Town Times Dec. 14, 2012 by Town Times Newspaper

Volume 19, Number 36 Serving Durham, Middlefield and Rockfall

www.TownTimes.com

Friday, December 14, 2012

Teacher of the Year lends supportive ear By Stephanie Wilcox Town Times In 1999 Kathy Bottini took a job at Regional School District 13 as a social worker for Strong Middle School and Coginchaug High School. Thirteen years later, in the same job, she says she just might be “a lifer.” “I enjoy my job,” Bottini, an East Lyme resident, said. “There’s a great bunch of

kids in this district — really, really good kids.” Bottini was named RSD13’s Teacher of the Year for the 2012-13 school year. The special role she plays in students’ lives is one reason she stood out. “Kathy Bottini was a great choice for our Teacher of the Year,” said RSD13 Superintendent of Schools, Susan See Teacher, next page

The cattle are lowing

Tessa Marino stands in the finished project — the totally gutted home of a Keansburg family. More photos page 21. Photos submitted by Sue VanDerzee

A reporter’s notebook

Locals help rebuild New Jersey By Sue VanDerzee Special to the Town Times Thirty-one local people gathered at the Middlefield Federated Church last Saturday, Dec. 8 — not to do power shopping but to do power helping. They traveled in seven cars down to Keansburg, NJ to participate — along with 1,100 other volunteers — in a mass day of helping

families and individuals whose homes had been damaged by Hurricane Sandy. Despite the fact that the hurricane occurred six weeks before, the extent of destruction was eye-opening and tragic. The local group was assigned two houses to gut down to the studs so that they could be bleached and rebuilt. The home I worked on was owned by a family of five, all of whom worked along-

side us. They are currently living in a rented camper parked on their driveway. The home assigned to our other local group was not so lucky with work halted midway because the house was unsafe. Where the elderly lady who lives there will go now is unclear. That such devastation is so close and so unmentioned is nearly unfathomable.

The Nativity Story will be presented tonight, Friday, Dec. 14, from 5 to 9 p.m., at The Middlefield Federated Church in a unique participatory walking theatre. Guests are invited to walk along with a citizen guide as the story of the birth of the Christ child unfolds. A frightened virgin, a treacherous journey and the voices of Angels on High will bring this ancient story into the modern day. Marvel at the stable scene where the cattle are actually lowing and the chickens are ruffling. Please bring a can of beans as these guides don’t take American Express; your donation will support the church’s commitment to The Amazing Grace Food Pantry. Handicapped accessible.

Submitted by Marilyn Keurajian

Town Times — Friday, December 14, 2012

Corrections We strive to bring you the most accurate information available each week, but if you see something in Town Times that is incorrect, give us a call at (203) 317-2448, and we’ll do our best to make things right. In the Dec. 7 issue, the Time Out Taverne 40 and over softball team article reported that only one triple was hit by the team during the 2012 season. In fact, Bruce Bisson also tripled, during the last game of the season, in Portland.

Index of Advertisers To advertise in the Town Times, call Joy Boone at 203-317-2313 ACE OIL LLC C/O DOUCETTE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 ALLAN’S TREE SERVICE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17 AMATOS TOY & HOBBY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7 ANTIQUES AND VINTAGE GALLERY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 APEC ELECTRIC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18 AQUA TURF CLUB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 AROUND THE CLOCK HEATING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16 BINGE BRUCE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19 BRENDA’S MAIN STREET FEED . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13 CAHILL & SONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20 CARMINES RESTAURANT LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 CLASSIC WOOD FLOORING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19 CONROY DMD JOHN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11 COUNTRY LANDSCAPING LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19 CRANBERRY PHEASANT DAYCARE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21 CV ENTERPRISES, LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22 DEAN AUTOWORKS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11 DUMAS CHRISTMAS TREE FARM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 DURHAM AUTO CENTER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15 DURHAM DENTAL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 DURHAM FAMILY EYECARE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7 DURHAM OFFICE EQUIPMENT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21 DURHAM/MIDDLEFIELD LOCAL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13 EDIBLE ARRANGEMENTS/NORTH HAVE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16 FAMILY PEST CONTROL LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18 FAMILY TREE CARE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17 FINE WORK HOME IMPROVEMENT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22 FOR SINGLES ONLY LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 FOSDICK MD, GORDON . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 GLAZER DENTAL ASSOCIATES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13 GOLSCHNEIDER PAINTING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18 GRANT GROUNDSCAPES LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19 GRIPPO GUTTERS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17 HAIR ON WHEELS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 HARSTANS JEWELERS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 HCP REMODELING & DESIGN CO LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18 IANNIELLO PLUMBING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20 JAY LANDSCAPING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21 JIMS AUTO SALES & SERVICE LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19 KIMS COTTAGE CONFECTIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3 LYMAN ORCHARDS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15 MARCO JETTE LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22 MASONICARE-MAKIARIS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14, 24 MICHAEL TIMBRO RENTAL PROPERTI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23 MICHELI UNISEX STYLING SALON L . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 MIDDLEFIELD REMODELING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20 MIDDLESEX COMMUNITY COLLE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3 MIDDLESEX HEALTH CARE CEN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 MIDDLESEX OB/GYN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 MILLER TREE FARM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11 MIMS OIL LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 MOVADO FARMS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21 NEIL JONES HOME IMPROVEMENTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17 NEW ENGLAND CHIMNEY SWEEP MOSO . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19 NEW ENGLAND DENTAL HEALTH SERV . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23 OLSEN, LEIF . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14 PAINT SPOT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 PEACEFUL HEALING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 PERROTTIS COUNTRY BARN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 PLANETA ELECTRIC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18 RLI ELECTRIC LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22 ROBLEE PLUMBING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17 ROCKFALL CO, LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21 RSDL HOME IMPROVEMENTS & . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22 SPLIT ENZ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20 ST AMAND, SHEILA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23 SUBURBAN CLEANERS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21 SUN BEC SEAMLESS GUTTERS & WIN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18 THOMPSON CANDY COMPANY LL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11 TORRISON STONE & GARDEN, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22 UNCLE BOB’S FLOWER & GARDEN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6, 20 VMB CUSTOM BUILDERS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17 WHITEHOUSE CONSTRUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17 WILD WISTERIA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 WILDWOOD LAWN CARE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20

Teacher (Continued from page 1) Viccaro. “She has been the social worker split between Strong and CRHS since 1999. She is a huge support to students and their families.” Though it brings its challenges, Bottini said working with students at a critical age is one perk to the job. “I think that’s why I like it,” she said. “It’s a time when kids are trying to figure out who they are, the grand picture of who they want to be. It’s inspiring for me. Seventh graders often times are very different by the time they hit grade 12. I can see that growth.” Another reason Bottini said she likes her job is because, “It’s hard navigating the social pressures of being a teenager, and I hope I can be someone that can offer a supportive ear for our students.” Part of Bottini’s job is easing the transition from middle school to high school. She said school transition is an area the district focuses on because every couple of years students enter a new school. And since her time is split between two schools, she said she appreciates the “team-approach” among her coworkers. While she says she was

Kathy Bottini; RSD13 Teacher of the Year; Stefan Pryor, CT commissioner of education; and Sue Viccaro, Photo submitted by Kathy Bottini RSD13 superintendent. “very surprised” and “very honored” to be named Teacher of the Year, Bottini said she “feels a little funny because all of my coworkers deserve this… everybody does their best to be there for the kids.” “The district is wonderful,” she added. “I like it because the town and families are so supportive, the administration and board have always been supportive of the counseling program. It’s clear to me that everyone in the district cares about kids and puts their best interests first.” Bottini comes from a fam-

ily with many teachers and said she has been around teaching her whole life. Because she was “interested in kids” she thought working with them would be a good fit. So after putting her social work degree to use at non-profit agencies and hospitals at the beginning of her career, she went back for a master’s specifically to get into school social work. Now, she says, “I hope to be able to continue to work with kids and find their place and figure out their path.”

Briefs Tax preparation volunteers needed Volunteers are needed for the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program to help low- to moderate-income households prepare and file their taxes. Volunteers are trained and certified by the IRS to offer free tax preparation assistance to ensure that working families and individuals are filing for all of the appropriate tax credits. It can also help people avoid costly fees associated with tax preparation and rapid refund loans. The program is looking for volunteers at the VITA sites located in downtown Middle-

town to provide free basic tax preparation assistance for eligible taxpayers. Tax preparation assistance is offered Jan. 22 through April 10 at the offices of Middlesex United Way and NEAT. Volunteers complete training and are certified by the IRS. Training is scheduled from Jan. 7-10 or Jan. 14-17. Volunteers must attend consecutive evening sessions. For more information, contact David Morgan at dmorgan@wesleyan.edu or (860) 346-1522.

Studio open house Comcast has scheduled an open house at its Clinton Public Access TV Studio for

residents of Durham, Chester, Clinton, Deep River, Essex, Haddam, Killingworth, Old Saybrook and Westbrook on Wednesday, Dec. 19, from 6 to 8 p.m., at the studio located at 21 East Main Street in Clinton. Participants will meet current access producers and volunteers, take a tour of the studio, view the studio’s field equipment and editing suites and learn how to become a behind-the-scenes volunteer or how to cover on location events and public meetings. Residents can also register for future training workshops and learn more about becoming involved in Public Access Television. Guests

See Briefs, page 16

Friday, December 14, 2012 — Town Times

CVEF honors teacher By Betsy White Booz Special to the Town Times

The Coginchaug Valley Education Foundation recently awarded high school science teacher and community activist Sue Michael with the Howard Kelly Community Award. “I am deeply, deeply honored,” Michael said at a Dec. 6 gathering in her honor. About 40 CVEF board and committee members, along with Michael’s husband and several friends, were there. Michael, a Durham resident, has taught science for 28 years. But, noted fellowteacher Lorrie Martin, who nominated Michael for the award and introduced her at the event, teaching science is really only one of many jobs she has taken on. “Peaceful, quiet and unassuming by nature,” Martin said of Michael, who is committed to her school and her community, where she “persistently, even tenaciously... pursues goal after goal, making the world around us all just a little bit better.” At school, Michael is the Science Team leader. She has led her team of eight in the development of a wide range of course offerings at the high school. She coaches the Envirothon Team and oversees the school’s ECO (Environmental Coginchaug Organization) club. When she’s not doing the official work, she’s taking on other challenges, such as establishing a salad bar in the cafeteria, organizing a better garbage-sorting station and maintaining gardens at the school. In the community, Michael is a member (and currently the chair) of Durham’s Clean

Submitted by Maggie Peterson

Sue Michael and husband Steve.

several years ago, was a founding board member of CVEF. The award was established in his memory to honor individuals in the community who, like him, embody the spirit of leadership in the community, particularly his devotion to volunteerism and education. CVEF was founded in March 2008 as an independent education foundation. The mission of CVEF is to promote excellence, innovation and creativity in education for the community and to support lifelong learning in Durham and Middlefield by giving grants and sponsoring programs. For more information, visit www.cvef.org.

Energy Task Force — now prominently in the community news as ambassadors of the Solarize Durham project. In addition, she helped coordinate a Boy Scouts/ECO collaboration to recycle cans and bottles at the Durham Fair. With the assistance of a Rockfall Foundation grant, this recycling effort now includes the sports complex grounds in Durham, where students maintain the collection of cans and bottles. Ironically, Michael said she read about the Howard Kelley award in the newspape, and thought it would be “something to aspire to...I always heard good things about him, and I’m sorry I never got to know him.” Michael also expressed gratitude and thanks to her husband, Steve, her son and parents (not at the event), friend Jane Kinkead and fellow teacher Nancy Siedlecki, there to share her moment. She also praised CVEF, noting she has followed with interest the work and activities of the organization. Kelley, who passed away

www.mxcc.edu

s Course d Offere r inte This W ion ess Inters uman Body

the H Princ. of peaking Public S n & Literature itio Compos a** br Pre-Alge Algebra** ary ** Element te Algebra ia *** d e Interm nish I *** a p S y r a Element ersat. Span I nv ** Elem. Co omputers** C **** Intro. to . Science n o ir v n E **** Intro. to ry II o t is H . U.S

1260745

Hours: Tues.-Fri. 10-5, Sat. 10-3

Take a Winter Intersession Course at MxCC December 27, 2012 – January 15, 2013* Mon.- Fri. 9 a.m.- 12:15 p.m.

Start your college education or earn credits to transfer back to your college or university!

Go online: mxcc.edu/intersession or call the Admissions Office at 860-343-5719.

1265948

Kim Terrill - baker and designer ❦ www.kimscottageconfections.com

EARN 3 CREDITS IN 3 WEEKS

Enroll Today!

Specialty Cakes • Cookies Gift Baskets • Favors & Gifts For All Your Holiday Needs! (860) 349-2256

This is a reminder that the deadline to send in submissions for Town Times’ annual Creative Arts issues is Thursday, Dec. 20. We need your help filling the issues of Dec. 28 and Jan. 4 with your poems, essays, photographs, paintings, recipes and more. This year’s theme is travel, but we’ll take creative arts submissions on any theme. Email your content to news@towntimes.com or mail to P.O. Box 265 Middlefield, 06455. We can’t wait to see your creative arts this year. Thank you in advance for your contribution to Town Times.

Classes in Middletown, Meriden, and Online!

K im’s Cottage Confections Kim’ Kim’s

16 Main St. Durham Village Durham

Creative Arts reminder

*Snow date- 01/16, no classes 12/31 or 01/01 **Self-paced options- These math courses will be combined into one course. Learn at your own pace.Visit www.mxcc.edu/sp for more info. ***SPA*101 and SPA*105 must be taken together. SPA*105 daily meeting time: 12:25 p.m. - 1:30 p.m. ****Distance Learning- Take an online course. Learn more at www.mxcc.edu/distance

TownCalendar

Dec. 14

Saturday

Santa party – There will be a Cup Cake Blizzard Santa Party Saturday, Dec. 15, at the Durham Activity Center, 350 Main St. Sign up for the holiday craft, meet Santa and enjoy a homemade cup cake. For the Cup Cake Blizzard contest: make a dozen cup cakes to be judged by Santa’s Elves. Children’s division 12 and under; adult division 13 and up. Awards will be given. Call Durham recreation at (860) 343-6724 to register. Cup Cakes may be dropped off at the Durham Activity Center on Dec. 15 from noon to 1 p.m.

Town Hall or at www.middlefieldct.org. Transfer Station hours - The Durham-Middlefield Transfer Station will be open 8 a.m. to noon on Dec. 24.

4-H Club sets bar high

Friday

Tot Time - The MOMS Club of Durham-Middlefield meets every Friday at Middlefield Community Center at 10 a.m. Babies, toddlers and children are welcome. For more information, email momsdurhammiddlefield@gmail.com. Bridge Night - Come join in at the Durham Activity Center every Friday night at 6:30 p.m. for a fun night of bridge. If you are not sure how to play, Jim will teach you. You may call Jim at (860) 346-6611 with bridge questions. Call Durham Recreation at (860) 343-6724 with further questions.

Town Times Friday, December 14, 2012

Sunday

Brunch with Santa Santa at Lyman Orchards Santa and Mrs. Claus will host four traditional familystyle brunches at the Lyman’s family home on Sunday, Dec. 16. Brunch will be served at 10 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 1 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. The brunch is prepared by the Apple Barrel chefs and includes roasted turkey with cranberry chutney, stuffed pork loin with apple com-

Tuesday

Submitted by Pat Bandzes

Merry Christmas

Club members who will be on hand to accept donations. The Mini Mustangs 4-H Horse Club will collect pet food, supplies and donations for “Help Willy’s Friends” on Saturday, Dec. 15, from 1 to 3 p.m., on the Durham Town

Green. The club will attempt to top last year’s collection of $220 in donations and over 350 pounds of pet food and supplies.

pote, seafood Newburg, Town Hall or at www.midsliced sirloin, an omelet sta- dlefieldct.org. tion, and delicious menu selections just for kids. All children, whether they are participating in the Wednesday brunch or not, are welcome to visit with Santa and Mrs. TOPS Meeting - Take Off Claus. Pounds Sensibly meets every Wednesday at 6 p.m. on the third floor of the Durham Town Hall. Contact Monday Naomi Klotsko at (860) 3499558 or Bonnie Olesen at Durham Senior Lunch- (860) 349-9433 for more infores - Every Monday and mation. No Bingo - There is no Wednesday, hot lunches are Senior Bingo available for seniors over 60 Durham and their spouses at the scheduled for Wednesday, Durham Activity Center, 350 Dec. 19. Main St. Following lunch on Monday is game time, which includes billiards, Wii and Friday cards. Bingo starts at 1 p.m. on Wednesday. For pricing info and to make a reservaFirst day of winter tion, call Amanda Pedersen, Tot Time - The MOMS senior café manager, at (860) Club of Durham-Middle349-3153. field meets every Friday at Middlefield Senior Middlefield Community Lunches - The Middlefield Center at 10 a.m. Babies, todSenior Café is serving lunch dlers and children are welthree times a week, on Mon- come. For more informadays, Wednesdays and Fri- tion, email momsdurhamdays. Reservations are re- middlefield@gmail.com. quired 24 hours prior, and Bridge Night - Come join the monthly menu can be in at the Durham Activity picked up at the center, Center every Friday night at

6:30 p.m. for a fun night of bridge. If you are not sure how to play, Jim will teach you. You may call Jim at (860) 346-6611 with bridge questions. Call Durham Recreation at (860) 343-6724 with further questions.

Monday

Durham Senior Lunches - Every Monday and Wednesday, hot lunches are available for seniors over 60 and their spouses at the Durham Activity Center, 350 Main St. Following the lunch on Monday is game time, which includes billiards, Wii and cards. Bingo starts at 1 p.m. on Wednesday. For pricing info and to make a reservation, call Amanda Pedersen, senior café manager, at (860) 3493153. Middlefield Senior Lunches - The Middlefield Senior Café is serving lunch three times a week, on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Reservations are required 24 hours prior, and the monthly menu can be picked up at the center,

Wednesday

Blood drive - The American Red Cross has scheduled a blood drive for Wednesday, Dec. 26, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., at the Middlefield Community center, 405 Main St. For information and to make an appointment, call 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit www.redcrossblood.org. TOPS Meeting - Take Off Pounds Sensibly meets every Wednesday at 6 p.m. on the third floor of the Durham Town Hall. Contact Naomi Klotsko at (860) 3499558 or Bonnie Olesen at (860) 349-9433 for more information. No Bingo - There is no Durham Senior Bingo scheduled for Wednesday, Dec. 26.

Friday

Tot Time - The MOMS Club of Durham-Middlefield meets every Friday at Middlefield Community Center at 10 a.m. Babies, toddlers and children of Durham and Middlefield are welcome. For more information, email momsdurhammiddlefield@gmail. com.

Friday, December 14, 2012 — Town Times

Solarize Durham extended due to Storm Sandy

1268623

LET THE SALON COME TO YOU!!

Haircuts, Color, Hilites, Shampoo and Sets, Blowdrys Reasonable Rates, Licensed & Insured

(860) 346-8888

0411cm

installers to complete the decision-making process. “Thanks to CEFIA for giving us a few additional weeks to reach more residents in our town,” Durham First Selectman Laura Francis said. “We much appreciate their consideration for the lost weeks due to Storm Sandy, which was so devastating to several of the Solarize-participating towns. For us, it is an opportunity to get as many Durham residents as possible to learn about this incredible program and get their homes solar-assessed before the deadline.” Submitted by Laura Francis

A Specialty Gift and Floral Boutique

Last Minute Gift Ideas!! Look No Further... from

• • • • •

The Paint Spot

• Paint • Wallpaper • Shades & Blinds • Flooring • Computerized Color Matching www.paintspot.net

Christmas Floral and Decorations Jewelry • Scarves and Fleece Lined Mittens Chocolate Truffles • Stonewall Kitchen Foods Aromatique Holiday Candles and Potpourri Inspirational Books • Soaps and Lotions Teachers, Grab Bags, Stocking Stuffers and Christmas Hostess

1268301

Hair on Wheels

tended the deadline to make sure that everyone affected by Storm Sandy will have enough time to engage in an affordable clean energy solution.” Many residents, installers, and volunteers working on the Solarize Connecticut program were especially hard hit by Sandy, suffering damage to their homes and extended periods of time without electricity. In the immediate aftermath of the storm, work on the program came to a halt to allow individuals and families time to return to their normal lives. The extension provides additional time for homeowners to work with

The Durham Middlefield Transfer Station will be open 8 a.m. to noon on Dec. 24 and Dec. 31. Note: Transfer Station stickers must be renewed. If not, access may be denied.

1260327

The Connecticut Clean Energy Finance and Investment Authority announced that homeowners will now have until Jan. 14, 2013, to participate in the Solarize Connecticut program. The extension will provide additional time for those who were impacted by Storm Sandy to complete the signup process. The extension applies to all four communities in phase I of the program, which includes Durham. The first phase of the Solarize Connecticut program provides group pricing discounts on solar energy installations for homeowners. As more residents decide to participate, the price for everyone in the community comes down. “More than 1,000 Connecticut homeowners have already expressed interest in adding solar to their homes as a result of the Solarize Connecticut program,” said Bryan Garcia, president and CEO of CEFIA. “We have ex-

Transfer Station hours

“All Gifts will be Wrapped and Ready for Giving” 354 Main St., Durham (860) 349-1550 (Next to Carolyn Adams Country Barn)

GIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE!!

USPS 021-924 Published weekly by Record-Journal at 11 Crown Street, Meriden, CT.

1227889

Best Smile In Show

1267399

P O S T M A S T E R: Send address changes to Record-Journal, P.O. Box 915, Meriden CT 06450

1268137

Periodicals Postage Paid at Meriden, CT and at additional mailing offices.

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

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

Don’t miss out Check the events in Town Times & Places to see what’s happening in Durham, Middlefield and Rockfall

Town Times — Friday, December 14, 2012

1267609

Selectmen consider fundraiser for local fuel assistance Durham First Selectman Laura Francis presented fellow selectmen John Szewczyk and Steve Levy at the Dec. 10 Board of Selectmen meeting with a fundraising idea. Francis said she and Human Services Director Amanda Pedersen are “starting to get concerned with fuel assistance.”

By Edwin Taylor Antiques

“Offering Rare and Extraordinary Antique Furniture and Vintage Finds.” BUYING - SELLING - CONSIGNING - PRIME DEALER SPACE AVAILABLE Find the perfect gift during our “Red Tag Sale” from now until Dec. 31st 16 Main Street, Durham, CT Wed., Thurs., Fri. 10-6 PM/Sat., Sun. 10-5 PM

www.antiquesvintagegallery.com 860.788.7992

cording to information on the Town of Durham website. “Durham Interchurch Assistance also provides fuel assistance to residents, on a limited basis, to households determined to be ineligible for Operation Fuel” and other programs. Francis said the town only has discretion over the money that comes in from Durham Interchurch Assistance. The first selectman said her intention for bringing the idea up at the meeting was to hear if the BOS “supports the (fundraising idea), if we pull it together?” She noted that selectmen and mayors around the state run fundraising events, “typically supported by the board to raise funds to meet specific needs.” The fuel assistance program is a “very specific use,” Levy agreed. While neither Levy nor Szewczyk spoke of objections, they raised a

handful of questions. How many dollars do you feel we would need to raise? What do the big fundraisers in town make? Is this considered a huge endeavor? How much lead time is needed? Do you (Laura Francis) have any fundraising ideas yet? Francis said she would like to hold the fundraiser in January and, upon getting the green light from the BOS, would begin exploring ideas. “I see no reason not to investigate,” Levy said.

Don’t miss out Check the events in Town Calendar to see what’s happening in Durham, Middlefield and Rockfall

www.carminesdurham.com for our menu

We Deliver!

1264433

Carmine's Pizza & Italian Take-Out

MIDDLESEX OB & GYN ASSOCIATES

(860) 349-5411

Christmas Trees Plain & Decorated Wreaths 10”-48” Delivery Available Firewood 1269052

Town Times

1269132

Antiques & Vintage Gallery at Durham

Poinsettias

Ads for the stores you shop, every week in the

In the Town of Durham, 25 families are served by a fuel assistance program, according to Francis. Operation Fuel and Durham Interchurch Assistance are two sources of fuel assistance for residents who qualify. Operation Fuel is a private, non-profit organization that distributes privately raised funds through a network of fuel banks to low income, working poor, elderly and disabled households,” ac-

1268620

OFFERING SUPPORT If you need help with your balance and getting your feet into a correct position, speak with your podiatrist about the benefits of orthotics. Orthotics are custom-made inserts that you place inside of your footwear. There are different styles of orthotics to accommodate different types of shoes and boots. Anyone with foot issues such as bunions, calluses, arthritis, or tendonitis can find relief with the use of orthotics. Although orthotics do not actually alter the structure of the feet, they will control the way your feet move, and can result in the relief of foot, knee, and hip pain. By compensating for foot issues, your orthotics may delay or even eliminate the need to surgically address foot problems. At AFFILIATED FOOT CARE CENTER, LLC, we can perform a foot scan to show you how imbalances in the feet can lead to problems in the knees, hips, back and shoulders. Take the road to happy, healthy feet and call us today. We treat all members of your family, from kids to grandparents, for all kinds of foot problems. We are a multifaceted podiatric practice, offering conservative and surgical treatment of the foot and ankle. Good foot health can enhance your daily existence and improve your quality of life. Office hours in Middlefield are Mon. 9-5, Wed. 3-7, and Fri. 9-5; Tues. & Thurs. 9-5 in Wallingford. For our patients’ convenience we offer on-site X-rays, and diagnostic and therapeutic ultrasounds.

By Stephanie Wilcox Town Times

• Cemetery Boxes • Decorative Roping • Boughs • Kissing Balls • Bows • Swags • Centerpieces • Fresh Flower Arrangements • Gift Certificates

Napoleon Fireplaces

Uncle Bob’s Florist & Garden Center Low prices, Great quality and service ... What else is there?

191 Meriden Road (Rte. 66) Middlefield

704-8414 Open 7 Days a Week

DONALD E. MILLER, M.D. KENNETH L. ECKHART, M.D. ROBERT A. YORDAN, M.D. FRED S. SIEGEL, M.D. SALLY J. IRONS, M.D. JESSICA T. WEI, M.D. MI DDLETOWN 540 Saybrook Rd. ESS EX 8 Wildwood 1260373

We are a FULL SERVICE FLORIST

A Division of Women's Health CT

860-347-7491 gotomydoc.com

Town Times Friday, December 14, 2012

TownBusiness

Grippo Gutters guarantees customer satisfaction lation and repair and snow removal (plowing, sanding, salting and walkway shoveling). “We provide excellent customer service and work with our customers to come up with home improvement solutions within their budgets,” Grippo said. “Our goal

By Stephanie Wilcox Town Times

Merry Christmas Submitted by Jessica Grippo

Jon McNamara, center, with some of his installation crew. an opportunity to offer solid employment to dedicated and responsible home improvement experts in the area. So Grippo Gutters LLC, was born, named as such to

carry on Jessica’s last name. Grippo Gutters LLC provides gutter installation and repair, gutter protection, gutter cleaning, roofing installation and repair, siding instal-

1267397

Durham resident Jon McNamara had been working as a driver for a local Essex company when he was severely injured in a car accident. He ended up with a disability that made it impossible to drive long distances every day. He realized he needed a career change. In late 2011, an opportunity arose for McNamara to purchase a local gutter company, and he believed being a local business owner would suit him well. “Our employees are all local residents who Jon has known for many years,” said McNamara’s wife Jessica Grippo, noting that the employees also all have years of gutter, siding and roofing experience. McNamara also saw

is to offer quality services and products to our neighbors to ensure customer satisfaction.” Grippo Gutters LLC is located at 49 Cedar Street in Rockfall, around the Corner from Pizzeria DaVinci. For more information, visit www.grippogutters.com.

From 243 Main St., Durham, Rt. 17 (Corner Main & Maiden)

860-349-2323

1269088

TownOpinion Letters to the Editor

Congrats, Senator Irresponsible

To the editor: Before we’re too far past the recent campaign, I’d like to congratulate Sen. Fasano on his victory and wish him well serving the people of Durham, Wallingford, East Haven and North Haven over the next two years. I’d also like to thank the thousands of people who responded to my message and voted for me. Wherever I met them, voters told me they wanted someone with specific ideas to improve their lives, which is why I developed a plan to rebuild the middle class and ran for state senator — they deserve such a plan and however I do it, I intend to keep fighting for them. Finally, I’d like to thank everyone who worked on my campaign, contributed monetarily, put up a lawn sign, wrote a letter or made a phone call on my behalf; I won’t abandon your commitment to public service and making our state, and this district, a better place. Steve Fontana

Tradition continues

To the editor: The Middlefield Park and Recreation Department would like to publicly thank the local businesses and people who helped make the tree lighting ceremony a success! When the commission heard that the Women’s Club would not be able to run the event, they did not want to see this tradition die. With some very short notice, they were able to pull off the event, due to a lot of help from a lot of people. Without the support of local businesses and residents, we would have never been able to pull off the event. From all of us in the Park and Recreation Department, we wish everyone a Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays and all the best in the year to come! Chris Hurlbert Director - Middlefield Park and Rec Department

To the editor: We were both shocked and saddened to learn of the brutal attack on poor old Barney. Apparently the neighbor of Dave’s who struck Barney with a bat had never heard the phrase “his bark is worse than his bite.” For him to admit that he “overreacted” is a major understatement. If this man was a runner, why didn’t he just jog a few paces to get away from this sweet, harmless, old, arthritic dog, instead or backing up and striking him? We find it hard to believe that an athletic individual, a runner, obviously in good physical condition, could possibly be afraid of a small, old, practically toothless dog with arthritis and limited mobility. We know both Barney and his owner Dave. Just one look at Barney, anyone could see he is not a vicious or aggressive dog. Dave is one of the most responsible, kindest, gentlest people we know, and he goes over and above to care for his dogs. For this perpetrator not to apologize, nor help with medical expenses, is absurd and irresponsible. How can someone like that live with himself ? We sincerely hope that Barney is comfortable and recovers from this attack. We are also disappointed that neither the police nor the animal anti-cruelty organizations were unable to offer assistance. Does that mean anyone can go around beating poor defenseless animals and say they were scared? Frank and Anne Guodace, Durham

little Lhasa Apso being hit in the head with a bat! What on earth are people thinking? Not only is it disgusting that this happened, but it is even more horrible that no consequences will occur to the jogger for his offense. I thought we were decent residents of Durham, I guess I was wrong. Jane Greebel Durham

No laws in place To the editor: I would like to share my opinion regarding the Dec. 7 letter “Be on Guard,” in which the writer reports that his small, toothless, 12-yearold dog suffered severe injuries to his head and eyes after being bludgeoned by a jogger with a bat. Apparently unremorseful, the jogger justified his behavior by stating that he “was scared” of the little dog when it approached him. It is unfortunate that we do not have laws in place that protect one’s companion animals from such overt cruelty. In the meantime, I would be afraid to approach such a man myself while walking, who shows such a lack of control while wielding a bat. Bonnie Makarewich Durham

Town Times Your source for local news and events

Town Times Friday, December 14, 2012

Cupcake Blizzard Santa Party Durham Recreation has scheduled a Cupcake Blizzard Santa Party for Saturday, Dec. 16, from 1 to 5 p.m., at the Durham Activity Center, 350 Main St. Make a dozen cupcakes to be judged by Santa’s elves. Two divisions are scheduled, children 12 and under and adults 13 and older. Best of show, best frosting, most festive and most yummy will be awarded. For more information and to register, call (860) 343-6724.

Giving tree The annual Christmas Giving Tree, located on the first floor in Durham Town Hall, bears tags that symbolize an item of need for a local family in need. Residents, service organization and businesses are welcome to choose a tag from the Giving Tree, purchase the gift and return it to the tree. Gifts will be distributed to individuals and families. Monetary donations may be made payable to Durham Interchurch Assistance, mailed to Town Hall, P.O. Box 428, Durham, 06422, or dropped off at Town Hall, Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Volunteers are scheduled to gather at the Durham Activity Center Wednesday, Dec. 19, to pack basket items. Distribution is planned for Thursday, Dec. 20.

Town Times 488 Main St., P.O. Box 265, Middlefield, CT 06455 http://www.towntimes.com News Advertising Fax Marketplace

(860) (203) (203) (877)

349-8000 317-2313 639-0210 238-1953

news@towntimes.com advertising@towntimes.com (toll-free)

Town Times is published every Friday by the Record-Journal Publishing Co. and is delivered to all homes and businesses in Durham, Middlefield and Rockfall. Stephanie Wilcox, Editor Marsha Pomponio, Office Assistant Olivia Lawrence, News Editor-Weeklies Kimberley E. Boath, Advertising Manager Joy Boone, Advertising Sales Contributors: Diana Carr, Trish Dynia, Elisabeth Kennedy, Karen Kean, Judy Moeckel, Mark Dionne, Christine Foster and Michelle P. Carter.

Disgusted

Letters policy

To the editor: In response to the article written by Dave Pieta regarding his dog Barney being attacked by a jogger on his street, I know Dave and Barney very well. I am also a dog walker and see them every day. I am shocked and appalled at the incident regarding a

The Town Times intends to present a forum for the lively exchange of ideas and issues. To facilitate the publication of your contributions, several guidelines should be followed. Letters to the editor must be signed, with a phone number included, and be no more than 300 words. The writer will be called to confirm authorship. No anonymous letters will be printed. Contributions by any individual or group will not be published more frequently than once a month. Every effort will be made to print all letters received. However, the selection and date of publication will be at the discretion of the editor. Finally, the opinions expressed by our letter writers are not necessarily those of this newspaper. Deadline: Monday noon for Friday publication.

Friday, December 14, 2012 — Town Times

Commentary

This pro-local idea helps keep some dollars in town

There’s a new idea that’s been making an impact lately, have you heard about the 3/50 project? One of its motto’s is “Spend $50, save your local economy.” Here’s how it works as explained on the 350project.net website. “Think about which three independently-owned businesses you’d miss most if they were gone. Stop in and say ‘hello.’ Pick up a little something that will make someone smile. Your contribution is what keeps those businesses around.” Take a moment to take that challenge — what are your favorite Middlefield and

Durham shops, services and eateries? According to project organizers, who compiled information from government and various economic studies, “if just half the employed U.S. population spent $50 each month in independently-owned businesses, their purchase would generate more than $42.6 billion in revenue.” Furthermore, 3/50 wants you to know that for “every $100 spent in independently owned stores, $68 returns to the community through taxes, payroll and other expenditures. If you spend that in a national chain, only $43

Olivia L. Lawrence

News editor stays here. Spend it online and nothing comes home.” This is a great time of year to hop on the 3/50 bandwagon. The concept was introduced by a “brick and mortar” merchant with 14 years experience as a local businessperson. The pro-local project has no press agent or marketing arm. It has no political message and doesn’t demand that non-local businesses be shunned — 3/50 has a “realistic message

of balance.” The pro-local movement has no cost to participate and its purpose is “saving the brick and mortars our nation is built on.” The website FAQ gives details on how to get your businesses listed on LookLocal and how potential customers can access that information. It tells us that: “We don’t just talk the talk; we’ve walked the walk. We don’t have the deep pockets, outside creative agencies, moneyed staffs, research firms, or flashy bells and whistles other guys do... which is what makes us the real deal. Our only “bosses” are locally

owned, independent brick and mortar merchants, from retailers to restaurants, dry cleaners to hair salons. We’re all about you.” So go to the mall, cybershop and visit the big box stores — but don’t stop there. Remember the folks who work, live and strive to provide goods and services right in your neighborhood. They have a message that makes sense and one worth heeding if you like a thriving downtown, a healthy local economy and a strong business community. As best we can, let’s try to spread the wealth around our towns this month and every month.

Redistricting commission needed After this past November’s election, every voter in town is now aware that Durham pulled the short end of the stick after redistricting — the constitutionally mandated process of redrawing legislative boundaries every 10 years to adjust for population shifts. Durham is now split in two entirely different districts in both the State House and the State Senate and we are no longer in a district with our sister town of Middlefield. Election costs have gone up dramatically increasing our taxes, the chances of getting a local representative from Durham or Middlefield is basically non-existent, voter confusion (who are my elected officials; what district am I in?) is rampant. In fact, there has been no bigger issue that has frustrated both local Democrats and Republicans more that I can recall since I became a member of the Board of Selectmen in 2007. Although blame has been levied at both Democrats and Republicans as to why this occurred, the simple fact of the matter is it was not a Democrat-Republican issue. Instead it was an in-

cumbent issue. Connecticut remains one of the states that still allow the legislators themselves to draw their own legislative boundaries every 10 years — instead of an independent commission which would take politics and incumbency out of the equation. As one can imagine, this past election the highest number of incumbents running for reelection were victorious as the committee of four Democrat legislators and four Republican legislators made sure every fellow legislator’s district became safer. Making the districts safer is quite an easy process. A Democrat gives the Republican area of his or her district to a Republican in exchange for the more Democratic area of the Republican’s district… and of course vice versa. The problem with this line of thinking is that it puts incumbency and an individual legislator ahead of an entire community. Contrary to what some believe, no one, not even a U.S. Senator or the President of the United States, is important enough to be put ahead of an entire community. The other more practical problem is that legislators,

John Szewczyk, Selectman

Town of Durham in their quest for more power and an easier next election, go overboard. This was no more evident than right here in Durham, where Rep. Vinny Candelora (Republican-North Branford), one of the Deputy Minority Leaders and therefore one of the most powerful legislators in the General Assembly, decided to take small slices of three different towns (Durham, Guilford and Wallingford) along with his entire hometown of North Branford to create a district that virtually eliminates the chance for a primary or a general election challenger

(not surprisingly, he ended up running unopposed). His slicing and dicing of three different towns in the manner in which he did was so extreme that even some fellow legislators and staffers from his own Republican Party were embarrassed by and apologized for his actions. I am deeply disappointed with his attempts to hide behind the eight fellow legislators who served on the commission. The good news, however, is two-fold. First is that our Secretary of State Denise Merrill recently publicly stated at a New London event that “the gerrymandering from this redistricting was absolutely ridiculous.” Like Durham, she cited the City of Torrington, which now requires seven different ballots as an example as to why we need independent commissions drawing legislative boundaries. This was the first time in recent memory that a high ranking state official has publicly spoken out

about the issue. Secondly, and more importantly, is that the Connecticut State Constitution is on our side. Although challenging the entire redistricting plan would be too expensive a proposition, challenging what occurred to Durham is a rather simple and inexpensive one. The State Constitution clearly spells out that “for the purpose of forming assembly districts no town shall be divided except for the purpose of forming assembly districts wholly within the town” (Article XV, adopted November 26, 1980). Come Jan. 9, 2013, when the new districts go into effect, the town of Durham will become an aggrieved party. From a taxpayer’s point of view, from a legal point of view and, most importantly, from an ethical point of view, please urge your Board of Selectmen to take appropriate action so the situation is properly rectified.

Got news? We’d love to print it — photos, too! E-mail it: news@towntimes.com

Town Times — Friday, December 14, 2012

Commentary Special town meeting A special town meeting has been scheduled for the Town of Durham for Monday, Dec. 17, at 8 p.m., in the Town Hall. The follow are on the agenda: To transfer up to $12,100 from Fire Trustees - Building Maintenance Reserve to Facilities Maintenance Building Maintenance for septic pipe repairs at the Fire House as recommended by the Board of Finance at its Nov. 20, 2012 meeting. To transfer $4,500 from OPEB GASB 45 Report Reserve to Board of Finance Consultants for the July 1, 2011 OPEB valuation as recommended by the Board of Finance at its Nov. 20, 2012 meeting. To transfer up to $41,000 from Reserve for Fire Apparatus to CIP-Fire Department Apparatus for the purchase of a new Medical Utility Truck as recommended by the Board of Finance at its Nov. 20, 2012 meeting.

Middlefield Barber Shop

Micheli’s Unisex Salon

Gift Certificates Available

We will be closed Dec. 24th, 25th, 26th & 31st

Shop 860-349-3389 Salon 860-349-8220

1266752

Tues. & Thurs. 8-8 • Wed. 8-5:30 Fri. 8-5 • Sat. 6:30-12:30

Senior Citizen Discount Tues. - Fri. 193 Strickland Road, Middlefield

Try this nog for a tasty holiday treat The thick, spiced drink we know as eggnog has become synonymous with the holidays. It is so linked with the Christmas season that a person may be hard-pressed to find it sold in the supermarket any other time of the year. But eggnog wasn’t always the holiday beverage it has become. Eggnog is believed to have originated in 17th century Europe, primarily as a drink for the elite, since the ingredients in the beverage were hard to come by and thusly relegated to the very rich. There are different theories on the origins of the word eggnog itself. Some believe it has gotten its name from the Old English word “nog,” which meant “strong beer.” The “egg” refers to one of the ingredients in the beverage, fresh eggs. Others surmise that it comes from the word “noggin,” which was a vessel for serving drinks in

RED & GREEN PARTY Friday, Dec. 14th • 7:30pm-Midnight 906 North Colony Rd, Wallingford, Ct 06492 Banquet Facility 1269069

Music appealing to ages 35+ Coffee & Dessert • Cash Bar

Dressy Attire/No Jeans Admission $14

“for SINGLES only ...” Dances Info: (860) 633-0600 • 1-800-824-3083 www.singlesdances.com (inc. map)

taverns. The drink was called “egg in a noggin,” which was shortened to “eggnog.” Still, there are others who say its name is derived from the term “grog,” which was another term for booze. “Egg n’ grog” was eventually abbreviated to “eggnog.” Although there is little certainty to the origins of the name, the recipe for eggnog has essentially remained unchanged throughout the centuries. It consists of beaten eggs, cream or milk and sugar mixed with some sort of alcoholic spirit. The Old English were believed to mix it with wine, though once the drink was brought to the New World, colonists substituted rum for the wine. Rum was readily available through tradesman running between the Americas and the Caribbean and therefore less expensive than another spirit. As America grew and eggnog was enjoyed in different parts of the country, the rum was replaced with regional spirits, including bourbon or grain alcohol. Other ingredients were also added to give it a customized flavor. However, the use of nutmeg, cinnamon and cloves has become traditional flavors for the holiday brew. Although eggnog is widely enjoyed throughout the holiday season, in the past it was served at special events and 1265712

DUMAS

social occasions. As a warmed beverage it can easily chase away winter’s chill. This is how it may have come to be enjoyed primarily during the holidays. Love it or hate it, eggnog is a drink that can evoke strong feelings of the holidays within minutes. There are variations of eggnog sold commercially, but many people swear by homemade versions for their taste and authenticity. Try your own homemade eggnog with this recipe, courtesy of Cooks.com.

Holiday Eggnog (Spirited) 1 dozen eggs 1 pound powdered sugar 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/4 cup vanilla 8 cups evaporated milk 3 cups water 1 quart spiced rum Nutmeg, to garnish Beat eggs until light in color, gradually add sugar, salt and vanilla. Then add milk and water. Stir in rum (brandy, bourbon or rye may also be used). Cover the nog and ripen for 24 hours in the refrigerator. Stir again and serve sprinkled with nutmeg. Submitted by Metro Creative Connection

Our e-mail addresses: news@towntimes.com advertising@towntimes.com

Christmas Tree Farm New shipment has just arrived.

Wreath Shop Open Fri., Sat. and Sun. OPEN THE DAY AFTER THANKSGIVING Open Daily: Mon.-Fri. 1 PM-Dusk, Sat. & Sun. 9 AM-Dusk

1211 South Broad Street Wallingford 203-697-0872 • 203-697-0873 1268971

Holiday Hours: Monday-Friday 10-8pm Saturday 10-8pm Sunday 10-5pm

End of Little Lane, Durham

(860) 349-3636 1/4 mile North of Route 147, off of Main St. (Route 17) Follow the Signs

Ace Oil Oil

1268902

Buy Our Own Fresh Cut Trees or Roam Our Fields & Cut Your Own Wreaths • Tabletop Trees • Apartment Size Trees with Stands

Company LLC

24 Hour Emergency Service

Cash, Senior & Volume Discounts Call Today

203-630-9141 CT Reg. #HOD 446

s r

Friday, December 14, 2012 — Town Times

Commentary

The Flu Part III – Myths busted tween the ages of 2 and 49 who are not pregnant. When people say they got the flu from the flu shot, they may be referring to low grade fevers that occur in the first 48 hours after receiving the vaccine. These mild symptoms do not occur because they have the flu but because the body is building an immune response against the flu. MYTH #2: If I get the flu, there are medicines to treat it anyway. Not necessarily. There are

Tanya Feke M.D.

Rx:Life a limited number of medications available for treatment of the flu. Depending on the strain of flu you are exposed to, those medications may or may not be effective. Hoping there will be something to treat you with when the time comes is a bit foolhardy. Be ahead of the game. MYTH #3: I am healthy, so

vaccinated helps to prevent the spread of disease. Please consider getting a flu shot this season if you have not already done so. Dr. Tanya Feke is a physician at Middlesex Hospital Primary Care – Durham and guest columnist for the Town Times.

Farming Durham Since 1929

Miller Tree Farm Cut Your Own Thousands of trees to choose from

Christmas Shop Filled with

1266415

ORTHODONTICS

I don’t need to get vaccinated. The CDC recommends universal flu vaccination for people older than six months of age in the United States to protect not only the individual patient but also to protect populations at large. Do your part for your own health and for your community. Getting

* Hand Crafted Sprays & Wreaths * Tree Stands * Roping & More

Dr. John Conroy

Open Thanksgiving weekend through Christmas 301 Tri-Mountain Rd. Durham (860) 349-9511

www.conroyortho.com Where Artistry and Dentistry Align

• Children and adults • Cutting edge technology • Preferred Invisalign provider • Board certified orthodontist • No charge for first visit 282 Main Street Extension at Sanseer Mill, Middletown (near Stop & Shop) (860) 347-4618

1267400

Editor’s note: This is part III of a series on influenza. The most effective tool in our arsenal against influenza is vaccination. Immunity to the flu develops within two weeks. Individuals older than six months of age are eligible for vaccination unless they have an allergy to eggs, a past allergy to influenza vaccination, or a history for GuillainBarré Syndrome. Patients with ongoing fever, regardless of the cause, should wait until their illnesses resolve before pursuing vaccination. Unfortunately, there are several misconceptions in the general population about the available vaccines. MYTH #1: If I get the flu vaccine, I will get the flu. Not true. There are two types of vaccines available, the flu shot (an injection given into the muscle) and an inhaled vaccine (a spray breathed in through the nose). The flu shot is derived from inactivated virus. Because it is not a live virus, you cannot get the flu. The nasal spray is formulated from a live virus that has been “attenuated.” This weakened virus will not cause flu in healthy people and is only recommended in people be-

FACTORY RETAIL STORE 80 South Vine St., Meriden, CT

203-235-2541 x153

We Ship Nationwide

Tasty Holiday Treats 1268326

• • • • • • • •

.com

Holiday Gift Baskets Boxed Chocolates Hanukkah & Christmas Novelties Chocolate Towers Our Famous Pecan Bark Ribbon Candy (Assorted & Peanut Butter) Sugar Free Chocolates And much more ...! COUPON

5% OFF- OR $25.00 Purchase 10% OFF $50.00 Purchase Cannot be combined with any other discounts. Expires 12/22/12

Hours: 1265896

Mon., Tues., Wed., Fri. 9-5 Thurs. 9-6 Open Sat. 12-8 9-3 12-15 9-3 12-22 9-2

Directions: South Vine Street is located between Hunter’s Ambulance and McDonald’s off of West Main Street

Town Times — Friday, December 14, 2012

Commentary

Student engagement 2.0

Why the title, “Student Engagement 2.0?” Of the many

areas we focus on at Strong School and in Regional

Scott.D. Sandinsky, principal, Strong Middle School

A View form RSD13 School District 13 as a whole, student engagement is paramount to our collective success. This continued focal point is, again, among my key priorities in my 2.0 year. Student engagement is multifaceted and incorporates

MIMS OIL 203-238-7512

1265434

CALL FOR TODAY’S LOW PRICE Order online:

mimsoil.com 1228250

24 Hours/7 Days 50 gal. delivery ENERGY ASSISTANCE AVAILABLE H.O.D. 7

what occurs in the classrooms as well as on the playing fields, during after school activities, and the many other ways in which we try to facilitate and connect with all of our students. As part of a new state requirement, all students in grades 6-12 are required to develop and maintain a Student Success Plan. In an effort to continue to build upon our positive connections with students, this year we are holding monthly SSP meetings where students will meet in small groups of 8-10 with one adult facilitator. These advisory groups will complete tasks based upon Developmental Guidance standards outlined in the CT School Counseling Comprehensive Guidelines and will focus on topics such as Academics, Social/Emotional development, and Careers. Through the first few months of school, this new initiative has proven to be a great opportunity for every student to build and/or further enhance a positive relationship with at least one adult at Strong School while continuing to develop their 21st Century learning skills. In her article, “26 Keys to Student Engagement,” Angela Maiers creates an alphabetical listing of what she views as keys to engaging students. For the letter “A”

she suggests Authenticity. We strive to provide our students with authentic learning opportunities that are meaningful and relevant. By doing so, we hope to alleviate the dreaded, “Why are we doing this?” The letter “Q” refers to Questions. Maiers comments, “Successful student engagement requires a classroom culture that invites mutual inquiry.” As a final example, Variety represents the letter “V.” Maiers speaks to the importance of differentiating instruction to meet individual student needs. The full text of the article can be found at www.angelamaiers.com. Student engagement also includes enhanced communication with our Strong School community. As you are aware, RSD13 recently unveiled a new district website. This refined tool is a fantastic example of our effort to provide our constituents with information that is meaningful, timely and relevant. For those of you who have joined the world of Twitter and for those of you on the fence or otherwise not sure where you stand, I invite you to “follow” me @MrSSadinsky. My hope is to use this means of social media to update you on important topics, reSee Student page 24

A Gift Shop For Every Reason & Season

FREE Vera Bradley Gift With Any Vera Bradley Purchase of $65 or more

Perrotti’s Country Barn Middlefield • 860-349-0082 With this coupon. While supplies last. Offer expires 12/24/12.

$ Come See The Area’s Largest Display of

OFF ANY PURCHASE OVER $25

Perrotti’s Country Barn Middlefield • 860-349-0082

1267880

1268955

With this coupon. Some restrictions apply. Excluding Vera Bradley, Chamilia, Webkinz, 3’s A Charm, Florals & Christmas Greenerey. Not valid with other offers or prior purchases. Expires 12/24/12

Products 288 BAILEYVILLE RD.

$ s r

(1 mile south from the intersection of Rt. 66 & Rt. 147)

MIDDLEFIELD • 860-349-0082 Mon.-Fri. 10:30-6:00; Sat. 10-6; Sunday 12-6

OFF ANY PURCHASE OVER $50

Perrotti’s Country Barn Middlefield • 860-349-0082 With this coupon. Some restrictions apply. Excluding Vera Bradley, Chamilia, Webkinz, 3’s A Charm, Florals & Christmas Greenerey. Not valid with other offers or prior purchases. Expires 12/24/12

TownSeniors

Town Times Friday, December 14, 2012

Party at the Middlefield Senior Center is scheduled for Wednesday, Dec. 19. Space is limited, reservations are required. For more information, call Antoinette at (860) 349-7121.

Collecting for Christmas During their Dec. 10 meeting, Durham 60 Plus Club members donated health and beauty products, canned goods and paper supplies for the needy in Durham and Middlefield for this Christmas season. Submitted by Mary Ellen Dontigney

Christmas luncheon

The Middlefield Senior Cafe serves lunch on Monday, Wednesday and Friday to senior in the community. The Senior Center is looking for volunteers to set up, serve lunch (no cooking) and clean up after lunch. The commitment would be one to two times a month, from 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Volunteers receive training and may choose the what best fits their schedule. For more information, call Antoinette at (860) 349-7121.

Bingo

Bingo games are played every third Monday of each month at 1 p.m. at the Middlefield Senior Center. A fee is charged. The next game is scheduled for Dec. 17. All are welcome.

Book discussion

ior center. For more information or to register, call the Levi E. Coe Library at (860) 349-3857 or the Middlefield Senior Center at (860) 349-7121.

DR. JASON GLAZER & DR. KATE GLAZER

GLAZER DENTAL ASSOCIATES

Holiday party The annual Senior Holiday

DR. JASON GLAZER

Community Round-Up Food Drive

SUSAN

LAUREN

JESSICA

Free Consultations: (860) 349-3368 DR. KATE IS A CHILDREN’S SPECIALIST! 16 MAIN STREET, DURHAM

G L A Z E R D E N TA L . C O M

Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!

SHOP LOCAL

Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!

Happy Holidays

Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!

Judy, Christy, Sharon, Sam & Sofe

Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!

from

Brenda’s Main St. Feed

Brenda, Mom & Dad

30% OFF All WILD BIRD FEEDERS

Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!

STABILICERS

We collected ...

Go anywhere traction Grips Ice/Snow

10,954 food items

$19.99

$2,453 in money

Studded Tires for Your Feet

Holiday Cookies • Treat Bags • Toys & More Sales good til Dec. 21st

U.S.A. Made

and gift cards Sponsored by: District #13 and the Durham/Middlefield Local Wellness

DR. KATE GLAZER

Servicesinclude includetooth toothcolored coloredfillings, fillings,crowns, crowns,root root canal canal treatments, treatment, extractions, Services extractions, implants,bridges, bridges,dentures, dentures,veneers, veneers, bleaching, cleanings, implants, cleanings, sealants, sealants and and TMJ TMJ treatment. treatment.

Dog Beds • Note Cards • Dog & Cat Toys Dog Treats • Horse Treats • Dog Collars & More 30 years of competitive pricing & knowledgeable service! 1268756

The Middlefield Senior Center has scheduled a book discussion of Richard Rus-

so’s novel, “Empire Falls” for Monday, Jan. 14, at 1 p.m. at the Senior Center. The book, chosen for this year’s One Book, One Community, chronicles life in a small town in upstate New York. Several copies of the book are available at the sen-

See Seniors, next page

1267968

Senior Cafe

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

Knitters and crocheters

Joan Bowe and Mary Ellen Cassady and Middie Ellen Dontigney collect Sutherland collect for for Durham. Middlefield.

1267398

The Middlefield Senior Center has scheduled the annual Christmas Luncheon for Wednesday, Dec. 19, at noon. The menu is chicken cordon bleu, mashed potatoes, beets, dinner roll, and cheesecake and strawberries for dessert. Come early for the eggnog, cheese and crackers, and fellowship with friends and neighbors. A donation is accepted. Reservations are requested by Monday, Dec. 17. For more information, call Antoinette at (860) 349-7121.

Knitting and crocheting

s r

58 Main Street • Durham • 860-349-0410

Seniors (Continued from page 13)

Blood pressure screenings

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

Town Times — Friday, December 14, 2012

Durham senior lunches Senior lunches are offered every Monday and Wednesday at the Durham Activity Center, 350 Main St. The Elderly Nutrition program is designed to provide nutritional meals, at a low cost to persons ages 60 and over and their spouses. To cover the cost of the meal, a suggested donation is welcomed. To

make lunch reservations, call Amanda Pedersen, senior cafe manager, at (860) 3493153. Bingo is offered every Wednesday at 1 p.m. following the luncheon.

December babies

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

Submitted by Amanda Pederson

December birthdays celebrated recently at the Senior Center’s holiday party were, from left: Andrew Bertuglia, Catherine DeNunzio, Allan Dean and Karl Rubendunst.

Dial-A-Ride

Senior exercise

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

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

gallon 5.00 OFF 150 minimum.

Cannot be combined with other offers or promotions. Exp. 12/31/12

1263807

Olsen Oil, LLC 203-272-2699

HOD #925

Leif Olsen • Owner

www.olsenoil.net

St. Luke’s Eldercare

St. Luke’s supports successful aging and independent living serving veterans and elders. Free services provided are friendly visiting, out-ofarea medical transportation, transportation for elderly veterans to VA hospitals, grocery shopping services, minor home repair, information/resource referral, individual case management, educaSee Seniors, next page

Choose Masonicare for expert Short-Term Rehabilitation Following illness or surgery, if you need inpatient therapy to get back on your feet, come to us. Our clinical team of therapists, nurses, physicians and case managers will work closely with you and your physician on your therapy care plan. Most insurances and Medicare accepted.

1263348

1227883

For admissions or referrals, call 203-679-5901. Pre-bookings welcome.

Conveniently located off Route 150 in Wallingford.

Friday, December 14, 2012 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Town Times

In the holiday spirit

Seniors

(Continued from page 14)

Submitted by Amanda Pederson

Photos from the recent Senior Center holiday party in Durham.

tion/advocacy, The Gatekeeper Program, Access4Care and St. Lukeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Apartments on Broad Street in Middletown. For specific information on their services, call (860) 347-5661. St. Lukeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s is located at 760 Saybrook Road in Middletown. The Middlefield Senior Center is located in the Middlefield Community Center at 405 Main Street. If you have any questions or would like to sign up for any programs or for lunch (monthly menus can be picked up at the senior center or Town Hall) in the Senior CafĂŠ (serving on Monday, Wednesday and Friday), contact Antoinette Astle at (860) 349-7121. The Durham 60 Plus Club meets at the Durham Activity Center the second and fourth Monday of each month, September through June, at 1:30 p.m. The next meeting is Oct. 22 at 1:30 p.m and newcomers are most welcomed.

Give a taste of New England this year! Your

Complete

Auto

Repair

Everyone loves gifts from Lyman Orchards!

Facility

Locally Owned & Operated Honest And Dependable Service

Â&#x2C6;vĂ&#x152; >Ă&#x192;Â&#x17D;iĂ&#x152;Ă&#x192; U *Â&#x2C6;iĂ&#x192; U ÂŤÂŤÂ?iĂ&#x192; Â&#x2C6;vĂ&#x152; iĂ&#x20AC;Ă&#x152;Â&#x2C6;wV>Ă&#x152;iĂ&#x192; U Â&#x153;Â?v ,Â&#x153;Ă&#x2022;Â&#x2DC;`Ă&#x192; Â&#x153;Â?v Â&#x2DC;Ă&#x192;Ă&#x152;Ă&#x20AC;Ă&#x2022;VĂ&#x152;Â&#x2C6;Â&#x153;Â&#x2DC;

featuring Mobil 1 Lube Express 428 Main St., Durham 1267470

7i Ă&#x192;Â&#x2026;Â&#x2C6;ÂŤ Ă&#x153;Â&#x2C6;Ă&#x152;Â&#x2026;Â&#x2C6;Â&#x2DC; Â&#x153;Â&#x2DC;Ă&#x152;Â&#x2C6;Â&#x2DC;iÂ&#x2DC;Ă&#x152;>Â? 1-

MON. - FRI. 8-5:30; SAT. 8-NOON

Call 860.349.6043 today or visit lymanorchards.com

Approved Auto Repair

7i Â&#x2C6;Â&#x2DC;Ă&#x203A;Â&#x2C6;Ă&#x152;i Ă&#x17E;Â&#x153;Ă&#x2022; Ă&#x152;Â&#x153; Ă&#x203A;Â&#x2C6;Ă&#x192;Â&#x2C6;Ă&#x152; Ă&#x153;Â&#x2C6;Ă&#x152;Â&#x2026; ->Â&#x2DC;Ă&#x152;> E Ă&#x20AC;Ă&#x192;Â° Â?>Ă&#x2022;Ă&#x192; >Ă&#x152; Ă&#x152;Â&#x2026;i Ă&#x17E;Â&#x201C;>Â&#x2DC; Â&#x153;Â&#x201C;iĂ&#x192;Ă&#x152;i>` Ă&#x152;Â&#x2026;Â&#x2C6;Ă&#x192; -Ă&#x2022;Â&#x2DC;`>Ă&#x17E; vĂ&#x20AC;Â&#x153;Â&#x201C; ÂŁĂ¤>Â&#x201C;Â&#x2021;Ă&#x17D;ÂŤÂ&#x201C;Â°

349-CARE (2273) Rides to work and home available - locally s r

1268619

Town Times Delivered to your home or business every Friday

Connecticutâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Sweet Spot

5HHGV *DS 5G 0LGGOHÂżHOG Â&#x2021; www.lymanorchards.com

Open Every Day. 8am - 6pm

Town Times — Friday, December 14, 2012

www.facebook.com/ TownTimesNews

CHEER YOUR HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS

Monday, Dec. 17 Board of Selectmen, Town Hall, 7 p.m. Special Town Meeting, Town Hall, 7 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 18 Board of Finance, Town Hall, 6 p.m. Ethic’s Commission, 7 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 19 Planning and Zoning, 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 20 Senior Citizen Board, 12:30 p.m., Durham Activity Center

To order, please call or visit:

SAVE 5* $

on any order Code: WINT2012 HOLIDAY HOUSE BOUQUET

™

With gingerbread men-shaped pineapple and strawberries dipped in gourmet chocolate in a holiday house ceramic container

Government Meetings Public Safety Facility RenDurham ovations Planning CommitVolunteer FireGovernment tee, Durham house, 7 p.m. Calendar (Unless otherwise indicated, Middlefield all meetings are held in the Durham Library. Check the Government town website at www.townofCalendar durhamct.org for updates.)

1060 West Main Street, Branford 203-483-9300 1920 Dixwell Avenue, Hamden 203-907-0070 101 Washington Avenue, North Haven 203-234-9664 676 New Haven Avenue, Derby 203-736-0700 935 Chapel Street, New Haven 203-752-0266 753 Wolcott Street, Lauro Crest Plaza, Waterbur y 203-591-9463 425 South Broad Street, Suite 9, Meriden 203-440-4315

EdibleArrangements.com

Public Access Television Studio at (860) 669-9417.

Briefs (Continued from page 2)

Make life a little sweeter.

™

1266905

Offer valid at participating locations. Valid on arrangemnents and dipped fruit boxes. Offer expires 12/20/12. Cannot be combined with any other offers. Offer code must be used when placing order. Containers may vary. Arrangements available in a variety of sizes. Delivery not available in all areas. EDIBLE ARRANGEMENTS & Design®, and all other marks noted are trademarks of Edible Arrangements, LLC. ©2012 Edible Arrangements, LLC. All rights reserved.

who attend the open house will be able to observe any shows that are being taped that night. For more information, or to volunteer, call the Clinton

+XUULFDQHV 7RUQDGRV :LQWHU 2XWDJHV %H 3UHSDUHG We now install residential whole house automatic standby generators! Authorized Honeywell Dealer Fully Insured CT License# 386421, 309113

www.atchvac.com

(Unless otherwise indicated, all meetings are held in the Community Center.) Tuesday, Dec. 18 Conservations Commission, 6:30 p.m. Board of Selectman, 7 p.m. Zoning Board of Appeals, 7 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 19 Inland/Wetlands Commission, 7 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 3 Economic Development Commission, 7 p.m.

0% financing, with no money down! Contact us today for more information and a FREE estimate. 203-239-2226 or 860-349-4422

'RQ·W JHW FDXJKW LQ WKH GDUN DJDLQ

Historical Society DVDs The Middlefield Historical Society has two DVDs available. For more information, call (860) 349-0665.

Babysitter training classes

1264751

Babysitter training classes are available at Durham Middlefield Youth and Family Services for youth in grades 5-6. This American Heart Association program includes basic childcare, first aid and CPR training as well as information for other emergency situations. Participants will also learn to respond to an emergency or sudden illness, how to prevent accidents, and how to supervise children from infancy through school age. Classes are Thursdays, 2:45 to 4:15 p.m., on Jan. 3, 10, 17 and 24. (Snow make-up day is Jan. 31.) Classes are at Memorial Middle School Library and instructed by A 2nd Chance CPR. Cost includes book, snacks and certificate. Register by Dec. 28. For more information, go to wwwdmyfs.org or call (860) 349-0258.

Friday, December 14, 2012 — Town Times

Library Briefs

Levi E. Coe Library 414 Main Street, Middle-

The library is scheduled to close at 5 p.m. Monday, Dec. 31, and will be closed Tuesday, Jan. 1, New Year’s

Middlefield communities in the reference section.

Day. Eagle Scout reports: The Levi E. Coe Library has Eagle Scout project reports from the past to the present. See what Eagle Scouts have done for the Durham and

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

Russell Library

Town Times Service Directory Tree Removal & Pruning Tree & Plant Health Care

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

~Accredited~

• Pruning • Cabling • Tree & Stump Removal • Spraying & Disease Control • Bucket Truck Ct.LIC#61798

Established 1976 • Fully Insured • Work Guaranteed in Writing

Family Tree Care llc 203.457.9652 we know trees

1267657

1260173

Allan Poole, Licensed Arborist Phone 349-8029

www.family-tree-care.com

Advertising

J O NE

Joy Boone

EIL

1260184

...serving Durham, Middlefield & Rockfall

Home Improvements LLC

Celebrating Our 26th Year 1233324

Roofing • Siding • Windows • Doors • Skylights • Decks • Gutters • Custom Carpentry Flooring • Ceilings • Painting • Sheetrock • Kitchens • Baths • Window/Door Screening FREE Estimates Reg. #517277 No Obligation Fully Insured

11 Crown Street, Meriden, CT 06450 203-317-2313 • fax 203-235-4048 advertising@towntimes.com

860-349-8771

Lic# PL204680

LET IT SNOW. And let us dig your business out. Commercial snow removal services you can count on. Call Randy Whitehouse, 860-349-1904.

1264384

WHITEHOUSE CONSTRUCTION INC. Durham, Connecticut | CT Lic. #554559

860-349-1904 | whitehouseconstructioninc.com Snowplowing Paving Gravel Driveway Restoration Top Soil Retaining Walls Drainage Septic Systems Excavator, Backhoe + Dozer Work Light & Heavy Hauling Q

1262176

V.M.B. Custom Builders

Grippo Gutters LLC Jon McNamara - Owner/Operator

860-852-3397

1268354

Reliable Snow Removal Services and Quality Gutter Products and Service Call for a Free estimate today! Commercial and Residential Seamless Gutter Installation, Repair and Cleaning. Snow Plowing, Sanding and Snow Removal Services.

Fully Licensed and Insured Lic. #HIC.0633535

www.GrippoGutters.com GrippoGutters@att.net

“No jobs too big or small” Mike Gerchy OWNER/BUILDER

Specializing in Historic Renovations and Custom Cabinets, Additions, Decks & Roofs 35 Maiden Lane Durham, CT 06422 (860) 398-0785 VMBCustombuilders@live.com “Complete Jobs From First Stud To Last Touch Of Paint” Fully Insured & Licensed HIC #614488

Let us know what you’re thinking - send us your Letters to the Editor! Town Times, P.O. Box 265, Middlefield, CT 06455

1260165

Hours: Regular library hours are Mondays through Thursdays, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Fridays and Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Visit www.durhamlibrary.org to search the catalog, review your account, register for a program or renew your materials online. For information or to register for a program by phone, call (860) 3499544. One Book, One Community: “Empire Falls” by Richard Russo has been selected for the One Book, One Community project, where Durham and Middlefield collaborate on a celebration of small town life. The kickoff event is a book discussion scheduled for Thursday, Jan. 3, at 7 p.m., at the Durham Public Library. Copies of the book are available to borrow at the Levi E. Coe and Durham Public Libraries. Programs will run through January. Santa’s coming: Santa is scheduled to visit the library Saturday, Dec. 15, from 1 to 3 p.m. Children are invited to with visit with Santa and have photos taken with him. Nutmeg at Night: Trivia game night, Jan. 9. Wednesday, Jan. 9, at 6 p.m., for children grades 4 through 6. Wednesday, Jan. 9, at 7:30 p.m., for teens in grades 7 and 8. Pre-School Mother Goose (18 to 30 months) Mondays at 10:15 a.m. Time for Tots (2 1/2 to 3 1/2) Wednesdays at 10:15 a.m. Preschool Storytime (3 1/2 to 5) Tuesdays at 10:15 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Bedtime Storytime (2 to 4) Mondays at 7 p.m. (wear pajamas) Teens Teen Book Club: Join a discussion on the book club selection, have a snack and talk about other books already read. Dec. 18 – “Chains” by Laurie Halse Anderson. Book club meets at 7 p.m.

field, (860) 349-3857 or www.leviecoe.com. Hours: Mondays-Thursdays 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Saturdays 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Closed Fridays. The library is scheduled to close at 1 p.m. Monday, Dec. 24 and will be closed Tuesday, Dec. 25, Christmas Day.

Wii Wednesdays: Join the library every Wednesday from 3 to 4 p.m. to use the Library’s Wii and have a snack. (No Wii if there is no school or early dismissal.)

Durham Library

TownSchools

Insect iMovie

Town Times Friday, December 14, 2012

Do the math First and second graders in Amy Sorenson’s class at John Lyman School shared their community service project about collecting gloves, hats and coats at the weekly school assembly by using math facts to make their point. Submitted by Elizabeth Hadlock

Above, Noah Ram, Autumn Fisher, Shannon Moore and Ryan Atwell (facing back). Submitted by Maura Caramanello

Right, Carly LaPointe, Autumn Fisher and Shannon Moore.

First graders at Brewster School worked on independent research projects on insects in their computer lab. The classes then turned their research into an iMovie.

Town Times Service Directory

Scholastic achievements

Commercial • Residential • Industrial • Licensed • Insured

Lauren Davis, of Middlefield, was named to the first semester high honor roll at Sacred Heart Academy. Lindsay Wallace, of Durham, has been named to the fall term honor roll at Kent School, Kent.

APEC ELECTRIC

All 1260175

Purpose Electrical Contractor

Planeta Electric LLC

Joseph W. Fontanella

Rebecca Johnson Andrew Meadows

Residential

860-349-0303

Sunbec SEAMLESS GUTTERS • Gutter Cleaning • Gutter Repair • New Gutter Installation

1267749

Over 30 Years Experience

Lic.# 123670

Locally Owned and Operated Since 1977

Commercial

1267728

Call now to schedule your interior painting and wallpapering Andy Golschneider • (860) 349-3549 CT Lic. #HIC 606826 Durham, CT

Lic.# 102065

“Our family serving Your family”

Protect your home with New Gutters Today! HIC 0633569

GOLSCHNEIDER PAINTING

65R Johnson Lane Durham, CT 06422 860-349-9827

Family Pest Control LLC

1265715

1265309

860-510-9278 205 Main St. Rockfall, CT andrew1sjm@gmail.com

Lic.# E1-123497

1260177

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

Wallingford: (203) 265-7328 Toll Free: (800) 269-0948 www.RidOfBugs.com

Connecticut Business License # B-2045

Honor roll Vinyl Technical High School has announced the names of local students named to the first trimester honor roll. High honors Grade 9 - Tyler Hall, Shane O’Malley. Grade 10 - Andrew Conway, Wilson Nickel. Grade 12 - Lisa Bradley, Thomas D’Orvilliers, Thomas Gervais, Amanda Rogers. Honors Grade 9 - Ryan Poturnicki. Grade 10 - Gage Herrington, Emery Mazo, Francis Snipes. Grade 12 - Christopher Quick, Steven Koerber, Mark Pavlinko, Shane Phenicie, Ashleigh Schmaltz.

Friday, December 14, 2012 — Town Times

Holiday tunes

Third grade student Jason Adams.

Korn School third and fourth grades recently presented their winter concert. Under the direction of music teacher Tiger Robison, the chorus students sang Christmas, Chanukah and winter songs

Submitted by Bridgett ShampangAdams

Kelly Viski (in glasses) with her classmates.

Tiger Robison with the Korn School chorus.

Korn School students.

Town Times Service Directory 1268748

Sweet design 1260178

• • • • • • • • • • • •

Snow Plowing Tree Cutting & Chipping Fall Clean-ups Lawn Repair • Thatching Overseeding Excavation & Bobcat Services Home Improvement Contractor Lawn Mowing Decorative Patios and Walks Block Retaining Walls Outdoor Living Spaces Mulch, Stone, Soil Delivered/Installed • Hydroseeding

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

Rob Grant

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

“Total yard renovation and much, much more”

Phillip E. Mason Jr.

(860) 349-6355

Durham

Fully Insured HIC #0630530

860-349-1918

860-301-7722

Bruce Binge

CT Lic. #600562

Custom Building & Remodeling Contractor 1260164

13 Middlefield Road, Durham (860) 349-0684 Domestic & Foreign Cars Complete Auto Repair and Service Mon.-Fri. 8:00 A.M.-5:00 P.M., Sat. 8:00 A.M.-1:00 P.M. • Brakes & Tune-ups • CT Emission Station

HIC #0606486

Call after 5 pm (860)

347-1445

33 Years

• Relining • Cleaning • Rain Caps • Waterproofing • Insurance Claims • Flashing Repair • Crown & Brick Repair NEW ENGLAND • Pellet & Wood Stove CHIMNEY SWEEP & MASONRY Installation Peter Frey 349-9918 *Certified*

1268747

Submitted by Elizabeth Hadlock

JIM’S AUTO SALES & SERVICE, LLC 1268197

Nicky Stevens, a third grade student at John Lyman School, created the winning design for this year’s T-shirt. “Learning is sweet at John Lyman School” is the slogan for the design, which includes wrapped candies and ice cream cone.

All Types of Remodeling & Renovations 1267402

Landscape Design/Installation • Hydroseeding Patios, Walkways • Retaining Walls Masonry/Stonework • Excavation/Grading Drainage Work • Tree/Brush Removal www.countrylandscapingllc.com

• New Homes • Additions • Kitchens • Garages • Decks

Town Times — Friday, December 14, 2012

Special delivery

Holiday donations

Submitted by Jaclyn E. DuBois-Zolnik

Strong School students delivered checks from the Dec. 1 Community Round-Up to Middlefield and Durham. Each check was for $1,191.50. From left: Mazie Barrett, Antoinette Astle, Victoria Slight, Samantha Pietrzyk, Christina Bianchi and Pastor Dale Azevedo at Middlefield Community Services. Photos by Kathy Bottini

Last month, Sunday school children at the Church of the Epiphany decorated Thanksgiving placements and donated them to Twin Maples hospital. The children are scheduled to visit the hospital to sing Christmas carols.

Melnik returns to RSD13

Town Times Service Directory

By Stephanie Wilcox Town Times 1260182

Total Hair Care 1260167

Hair - Nails - Tanning 16 Main Street • Durham, CT • (860) 349-6901

PROPERTY MAINTENANCE

Happy Holidays

1267306

860-759-2432

MIDDLEFIELD REMODELING QUALITY CARPENTRY LICENSED & INSURED

1267406

Michael Haglund

❆ Snow Plowing ❆ Mowing ❆Weeding ❆ Edging ❆ Mulch & Stone ❆ Brush Cutting ❆ Fall/Spring Clean-Up ❆ Fencing,Arbors & Trellises

• ADDITIONS • KITCHENS • BATHS • DECKS • SIDING • ROOFING

J ERRY F INCH 860-704-8312 203-919-2031

Uncle Bob’s Cahill Septic Service Est. 1965

270 Main St., Middlefield 860-349-8551

Full Service Florist: Funerals, Special Occasions or Just Because... 191 Meriden Road (Rte. 66) Middlefield 860-704-8414 • unclebobsgarden.com

1264383

1260163

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

Landscape & Garden Center

Regional School District 13 has welcomed back Ron Melnik as the district’s business manager. Last month, the Board of Education voted unanimously to re-hire Melnik. “The entire board is very happy to have Ron Melnik joining us again…we’re quite confident we’ll hit the ground running and be able to pick these projects up and not really lose much at all as far as being able to complete our capital budget and some of our proposals for debt,” BOE Chair Kerrie Flanagan said at the Nov. 28 meeting.” In a follow-up phone call, RSD13 Superintendent Susan Viccaro said, “It’s great to have Ron back…the learning curve will be small. He’s only been gone for 15 months so he should be able to pick everything right up.” Melnik left his post as business manager for Waterford Public Schools and replaced Pamela Mangini at RSD13.

Friday, December 14, 2012 — Town Times

Crocetto to play ‘Clarice’

Power helping in New Jersey

A group of locals traveled to New Jersey to help rebuild homes that had been damaged by Hurricane Sandy. At left: A garbage truck pick up bags of rotten insulation that one group had just deposited curbside. Submitted by Toni-Lynn Miles

Town Times Service Directory

Suburban Cleaners

Movado Farms Inc. 1267401

Riding Lessons 349-8728 Heated Indoor Arena

860-349-9560 1260170

Adults and children

472 Main St., Middlefield

Route 17, Durham, CT www.movadofarm.com

Hand ironed shirts • Tailoring Wedding gowns preserved Rug and leather cleaning www.suburbancleanersct.com

Durham Office Equipment

YOUR REMODELING SPECIALISTS

Heavy Duty Small Office Shredder $689.00 and up. Call for info. Reliable German Technology!

> Kitchens > Bathrooms > Roofing > Siding > Window Replacement > Decks > Additions > Gutters/Leaf Guard Fully Licensed and Insured

Country Christmas Wreaths

KENNETH R. JAY

Amish Wreaths Vermont Door Wreaths Barn Wreaths Home Sweet Home Wreaths Harvest Wreaths Vermont Christmas Wreaths Old Country Christmas Wreaths

Complete Lawn and Shrub Bed Maintenance Landscape Design and Installation Service HIC #0621170

Stone Work and Pavers Commercial, Residential, Industrial

Call for Your Free Quote on Stonework Now! 1265310

(860) 346-3827 • (860) 250-0628

1267403

www.jaylandscape.com

CT License #559832 HIC Locally owned and operated

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

Landscape Maintenance & Construction LLC

92 Jackson Hill Road, Middlefield, CT 06455

1264385

860-349-9252 Bob Granata Sales & Service

Serving Middlesex County Since 1976

Drop off on Wednesday, Get 10% OFF

1266093

Kayleigh Crocetto, 14, of Middlefield, has been chosen to dance the role of “Clarice” in the “The Nutcracker Suite and Spice,” presented by CONNetic Dance. Crocetto is the current Regional Miss Teen for DanceMakers, Inc. and is a gold medal winner in the American Academy of Ballet Performance Award program. She performed at Magic Kingdom and Hollywood Studios in Walt Disney World and received the MDC Rosamund F. Lange Award for tap in 2009 and for ballet in 2010. Crocetto’s sister, Meghan, will also appear in the production dancing as a candy cane. Performances are scheduled for Friday, Dec. 14, Saturday, Dec. 15, and Sunday, Dec. 16, at The Aetna Theatre at the Wadsworth Athenaeum.

Photos submitted by Sue VanDerzee

“Homemade Wreaths from the Heart”

Josie Didato 860-347-2233

TownSports

Town Times Friday, December 14, 2012

Durham Demons lose Dec. 2, 9 games By Melissa Marteka Special to the Town Times

Even though most of Guilford’s travel basketball team was taller and broader than Durham’s squad, the Demons came out Dec. 9 with an intensity and desire unmatched so far this year. They quickly discovered they can play with a bigger, deeper team. And although the Demons dominated three of the game’s four quarters, the Durham eighth grade travel team dropped its second game of the season 47-41. Needing to play a perfect game to defeat Guilford, the Demons turned the ball over 29 times and were their own worst enemy, especially in

the third quarter when Guilford took its first lead and never looked back, outscoring the Demons 11-4. Those four points came within the final 25 seconds of the quarter on a Patrick Piscatelli drive and two Trevor Morris free throws with one second left. “That was a battle,” Coach Mike Grenier said after the game. “But I can sum up the game in one word — turnovers. We are not going to beat a quality with those turnovers.” “We can’t have that third quarter letdown,” added Coach Ted Morris. The Demons were led by Sam Marteka who scored 12 points and Morris who had a double-double of 11 points

and 10 rebounds. Ryan Vynalek added six points with Bill Eagan and Kyle Grenier adding three points each. Owen Gonzalez had eight rebounds and led the team with four steals. The Demons led 10-9 after the first quarter and extended the lead to 26-22 at the half. The team also outscored Guilford 11-8 in the fourth quarter leaving the difference in the game to the fateful third quarter. “We had them today,” Grenier said. “We showed we can play with the best teams out there, but we need to play four quarters of basketball.” The Demons also lost a close game Dec. 2 to Marlborough 50-47. Aidan Doyle

led the team with 13 points with Eagan adding 11 points. Morris was again the leading rebounder with

By Alan Pease Special to the Town Times The Coginchaug girls basketball team, reigning champs for class S, are without the trio of graduated starters Audrey Biesak, Sam Mancinelli and championship game MVP, Lauren Esposito, as well as last year’s super sub, Andrea Braga. Junior Allison Luther has been lost for the season with a

1269050

TREE & STUMP REMOVAL 30 Years Experience • Licensed & Insured 1238404

860-349-0157 Home Improvement & Repairs Specializing in Bathroom Remodeling

CT Lic. 0612088 1260174

Lic. & Ins. EI 183930

Robert Trombetta 860-798-5374 Middlefield, CT

Residential Roofing Specialist

HIC LIC # 566924

We’ve Moved!

1267404

Inside Masonry: Chimney Repair • Fireplace Veneer • Floor Tile

Dan Jacobs Owner Dependable & Reasonable

860-349-6597

1267405

Fine Work Home Improvement

Insured & Licensed

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

1266162

RSDL

Residential Wiring Specialist Landscape Lighting Design • Install • Service

CT Lic. #558904

Free Estimates

added six points with Vynalek tallying five points.

Coginchaug girls basketball starts strong

Town Times Service Directory

45R Ozick Dr., Unit 1, Durham 860-398-5452 • marbleandgranitecounters.com

12 and eight points. Marteka

SNOW PLOWING 860-349-0119 • www.torrisonstone.com

knee issue, though Coach Rett Mancinelli has appointed her as a co-captain. Despite those losses and only one senior in the lineup, cocaptain Jessica Solomon, this year’s team looks to be wellpositioned for another successful season. Juniors Kim Romanoff, Olivia Corazzini and Morgan Kuehnle will no doubt bring plenty of life to this year’s team, though they will not be able to defend the class S title due to being moved up to class M this year, under CIAC rules. Kolbe Cathedral The girls got off to a good start against class M Kolbe Cathedral from Bridgeport, with a game from Romanoff, with 24 points. The game, played at home Dec. 5, was a nip and tuck affair most of the way, with the Devils trailing the visiting Cougars most of the first period, and Kolbe tying the game mid-way through the final period. After being tied at 54 all, a Romanoff drive put Coginchaug on top for good, and five points from Corazzini, four more from Romanoff, and two each from Solomon and Audrey Arcari iced the 69-62 win. Kuehnle was a monster on the boards, with 14, and also scored 12 points. Audrey Arcari rounded out the double digit scorers with 12 points. Corazzini had a solid game with eight points, and Solomon contributed across the board with six points, six rebounds, four assists, two blocks and a steal. Sydney Trustee scored five points, and both Katelyn Williams and Caryn Sibiskie scored a point. See Basketball, next page

Friday, December 14, 2012 — Town Times

Basketball (Continued from page 22)

(860) 349-3876

(203) 317-2313

DURHAM APARTMENT FOR RENT

STORAGE UNITS

2 bedrooms, 1st floor includes heat & hot water. New kitchen appliances, carpet, paint, washer/dryer hook-up, nonsmoking, no dogs. Available Jan. 1st. $1,035 per mo., 1 1/2 month security deposit.

10x20; 20x20 & 20x45 Units Available w/Heat & Electricity.

Call (203) 751-1977

Submitted by Scott Penney

SUDOKU ANSWER

CROSSWORD ANSWER

1228896

1,000 sq. ft. Main St., Middlefield

Town Times

The Durham Thunder fifth grade boys travel basketball team won a thriller in overtime vs. HaddamKillingworth, 25-20. Leading the way for the Thunder was Chris Onofrio with eight points, while Derek Grant, Max Temple and Justin Penney added four points apiece. Adam Copeland chipped in with two points. On Sunday, Dec. 16, the team is scheduled to travel to Old Lyme for a 12:45 p.m. tipoff vs. Old Lyme.

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

1268724

1268302

OFFICE SPACE FOR RENT

Durham Thunder results

To submit sports content

To advertise your business, call the

1269161

Valley Regional On Dec. 8, the Blue Devils hosted the Warriors from Valley Regional. Despite fielding only nine players, due to various ailments affecting Arcari, Mikayla Wyskiel, Kasi Whitaker (who also missed Kolbe) and Lena Huntington, Coginchaug led from wire to wire in a sloppily played game that featured 45 turnovers, 22 of those by the Devils. The absence of backup point guard Arcari was critical in this number, as only five turnovers happened with Romanoff on the court. Kuehnle led the Devils with 12 points, adding five rebounds, three blocks and three steals. Romanoff scored 10 points, and had

three assists, and Solomon was the leading rebounder with 11, and scored six points. Corazzini scored seven and had four rebounds, Sibiskie grabbed six rebounds and scored five, Williams scored five, Naomi Rinaldo scored two, and Larissa Cade scored one in the 48-28 win.

Call 860-349-0810

Read us on the Web: www.towntimes.com

Complete Complete Dental Dental Care Care For For The The Entire Entire Family Family NO NEED to be without Teeth! 5 Styles starting at $199*

10% 10% Senior Senior Discount Discount Call Call Now Now For For A A FREE FREE Consultation Consultation

WINNER 1269126

Karen Jankavich of Southington won a $250 Gift Card! Thank you to everyone that entered.

DENTURES UPPER OR LOWER Dentures available Extractions and Relines and in 24 Dentures at same Repairs while hours. appointment! you wait.

Complete Affordable Family Dental Care! • Fillings • Crowns • Cleanings • Bridges • Teeth Whitening • Cosmetic Dentistry Payment Options Available. Most Insurance Plans Are Accepted.

MERIDEN 533 S. Broad St., Townline Sq. Plaza

203.238-7968 ORANGE 1268509

501 Boston Post Rd., Liberty Sq. Plaza

Brought to you by

203.799.3311 *Offer expires on 1/31/13

www.newenglanddentalct.com All Denture Material ADA Approved 1187263

Real Estate Page

Town Times — Friday, December 14, 2012

Zumba for a cause

Submitted by Amanda Pedersen

Trim the Giving Tree Second grade girls in brownie troop 62127 visited Town Hall recently to decorate the Giving Tree with ornaments they made with leaders Lisa Szymaszek and Sheryl Slight. The scouts were surprised by a visit from Santa.

Student (Continued from page 12)

mind you of events, and to market Strong School and the many outstanding and noteworthy happenings that occur. Another recommended Twitter handle to follow is @StrongMSTimes. Following this feed will provide you with Strong School Newspaper articles and updates. Two other Strong School Twitter handles you may want to follow are @BlueTeamScience (Updates for all things relevant to Strong School and blue team science) and @strongschoolart where Mrs. Schaefer will share student art work and related information. Strong School can also be found if you discover us via #StrongMS and RSD13 can be found by using #RSD13CT. The # (hashtag) is used to create groups on Twitter for tracking a topic (i.e Strong School or RSD13). I am certain that more teachers will soon join in and there will be more of us to follow on Twitter in the very

near future. In my Strong School newsletter article from June of this year, I stated, “Students show commitment to learning when they feel valued and connected to their environment. Our tasks as educators are to continually reflect and review our approach to the various relationships (student-adultsschool) in order that we provide our students with a wide array of opportunities to be successful.” The use of Twitter is another example of enhancing our connections, educating ourselves, and opening doors into the world of social media. Perhaps someday soon, you’ll see something on Twitter from me that will be the opener for a great dinner conversation or a chat in the car on the ride home from Strong or wherever you may be. The objective is to connect and build upon the relationships among and between our students, staff, and parents.

Send to: P.O. Box 265 Middlefield, CT 06455

“My kids feel I made the right choice. I know I did.” Joan ~ resident since 2008

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

1259969

Got news?

The staff at Core Club & 24/7 Gym, 350 Main St., Durham, thank all who supported the Zumbathon - Toys for Tots drive held Dec. 8. A total of 87 toys were collected. Core Club & 24/7Gym is still a drop-off center for Toys for Tots through the end of December. For more information, call (860) Submitted by Cheryl Nugent Salva

K ABOUT BOU B BO O T ASK OUR WINTER MOVE-IN SPECIAL.

Masonicare is Here for You.