Derosier Monroe.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Dane’s memory to Make A Wish Foundation, 126 Monroe Turnpike, Trumbull, CT 06611; or to American Heart Association, 5 Brookside Drive, Wallingford, CT 06492.

Graveside services will be private and at the convenience of the family.

Messages of condolence may be sent to the family at www.doolittlefuneralservice. com.

Friday, January 10, 2014

Obituaries

A13

John Rossi Elizabeth (Simmons) William Austin Mazo Arrigoni DURHAM — John MIDDLEFIELD — William Austin Mazo, 19, of MidMIDDLEFIELD — Elizabeth “Betty” (Simmons) Arrigoni, 85, of Middlefield, beloved wife of Charles Arrigoni, died peacefully s u r ro u n d e d by her family on Friday, Dec. 27, 2013 at her home.

She was born in Middletown, daughter of the late George and Marguerite (Smith) Simmons. Betty was a member of the St. Colman’s Ladies Guild, the American Legion Auxiliary and the Skippo Girls Club.

Besides her husband, Betty is survived by her sons, Ray Arrigoni, of Middletown; Russell Arrigoni, of Middletown; and Robert Arrigoni and his wife, Kathy, of Virginia; her daughters, Nancy Miller and her husband, George, of Middlefield; and Cynthia Kindschi and her husband, Roger, of Killingworth; a brother, Robert Simmons of Middletown; nine grandchildren, four great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her sisters, Dorothy Battersby, of California; and Madeline Combe of Middletown.

Funeral Services were held Tuesday, Dec. 31 at 10 a.m. from Biega Funeral Home, 3 Silver St., Middletown followed by an 11 a.m. Funeral Liturgy at Notre Dame Church in Durham. Burial will be at the convenience of the family at the State Veterans’ Cemetery. Those who wish may send memorial contributions to Middlesex Hospice, 28 Crescent St., Middletown, CT 06457. To share memories or express condolences online please visit www.biegafuneralhome.com.

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dlefield, beloved son of Dr. James E. Mazo III and Paula (Lynch) Mazo of Middlefield, died on Thursday, Dec. 26, 2013 due to injuries in an automobile accident.

He was born in Hartford and was a 2013 graduate of Vinal Technical High School in Middletown. Austin currently was an apprentice tool maker with Powerhold Inc. in Middlefield, having started working there his junior year through the Work Based Learning program at Vinal. He also earned the Eagle Scout Award through Durham Troop 27 in 2012, designing a kiosk and parking lot for the Coe Hill Property on School Street in Middlefield; he won the state Skills USA Competition in Precision Machining in 2013 and went on to represent the state of Connecticut in the national Skills USA competition in Kansas City, Mo., where he placed 13th in his field. Austin enjoyed working on his Cummins truck, hanging with friends, and hunting and fishing with family, and was always there to help anyone who needed it. He had an infectious smile and his hugging arms will be sorely missed by all.

In addition to his parents, he is survived by his brother, Emery Mazo, of Middlefield; maternal grandparents, Dr. William Austin Lynch, and his wife, Mary, of Wethersfield; paternal grandmother, Eleanor “Ellie” Mazo, of New Jersey; as well as his Auntie Margaret (Peg) Lynch, of Ashland, N.H.; Uncle Dan Lynch, and his wife, Margaret Seaman, of Telluride, Colo.; and his Auntie Jennifer (Mazo) Stilwell, and her husband, Ron, of Greenville, S.C.; and many extended family and friends. He was predeceased by his paternal grandfather, Dr. James E. Mazo Jr., in September of 2013.

Funeral services were held on Tuesday, Dec. 31, 2013 at 1 p.m. at the Fellowship Church, 1002 Saybrook Rd., Middletown. Burial was at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers, those who wish to may send memorial contributions to the Vinal Technical High School Parent Faculty/Friends Organization, 60 Daniels St., Middletown, CT 06457.

Biega Funeral Home had care of the arrangements. To share memories or express condolences online, please visit www.biegafuneralhome.com.

Obituary fee

Rossi, 88, of Durham beloved husband of Evelyn (Seifert) Rossi died Friday, Jan. 3, 2014, at his home.

John was born in Madison the son of the late Henry and Gertrude Rossi. Prior to his retirement John was employed with Modular Engineering as a sheet metal worker. He was a veteran of World War II serving with the U.S. Army.

Besides his wife John is survived by two daughters, Lori Rossi, of Higganum, Diane Fotopoulos and her husband, James, of Florida; a son, James Rossi and his wife, Debbie, of Durham; a son-in-law, Greg Pytlik; five grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

John was predeceased by a daughter, Linda Pytlik; a brother, Frederick Rossi; and a sister, Barbara Weber.

Funeral services were private. Burial with military honors was held at the State Veterans’ Cemetery. Those who wish may make memorial contributions to Middlesex Hospice Home Care 51 Broad St., Middletown, CT 06457. To share memories or express condolences online please visit www.biegafuneralhome.com.

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A14 Friday, January 10, 2014

Democratic caucus All enrolled members of the Democratic Party of the Town of Durham are notified that, pursuant to the rules of the Democratic Party and state election laws, a caucus is scheduled for Jan. 14, at 8 p.m., at the Durham Activity Center, 350 Main St. The purpose of the caucus is to endorse candidates for the Democratic Town Committee and to transact other business as may be proper to come before said caucus.

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Drop a rhyme, land a corporate job

By Charles Kreutzkamp Town Times

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Durham resident and Coginchaug Regional High School alum, Joanna Perricone was nervous when she first heard that her interviewer at Gateway Financial Services had discovered her hip hop music online.

But when David Wood, p r e s i d e n t o f G a t e way Financial Partners sent her an email asking her to write and perform a rap about the company during her job interview, she accepted the challenge — and landed the job.

Prior to asking Perricone to come in for a first interview, the company’s Director of Marketing and Communications Shannon Berube and Creative Director Faith Zeller conducted a thorough Google search and discovered Perricone’s website (www.joannaperricone. com).

It was dedicated to promoting her original hip hop music, Perricone said.

After Berube asked her to elaborate on her musical interests, Perricone said, “I’m turning 50 shades of red right now.”

Perricone said that when she had searched herself online, she found that her LinkedIn account popped up first and that information about her hip hop music was buried several pages down.

Perricone said she was uncertain at first whether the request for a rapping interview was a joke or not.

It d e f i n i te ly wa s n’ t and “Dropping a Line and Landing a Corporate Job” can now be viewed on Gateway’s YouTube page.

The rap featured lines like “Confidently, I know I could add to your successes” and “I just marketed myself, so I know I’m your candidate.”

Pe r r i co n e re ce ive d a phone call with a job offer mere hours after performing the pitch.

Perricone said job competition is fierce and an in-

vitation to interview is a rarity. She cited high unemployment rates, which the Department of Labor reported are higher in Connecticut than the nat io n al average at 7.9 percent. “ It i s a jungle out there. I had been job hunting for full time employment for a year and a half, so it was a big deal when Joanna Perricone.

Shannon emailed me.

I knew the rap was a big risk, but it was and SoundCloud, do contain one I was willing to take,” strong language. Perricone said she is thoughtful about Perricone said.

Perricone initially thought her use of language and the company might see her that each instance of cusship hop music as something ing serves a specific artistic that would count against purpose.

Perricone joins Gateway her as a candidate. “I didn’t think of hip hop as some- Financial Partners as a marthing you can openly talk keting assistant. Previously, about in a corporate envi- she worked from the SS&C SummerWind Performing ronment,” she said.

However, Perricone was Arts Center where she surprised to find out that her served as a development music was “a huge positive,” associate and operations manager. Prior to that poshe said.

Is this a sign that corporate sition, she was program coculture is becoming more re- ordinator for Oddfellows laxed about employees who Playhouse Youth Theater. have public personal lives She is a magna cum laude online? “Yeah, I think so,” graduate with a master of arts in arts administration Perricone said.

Perricone first developed and a bachelor of fine arts in an interest in rap music at theater.

Perricone released her age 15. She said she started off as a poet and became in- f i rs t m i x t a p e e n t i t l e d , terested in beat poetry and “Who is this Girl?”, under rap through the HBO show the independent music label, “Connecticut People Def Jam Poetry.

“For the most part, I Records” in May 2013 . She is identify as a clean artist,” currently working on an E.P. Perricone said, However, titled, “The Wave Series”, some of her tracks, which scheduled for release in can be found on YouTube January 2014.

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Friday, January 10, 2014

Make your home appeal to buyers

A15

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StatePoint – Whether your home is on the market, or you plan to sell one day, knowing homebuyers’ preferences can help you make smart upgrades that will increase your home’s value and offer a great return on investment.

Luckily, a 2012 survey by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) is giving savvy homeowners a clear look at what potential buyers are looking for.

Here are a few insights:

Storage Homebuyers want great storage features, like laundry rooms, linen closets, garage storage and walk-in pantries, says the NAHB survey.

If you don’t have these features or the budget to knock down walls or build additions, you can at least make the most of the storage you do have. Get organized and use easy-to-install closet systems that fit into your existing closets. Doing so will put your home in the best light possible.

Entry Doors Homebuyers want quality and beauty in their doors and entryways, according to the NAHB study, and fiberglass doors are gaining popularity. It’s no wonder, since the door is the first thing anyone sees when entering a home and fiberglass doors are durable as well as aesthetically pleasing.

With quality in mind, consider selecting a door with a complete system of components engineered to work together and sourced from the same manufacturer. A door system designed to work together for lasting perfor-

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DO YOU NOTHOW SO BONNY BONEDO? SPURS What is athat podiatric Projections develop surgeon? along the Working in hospitals and clinics, edges of bones in the foot are known as these surgical specialists are enlistbone spurs.

Primarily caused by weared to perform surgeries on the feet, and-tear, boneinspurs maycases, not bethe detected ankles, and some lowfor years. and er leg.

To Their do so specific requireslocation graduating potential healthschool threat and determine how from medical a residency in are podiatric surgery. the they treated.

TightShould ligaments individualfrom desire to specialize in resulting repetitive, impactful particularsuch surgical techniques, he activities as running, carrying or she may choose to participate in excessive weight, and wearing shoes that a fellowship. Reconstructions, cordo not fit properly can result in bone rections, and repairs are performed spurs of the To complicate the by them on foot. a regular basis. They matter, tissuetheir can build up over the bone meet with patients to discuss spurs, resulting in and to corns. the condition or calluses injury and helpA simple X-ray and pinpoint educate themcanonidentify their surgical options, including what spur. is entailed in the location of a bone Treatment therange procedure, aftercan from icingappropriate and rest to the use and anticipated expecofcare, orthotics, injections,result and possibly tations.removal.

Podiatric surgeons may surgical work independently or as part of a The components of the foot, ankle, specialized team. and Today’s leg are designed columnto work has together, been sharing thetotremendous pressures of daybrought you as a public service by to-day living. they don’tFOOT work the entire staffWhen at AFFILIATED properly, though, itLLC. can cause pain and CARE CENTER, Of considerable significance in caring of other troubles for the rest offorthefeet body, anyit’s age, is specialized choosing and timeortoany getgender, help. Our the right in mind care and podiatrist. treatmentBearing can make an how much our feet todoanfor us, the important contribution individual’s least we can do is to provide them total health and well-being. At with a comfortable environment, AFFILIATED FOOTbefore CARE problems CENTER, preventive care LLC, offerprofessional comprehensive care occur,weand carefoot when bythey appointment.

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Don’t make home upgrades blindly. By taking the pulse of homebuyers, you can ensure you get a great return on your investments.

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Windows When it comes to windows, energy efficiency is the prime consideration for consumers. ENERGY STAR rated windows, triple-pane insulating glass windows, and Low-E insulating glass windows are the three top “must haves” and “desirable” types of windows among new and potential homebuyers, according to the NAHB survey.

With that in mind, when replacing your home’s windows, you’d be wise to look for those from an ENERGY STAR partner that’s committed to meeting the strict criteria of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. For example, Simonton Windows has developed glass packages for each climate zone -- Northern, North Central, South-Central and Southern -- which utilize insulating glass units to drastically reduce the transfer of heat and cold, as well as block ultraviolet rays.

As far as materials are concerned, opting for lower maintenance vinyl frames is a good bet, as survey results from the study also show that vinyl framed windows are the leading preference for homebuyers for their low-maintenance features, durability and great insulating factors.

More information about ENERGY STAR qualified vinyl windows can be found at www.simonton. com/energystar.

A16 Friday, January 10, 2014

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Calendar

Friday, Jan. 10 Square dance - The 4CF’s Square Dance Club has scheduled a dance for Friday, Jan. 10, 8 to 10 p.m., at Brewster School. Caller is Jim Schell; cuer is Sue Lucibello. For more information, call (860) 349-8084 or (860) 828-5978.

Casual bridge - The Durham Activity Center, 350 Main St., schedules casual bridge every Friday at 6:30 p.m. All are welcome. For more information, call Jim Martinelli at (860) 346-6611.

Dance performance Middlesex Dance Center has scheduled an American Academy of Ballet Performance Award event for Friday, Jan. 10, at 6 p.m., at the Church of St. Coleman, Middlefield. The event is open to the public. Admission is a donation for the local food bank or local animal shelter.

Girls basketball - CRHS vs. Cromwell at CRHS, 7:30 p.m.

Sunday, Jan. 12 Community supper- The Notre Dame Church, 272 Main St., has scheduled a

free community supper for Sunday, Jan. 12, 5:30 to 6:30 p.m., in the church hall. All are welcome.

Girls basketball - CRHS vs. Old Lyme at Old Lyme, 7 p.m.

Saturday, Jan. 18

Ham dinner - Boy Scout Troop 16 has scheduled a ham dinner for Saturday, Jan. 16, 5 to 7 p.m., at the Third Congregational Church, 94 Minor St., Middletown. A fee is charged. Proceeds benefit scouts in need of camperships. The event includes a silent auction and scouting displays. For more information, call Bob Olenick at (860) 347-4208.

Boys basketball - CRHS vs. Haddam-Killingworth at CRHS, 7:30 p.m.

Open house - Middlefield Children’s Center, 390 Main St., has scheduled an open house for Saturday, Jan. 18, from 9 a.m. to noon.

Tuesday, Jan. 14 Girls basketball - CRHS vs. Haddam-Killingworth at CRHS, 7:30 p.m.

Thursday, Jan. 16 Boys basketball - CRHS vs. Old Lyme at Old Lyme, 7 p.m.

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Monday, Jan. 20 Girls basketball - CRHS vs. Morgan at Morgan High School, 7 p.m.

Tuesday, Jan. 21 Boys basketball - CRHS vs. Morgan at Morgan High School, 7 p.m.

Thursday, Jan. 23 Girls basketball - CRHS vs. Portland at CRHS, 7:30 p.m.

Friday, Jan. 24 Boys basketball - CRHS vs. Portland at CRHS, 7:30 p.m.

Bessy and Blake are 7-months-old spayed female calicos. They love to play and be petted. Both have an inquisitive nature. They need an experienced cat person. They would rather not live with children and dogs. The pair needs to be adopted together by a patient person who will give them time to adjust and be comfortable in their new home. For more information, call (860) 344-9043,or info@catales.org.

Town clerk hours The Town Clerk’s office has scheduled new hours of operation.

Hours are Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Fridays, 9 a.m. to noon.

Letters Policy

Monday, Jan. 27 Girls basketball - CRHS vs. East Hampton at East Hampton, 7:30 p.m.

Tuesday, Jan. 28 Boys basketball - CRHS vs. East Hampton at East Hampton, 7 p.m.

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D id You Know?

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- Town Times will print only one letter per person each month. Letters should be approximately 300 words.

We reserve the right to edit letters. Letters should be on topics of general interest to the community. We do not list names of people, organi-

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Masonicare has a state-of-the-art GI suite on its Wallingford campus that is open to the community.

Partnering with Connecticut GI and Hartford Anesthesiology, we perform a wide variety of outpatient GI procedures including endoscopies and colonoscopies for adults 18 and over. We combine the latest technology with a personalized experience to help you recover privately and quickly. For more information, or if you have a referral, call 203-679-5902.

Conveniently located off Route 150 in Wallingford. Most insurances accepted.

zations and businesses being thanked.

- Names of businesses are not allowed. Letters must be signed and names will appear in print.

- Include a phone number so Town Times can contact you for verification.

- Letters must be submitted by 5 p.m. on Monday to be considered for publication on the following Friday.

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Friday, January 10, 2014

© The Connecticut Mirror

The state’s 16 vocational-technical high schools could enroll many more students and open its vacant classrooms if the district had the money.

“It’s a reality we don’t have enough seats,” said Nivea L. Torres, the interim superintendent of the 10,800-student district funded almost entirely by the state.

More t ha n 6 ,000 students applied for the 3,000 available seats this past fall, which left hundreds of students across the state on waiting lists.

Torres said several shops remain empty this school year only because she doesn’t have the money.

“Unfortunately that’s not something in the means of our operating budget,” she told legislators on the Education, Higher Education, Labor committees last week.

“There is capacity, but it takes more staff and money.”

While enrollment at the schools has remained steady over the last few years, the district that is almost entirely funded by the state has struggled to keep its teaching, maintenance and security staffing positions filled.

The district reports it has 41 full-time jobs unfilled this school year, eight of which are teaching positions. State funding to cover the district’s operating expenses has remained largely level over the last several years.

The state’s Technical High School System began coming before legislators annually after a trio of events: news came out that students were learning on outdated equipment; there were reports that safety violations existed on most of the school buses that transport district students; and a district school had to close. This led to the passage

Torres.

While previous years’ reports were filled with details related to the schools’ fiscal health, this year’s report, by Education Commissioner Stefan Pryor, no information on the school district’s budget realities. It says: “Continued funding at the state level will be essential to the success of the trades/ technologies in the manufacturing cluster,” adding that a “paradigm shift” is required to align the district’s program offerings with the state’s workforce needs.

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Middlefield Housing Housing Authority Authority has Middlefield has opened opened its waiting list for Sugarloaf Terrace on its waiting list for Sugarloaf Terrace on 01/01/14.

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of a new state law requiring an annual “assessment of the adequacy of resources” for the district.

That 2010 law also calls for more detailed information on the vo-tech district’s in an effort to enhance legislative oversight. Three years later, however, the district’s budget is back to being a single line item in the state budget, and the State Board of Education no longer receives monthly updates.

R e p. Rob e r t a W i l l i s , co-chairwoman of the legislature’s Higher Education Committee, acknowledged the unlikelihood of an increase in state funding to open seats to more students. “Obviously that would take quite an amount of resources that you don’t have,” the Salisbury Democrat told

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By Jacqueline Rabe Thomas

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Funding cap slows growth of vo-tech schools

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A18 Friday, January 10, 2014

Town Times | towntimes.com

Commentary

A fall through ice is not nice

By Mike Roberts

The last couple of winters have been rather “iffy” at best with ice on many lakes How does that old say- and ponds being extremely ing go? If you don’t like the dangerous for anyone wantweather in New England, wait ing to get in some ice-fishing. Please, keep in mind that a minute and it will change.

That seems to be the case there is no fish worth dying for. so far.

I can tell you this: You don’t I know that many of my outdoor fishermen were re- have to worry about me beally getting ready for some ing the first one on the ice. ice-fishing with the cold snap But there are those foolhardy that we just had. While it sports who just have to be looks like we will have some the first one on the ice. I remore cold weather heading member talking to one fisherour way, there will also be man on Tyler Lake up in the some warm spells in between Goshen area who told me he those cold days. This is not was “always” the first one on only having an effect on the Tyler, even if he had to put ice-fishing, but also the local down boards on the ice to keep from going through. I ski areas as well.

Special to Town Times

old when I went through the ice while skating on Morin’s Grove in South Meriden back in the ’40s. Luckily, one of the older kids, Eddie Revay, was there and saved my life by pulling me out of the frigid water.

That was a very scary experience, one that I would not wish on anyone and also one that has made me very aware of traveling on safe ice.

Blue ice (usually clear) is always safer than slush ice, which is about 50 percent weaker than blue ice. There is a scale of sorts for ice users that was made with blue ice being the one the table was made for. The table states that one inch is unsafe for

simply shook my head in disbelief and walked away.

Another time towards the end of the ice-fishing season, I was up in the Goshen area and stopped by Dog Pond. I could not believe my eyes as a couple of sports were walking around on the rapidly melting ice wearing PFDs (Personal Flotation Devices a.k.a. life jackets).

It made me wonder about their sanity. Sure, it’s great to be what you consider “safe,” but why even go on the ice if you think you are going to go through?

Have you ever gone through the ice? I have, and it is an experience you will never forget. I was only about 10-years

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humans, two inches one person on foot, 3 inches a group in single f ile, four inches a Mike snowmobile Roberts o r AT V, 7 Woods ‘n inches a passenger car (2 Water tons) and 8 inches a light truck (2.5 tons).

Scale be damned. I “start” to feel safe on the ice with a minimum of four inches of ice, and here in Connecticut you are not allowed to drive a car or truck out on the ice.

As for the two inches being safe for one person on foot, forgettaboutit! If the ice is only safe enough for one person where will the help come from if you fall through?

And speaking of falling through, think about this for a minute or two. If you go through the ice it will generally be one of two ways. The ice will simply give way under you and you will be submerged in the freezing water and, if you are lucky (if you can call going through the ice “lucky”) you will pop up in the hole you went through and someone will help you out. In the second scenario (and this one is a nightmare) is that the ice will break like trap door, sending you into the freezing water and then the ice will resurface in the same hole that it broke from, trapping you under the ice with only a minute left in your life.

Sorry to sound so gruesome, but accidental deaths due to being careless are gruesome. This also brings to mind the thought that it is really safer to ice-fish with a buddy for safety’s sake.

T h a n k f u l l y, h e r e i n Connecticut, they do not allow cars and trucks on the ice. Just because ice is deemed safe for one sport or another, especially ice-fishing, that does not mean that all of the ice is safe for everything. If the body of water you are on has a current See Fall / Page 19

Town Times | towntimes.com

Friday, January 10, 2014

Fall From Page 18

A19

Middlefield compost operation is destination for Berlin leaves

Submissions true if there is a covering of snow on the ice! The snow can act as an insulator, preventing the ice from becoming safer. Plus, it makes it harder to “read” the ice.

If you are the first one on a certain body of water, test the thickness of the ice by chopping or drilling holes as you make your way out on the ice. If the ice on the shoreline is cracked and squishy, stay off! And as I say this, I remember some of us laying old planks across these areas to get onto the ice. What were we thinking?

Expect ice around protruding objects like rocks, bridge abutments and stumps, as well as pressure ridges, to be less safe. This also includes dark areas in snow-covered ice.

Let me say it again, “There is no fish worth dying for!”

The Town Times of any type going through it, welcomes submissions this could result in unsafe regarding upcoming ice. community events.

Many years ago, I witThese brief items run soil nutrients. Leaves must

By Charles Kreutzkamp nessed such a thing on free of charge.

Town Times be composted carefully to Gardner La ke in Salem, We do our best to run ensure that the resulting Conn. A group of us had a submission at least one Most Berlin residents are compost avoids carbon fished the northern end of time, however, we canfamiliar with the town’s nitrate imbalances. One the lake one weekend and not guarantee a submisleaf collection program, option DEEP allows, that had some exceptional fishing sion will be published on but fewer know what hap- the Town of Berlin takes the entire day. The rest of the a specific date and conpens to leaves after they advantage of, is to donate week had remained very cold tent may be edited. leaves to a locally-owned disappear from the curb.

Send submissions to and we looked forward to the The C o n n e c t i c u t farming operation. news@towntimes.com coming weekend for another After Berlin’s Public Department of Energy and or contact Marsha at ice-fishing trip on Gardner.

(203) 317-2256.

Environmental Protection Works collects leaves, they I m a g i ne ou r su r pr i se If you have specific rehas specific requirements are sent to Coleman Farms when we arrived and saw quirements contact your for the disposal of leaves, in Middlefield where they that the area we were fishing sales representative at which demand that leaves are composted. Berlin’s on was now a small body of (203) 317-2313. be composted because Deputy Director of Public open water. No one has ever of the benefits to farm- Works James Horbal exbeen able to explain what ers, communities, and the plained. This benef its had transpired other than it Berlin in reducing disposal environment. might have been from the acAccording to DEEP, com- costs and eliminating the Find us on the Web: tivities of some underground posting leaves decreases liability and expense assosprings. www.towntimes.com soil erosion and improves ciated with composting.

Regarding vehicles on the ice, New York State does allow vehicles on some lakes and ponds, and on one of Town Times Business Service Directory them the local Lions Club held a yearly ice-f ishing derby in February. The 10 In addition to weight loss, inches of ice was deemed acnutritional counseling can ceptable for the derby, but help disorders such as: the lake was covered with ADHD and Autism about a foot of snow.

Debra S. Nelson, Psy.D. & Alzheimer’s Disease A well-meaning sport who Anxiety and Depression Clinical Nutrition Stacia K. Bjarnason, Ph.D. had just purchased a brand Arthritis for the Whole Family new pickup truck with a Asthma 199 Main Street, 360 Main Street snowplow volunteered to go Durham, CT Cancer Durham, CT 06422 Durham, CT out on the ice and plow paths Fatigue and Insomnia 860-788-3231 (860) 398-4621 860-788-3231 for fishermen to use on the Skin disorders CashmanNutrition.com and more... day of the derby. Everything CashmanNutrition@gmail.com www.BrownstonePsychological.com was going smoothly until, without warning, the truck broke th rough the sup posedly safe ice and went to the bottom of the lake.

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A20 Friday, January 10, 2014

Town Times | towntimes.com

Healthy From Page 9

The holidays are a time of parties and cocktails but moving into the New Year try limiting alcohol consumption. Studies find that it may lower the risk of developing some cancers. DanaFarber researchers found that women who consume one alcoholic drink a day may increase their risk for breast cancer. “Women need to consider the possible effects of alcohol on breast cancer risk when weighing the risks and benefits of alcohol consumption,” says Wendy Chen, MD, PhD, a breast cancer expert in Dana-Farber’s Susan F. Smith Center for Women’s Cancers. “Our findings indicate that in some women, even modest levels of alcohol consumption may elevate their risk of breast cancer.”

Four: It’s never too late

to quit Quitting smoking can be very difficult but studies have shown that kicking the habit can result in a healthier lifestyle. And, if you’re trying to tighten your spending, it can also lead to a significant financial savings.

According to the American Cancer Society, smoking is the most preventable cause of death in the United States.

It also causes more than 80 percent of all cases of lung cancer and increases the risk of oral, throat, pancreatic, uterine, bladder, and kidney cancers.

“Quitting smoking can be an important first step but may also be one of the most difficult,” says Pasi Jänne, MD, PhD, director of DanaFarber’s Lowe Center for Thoracic Oncology. “It can take on average three times to quit. For those who have

tried and failed, it’s important to pick another quit date and try again.” Jänne emphasizes that it is never too late to quit. People who stop and remain nonsmokers for at least 10 to 20 years can cut their risk of developing lung cancer in half.

Here are some tips that may help: - Plan the quit day.

- Follow the four D’s: Deep breaths, Drink lots of water, Do something to avoid focusing on cravings, Delay reaching for a cigarette – the urge will pass.

- Avoid triggers: Get rid of cigarettes, lighters, matches, and ashtrays.

Five: Go Nuts A recent study involving Dana-Farber researchers showed that people who ate a handful of nuts on a daily basis were 20 percent less likely to die from any cause

over a 30 year period. On top of that, the nut-eaters were more slender than those who did not eat nuts.

“The most obvious benefit was a reduction of 29 percent in deaths from heart disease – the major killer of people in America,” said Charles S. Fuchs, MD, MPH, director of the Gastrointestinal Cancer Treatment Center at DanaFarber and senior author of the study.

It did not seem to matter the type of nut. The results were similar for both peanuts and “tree nuts” – walnuts, hazelnuts, almonds, Brazil nuts, cashews, macadamias, pecans, pistachios and pine nuts.

Six: Sunscreen ‘applies’ year round Sunscreen shouldn’t be packed away after summer ends. Skin can be exposed to harmful rays all year long.

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Town Times Business Service Directory

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Free community supper Th e No t re D a m e Church, 272 Main St., has scheduled a free community supper for Sunday, Jan. 12, 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. in the church hall.

Meal is prepared by the Knights of Columbus; desserts by the Church of the Epiphany. All are welcome.

Snow, ice and water can all reflect the ultraviolet (UV) radiation that causes sunburn, which, in turn increases the risk of developing skin cancer. Some experts say winter sports enthusiasts can face just as much risk of getting sunburn as summer sunbathers. Dana-Farber experts remind to protect year round.

- Wear sunscreen, lip balm and makeup with an SPF of 15 or higher.

- Use UV-blocking eye protection, especially for skiing.

- In a tropical setting, wear a broad brimmed hat and UV-blocking sunglasses.

- Avoid excessive exposure to the sun, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when the sun is at its strongest.

Seven: Don’t forget your dentist Visiting the dentist is not just about clean and healthy teeth. Dentists also are on the front lines of detecting cancer in the mouth and can spot pre-cancerous lesions that can develop from smoking or chewing tobacco. In addition to the increased risk of cancer, smoking and using tobacco can erode teeth and gums. “The treatment for this type of head and neck cancer can be a radical and deforming surgery,” warns Robert Haddad, MD, disease center leader of the Head and Neck Oncology Program at Dana-Farber. He stresses, “The changes in the cells never go away once they happen. So don’t start using tobacco and if you have, get help to stop.”

Submitted by Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston

Town Times | towntimes.com

Friday, January 10, 2014

A21

Yogurt is a great food choice Yogurt is a nutrient-rich food choice for your diet. called Yogurt in Nutrition Initiative for a balanced diet. As part of this effort, the initiative will examine new and emerging data around the health effects of yogurt, spark research and share key scientific information with both the health care community and the public.

Rich in protein, calcium, potassium, magnesium and healthy bacteria, the already proven benefits of yogurt consumption include: • A better diet: A recent study found that people who eat yogurt have higher intakes of essential nutrients See Yogurt / Page 23

Town Times Business Service Directory

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Unfortunately, roughly three-fourths of Americans need to improve their diets, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Healthy Eating Index.

Nutrient-dense foods provide plentiful nutrients with relatively few calories.

Such foods include vegetables, fruits, whole grains, low-fat and fat-free milk and milk products, lean meats and seafood. Eating too few of these important foods can leave the body without enough valuable nutrients like vitamin D, calcium, potassium, or dietary fiber.

One food group in which Americans are falling short is low-fat or fat-free milk and milk products. The U.S. Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend that adults consume three servings daily. Unfortunately, most people only get about half that amount, according to USDA data.

So why should we consume nutrient-dense foods like yogurt?

The American Society for Nutrition in collaboration with the Danone Institute International and The Nutrition Society in the United Kingdom is working with international nutrition and health experts to study the health effects of yogurt through a global initiative

A22 Friday, January 10, 2014

Town Times | towntimes.com

Sports

Hot stretch for Coginchaug girls After a season-opening loss at Kolbe Cathedral, the Coginchaug girls had better success, with wins at HaleRay and Valley, and at home against Hyde and Granby Memorial.

On Dec. 20, the girls traveled to Hale-Ray, where they prevailed by a count of 48-35.

Morgan Kuehnle scored 11 to lead the way, with Naomi Rinaldo adding eight, Boo Luther seven and Kim Romanoff and Audrey Arcari six points apiece.

Kuehnle pulled in 10 re-

bounds for the double-double.

Caryn Sibiskie had seven boards.

Romanoff led the team in steals, with six, while Kuehnle had five takeaways.

Luther had a team-high five assists.

Coginchaug hosted Hyde Dec. 21 and came away with a convincing 55-25 win.

Kuehnle hauled in an impressive 21 rebounds in the rout.

On Dec. 23, the girls traveled to Valley Regional and produced a 45-35 win.

Youth basketball: Thunder earn split

Sibiskie had a big game, grabbing seven rebounds and making five steals.

The Devils hosted Granby Memorial Dec. 28 and prevailed 46-33.

Romanoff led the way with 14 points. She added four assists and three steals.

Sibiskie (4 blocks, 3 rebounds) and Rinaldo (3 assists) contributed eight points apiece, while Kuehnle had five points and five rebounds, and Arcari added five rebounds, three steals and three points.

The Coginchaug Thunder sixth grade boys travel basketball team opened up play in the New Year with a 1-1 weekend, defeating HaddamKillingworth, 40-25, then dropping a tough game to Old Saybrook, 42-25.

Nico Kulpik led the Thunder with 16 points on the weekend, while Blake Courchesne added Find us on the Web: www.towntimes.com

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12. Derek Grant had seven, while Adam Copeland and Devin Geoghegan both had six points.

The boys played great team defense, and, as usual, played hard, hustled and played together.

Upcoming games: Sat u rd ay, Ja n . 1 1 vs .

Portland at Strong school; Sunday, Jan. 12 vs. North Haven at Strong school.

Blue Devil boys rebound from slow start

By Alan Pease

Special to Town TImes

On Dec. 18, the Devils hosted the Howling Wolves of Hyde and came away with a loss, as Hyde scored the winning basket at the buzzer for a 46-44 victory.

D e v i n Ro d r i g u e l e d Coginchaug with 13 points.

Conor Doyle added 10 points.

Cam Powers netted seven.

On Dec. 21, the boys traveled to Hale-Ray, where they defeated the Noises 58-46.

Rodrigue again led the Devils in scoring, with 19.

Powers had 11, Doyle 10 and Alex Markoski nine points.

Zach Terrill chipped in with seven for the victors.

On Dec. 23, the boys travelled to Windsor Locks where a solid effort saw them come away with a 58-47 win.

The Devils had what looked like a safe 47-25 lead, but over a four-minute span, they had eight turnovers, and See Hoops / Page 23

Town Times | towntimes.com

Got sports?

Durham Women’s Club is scheduled to meet Thursday, Jan. 16, at 6:30 p.m., at Gouveia Vineyards, Wallingford.

The club is looking for new members.

For more information, contact Kim Tobin at (860) 7886662 or email Kryantobin@comcast.net.

To submit sports info The Town Times welcomes news and scores from all sports leagues in Durham and Middlefield.

Send information and photos to: Town Times, 11 Crown St., Meriden, CT 06450 or email to news@towntimes.com.

For more information on the health effects of yogurt, visit www.nutrition.org/ yogurt.

The Town Times welcomes your submissions!

Please send your news, photos and letter to us at:

The Town Times, P.O. Box 265, Middlefield, CT 06455 news@towntimes.com

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no attempts from the field, as Windsor Locks made it a 4945 game with a 20-2 run.

But Coginchaug righted the ship over the final three minutes of action, going seven-for-12 from the line, and ending the game with a 9-2 spurt.

Rodrigue and Doyle had 18 points apiece and pulled down 12 and nine rebounds, respectively.

Markoski added 10 points.

Terrill had seven points and seven rebounds.

Rodrigue led the team in assists, with four. Powers dished out three assists and had three steals.

Jack Granger had a teamhigh four steals.

A23

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From Page 22

and better diets overall.

From one good habit comes another.

• Easy digestion: If you’re lactose intolerant, yogurt offers a nutrient-dense, more easily digestible alternative to milk and other products that contain lactose.

• Weight management: As reported in the “New England Journal of Medicine,” consumption of yogurt, fruits, vegetables and whole grains are associated with less weight

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Hoops

From Page 21

gain over time, with yogurt showing the greatest association.

• Overall health: Consumption of low-fat and fat-free dairy foods, such as yogurt, is associated with a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes and lower blood pressure in adults.

From curries to parfaits, there are plenty of delicious ways to incorporate this nutrient-rich food into meals and snacks.

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Coginchaug Little League is accepting online registration for the spring 2014 season at www.coginahaugll.org.

An open house is scheduled for Thursday, Jan. 30, 6 to 8 p.m., at the Middlefield Community Center, room 3. The event is open to all players and parents who are signing up for the first time and would like more information about the organization.

Fees are charged for 5/6 year T-ball, Farm team and Minors/ Majors programs.

Fo r m o r e i n f o r mation about the open house, contact Andy Kleczkowski at andy7696@aol.com.

Yogurt

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Friday, January 10, 2014

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A24 Friday, January 10, 2014

Town Times | towntimes.com

State’s minimum wage increased Jan. 1

A GOOD BUDDY

Press release

Connecticut’s minimum wage increased to $8.70 per hour as of Jan. 1, according to state Labor Commissioner Sharon Palmer. Previously, minimum wage was $8.25 an hour.

“This increase to $8.70 is the first part of a twoyear increase in the minimum wage,” Palmer said.

Follow us on Twitter: @TheTownTimes

“On Jan. 1, 2015, in accordance with Public Act 13117, Connecticut’s minimum wage will increase to $9.00.”

Although the federal minimum wage is currently $7.25, Connecticut businesses must pay the state minimum wage, said Gary K. Pechie, director of the agency’s Division of Wage and Workplace Standards.

Under section 31-60 of the Connecticut General Statutes and Public Act 13-

117, the Connecticut minimum wage rate for service employees, specif ically restaurant wait staff and bartenders, is determined by using a formula that takes tip deductions into account. The rates can be found on the Connecticut Department of Labor’s website at www.ct.gov/dol, or by contacting the Labor Department’s Division of Wage and Workplace Standards at (860) 263-6790.

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