Town Times Jan. 4, 2013 by Town Times Newspaper

Volume 19, Number 39 Serving Durham, Middlefield and Rockfall

www.TownTimes.com

Friday, Januar y 4, 2013

Welcome, 2013

Durham Garden Club members at a past formal gathering.

Garden club celebrates 80 years

Where will the New Year lead you? Are big life changes on the horizon in 2013? Are you simply hoping for more of the same blessings you enjoyed last year? Durham resident and Independent Day School student Katie Foster created this Papel Amate folkart called “Countryside” which brings to life rolling hills, running water, a shining sun, dusty roads, a small village and a flower or two, and it is beautiful. Perhaps that is all we need.

The Durham Garden Club has planned its year-long 80th anniversary celebration, beginning Jan. 1. The club, whose mission is to promote interest and activity in all forms of gardening, was formed on March 23, 1933 by 12 women in a meeting at the Durham Library. Beginning in January, club mem-

bers plan to provide weekly floral arrangements at the library. Club members have also planned a March display including the awards and projects in the PALS library display window. The club’s history shows a commitment to civic beautification, their first project being

See Garden, page 7

Year’s end is neither an end nor a beginning but a going on, with all the wisdom that experience can instill in us. - Hal Borland

Happy New Year! We hope you enjoy the second installment of your community’s creative arts in this issue.

Blight control issue takes new direction By Stephanie Wilcox Town Times

were all prior issues. When asked if an ordinance would solve problems brought forward in Durham, Francis said she felt it would mostly urge people who would be prone to comply. While Selectman John Szewczyk said he thought the ordinance should be brought to a public hearing, even if See BOS, page 2

1270657

Rather than bring a proposed blight ordinance to a public hearing, Durham First Selectman Laura Francis said more research needs to be done as to whether or not an ordinance is the best way to handle blighted homes. At a Dec. 17 Board of Se-

lectmen meeting, Francis discussed the proposed ordinance, which was modeled after the Town of Portland’s blight ordinance adopted in May 2012. She reported that Portland has had trouble recruiting volunteers for its Citation Hearing Board. She also noted that Portland has received four to five complaints since the ordinance was adopted, most of which

The Durham Garden Club at a past annual wreath sale.

TRY SOMETHING NEW. DEAL STORE FOR YOU. www.Myrecordjournal.com/deal

Town Times — Friday, January 4, 2013

Corrections

FrankenFrenz performs for ‘phenomenal women’

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.

Photo submitted by Randy Plude

From left: Randy Plude, John McInerney, Vanessa Williams, Helen Williams, Bill Kimball and Frank Lombardo at the Amistad Luncheon.

Index of Advertisers To advertise in the Town Times, call Joy Boone at 203-317-2313 ACE OIL LLC C/O DOUCETTE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3 ALLAN’S TREE SERVICE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19 ANTIQUES AND VINTAGE GALLERY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17 APEC ELECTRIC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15 APPLE REHAB MIDDLETOWN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 AQUA TURF CLUB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 ASSISTED LIVING OF MERIDEN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13 BARILLARO SERVICES, LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 BATTERS BOX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14 BINGE BRUCE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17 CAHILL & SONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19 CARMINES RESTAURANT LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 COLORS OF THE WIND . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16 CONROY DMD JOHN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 COUNTRY LANDSCAPING LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18 CRANBERRY PHEASANT DAYCARE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18 DURHAM AUTO PARTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17 DURHAM DENTAL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 DURHAM FAMILY EYECARE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 DURHAM NATUROPATHIC HEALTH . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 DURHAM TOWN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7, 13 EDIBLE ARRANGEMENTS/NORTH HAVE . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14 EXECUTIVE OFFICES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18 FAMILY PEST CONTROL LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18 FAMILY TREE CARE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16 FOR SINGLES ONLY LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 FUGGE DAVID M . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15 GLAZER DENTAL ASSOCIATES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3 GOLSCHNEIDER PAINTING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18 GRANT GROUNDSCAPES LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15 GRIPPO GUTTERS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16 HAIR ON WHEELS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 HCP REMODELING & DESIGN CO LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16 IANNIELLO PLUMBING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18 INDEPENDENT DAY SCHOOL-CASHMAN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7 J & T 68 PROPERTY MGMT LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15 JAY LANDSCAPING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17 JENKS PRODUCTIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11 JIMS AUTO SALES & SERVICE LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19 LINO’S MARKET . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 MARCO JETTE LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18 MARY ELLEN MONEYMAKER, C.H.T. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7 MASONICARE-STACY DWORKIN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14 MICHAEL TIMBRO RENTAL PROPERTI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3 MICHELI UNISEX STYLING SALON L . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 MIDDLEFIELD REMODELING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17 MIDDLESEX COMMUNITY COLLE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3 MIMS OIL LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 MOVADO FARMS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19 NEIL JONES HOME IMPROVEMENTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16 NEW ENGLAND CHIMNEY SWEEP MOSO . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19 NEW ENGLAND DENTAL HEALTH SERV . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 OLSEN, LEIF . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 PRETE CHIROPRACTIC CENTER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3 RLI ELECTRIC LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16 ROBLEE PLUMBING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19 ROCKFALL CO, LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17 RSDL HOME IMPROVEMENTS & . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15 TILE RENOVATORS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17 UNCLE BOB’S FLOWER & GARD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15 VMB CUSTOM BUILDERS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18 WHITEHOUSE CONSTRUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17 WILDWOOD LAWN CARE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19 WINDOWS PLUS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11

Middlefield musician/composer Randy Plude is a member of the group FrankenFrenz, which had a busy 2012 performing for a variety of corporate and benefit appearances. The group consists of Frank Lombardo on sax/flute, Larry Flanigan on bass, John McInerney on drums, Bill Kimball on guitar and Randy on keyboards. All members of the band have been Aetna employees and formed the band several years ago to initially perform at various corporate functions. As time passed, the group has grown in popularity and this year has played at several benefit events. In December, the band jammed at the CT Forum Children’s Holiday party at the Marriot in Hartford where hundreds of Hartford elementary school kids participated. Many children volunteered to sing a verse of their favorite Christmas songs with the band. The FrankenFrenz band performed this year at the Hartford Marriot for the Amistad Foundation Phenomenal Women’s luncheon with guest speaker Vanessa Williams and her mother Helen who both recently released a book entitled “You Have No Idea.” The group also has performed at Go Red events in Hartford, the New Haven Open tennis tournament, The Society Room in Hartford for benefit fundraisers as well as a YWCA event featuring guest speaker actress Rosie Perez. The group also was a featured performer at the BCA10 Awards dinner at the famed Boathouse in Central Park, NYC where companies across the country were recognized for their commitment to the arts. The band, which plays standard jazz tunes as well as contemporary jazz music and originals, also performs for private parties and club dates.

BOS (Continued from page 1) the BOS did not support the ordinance, Francis was not comfortable yet. Aside from feeling the document is not ready until she speaks with the town planner and Planning & Zoning Commission, her main concern was that the ordinance could be costly to the town. Francis said she

felt the blight in Durham was not a widespread problem. Before putting a blight ordinance in place, Francis said she would like to make sure that all existing regulations are exhausted. Francis ended the discussion stating that she would explore the idea of combining specific items of the ordinance into the town’s zoning regulations. (From minutes )

Special town meeting A special town meeting is scheduled in Durham for Monday, Jan. 14, at 8 p.m., in the third floor meeting room of the Town Hall. The purpose of the meeting will be to approve the Right to Farm Ordinance.

What are you doing this winter? Send us photos of your winter activities and we’ll publish them in an upcoming edition of The Town Times. Are you traveling to China, the Caribbean or Canada? Are you curled up by the fire with a good book and your dog? Do you ski, feed the birds or bake cookies? Tell us — and show us — how you spend the winter or escape from it. Send your photos with a brief description along with contact information to news@towntimes.com.

Friday, January 4, 2013 — Town Times

Commentary

ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS

A Christmas found

ment of silence for the shooting victims. Every machine was turned off, there was complete silence and then the bells began to toll. I just lost it, sobbing. The tears were truly healing. Somehow they opened me up inside, and I opened my eyes to the beauty around me. Friday night, the New England Chamber Choir, of which I am a member, held a

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The Town Times page can be found at www.facebook.com/ towntimesnews

Clas se star s Janu t ary 23 Call 860-343-5719 to request a copy of the Spring 2013 Enrollment Guide or dowload it at ww.mxcc.edu/ publications

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See Christmas, page 7

1268902

Frankly, I was not at all ready for Christmas this year. A shortened litany of my complaints: foot surgery in early October that turned out to be more than I bargained for; my mother-inlaw being diagnosed with brain cancer around the time of the Durham Fair, and then one bizarre respiratory infection after another. Because we have a generator, we brought my frail inlaws to stay with us for the October storm. A few weeks later, my mother-in-law died, followed two weeks later by my father-in-law. All these troubles shrank to a pinpoint when the Sandy Hook shootings happened. But comparing myself to those families affected by this tragedy — and knowing how little I had to complain about — still did nothing for my mood. Despite this, I could not cry. Not one tear. That is, not until this past Friday, when I was lying on the couch at the physical therapist, and the PT told everyone we would be observing a mo-

• Low Back & Neck Pain • Headaches • Carpal Tunnel • Sciatica

carol sing at the Second Congregational Church in Middle Haddam. This annual event is always well attended, and last Friday was no exception. The beautiful old church was filled with elders, youngsters, and many in between. Nobody said a word about the shootings, but you just knew a lot of healing was going on as people sang all the old favorites, including some of the lighter ones like

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TownCalendar

Jan. 5

Town Times Friday, January 4, 2013

Stopping in for a visit

Saturday

Workshop – on Saturday, Jan. 5, at 11 a.m., at Durham Public Library, artist and art teacher Jan Wenzel will conduct an arts workshop for students aged 10-14. Entitled “Dream Your Dream,” the workshop will explore the One Book theme of making dreams come alive in all communities for all people. The medium will be collage with all materials provided. Registration required either at Levi Coe or Durham Public Library.

Monday

Book discussion – On Monday, Jan. 7, at 1 p.m., at Durham Activity Center, there will be an “Empire Falls” book discussion facilitated by both town librarians and members of the One Book committee. No registration necessary. 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, Town Hall or at www.middlefieldct.org.

Tuesday

Curriculum night Coginchaug High School has scheduled Curriculum night for Tuesday, Jan. 8, at 7 p.m., at the high school. The presentation is for parents of ninth grade students, the first group to take the new Common Core test scheduled for the spring of 2015. For more information, call Linda Berry at (860) 349-7206 or email lberry@rsd13.org.

Submitted by Karen Charpentier

Two bald eagles were spotted recently near Lake Beseck in Middlefield.

Thursday

Author reading –The Durham Public Library, has scheduled Durham author, Leslie Bulion, for Thursday, Jan. 10, at 7 p.m. Bulion plans to read from her latest book, “The Universe of Fair.” No registration necessary. Garden Club - The Durham Garden Club is scheduled to meet Thursday, Jan. 10, at 10 a.m. at the Durham Activity Center. A lecture/workshop program by floral designer Cat Epright is planned for 111:15 a.m. The public is welcome.

Friday

Ballet performance – Middlesex Dance Center has scheduled an American Academy of Ballet performance for Friday, Jan. 11, at 6 p.m. at the Church of St. Colman, Middlefield. Dancers will perform ballet

combinations and solo dances. Admission is a donation of a food item or pet food item for the local food bank or animal shelter. For more information, call (860) 345-7586. 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 .

Saturday

History lecture – on Saturday, Jan. 12, at 2 p.m., at Durham Public Library, Durham historian Fran Korn will share his extensive knowledge of town history. Think you know everything there is to know about the small town of Durham? Come to this lecture and be surprised! No registration necessary.

Monday

Book discussion – On Monday, Jan. 14, at 1 p.m., at Middlefield Senior Center, there will be an “Empire Falls” book discussion facilitated by both town librarians and members of the One Book committee. Registration requested either at Levi Coe or Durham Public Library. Book discussion – on Monday, Jan. 14, at 7 p.m., atMiddlefield Federated Church, the Middlefield Federated Church book group will be discussing “Empire Falls” for their January book. No registration required.

Wednesday

Night of music - Come to “A Little Night’s Music” hosted by the Durham Public Library and the Levi E. Coe Library as part of this year’s “One Book, One Community.”

The selected book for this year is “Empire Falls,” written by Richard Russo, and is about life in a small community. The event is Wednesday, Jan. 16, from 6 to 6:45 p.m. at The Levi E. Coe Library-Library Hall. Enjoy a night of family fun, music and sing-a-long entertainment with the Middlefield Ukelele Club. Space for this event is limited, and registration is required. Call the Durham Public Library at (860) 3499544 or the Levi E. Coe Library at (860) 349-3857 for information or to register. Teen Cuisine – on Wednesday, Jan. 16, at 4:30 p.m., at Durham Public Library, the chefs of “Teen Cuisine” will be making “fair food,” including kettlecorn, baked corn dogs and fudge. For kids aged 12-16; registration required either at Levi Coe or Durham Public Library. 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) 349-9558 or Bonnie Olesen at (860) 349-9433 for more information.

Thursday

Workshop – on Thursday, Jan. 17, at 6:30 p.m., at Durham Public Library, Leslie Bulion will present a creative writing workshop for kids aged 10 to 14. Registration required at either Levi Coe or Durham Public Library.

Saturday

History lecture – on Saturday, Jan. 19, at 11 a.m., at Levi Coe Library, “A Look into the History of Middlefield” will be presented by local historian Ray Hubbard. Registration required at either Levi Coe or Durham Public Library.

Friday, January 4, 2013 — Town Times

Library Briefs

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Skelton. Saturday, Jan. 19, from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. Bring your lunch, dessert provided. Teens 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.) Nutmeg at Night: Trivia game night. 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.

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Hours: Regular library hours are Mondays through Thursdays, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Fridays and Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Visit www.durhamlibrary.org to search the catalog, review your account, register for a program or renew your materials online. For information or to register for a program by phone, call (860) 349-9544. The Durham Library is a drop-off location for Toys of Hope, which is providing toys to the victims of Sandy. Please leave new, unwrapped toys for children of any age in the Toys of Hope box in the library hallway. E-Reader device workshop Learn how to find, checkout and download our FREE e-books and audiobooks to your device. Saturday, Jan. 19, at 10:30 a.m. You will need your LION library card and your account information (Apple for iProducts, Adobe for Nooks, or Amazon for Kindles.) To register, call (860) 349-9544. Author visit Leslie Bullion: Thursday, Jan. 10, at 7 p.m. Durham author and resident will read from The Universe of Fair. Durham historian Saturday, Jan. 12 at 2 p.m. Durham historian Fran Korn will speak. Book discussion

Mystery Book Discussion: Tuesday, Jan. 15, at 7:30 p.m.; One Shot by Lee Child. Copies of the book are available at the Library. All are invited. Maple Sugaring: Jan. 19 at 1 p.m. Russ Hassman will present Maple Sugaring 101: the Basics. 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) School-age kids Dream your dream - Saturday, Jan. 5, at 11 a.m. Jan Wenzel has scheduled an arts workshop for children 10 to 14 years old. To register, call (860) 349-9544. Lunch Bunch (grades 4 to 6) Book discussion - The Story of Cirrus Flux by Matthew

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Town Times — Friday, January 4, 2013

Commentary

How would I keep them safe?

Photo by Olivia L. Lawrence

Mary Paul

This chalkboard tribute to those who died at Sandy Hook Elementary School Dec. 14 is one of tens of thousands of tributes that lined the downtown area.

Guest Column

I lived in Newtown from late 2007 to 2010 with a family of life-long Newtown residents. I taught after school programs and ran special events for youth. I went to church at St. Rose, worked with the local children’s theater, and played Frisbee in the Ram Pasture. Today, I am in my second year as technical director at a half-day arts magnet high school with 245 students from all over Fairfield County, including Newtown. Much like our towns of Durham and Middlefield, what struck me as I got my first tour of Newtown was my host’s enormous pride in his little hometown. He said, “People tell me that Newtown is the perfect

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ers,...children...we realize that here in Middlefield and Durham, we are not so far away. We ache for them. We rage. We rack our brains for what could be done. Like so many teachers and parents, I don’t have the answers. I had some long talks with other teachers. We all said the same things: That school could have been my school. That 27year-old could have so easily have been me. That could have been my kid. Thursday night, before Newtown, we had one of our biannual concerts and I was struck with pride over our work and the excellence of the kids I get to teach. That next night we had a second set of performances scheduled. But on the way there, still reeling from the news that America’s New England hometown could be the site of such devastation, I had to wonder if any of my students had lost siblings. I think about my students and I have to ask myself what if it was my class? How would I keep them safe? It’s hard to look at those kids you are so proud of and imagine that kind of violence. It’s not easy to look them in the face and tell them they are safe. We need to sit down, together, and open the discussion. Let’s look at policies and see what works and what does not. Newtown is just like us, just another perfect New England country hometown. Let us grieve and let us plan for futures without this kind of pain. Mary Paul is a resident of Middlefield.

Friday, January 4, 2013 — Town Times

Christmas

Garden

Christmas tree pick-up

Coginchaug Little League online registration Coginchaug Little League is accepting online registration for all players. For more information and to register, visit coginchaugll.org. Late fees will apply after Feb. 1. Fees may be made online or by check made payable to: Coginchaug Little League, to P.O. Box 34, Durham, CT 06422.

out last spring. For more information, contact Boys Majors Director Nick Faiella at (860) 575-0669

or nicholas.t.faiella@bankofamerica.com or Girls Majors Director Bob Lane at (860) 349-0939 or blane4171@yahoo.com.

College admissions forum scheduled The Guidance Department at Coginchaug Regional High School has scheduled its annual College Admissions Forum for Thursday, Jan. 10, at 7 p.m. for junior students and their parents/guardians. Representatives from Central Connecticut State University, Quinnipiac University and Middlesex Community College have planned an overview of the entire admissions process. In the case of inclement weather, the event will be held Jan. 17. For more information, call (860) 349-7221.

Boys/Girls majors tryouts: A second tryout for both boys and girls majors is scheduled for Saturday, Jan. 28, indoors at Rushford @ Stonegate (formerly Lake Grove School), 459 Wallingford Road. Boys are scheduled for 12:30 p.m.; girls at 1:30 p.m. Wear sneakers and bring a baseball/softball glove. No additional tryout is required for those who tried

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Troop 270’s Christmas tree pick-up is an annual fundraiser serving Durham, Middlefield and Rockfall. Scheduled pickup days are Saturdays, Jan. 5 and 12. To schedule a pick-up, email troop270Durhamct@aol.co m or call (860) 349-2370. A donation would be greatly appreciated.

the cleanup of a dump at the Mill Bridge. That commitment continues today and can be seen in the many and varied trees that line Main Street, the gardens at Town Hall and at the triangle on Routes 17 & 79. Since the year 2000, the club has planted scores of trees along Main Street and at Allyn Brook Park and plan to plant more this spring. The public is invited to join the club in its anniversary celebration on March 14, at 11:15 a.m. at the library. First Selectman Laura Francis, Durham Historical Society President Sarah Atwell, and Federated Garden Clubs of Connecticut President Bronwyn Schoelzel are scheduled to speak. All club meetings are open to the public. Meetings are scheduled for the second Thursday of the month at 10 a.m. at Town Hall, the Library or the Durham Activity Center. For more information, call Flo Flynn at (860) 349-0504. Submitted by Ona McLaughlin

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“Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer.” The concert concluded with Richard Wm. Donohue, our director, singing “O Holy Night” in French, followed by everyone singing “Silent Night.” But I did not feel truly filled with the spirit of the season until I did some errands on Durham’s Main Street. I wanted to get some special meat for Christmas, and headed to Lino’s. It was almost closing time, but no problem. The staff was in a jolly mood, especially when someone turned on “Who Let the Dogs Out (woof, woof)?” I couldn’t help but smile. Then I went to the Durham Market for a few staples. They had just what I needed and, as I drove home, the purple-blue tree lights on the town green seemed different to me. Rather than looking cold, they seemed warm and almost mystical. My mood was totally joyous as I got in my car. “Christmas on Fifth Avenue,” performed by the Choir of Saint Thomas Church in New York City, is one of my favorite Christmas albums, so I turned it on loud and sang along. From “O Come, All Ye Faithful” to “Once in Royal David’s City” and “In the Bleak Midwinter,” the music lifted me up, and I literally flew home to my husband, dog and Christmas tree.

TownSports

(Continued from page 1)

(Continued from page 3)

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TownOpinion Letters to the Editor

Gift drive success 100 years

To the editor: I am writing to extend my thanks and gratitude to those who so generously contributed to the 18th annual holiday gift drive sponsored by the Probate Court. This year, gifts were distributed to residents of five area health care facilities: Water’s Edge, Apple Rehab and Middlesex health Card in Middletown, Aurora in Cromwell and Twin Maples in Durham. Gift “wish lists” were provided to the court by the staff and resident of the five facilities. I am pleased to report that the “wish lists” of over 130 people were met. I would particularly like to thank the many local attorneys who participated and my clerks for coordinating this event. Joseph D. Marino Judge of Probate District of Middletown

To the editor: This holiday season, I would like to express my gratitude to the tens of thousands of people across the state whose dedication and hard work make Girl Scouting in Connecticut. The support our friends give through their time, talents and generous donations is both appreciated and needed, particularly in such a historic year for Girl Scouting across the country. Thank you for your tireless efforts to support our 47,300 girls, helping them discover themselves and their values, connect with others to develop healthy relationships and take action in their communities to make the world a better place. On behalf of Girl Scouts of Connecticut, I also want to thank everyone who supported us during our historic

100th anniversary this year. Whether you helped our girls achieve their goals during the cookie program, were one of 8,000 people to attend the Girl Scout 100th Jubilee a the Durham fairgrounds, or had a girl attend the Girl Scout International camporee at Camp Laurel, you were a key part of our year-long celebration. This amazing year would not have been possible without the support and dedication of our volunteers, staff and most importantly, you. Thank you for helping us celebrate 100 years of building girls of courage, confidence and character, who make the world a better place. Mary Barneby Girl Scouts of Connecticut, CEO

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

Government Meetings Special Town Meeting, Town Hall, 8 p.m. Durham Government Thursday, Jan. 17 Calendar Water Commission, Town Hall, 7 p.m. (Unless otherwise indicated, all meetings are held in the Durham Library. Check the town website at www.townofdurhamct.org for updates.) Monday, Jan. 7 Board of Selectmen, Town Hall, 7 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 8 Library Board of Trustees, Library, 7 p.m. Board of Education Communications Committee, Superintendents office, 7 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 9 Joint Board and Commission Meeting, Town Hall, 7 p.m. Cemetery Company, Town Hall, 7 p.m. Board of Education, John Lyman School, 7:30 p.m. Monday, Jan. 14 Board of Selectmen, Town Hall, 7 p.m.

Wednesday, Jan. 23 Board of Education Finance Committee, Memorial School, 5:30 p.m. Board of Education, Memorial School, 7:30 p.m. Ethics Commission, Library, 7 p.m.

Middlefield Government Calendar (Unless otherwise indicated, all meetings are held in the Community Center.) Monday, Jan. 7 Board of Selectmen, 7 p.m.

Town Times Friday, January 4, 2013

How to get all your local news in ’13 Happy New Year to all of you. Ready or not, here comes ‘13 and the staff of The Town Times is excited to be part of bringing the community the coverage it wants — sports, news, commentary, features on local personalities, organizations and events, and lots of photos of your neighbors, friends and family participating in local goings-on. While The Town Times is free and delivered weekly to every household and business in town — that’s not the only coverage we provide. Every day, on the web at www.towntimes.com, you’ll find breaking news, story updates, web-only photos and stories, as well as Today in Town, a daily posting of events going on around town. If you aren’t checking out the website, you might not get all your Durham and Middlefield news. The Town Times also is on Twitter and Facebook — so have a look and then keep the conversation going. As always, we welcome your submissions — Letters to the Editor, news about your group or organization, photos from events and, of course, news tips. You can contact us at news@towntimes.com or at (203) 317-2256. A new year, a fresh beginning, is one of the gifts of winter, a season that can prove trying to even the hardiest New Englander. Staying in touch with what’s going on is a great way to make these long, dark days a little brighter. Thanks to our readers for the opportunity to be part of your experience as we welcome another year of Durham and Middlefield history together. - The editor

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Town Times is published every Friday by the Record-Journal Publishing Co. and delivered to all homes and businesses in Durham, Middlefield and Rockfall. Stephanie Wilcox, Editor Marsha Pomponio, Office Assistant Olivia L. Lawrence, News Editor-Weeklies Joy Boone, Advertising Sales Kimberley E. Boath, Advertising Director Mike Killian, Senior Vice President of Operations and Major Accounts Liz White, Executive Vice President and Assistant Publisher Contributors: Diana Carr, Trish Dynia, Elisabeth Kennedy, Karen Kean, Judy Moeckel, Mark Dionne, Christine Foster and Michelle P. Carter.

Town Times Friday, January 4, 2013

TownSeniors

Water color class

Knitting and crocheting

Call (860) 347-5661 Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., to make a reservation.

Knitters and crocheters 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.

Dial-A-Ride

Water color classes for seniors with well-known local artist, Aleta Gudelski, is scheduled for Thursdays, from 1 to 3 p.m., Jan. 10 through Feb. 14, at the Durham Activity Center. Beginners are encouraged to attend and explore the art of water color. Intermediates are also welcome. Students work at their own pace. Class is limited to 10 students. A fee is charged and is payable in advance. For more information and to register, call Sherry Hill at (860) 3436724.

Senior Cafe 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 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.

Book discussion The Middlefield Senior Center has scheduled a book discussion of Richard Russo’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 senior 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Adult education free programs Are you looking for a job or more pay? Are you ready to earn your high school diploma? Adult Education will help you accomplish your goals. Middletown Adult education offers free high school programs and English as a second language classes to residents of Durham and Middlefield. Three high school options are available, including the National External Diploma Program, a self paced program with no classroom instruction. Diplomas are issued by the Middletown Board of Education. Enrollment is free and ongoing. Day and evening classes are available and there is never a charge for these Board of Education programs. Call for more information (860) 343-6048 or visit www.maect.org and find out what adult education can do for you!

Senior exercise 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.

St. Luke’s Eldercare St. Luke’s supports successful aging and independent living serving veterans and elders. Free services provided are friendly visiting, out-of-area medical transportation, transportation for elderly veterans to VA hospitals, grocery shopping services, minor home repair, information/resource referral, individual case management, education/advocacy, The Gatekeeper Program, Access4Care and St. Luke’s Apartments on Broad Street in Middletown. For specific information on their services, call (860) 347-5661. St. Luke’s is located at 760 Saybrook Road in Middletown. The Middlefield Senior Center is located in the Middlefield Community Center at 405 Main Street. If you have 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 Café (serving on Monday, Wednesday and Friday), contact Antoinette Astle at (860) 349-7121. The Durham 60 Plus Club meets at the Durham Activity Center the second and fourth Monday of each month, September through June, at 1:30 p.m. The next meeting is Oct. 22 at 1:30 p.m and newcomers are most welcomed.

Kindergarten registration planned Regional School District 13 announced the kindergarten visitation and registration process. Parents of children living in Durham and Middlefield who will be five years old on or before Jan. 1, 2014 must register them to attend kindergarten in September 2013 or apply for a waiver of attendance. In Regional District 13, children may attend kindergarten in either the contemporary program or the integrated day program. Parents need to choose the program prior to kindergarten registration. The contemporary program serves children in grades kindergarten through grade 4, at Brewster School for kindergarten through grade 2, and at Korn School for grades 3 and 4. The integrated day program serves students in grades kindergarten through grade 4 at John Lyman School. The two programs share similarities but there are some distinctive differences. Prospective parents may visit all three schools to view at least one classroom at every grade level. Visits are scheduled by appointment from Jan. 7 through Jan. 31. To schedule an appointment, call Lyman School at (860) 349-7240, Brewster School at (860) 3497227 or Korn School at (860) 349-7210. Parents must register for the program of their choice by Feb. 1. Any child not registered by Feb. 1 may not be able to attend the program of their choice. Kindergarten registration for the 2013-2014 school year is scheduled for Monday, Feb. 4, through Thursday, Feb. 7. Appointments will be available from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Children should attend the registration appointment. Parents of eligible kindergarten children who plan to keep their child out of school for another year must sign a form at the Office of the Superintendent of Schools.

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

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Town Times Friday, January 4, 2013

Mission: stuff my passport By Michelle P. Carter

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tivities were the same. It wasn’t until I started traveling farther and more often after high school that I discovered how much more there was to the world. And the more I traveled, the more I realized how very easily I adapt to new environments. When I was at the University of Connecticut, I had to check the weather on my laptop every day before I left my dorm. The temperature, precipitation, wind chill and trajectory throughout the day would determine if I needed to bring my umbrella, how many layers I needed to wear, and which accessories to add to my attire (long-johns, mittens, earmuffs, scarves, hats, ski masks, secondary exoskeletons, you name it). I recall one day in my freshman year rejoicing that it was negative nine degrees — the warmest it had been all week. I moved to California four months ago. And just last week, I caught myself thinking how very cold I was while waiting for the metro. It was 62 degrees. What I find most amusing is what California locals consider long distance. When I was living in Durham, you had to travel at least 20 to 30 minutes to reach civilization. The grocery store? Fifteen miles. The movie theatre? Twenty. Your friends from school? Scattered across the Eastern seaboard. I was impressed to come to a city where you can walk to any cuisine in town or go to a concert or show every night of the week because all the best

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At left: Nicholas Benedetto, age 10 - fish picture (use of stippling method taught at Memorial Middle School).

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Town Times — Friday, January 4, 2013

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I went trick-or-treating with my friend Ellie. Christopher’s friends came too. There were five boys and two girls. It was fun. I was a kitten. I was pink and black. I was pink on the top of the costume with my ears and the part that was like a tutu. I was black at the bottom of the costume with my tights and skirt. Ellie was a candy corn witch. She was orange, white and yellow. Ellie was wearing an orange hat at the top of the costume, a white shirt in the middle, and yellow at the bottom of her skirt. All the dads took us. I went up Ellie’s road. I hope I can do it again.

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Friday, January 4, 2013 — Town Times

Passport (Continued from page 10)

By Sullivan McCoy Grade 2, John Lyman School I fell into a movie. I don’t know how it happened. I think I hear some weird noises from my head into my brow. I hear some springing sounds, boing, boing, boing. I think I hear some sound effects all through this cartoon. Now the movie is over I have to do my chores. Next time I watch that cartoon, I can watch it while I sit on my couch!

By Norah Healy Grade 1, John Lyman School I fell into a book. I hurt my back. I saw all of my friends from Room 17 there. They played ball with me. I ate cotton candy. It was so good because it was sweet. I got tired from eating and playing. I was walking and I found a bed. I thought, well I’m tired I could take a nap. So I fell asleep. Then I woke up from the magic book and flew back home.

LEGAL NOTICE CALL TO A SPECIAL TOWN MEETING TOWN OF DURHAM

A SPECIAL TOWN MEETING of the Electors and Citizens qualified to vote at Town Meetings of the Town of Durham will be held in the 3rd Floor Meeting Room, Town Hall, on Monday, January 14, 2013 at 8:00 p.m. for the following purpose: 1. To Approve Right to Farm Ordinance Laura L. Francis First Selectman

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venues are within a 20 mile radius. People who were born and raised here in California have a different concept of distance. “That’s a 10 minute drive!” they’ll cry. “Are you crazy? Can’t you find any place closer?” The strangest thing about living in a new place all the way across the country is that all of the food chains are different. I can’t remember the last time I saw a Dunkin Donuts (actually, it was probably one of the two on Main Street in Durham). They just don’t exist out here. What you will find is The Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf on every corner. Burger King? Nope, haven’t seen one of those either. But you can’t go five feet without hitting an In-And-Out or a Fatburger. Even the candy is different. Twizzlers? Oh, no, we’ve got Red Vines. But I think the best part about traveling is meeting new people, having new experiences, and learning things about the world that you just can’t get a sense of when staying in one place. I envy people with thick passports full of stamps, visas and memories. My goal is to stuff my passport with stories to tell and memories to keep so that, one day, when I’m too old and tired to travel anymore, I can open my shoebox full of my old passports and flip through them and remember just how vast and wonderful this world truly is. And just as soon as I get a full-time job, maybe I can afford to start doing that.

I fell into a movie

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Town Times — Friday, January 4, 2013

Paper Mola of an Elephant, by Ava Dell’Orfano, grade 3 Middlefield

Halloween By Amelia Treat Grade 4 Leaves falling, kids calling, Chilly breeze, want to sneeze, Darkest night, spooky light, Scary sight gives a fright, Eating treats, hard and sweet, Yummy, gooey, sticky, chewy Candy!

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Friday, January 4, 2013 — Town Times

Winter fun

Cruisin’ the Anclote River in Tarpon Springs, Fla, by Natalie Hayward Michelle Geary, grade 12, Greek Vase, Sixth Century

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By Meghan Crocetto Winter snow is so much fun, Build big forts, There’s no more sun, There’s all sorts of things to do, Make snow angels or an igloo, Hot cocoa will warm you, From playing so your lips don’t turn blue, Have fun white winter’s here, Cause’ it’s not going to be here all through the year!

Cal P., grade 7, surrealism self portrait. Half his face is realistic and the other half has things that represent him on the inside.

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Jenna DePonte Grade 2, John Lyman School I’m traveling through my mind. Everywhere I go I see black and white. One day I fell in my mind. I fell into a black cloud and I got stuck bouncing on the dark jumping circle, going through different dimensions. I’m traveling in my mind. I’m going everywhere!

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Town Times — Friday, January 4, 2013

Scotland — land of beauty and bagpipers

In the town of Loch Ness, “Nessie” (that lives in the Eileen Donan Castle — One of the many glorious Loch, it’s said) supports cathedral ruins around the local tourist economy. with a piper in front of it. Edinburgh. Here’s a sculpture of him (her?). Scotland, I never had the least

The Isle of Skye By Judy Moeckel

Even though my mother’s maiden name was Stewart, one of the grand clan names of

interest in my Scottish roots until a few years ago. After falling in love with London and its history on a visit in 2009, I

began to be curious about the other parts of the British Isles and Ireland. My friend Clair, whose also

has Scottish roots (she is a Henderson) shared the same interest, so we booked a trip to

Town Times Service Directory

Photos by Judy Moeckel

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There is a statue of the famous dog, Bobby (notice the bar named after him) near Greyfriars church. Bobby is buried in the graveyard near his master. Legend has it that Bobby would not leave his master’s grave for years. People fed him and, when he died, continued to bring mementos to the dog’s grave.

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Edinburgh (pronounced “Edin-borough,” I discovered), with a side trip to the Isle of Skye in the Inner Hebrides islands. Two things I should have, by now, learned about traveling abroad: carry less (and put it on wheels), and expect to be exhausted, crabby and generally worthless for the first day or two (jet lag). Arrived in Scotland’s capital city, we found people to be friendly, but hard to understand. Fatigue might have had something to do with it! We took the pleasant “Airlink” train into the city from the airport, but soon discovered that the train station was at the bottom of a long, steep hill up to our hotel. Somehow we had missed this fact in our planning. Not realizing what a long walk was ahead of us to our hotel on the “Royal Mile” (the main street below Edinburgh Castle), we didn’t take a taxi, but kept on lugging our luggage until I was desperate for a beer. The place was delightfully friendly and I had a couple of Stewart (of course) Brewery ales. Refreshed, we slogged upward in the rain and got to our

See Scotland, next page

Friday, January 4, 2013 — Town Times

Scotland (Continued from page 16)

Scots, at least on Skye, speak Gaelic; all signs are in English and Gaelic. Gaelic is, to me, totally incomprehensible; I look at the words and try to guess how in the world to pronounce them. And I am usually wrong. Most exciting for me was coming to a tourist stop on Skye and having a piper play “Skye Boat Song” for me. This lovely song is about Bonnie Prince Charlie and his sad exile on this desolate isle. Of course, the piper had to be

tipped. On the way to Skye, we toured Eilean Donan Castle, just one of a multitude of castles we saw on our trip. Many are still inhabited by members of the ancient Scottish clans. One note: Loch Ness and its resident underwater nemesis, Nessie, are overrated. But the tourist biz flourishes, thanks to the myth (celebrated in a sculpture of Nessie). A final note: if you go to Scotland, it helps if you like (1)

single malt scotch; (2) fresh fish; and (3) haggis. I love all three, but (3) is my favorite. If you want to know what’s in haggis, you may regret asking. It’s made from the heart, liver and lungs of a sheep or a calf, minced with suet, onions, oatmeal and seasonings, and boiled in the stomach of the animal. Add neeps (turnips) and tatties (mashed potatoes) and you have a hearty, very Scottish dish. Yum.

Town Times Service Directory SEPTIC ISSUES?

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hotel, located in a former bank and now above a bar. Again, more friendly, but a bit grungy, and there were almost no electrical outlets to be found. But there was WiFi in the bar. If only I had known how to use it. As we were pretty far north, it did not get dark until very late; at least the hotel had thick curtains so you could sleep beyond the ridiculously early dawn. It was about 60 big carpeted stairs up to our room — no “lift.” We developed our leg muscles… Speaking of leg muscles, Clair and I did a lot of walking around the city and also to other nearby towns. Since the Royal Mile, the touristic center of Edinburgh, is on a steep grade, everywhere you go (mostly tartan and souvenir shops) is up. Or down. We went up to Edinburgh Castle just once. Across from our hotel was a famous old cathedral, St. Giles’, which, during the Reformation, was the birthplace of the Presbyterian Church of Scotland. Services are still held there, as are “haunted” tours of the bowels of the structure. It’s the place where young people hang out around the clock. One of my favorite places in the city was Greyfriar’s, a beautiful church with a delightfully decadent graveyard next to it. There I saw a raven perched on a sarcophagus; at first I was sure it was fake, something to remind one of Edgar Allen Poe. But no, the bird was real! We truly had the luck of the Scottish as we boarded our minivan to go to the Isle of Skye for three days. Normally, the weather coming off the North Sea is miserable. For us, though, the sun shone almost all the time. Skye is the place, I believe, where Bonnie Prince Charlie was taken to hide after making a disastrous attempt to regain Scotland and the crown for the Catholic cause. The island is absolutely gorgeous. It looks like something out of the “Lord of the Rings,” or “The Hobbit.” Sheep graze everywhere, right up to the steep cliffs above the ocean. Here and there, little streams rolled right off cliffs into the ocean.

Most roads are one way, and when our bus driver saw a vehicle coming toward him, he would engage in a game of chicken. The driver who managed to go first claimed the road, and the right of way. Our driver usually won. Our tour guide was chatty and erudite, but tended to go off on rapturous descriptions of how the clans loved to massacre each other. It’s good he wasn’t the driver. I never realized that the

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Town Times — Friday, January 4, 2013

A day at Buffalo Bay By Thomas Kannam, Grade 3

“We’re here,” I said and sprinted out of the car. As I got out of the car, I heard the crashing of the waves on the shore. Dad and I were at my friends, Felipe and Tati’s beach house. “Thomas, do you want to go to the beach now?” Felipe asked me when we got to the small brown house.

“Okay,” I said. “Wait for me,” Tati yelled, running up from behind us. I felt the rocks tickling my feet as I raced Felipe and Tati to the beach. “Okay, you win,” Tati and I said out of breath. “Let’s go to the big rocks,” I told Felipe. “Wait up for us,” I heard

someone say behind us. It was our Dads. As we were walking to the big rocks, Felipe shouted, “Wow, a huge lucky rock!” He told us that a rock with a ring around it was a lucky rock. “That’s so cool,” my Dad said. “Do you want me to carry that for you?” Felipe’s Dad

asked Felipe. “No, I got it,” Felipe told his Dad. “I have to wash the big rock before I can tell you if it is a lucky rock,” Felipe said. Felipe looked for a place to wash off the rock as we climbed the big, slippery rocks. The rocks had lots of green barnacles. We tried to

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tiptoe around them as we looked for a place to wash the rock. At one point we had to walk on rocks to get across a puddle of water. I slipped and got soaking wet. Soon after that we found a good puddle. “Can we keep the big lucky rock?” my Dad asked. “Yes,” Felipe and Mario told my dad and me. “Yeah,” we both said happily. “Can we go sailing, please, please, please, please, please?” Felipe nagged his Dad. “Ok, if you stop saying that,” Mario told Felipe. “Yeah, that sounds really fun. I have never been sailing,” I told them. The small boat with the yellow, purple and orange sail went faster than I thought it would go. Felipe and I liked to stick our hands out so we can touch the water and the small blue and white buoys. We went out so far that our parents looked like little dots on the beach. We took off our yellow life jackets as we started to come back to shore. I could hear the clunk of the little boat hitting the sand. “We have to go now,” Dad told me. “No,” I said sadly. “Goodbye,” I shouted out the car window. “Bye-bye,” Felipe said, running to the end of the driveway. I hope I can go there again. The End

By Grace Hughes-Conway Grade 4 Purple! Orange! Yellow! Green! These are the colors you’ll see at the coral reef, The coral reef is not a plant, They eat things the size of ants, They’re animals, but not a fish, They have a name and it’s polyps. There are so many different kinds under the water where many fish hide!

Friday, January 4, 2013 — Town Times

The unforgettable journey By Nicky Stevens, Grade 3

A Florida beach at night, by Rachel Hayward

nervous, too. I didn’t want to hurt the dolphin. I had that same feeling of joy in my stomach. When I was done, I asked my mom, “What are we doing next?” She replied that we were going back to the hotel. I had a great time. I hope you can do this some day because it’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity!

Town Times Service Directory

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By Skye Aceto Grade 3 Bats flutter across the dusk sky like a black cloud, Bats flying deep within the night as the moon shines down, Bats like a streak across the blackness, Bats flying back home at dawn with a stomach full of bugs, Bats

My mom told me, “Wait till you see what is next!” I asked my mom, “What?” The lady said, “Now we are going to kiss the dolphin.” When it was my turn I almost screamed but I managed. I put my head down. I held the dolphin’s beak and I kissed it. Stella was wiggling a lot because I think the dolphin was probably excited. I was a little

1267401

I jumped in the water. I screamed, “It is so cold!” I was at the place to do the dolphin swim. It was called Discovery Cove. We were going to split up into groups. One of the ladies called out so everyone could hear that we were going to feel the dolphin. The dolphin’s name was Stella. It was smooth and it felt like rubber. It was graceful and gentle. It was the most graceful dolphin in history. The way its tail moved was gentle. It was like the dolphin was talking to me in movement. It was truly beautiful. The nice lady instructed us that now we were going to ride on Stella’s back. I was so happy I almost fell over. A bubble of joy got into my stomach. I went first. “I am so excited,” I said anxiously to my mom. The lady asked, “Are you ready?” I replied, “Yes!” So the lady yelled, “Ready, set go!!!” The dolphin went so fast that I couldn’t hold on. So I did it one-handed. I felt free. I felt like I was flying. The water was propelling behind me. The dolphin’s tail was moving in a slow movement but I felt like the dolphin was as fast as a racecar. When that part was over my mom asked me, “How was it?” I was speechless for a few moments, but then I finally spoke. I screamed, “That was awesome!”

Town Times — Friday, January 4, 2013

Christmas Poem

Gem stone mining By Kareena Patel, grade 3 When I got out of the car I saw the sunset. We were going gem stone mining at the lake. First we were waiting for the manager. He was working with some other people down at the lake so we waited 10 minutes. He did not show up, but five minutes later he came. He said, “I will set you up, but after that, I will lock up and you can leave when you are done.” So he got the sand. The sand had gemstones in it. He dumped it out into a long, wooden box that didn’t have a top. He turned on the water and gave us cards that had all the gems we needed to find. Then we started. I took the sifter. I tried to use it the way I was supposed to. The way you are supposed to is you move the sifter back and forth in the sand,

but I couldn’t do that. Instead of that, I dug my hand under the sand, lifted it up and put it on the sifter. Next I moved it back and forth, the way I was supposed to do it. After that, I looked and I found rocks. I felt the sand. It was slimy. I found the rare rock that was called topaz. Nobody else got it because it was the same color as the sand. Even my cousins, Roshin and Millin, did not get it. I felt happy because I had never done this and it was a new experience to find things that you don’t get to find. I also got a quartz that looks like a sword. It has lines on it like a sword and it is pointy. Everybody loved it. I saw so many different colors. The purple, pink and black rocks popped out of the sand like frogs! When I was sorting, I said to myself, “I hope I come here again.”

Mattina Benedetto, age 13 Warm air fills a home Chestnuts roasting on a fire Kids laughing as a tree is being decorated Pumpkin pie and turkey waiting on the table A sweet aroma of pine and apple wood fills the rooms A white blanket of fresh snow on the ground Christmas music playing in the house Stockings hanging above the fireplace Christmas lights everywhere Cookies carrots and milk over by the tree on a small wooden table A silence drops over the house The lights go off The pumpkin pie and turkey disappear The sweet aroma of pine and wood has faded The laughter gone The Christmas music stops The snow on the hard cold ground is now being shined upon by the white crescent moon But something has shaken the silence A big man comes down the chimney Dressed in a red and white suit His red and white hat full of soot His boots completely black His cheeks rosy red with a layer of soot on top His glasses settled on his large cheeks His stomach so large almost popping his thick black belt The man carries a large red sack Full of toys and fun items

He takes some toys and items out of his sack and leaves it under the tree He takes smaller items and drops them into the stockings With his heavy footed walk he strides to the small table with cookies carrots and milk He takes a small bite of the cookie dunks it into the milk and drinks the rest He takes the carrots and his vast sack and climbs up the chimney He trudges on the snowy roof and climbs onto his sleigh Reindeer stomp their feet waiting to lift into the sky The giant man throws the carrots to the reindeer; They eat the delicious sweet carrots The man takes his sack and puts it into his sleigh Then he gets himself on board He yells “Ya and away!” The reindeer jump up into the sky and fly to the next house on the street The next morning the children rush downstairs to get their presents tied up in golden and red bows They open the large and small packages They check their stocking and they are full of surprises and laughter Christmas morning A wonderful beautiful morning

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