Volume 20, Number 40
Serving Durham, Middlefield and Rockfall
www.TownTimes.com
Friday, Januar y 17, 2014
New school superintendent starts By Mark Dionne Town Times
Dr. Kathryn Veronesi’s tenure as superintendent of schools in District 13 began with several days of weather events. Her first official day, Jan. 2, was the start of a twoday storm that required an early dismissal of students followed by a snow day. Her first full week began with a day of thaw followed by plummeting temperatures freezing everything that just melted. Needless to say, Veronesi’s first district work days have started in the very early morning, with phone calls to facilities workers and
neighboring superintendents. Having spent her professional career in Connecticut, Veronesi is used to snow days, but noted that the weather disruptions have delayed her plans to visit the schools. In an interview with Town Times, Veronesi described her first days as “a very smooth start.” Already, she said, “I feel like I’ve been here forever.” Veronesi steps into a district in the midst of signif icant mandated and potential changes. The switch to Common Core State Standards is changing the curriculum and testing. The Board of Education
is currently studying the future of the district’s schools, with a possibility of school reconfiguration or closings. Coginchaug Regional High School also needs a permanent principal. Veronesi said she was drawn to the position because of the community and the CORE ethical values articulated by the district. “I don’t think there’s a place I go where there isn’t someone from Durham or Middlefield,” she said, describing the community as truly supportive of education. As she did at the BOE meeting where she was officially hired, Veronesi referred
to the CORE ethical values of respect, responsibility, honesty, kindness, and courage which school officials pledge to instill in the district. “That last CORE value of courage, that’s an unusual CORE value for a school district to identify and that spoke to me,” Veronesi said. “We have to have the courage to do what we believe is best for the kids.” According to Veronesi, the small town of Hebron, where she worked as an elementary principal and interim superintendent, shares some characteristics of District 13, such Dr. Kathryn Veronesi, new superintendent of District 13 See Superintendent / Page 20 schools.
Saddlebrook Farm horses deal with harsh winter By Diana Carr
We know winter tempera- what it’s like for the horses tures can take a toll on us, you pass on your way somebut did you ever wonder where? Are they counting the days ’til Spring, too? “Horses do better in the cold than people think,” said Jeff Doyle, trainer at Saddlebrook Farm, Durham, which is home to 35 horses. Doyle said, “In moderately cold weather, they do better than in the heat, which can bring on heat exhaustion and dehydration. Horses are very similar to people in a lot of ways. Some do better in the cold than others. It’s just common sense. If it’s hot, keep them cool. If it’s cold, keep them warm. “In winter they don’t want to stay out. Some go out for four to six hours, and others go out for a half-hour and then want to come in. Two to six hours is the norm. If it’s below 20 degrees they With frigid temperatures bearing down, horse farm don’t go out. Instead, we put owners Jeff and Kathy Doyle take special precautions them, one at a time, into our to care for their 35 horses. Special to Town Times
indoor ring.” “We put hay out for them when they go outside in the winter,” said his wife, Kathy, “but they have nothing to graze on, so they get bored.” Although there are coyotes in the area, this has never been a problem, the Doyles said. Coyotes usually come out at night, when the horses are in. Winters do require some adjustments in the care of horses. They’re blanketed, both inside the barn and when they are outside; except for one pony. “Clyde will not wear a blanket,” Doyle said. “He just rips it off. But his coat is so thick that he doesn’t need it.” The horses need a bit more hay in the winter, to build body heat. When the temperatures are frigid, Doyle puts hot water over their grain at night to warm the meal. “It’s like us having
a bowl of oatmeal in the winter,” he said. Most important is the water. Because they tend to drink less in the winter, Doyle gives the horses salt to make them thirsty. “If they don’t drink, their bowels and their intestinal tract dry out and they get impacted,” he said. “They can’t pass anything and so they get colic, which is a blockage in their intestines. If we have a horse with digestive problems, we put vegetable oil or corn oil in their feed to keep things flowing. If that doesn’t work, we put some probiotics in there, too. “I like to move them around in the winter, to keep the circulation going. I work them all winter, but not as hard as I usually would. I don’t want to stress them.” Doyle finds the winters See Horse / Page 11
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Morrone named teacher of the year By Mark Dionne Town Times
Memorial Middle School PE and Health teacher Greg Morrone was recognized as the 2013-14 District 13 Teacher of the Year at the Board of Education’s Jan. 8 meeting. Memorial principal Kevin Brough made the presentation to Morrone. “It’s truly been a privilege to work with this gentleman,” Brough said. “Greg is an exemplary teacher ... He has an outstanding classroom climate.” Citing Morrone’s ability to make connections with students, Brough complimented Morrone’s skills as a teacher and school representative. “He has an outstanding commitment to each and every student with whom he interacts. I think that is one of the special talents and skills.” Called the “official meeter and greeter of Memorial Middle School,” Morrone is often seen in front of the school, where he says hello to each student and visitor. “It exemplifies his professionalism and not only his commitment to the teaching profession but the individual
kids as well.” Morrone coordinates the intra-mural programs, represents Memorial at the Community Round-Up, and is a member of the school’s sa fe climate com mittee. Morrone also is active in the PE/health curriculum process and supervises T.G.I.F. nights. As a supervisor of Step-Up Day, Morrone is often the first Memorial School teacher fourth graders meet when they visit the school. Although he came into the teaching profession late, after 20 years as an auto mechanic, Morrone now serves as a mentor to new teachers. “He will bring a number of aspiring teachers in and oftentimes provides these teachers with their first experience in working with kids,” Brough said. “I enjoy watching the smiles on the faces of the kids that come in every day,” said Morrone when he accepted t he awa rd. “Sometimes it’s not smiles and my job is to see if we can turn that around.” Morrone said he never thought he would be named Teacher of the Year and described himself as speechless when he got the news.
Memorial Middle School physical education and health Teacher Greg Morrone, right, with Memorial Middle School Principal Kevin Brough. Morrone recently was recognized as the District’s Teacher of the Year. | (Mark Dionne/Town Times)
“It was a big honor from the board and the teachers,” Morrone said. “I don’t go to work to be the Teacher of the Year,” Noting his late start as a teacher, Morrone thanked Brough for his work as a mentor. Morrone also was recog-
nized at a Connecticut State Department of Education ceremony at the Bushnell in Hartford.
Free adult ed classes Adult education offers free classes for Durham and Middlefield residents ready to earn their high school diploma. Three high school completion options are available including the GED and the National External Diploma Program, an individualized, self paced pro-
gram without classroom instruction. Enrollment is ongoing and free of charge for area residents. Day and evening classes are available in Middletown, Killingworth and Old Saybrook. For more information, call (860) 343-6044 or visit www.maect.org.
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Friday, January 17, 2014
A3
Radon can be random and dangerous V. Deborah Culligan Special to Town Times
Radon is a colorless, odorless, naturally-occurring radioactive gas that may threaten health in high concentration. It is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the U.S. Any home in any community may have elevated levels of radon, even if other homes in the neighborhood do not. Testing for radon is simple and inexpensive. Once a radon problem has been identified, it can be fixed. Radon is formed by the breakdown of natural uranium in rocks and soil. In the open air, radon is so highly diluted that it poses no danger. When it seeps into homes, it becomes trapped and can build to levels of concern. As much as 55 percent of the radiation that people acquire over their lives comes from breathing in radon gas. The risk of developing lung cancer from exposure to radon depends upon the concentration of radon and the length of time you are ex-
posed. Smokers increase this risk 10-fold. Most radon-related health issues are caused from radon that circulates in the air. Wells can also be tested for radon, although this is a less common source of health-related issues. If your home tests high for radon, you might consider having your water tested. Any home can have a radon problem. Most radon enters homes through ground level openings such as pipes, drains, and foundation cracks. Most homes contain radon in the air. But the concentration of radon in the air varies greatly from insignificant to hazardous levels of contamination. The only sure way of knowing if your home contains excessive levels of radon is to TEST for radon. Test for radon in the lowest level of your home containing a living area. (You don’t need to test basements that are not used as a living area.) Most hardware and building supply stores sell testing kits. Be sure the kit is EPA certified. Short-term tests take air sample from two to 90 days.
A lab then analyzes the air sample and forwards the results to you. There are also longer-term tests. There are private companies that will conduct these types of radon tests. If your home contains radon, cover and seal basement drains, pipes, and cracks. Because some entry points
can be missed, retest immediately. Even if no radon is detected, retest every few years. (Entry points may open over time). A contractor can install a venting pipe system that will draw radon from under the house and direct it back into the outside air. There is also a National
Radon Hotline at 1-800-7677236. Radon literature also is available on the Internet at these sites: www.epa.gov/ radon/pubs or www.ct.gov/ dph/radon V. Deborah Culligan, BSN, MPH is coordinator of Health Education Programs/deputy director of the Quinnipiack Valley Health District.
HEAVENLY ARRAY St. Colman youth presented the birth of Jesus at its annual Christmas Pageant on Christmas Eve. From left: Angels - Morgan Cesario, Grace Hartline, Emma Anderson, Samantha Anderson, Kiyah Kulpik. Joseph - Brendan Coppola. Mary - Julia Slight. Shepherds - AJ Latina, Michael Pitruzzello. Three Kings - Adam Dahlmeyer, Ben Pitruzzello (not pictured Noah Matterazzo). Back: Narrators - Kayla Dahlmeyer, Nathan Latina, and Jakob Slight. (Submitted by Sheryl Slight)
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Schools
Coginchaug awarded accreditation The New England Association of Schools and Colleges has awarded accreditation to Coginchaug Regional High School, along with both commendations and recommendations after a lengthy review process that began over three years ago. Follow up to the NEASC review will continue five years into the future. The accreditation status was received in October, but the full report was not then available. The full report given by NEASC to the district runs over 100 pages. CRHS math teacher Craig Bradanini, who co-chaired the steering com-
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mittee with science teacher Erika Anderson, presented an overview to the BOE at their regular meeting on Jan. 8 at John Lyman Elementary School. Bradanini called the report excellent, thorough, and honest. According to Bradanini’s presentation, NEASC commended district 13 for, among other things, the alignment between the written and taught curriculum, the financial support of staffing and educational supplies, and the “emphasis on depth of understanding through inquiry, problem solving, authentic learning, and higher order thinking.” CRHS also was commended for its “safe, positive,
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respectful, and supportive culture.” The report also contained recommendations. Among other items, NEASC recommended that CRHS increase interdisciplinary opportunities for all students and “develop and implement a formal process to assess individual student progress in achieving all 21st century learning expectations.” Several of the recommendations centered around professional development. NEASC recommended that CRHS provide teachers with equitably scheduled and utilized planning time and formal opportunities for teachers to work collaboratively to improve their teaching practices. The recommendations require follow up from CRHS at different intervals. The earliest report is due in the fall of 2014 and centers on the implementation of “analytic rubrics with targeted high levels of achievement for each academic, civic, and social learning expectation.” BOE member Dr. Victor Friedrich asked what qual-
ified as an analytic rubric. Interim CRHS principal Don Gates replied that he was seeking clarification from NEASC. Other recommendations require a report in two years describing what action, if any, has been taken and detailed reporting on 10 recommendations. NEASC requires a fiveyear progress report on certain other recommendations. According to Bradanini, NEASC put some items on the five-year track because they may require funding. CRHS faculty spent several years preparing for the scrutiny, including a self-study of the school’s practices and environment. In an interview with the Town Times in advance of the NEASC visit, Brandanini emphasized the importance of the approval. “With this accreditation, colleges recognize that you’ve been through a rigorous program and that your diploma meets their standards,” Bradanini said. “Without accreditation our diplomas mean nothing, so it’s kind of a big deal.”
Scholastic achievements Ja ke T. W h a l e n o f Durham was named to the fall high honor roll at Phillips Exeter Academy, Exeter, New Hampshire. Deans list Cornell University Aubree Keurajian of Durham. Keene State College, New Hampshire - Hannah Goulis, of Middlefield; Eric Hewitt, of Rockfall; Benjamin Kelly, Kayla Votto, of Durham. Kindergarten registration Durham and Middlefield children who will be five on or before Jan. 1, must register to attend kindergarten in September 2014 or apply for a waiver of attendance. Tw o choices, the Contemporary Program and the Integrated Day Program, are available. Parents have the option of choosing each program. School visits, scheduled through Jan. 31, are encouraged when making a choice. Children should attend the registratin appointSee School / Page 12
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School Briefs
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Friday, January 17, 2014
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Commentary
Diagnosis: Movies
Award throw-down: Hustle takes on The Wolf Two films bring out the greed this season. Both American Hustle and The Wolf of Wall Street swindle the average man out of his hard earned dollars. Gordon Gekko of 1987’s Wall Street would have been proud —but who delivers the best con? Award for Best Return of an Era: Hustle revels in ’70s sex appeal while Wolf glorifies in ’80s excess. The art design sets the stage (love that ’70s microwave), but the costuming drives it home. Hustle outshines Wolf with phenomenal clothing at every turn. Oh, how I wish I could have been Amy Adams on set for just one day. Award for Best Toupee: Watching Christian Bale’s Irving Rosenfeld metic-
ulously place his toupee during the opening credits of Hustle is a mesmerizing experience. ‘Rugrat’ from Wolf hardly stands a chance. Awa rd for Best F BI Agent: If you are looking for power hungry incompetence with a stylish perm, Bradley Cooper’s Richie DiMaso is your man in Hustle, but Kyle Chandler’s Patrick Denham shows dignity with honor in Wolf, able to resist the most substantial of bribes. While Cooper’s role is meatier overall, Chandler takes the win as he rides off contemplative on the subway. Award for Best Side Kick: I still feel blinded by Jonah Hill’s neon white teeth in Wolf. While his caricature-like inanity as the drug laden Donnie Azoff does entertain, I would hand the prize to Amy Adams in
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(Dr. Tanya Feke is a family physician and guest columnist for the Record-Journal weeklies. She has been press credentialed to the LA Film Festival and continues to pursue a love of film. Her reviews are rated on a five stethoscope scale. Follow her blog (www. tanyafeke.com), Facebook page (Diagnosis Life), or twitter (@tanyafeke).
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knows when to pull tight on the reigns. His survival instincts deliver improbable solutions at exactly the right moments. Award for Best Con: Wolf tells the true story of the rise and fall of stockbroker Jordan Belfort and his firm Stratton Oakmont. His cons focus on the sale of questionable stock while the story embellishes Jordan’s filthy rich success. Hustle follows a similar up and down course with Irving’s London Associates but delivers a more intricate plot with twists and turns that make it hard to know who is conning who. The latter story is more
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Hustle. Seamlessly flipping between accents and persona, her Sydney Prosser has the depth and range to con the cheese from a mouse. Award for Best Romance: Leonardo DiCaprio’s Jordan Belfort may have the f inancial means to woo his women, but Irving juggles sincere emotion, if not frustration, in his relationships with both his lover and his wife. Love in a dry cleaning shop is much ‘hotter’ than Jordan’s best 11 seconds. Award for Best Con Artist: His motivational speaking may ooze charm (and humor), but Jordan’s charisma is his ultimate undoing. Always wanting more, he drowns in the immorality of his actions, unable to walk away when given the chance. Irving, however,
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A6 Friday, January 17, 2014
Town Times | towntimes.com
Seniors
Taste of Durham
Send your news and photos to us at: Town Times news@towntimes.com
Volunteer
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The Middlefield Senior Center is looking for volunteer servers for the lunch program. Lunch is served Monday, Wednesday and Friday at noon. Volunteers usually work in pairs (single persons will be paired with another volunteer) for approximately two and a half hours. Training and instruction is provided. For more information and to volunteer, call the Senior Center at (860) 349-7121.
Specializing in:
Senior Center December birthdays, from left: Sal The Middlefield Senior Dimauro, Don Thody, Catherine Carlson. | (Submitted by Center has a Scrabble game. Joan Lombardo) An interested person is looking for a Scrabble partner. For more information, call Duke Estate walking tour. (860) 349-7121. Swansea Mass. Tuesday, July 8 - All You Thursday, April 10 Newport Playhouse $ Cabaret Can Eat Lobster at Delaney 60+ Club day trips The 60+ Club has sched- “My Husbands Wild Desires”. House. Wednesday, July 23 Wednesday, May 28 uled the following day trips. Wednesday, March 12 - Frankie Valli and 4 Seasons Na u t i c a l New p o r t I n c Newport Slots, Harbor Ronan Tynan of the Irish Tribute at the Aqua Turf. Wednesday, June 11 - Doris Cruise. tenors at Venus De Milo, Sunday, Aug. 17 through 23 - Mackinac Island. Thursday, Sept. 4 - Hidden Treasurers of New England. Tuesday, Oct. 14 - Jimmy Sturr at the Log Cabin. “Warm Home’s - Warm Heart’s” For more information, call Guaranteed (860) 346-0724.
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AARP tax aide
AARP offers free tax-aide to Durham and Middlefield low and moderate income taxpayers, especially those 60 and older. The program is scheduled for Feb. 4 through April 7, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the Middlefield Community Center, 405 Main St., by appointment. If tax counselors do not have adequate knowledge or a return is too complex, participants may need to seek another qualified counselor or paid tax assistance. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call Joan at (860) 349-7121.
Office hours and senior lunch
The Senior Center office hours are Monday-Friday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Lunch is served on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at noon. Make a reservation at least one day in advance, by visiting the Senior Center or call (860) 349-7121.
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a week trips. The bus is free; participants pay for their lunch. To reserve a spot on the bus, call (860) 347-5661. For more information, call the Senior Center at (860) 349-7121.
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The 18th annual Taste of Durham is scheduled for Saturday, Feb. 1, 6:30 to 9 p.m., at the Durham Public Library. Reservations are required and may be made at the library. A fee is charged. The event features numerous vendors, offering food, confections, wine and beer tasting, ice cream, coffee, desserts and more. Entertainment is planned. The Taste of Durham is for adults only. The fee includes unlimited food tasting as well as three servings from the bar. The event will be held, regardless of the weather.
Senior Happenings
The Senior Center offers a knitting group, a card group, a bridge group, an exercise group, a yoga group.
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Friday, January 17, 2014
Calendar
Friday, Jan. 17
ukulele players are welcome. For more information, call Cindy DiLauro at lucyr1953@ yahoo. com or call (860) 349-5656. Open house - Middlefield Children’s Center, 390 Main St., has scheduled an open house for Saturday, Jan. 18, from 9 a.m. to noon.
Casual bridge - The Durham Activity Center, 350 Main St., schedules casual bridge every Friday at 6:30 p.m. All are welcome. For more information, call Jim Martinelli at (860) 346-6611. Girls basketball - CRHS vs. Old Lyme at Old Lyme, 7 p.m.
Monday, Jan. 20
Saturday, Jan. 18 Concert - Coginchaug music department has scheduled a concert for Saturday, Jan. 18, at 7:30 p.m., in the Coginchaug Thayer Auditorium. A fee is charged. The concert features the Jazz Ensemble, Show Choir and No Refund. Ukulele Club -The Middle-field Ukulele Club is scheduled to meet Saturday, Jan. 18, from 9 to 11 a.m., at the Middlefield Community Center, 405 Main St. All
Friday, Jan. 24 Boys basketball - CRHS vs. Portland at CRHS, 7:30 p.m.
Monday, Jan. 27 Girls basketball - CRHS vs. East Hampton at East Hampton, 7:30 p.m.
Tuesday, Jan. 28
Girls basketball - CRHS vs. Morgan at Morgan High School, 7 p.m.
Boys basketball - CRHS vs. East Hampton at East Hampton, 7 p.m.
Tuesday, Jan. 21
A7
Saturday, Feb. 1
Sunday, Feb. 16
Dudley Farm - Dudley Farm Winter Farmers’ Market is scheduled for Saturday, Feb. 1, 9 a.m. to noon, in the Munger Barn, 2351 Durham Road, Guilford. Featured are baked goods, eggs, handmade art and crafts, honey and maple syrup, jams and jellies, naturally raised meat, pickles and craft vendors. For more information, call (860) 3493917 or visit dudleyfarm. com.
Concert - The New England Chamber Choir is scheduled to present the Stabat Mater of Giovanni Pergolesi on Sunday, Feb. 16, 4 p.m., at the Church of the Epiphany, 196 Main St. The concert is free and open to the public. A freewill offering will be accepted. For more information, call (860) 663-2703 or visit www. newenglandchamberchoir. org.
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Boys basketball - CRHS vs. Morgan at Morgan High School, 7 p.m.
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We welcome your submissions. Please send your news and photos to us at: The Town Times, P.O. Box 265, Middlefield, CT 06455 news@towntimes.com
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A8 Friday, January 17, 2014
Town Times | towntimes.com
Opinion
Letter to the Editor Finish the fight
To the editor: Fifty years ago this month, the U.S. Surgeon General published a landmark report that scientifically linked smoking to cancer and other illnesses. At the time, it was groundbreaking. With the help of American Cancer Society research, the report became a launching pad in the fight against tobacco and spurred the progress we’ve made in curbing tobacco consumption and reducing tobacco-related diseases, like cancer. Fifty years ago, 42 percent of the population smoked and there were no restrictions on where one could do so. People could even smoke on airplanes. Today, the smoking rate has dropped to 19 percent and, thanks to comprehensive smoke-free laws, almost two thirds of the population is protected from the deadly toxins found in secondhand smoke. But a lot of work remains. There are still 44 million
smokers—and every day, more than 3,000 kids pick up their first cigarette. The tobacco industry continues to develop new products to addict more people and keep current customers from quitting, as well as, fight proven tobacco control measures, such as smoke-free laws and tobacco taxes that can protect our kids from a lifetime of addiction. Let’s use this anniversary to turn up the heat on Big Tobacco and finish the fight we started 50 years ago against this deadly, addictive product. Let’s start by restoring critical tobacco use prevention and cessation funding that was cut in last year’s budget. Fewer people using tobacco means fewer people dying from diseases like cancer. Join me in finishing the fight. Betty Berger Volunteer American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network Meriden
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Town Times is published every Friday by the Record-Journal Publishing Co. and delivered to all homes and businesses in Durham, Middlefield and Rockfall. Executive Vice President and Assistant Publisher – Liz White Senior Vice President of Operations and Major Accounts – Michael F. Killian Senior Vice President and Editor – Ralph Tomaselli News Editor – Olivia L. Lawrence Assistant News Editor – Nick Carroll Reporter – Mark Dionne Advertising Director – Kimberley E. Boath Advertising Sales – Joy Boone Office Assistant, Press Releases – Marsha Pomponio
Commentary
State’s economic future set to improve By State Sen. Ed Meyer Connecticut’s economic troubles have hit home with this state senator. My youngest son, a student at UConn Law School, recently advised my wife and me that Connecticut is going “nowhere” and that he was leaving, and indeed he left! Forbes Magazine has rated Connecticut 47th for business costs, and Chief Executive Magazine has rated us at 45th in regard to excessive taxes, regulation and un-
employment. The president of the Connecticut Business and Industry Association recently stated, “Business leaders consistently tell me that our recent state budget deficit cycle, with the threat of increased taxes and unfunded liabilities, is the biggest drag on their willingness to make investments in this state.” To t h i s m e s s a g e o f economic doom from Connecticut’s naysayers, I do believe that help is coming and that the people of Connecticut will soon see significant improvements
Government Meetings (Unless otherwise indicated, all meetings are held in the Durham Library. Check the town website at www.townofdurhamct.org for updates.) Tuesday, Jan. 21 Board of Selectman Budget Meeting, Town Hall, 5 p.m. Town Green Tree Design Committee, Library, 6 p.m. Board of Finance, Town Hall, 6 :30 p.m. Agriculture Commission, Town Hall, 7 p.m.
Wednesday, Jan. 22 Senior Citizen Board, Durham Activity Center, 1 p.m. Joint Board & Commission Meeting, Town Hall, 7 p.m. Board of Education, Memorial School, 7:30 p.m. Monday, Jan. 27 Board of Selectman Bud Meeting, Town Hall, 5 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 28 Ethic’s Commission, Town Hall, 7 p.m.
Letters Policy - E-mail letters to news@ towntimes.com, mail to 11 Crown St., Meriden, CT 06450 or fax to (203) 639-0210. - Town Times will print only one letter per person each month. - Letters should be approximately 300 words. - We reserve the right to edit letters. -Letters should be on topics of general interest to the community. - We do not list names of
people, organizations and businesses being thanked. - Names of businesses are not allowed. - Letters must be signed and names will appear in print. - Include a phone number so Town Times can contact you for verification. - Letters must be submitted by 5 p.m. on Monday to be considered for publication on the following Friday.
in our state economy. The state legislature and the governor have created substantial Sen. Ed financial inMeyer centives in the last two years, including grants, low interest loans and tax credits to businesses. These incentives have created about 12,000 new jobs and appear to have retained another 30,000 jobs which were threatening to leave Connecticut. The incentives are particularly helpful to businesses of 100 or less employees in what is called the Small Business Express program. I have visited several businesses throughout my district that have found success, expanding and creating new jobs, thanks to this program. I predict that the State of Connecticut’s renewed focus on boosting our economy will lead to an improved Connecticut that we can all be proud of. However, I understand that many will remain skeptical until our state recovers from these difficult economic times. Just last week I received a letter from a friendly college classmate and Connecticut resident who stated, “Connecticut has gone from a state that people wanted to come to for work and a good life to one from which successful people are now leaving, a recipe for disaster.” My constituent mail is consistent. There is no doubt that Connecticut is still recovering from the economic downturn, however, this is still a great state to call home and raise a family. More impressive perhaps about our See Future / Page 9
Town Times | towntimes.com
Friday, January 17, 2014
A9
Commentary
30-odd years in local news Each phase of the year has recurrent themes Hmm — it’s January. Must be time to write about Grand Lists, those documents which One of the things I always detail the taxable property in liked about my various jobs each town in Connecticut. in journalism was the vari- This is important to write ety. Every day was different. about — and for citizens to You never knew who would understand — because it unwalk in the door with a story. derlies town budgets, which However, all of this amazing affect money available for richness was hung on a re- schools and other services. markably stable framework If the Grand List goes up (ie., there is more taxable propof a year. By Sue VanDerzee Special to Town Times
State Danbury mayor announces candidacy DA N B U RY ( A P ) — D a n b u r y M ayo r M a r k Boughton has announced he’s a Republican candidate for governor. The seven-term mayor said Jan. 8 he’s seeking his party’s nomination this year because he believes Connecticut residents are not “getting their fair share of the American dream.” He says Danbury has recovered from the recession faster than the rest of Connecticut and its economy is the envy of the state.
Boughton says he understands what ordinary residents face each day. He called himself a “blue collar Republican.” He was the Republican Party’s nominee for lieutenant governor in 2010. A former state representative, Boughton won re-election as mayor in a landslide in November, capturing nearly 71 percent of the vote. Democratic Gov. Dannel P. Malloy has not yet announced if he’ll seek a second term.
Future these quality of life matters. I imagine that those qualilives in Connecticut is a re- ties are the reason why we cent study by the Social stay in Connecticut and enScience Research Council joy the life that it gives us. which examined “human de- Nevertheless, we must do velopment” in the 50 states, more to restore confidence in defining “human develop- our state’s economy, and that ment” as the relative health should be the goal of each of of our residents, knowledge us, in his or her own way, in acquired by degree attain- 2014. Happy New Year to all. ment and school enrollment State Sen. Ed Meyer repand living standards reflected by income and eco- resents Branford, Durham, nomic security. The Council G u i l fo rd , Ki l l i n g w o r t h , rated Connecticut No. 1 in Madison and North Branford From Page 8
erty in town), then the same tax rate raises more money. Local governments, of course, really like this, which is why competition for businesses to locate within their borders is so hot among towns. Then it’s February – and Valentine’s Day. This is a month for feature stories. Will you find one or several long-married couples to interview about their successful relationships? Will you do an Inquiring Photographer asking how to tell if you’re in love? Will your advertising salesperson call on all the restaurants and florists in the area? The ways to talk about romance are practically endless… March is a tough one. Everyone is sick of winter, but it’s not always ready to go away. Town budget deliberations are ongoing, but all of the reporters, or more usually, the reporter, is sick of them, but hey, there’s always St. Patrick’s Day. Quick, go find an Irish person, or a person who has been to Ireland… April gets easier. It really is spring so there’s spring cleaning, gardening and usually Easter/Passover to focus on. There’s plenty to write about, and the ad rep is busy calling local landscapers and house cleaners. It’s also Earth Day, and so environmental concerns can be showcased, and there are plenty of them, from clean roadsides to use of pesticides, from energy conservation to global climate change. Towards the end of the month, town budgets rear their heads again as town meetings or referendums to vote on them are scheduled early in May in our towns. And, of course, there’s Little League. In May, there’s that big budget question again – a last chance to explain it and then to report on what happens if it goes up or down. In Durham and Middlefield, there are two ups and downs to consider. Town budgets are almost always passed
easily, but not so the regional school district budget which binds our communities. Almost always, one town defeats the school budget and one passes it, which makes margin of defeat or passage very important. When we first came to Durham in 1989, it was typically Durham that would defeat school budgets with Middlefield coming to the “rescue.” In the last decade or so, that relationship has switched. Also at town meetings in May, representatives to the District 13 Regional Board of Education and Durham Middlef ield Interlocal Agreement Advisory Board (DMIAAB, which manages the transfer station shared by the town) are elected. That used to be and sometimes still is, a perfunctory exercise, but often enough in the recent past, there have been some hot contests for board of education. In May, there are always opportunities for interesting reporting plus plenty of photo opportunities at the annual Memorial Day parade and the Exchange Club’s Washington Trail 5K race. If it’s June, we must be getting on to graduation and the beginning of summer. Graduation is a big deal. It can get that “not that again” feeling to it until you arrive at the actual site, and some speaker says something surprising or enchanting, and there we go again. It’s the same, but totally different, as is each graduating class. Summer plans, beginning of summer, number of snow days tacked on to the end of the month, end of the town budget year – all add to June’s newsworthiness. In July, we get to report on how the towns actually ended their fiscal years, and we get to begin “summer reporting” on gardens, the farmers market and local farms, trips one might take, fun local things to do. It’s time to visit local recreation programs, parks
and the weekly farm market with a camera. Photos take up a larger share of space in the newspaper in July. August really slows down. Most town boards and commissions take a holiday – well-deserved because, under our system, these are all volunteers – but that makes it necessary to find more features and press reporters to write on some agreed-upon summer topic. Then midway through the month, the pace shifts – it’s back to school. Editors breathe a sigh of relief. September is school, school and more school – and THE DURHAM FAIR. Oh my goodness, nowhere else do I know about where a single event is so all-encompassing of a whole community’s psyche. There is a lot to write about the Durham Fair. September takes care of itself. October is Durham Fair photos, leaf photos, regular local government activities and putting the garden to bed. Got that, ad rep, call all the landscapers again please. And some years, October is covering-local-elections month. No shortage of news in October. In November, we’re near the end of the year, a time to report on elections and the plans of those who were elected, a time to be grateful, See News / Page 20
A10 Friday, January 17, 2014
Town Times | towntimes.com
Main Street funds OK’d for Durham By Mark Dionne
public safety departments. The funding approved at the meeting will cover conAt a special town meet- sultation and final designs ing, Jan. 13, approximately with an eye towards both two dozen residents of putting the buildings into use Durham approved a transfer and preserving the historic of $42,404 to begin the pro- buildings. Durham has secess of renovating two town- cured a grant from the state owned buildings on Main to reimburse up to $20,000. The reimbursement will Street. The old buildings are lo- come from a dollar for dollar cated within the historic dis- match from the Connecticut trict at 37 and 51 Main Street, Preservation Trust. “Today one to each side of the fire we are as close as we have house. The goal, according ever been to getting that asto Durham First Selectman sistance,” Francis said. The town has owned the Laura Francis, who presented the motion, is to ren- houses for almost 20 years. According to Francis, if ovate the buildings for use by
renovated the buildings could be used by the resident state trooper, the Fire Marshall and Fire Department, the ambulance department, and emergency management. Referring to work by town officials including the Public Safety Facilities Renovations Planning Committee, Francis said, “Not only have we determined that they can be renovated to meet historic design standards, but we also have determined how they can programmatically serve the town.” Francis told the meeting that this would be step two in a four stage renovation proj-
Healthy Living 7th Pages
motion was not an approval of the final project, only the design. Donia Viola objected to the manner and timing of the vote. Viola questioned why the vote was held in winter, at the Town Hall instead of the larger meeting area of the Durham Public Library, and with no absentee ballots. The motion passed by a voice vote with a few in opposition. Other motions approved At the sa me meeting, Durham residents also approved the initial funding of $35,200 for engineering services related to bridge repair on Coe Road. This funding is also subject to partial grant reimbursement. Bridge repair has been a priority of Governor Malloy, but Francis said the town should take advantage of the grant now before it is “swept.” The eventual cost of the bridge repair was estimated at $460,000. Residents also approved the spending of $4,685 for painting of the Durham Public Library lower level and offices, and $4,850 for cemetery stone repair. After lengthy discussion, Durham residents also approved an ordinance that would exempt cars modified to accommodate persons with disabilities from personal property tax.
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ect - schematic design, final design, construction documents, and construction. Francis spoke in favor of the motion. “Historic Main Street is probably one of our biggest assets, one of the things that identifies us ... it’s something we need to protect and preserve.” Future construction costs could not be definitively stated without final plans and Francis emphasized after the meeting that future construction would also need town approval. David Heer, who co-chairs the Public Safety Facilities Renovations Pla n n i ng Committee, spoke in favor of the motion. Heer estimated project costs at $400,000 for the southern building and $600,000 for the northern building. Selectma n Steve Lev y spoke in favor of the motion. “It’s time to do what we need to do to take care of our property, to preserve the historic quality of Main Street, to move forward serving the emergency services,” Levy said. Tom Wo o d son , c h a i r of the Historic District Commission, also spoke in favor of the motion. Woodson said the buildings were historically significant and an introduction to Durham for travelers from the south. Woodson also noted that the
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Pauline B. Breton DURHAM— Pauline B. (Bourque) Breton, 78, of Durham, beloved wife of 57 years of Joseph E.G. Breton, passed away on Monday, Jan. 6, 2014, at Wadsworth Glen Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center in Middletown surrounded by her loving family after a long and brave battle with Alzheimer’s Disease. Born in Lewiston, Maine on April 18, 1935, a daughter of the late Emilien Bourque and Alice Belisle, Pauline was raised with her 10 siblings in a very closeknit and religious family. She was a devoted wife and mother to her eight children and dearly loved all 21 grandchildren. For many years Pauline was an active parishioner at Notre Dame Church, where she taught religious education to both children (CCD) and to adults (RCIA). Pauline loved ice skating, music and family gatherings and reunions. She was a devout Catholic who lived her faith and was very giving to others. Pauline is survived by her loving and devoted husband, Joseph Breton,
of Durham; her son, Michael Breton and daughter-in-law, Beth, of Willington, son, Marc Breton and daughter-in-law, Teri, of St. Paul, Minnesota, daughter, Jeannine Adams and son-in-law, Tim Adams, of Sudbury, Mass., son, Daniel Breton, of Middletown, son, Paul Breton and daughter-in-law, Lynn, of Killingworth, daughter, Marie Field and son-in-law, Howard Field IV, of Haddam, son, Leo Breton and daughter-in-law, Karen, of Middletown, and daughter, Cecile Haase and son-inlaw, Joe Haase, of Killingworth. She is also survived by three brothers; and two sisters; and her 21 grandchildren. Funeral services were held from Biega Funeral Home, 3 Silver St., Middletown on Saturday, Jan. 11. Funeral Liturgy at Notre Dame Church, 12 Main St., Durham. Burial took place at Mica Hill Cemetery. Those who wish may send memorial contributions to The Durham Volunteer Fire Department, 12 Main St., Durham, CT 06422 or The Alzheimer Association, 2075 Silas Deane Highway, Rocky Hill, CT 06067. To share memories or express condolences online please visit www.biegafuneralhome.com.
Horse where they want to be. “I love their personalities and hard. “I can do without win- the shows,” Kathy said. “Seeing the finished prodter,” he said. “The hardest part is the ice in the water uct is very gratifying,” her buckets. I have to break it out, husband said. “We’re there and it’s a lot of work with all from start to finish with these these horses. It took me three horses. It’s the full cycle. We bring them into the world and hours this morning.” Hard work notwithstand- we’re with them when they ing, the Doyles are right leave it.” From Page 1
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A11
SNOWFLAKE STORIES
Brewster School second grade students, Joseph Bugai, Francesco DeVivo, Taylor Cooney and Riley Biro with their snowflakes displayed on the bulletin board. Every student has a snowflake with the name of the book that he/she is currently reading. | (Submitted by Patti Checko)
Fresh Air Fund Join host families in and around Connecticut for the Fresh Air Fund’s 138th summer and open your home to a Fresh Air child. Each summer, over 4,000 inner-city children visit suburban, rural and small town communities through The Fresh Air Fund’s Volunteer Host Family Program. The Fresh Air Fund, an
independent, not-for-profit agency, has provided free summer experiences to more than 1.7 million New York City children from low-income communities since 1877. Fresh Air children are boys and girls, from six to 18 years old, who live in New York City. Children on first-time vis-
The Town Times welcomes news and scores from all sports leagues in Durham and Middlefield. Send information and photos to: Town Times, 11 Crown St., Meriden, CT 06450 or email to news@towntimes.com.
its are six to 12 years old and stay for one or two weeks. Children who are re-invited by host families may continue with The Fresh Air Fund through age 18 and can enjoy extended trips. For more information, contact Jennifer CarrollFischer at (860) 829-1479 or visit www.freshair.org.
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Friday, January 17, 2014
A12 Friday, January 17, 2014
Town Times | towntimes.com
Healthy Family Funfest The fifth annual Healthy Family Funfest is scheduled for Sunday, Feb. 23, 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., at the Aqua Turf Club, 556 Mulberry St., Plantsville.
ELVIS DELIGHT
School From Page 4
ment with parents. Kindergarten registration is scheduled Monday, Feb. 3 through Wednesday, Feb. 5, by appointment. To r e g i s t e r f o r t h e Contemporary Program, call Brewster School at (860) 349-7227. To register for the Integrated Day Program, call John Lyman School at (860) 349-7240. Parents who choose to hold an eligible kindergarten children out of school for another year must sign a form at the Office of the Superintendent of Schools.
Admission is free. The event includes health information, speakers, screenings, car safety seat information, food samples, and demonstrations.
Free agriculture classes
Maria Carta, of Middletown, prepares a sundae at Lyman Orchards’ Apple Barrel on Jan. 4. Lyman Orchards celebrated what would have been Elvis Presley’s 79th birthday, Jan. 8, by giving away sundaes over the weekend of Jan. 4 and 5. The concoctions were made with bananas and peanut butter in honor of Elvis’ favorite sandwich. | (Mark Dionne/ Special to Town Times)
SUDOKU
The Middletown Agriculture Science and Technology program has scheduled a winter lecture series to provide continuing education opportunities for area residents interested in learning about agriculture, animal science, mechanics, renewable resources and more. The classes are free of charge and are scheduled for the Agriculture Science and Technology Center, Middletown High School, 200 LaRosa Lane, Middletown. January classes are scheduled as follows: Tuesday, Jan. 21 - Equine Therapy for Veterans; CT’s Land Use Value Assessment Law. Tuesday, Jan. 28 - Natural Horsemanship with Geoff Goodson; Arc Welding 101. Registration is required. For more information, full schedule and to register, call (860) 704-4599, ext. 4594;
Got news? The Town Times welcomes your submissions. Send your news, photos and letters to us at:
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Friday, January 17, 2014
Sports Youth basketball: Thunder rebound
A13
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The Coginchaug Thunder 6th grade boys travel basketball team had another one win, one loss weekend at home at Strong School. The boys dropped a tough one to Portland, 39-33, after falling behind by as many as 14 points. The locals cut their deficit to one at 34-33, but couldn’t get over the hump. Justin Penney led the
Thunder with eight points, while Chris Onofrio added seven a nd Derek Gra nt chipped in with six. Coginchaug rebounded to defeat North Haven, 49-34, in an all-around solid effort. Grant led the victors with 10 points, Penney added nine, and Blake Courchesne netted six.
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A14 Friday, January 17, 2014
Town Times | towntimes.com
Commentary
Girls Basketball
Helmet or no helmet, that is the question By Dave Mongillo
When winter returned, resorts from Maine to Georgia cranked up the big guns and bombarded the trails with snow. Just in time for the weekend, all is right on the eastern mountains. Powder Ridge has been raised from the dead and the long dormant ski resort is open and operating. However, it seems to be stuck on five. For the past week it had only five trails open, while other Nutmeg resorts are in full operation.
Special to Town Times
Melt, thaw, warm, cold and confusing seem to be this season’s weather forecast. I hope Mother Nature and Father Winter settle their argument soon and get together for a grand old New England winter. Whatever comes, the season goes on and plans go forward. Last weekend the west got the snow: Breckinridge 14 inches, Beaver Creek 10 and Copper Mt. nine, while we “got da rain.”
See Helmet / Page 15
Coginchaug notches sixth victory By Alan Pease
On Jan. 4, the Coginchaug g i rls t raveled to t he T hu nderbi rds of Nor t h Branford. The Blue Devils sprinted out to an 18-point lead at the half, and coasted to a 68-52 win. Coginchaug had 10 players in the scoring column, with Morgan Kuehnle leading the way with 14 points. Olivia Corazzini had 10 points to round out the double-digit
scorers, with Audrey Arcari coming in with eight, Naomi Rinaldo with seven, and Caryn Sibiskie and Sydney Trusty each with six. Alison Luther scored five, while Kim Romanoff, Katelyn Williams and Larissa Cade all put up four in the scoring column. On Jan. 7, the Blue Devils traveled to Old Saybrook to take on the Rams. In a game that featured three ties and 12 lead changes, Coginchaug did not take charge until midway through the final period, when a Rinaldo hoop put the
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Devils ahead for good at 3332. This started an 8-0 run that was key in the Devils’ 47-39 victory, with a Kuehnle basket and two free throws bracketed around another Rinaldo hoop accounting for the rest of the run. Sibiskie led the team in three categories, with 16 rebounds, 13 points and four blocks. Romanoff contributed 11 points and four rebounds, and led the team in assists with three. Kuehnle had a strong effort with 1 1 boa rds a nd eight rebounds. Rinaldo and Arcari each scored four, Williams dropped in three points and Trusty and Luther each scored two points. On Jan. 10, Coginchaug hosted t he Pa nt hers of Cromwell. The locals started strong, jumping out to an early 9-0 lead, and ended the first period with an 11-5 advantage. Despite scoring two points in the second period, the Blue Devils trailed by only three (13-16) at the half, and a Cade shot tied the game at 22-22 midway through the third period. Over the remainder of the game, however, the Devils could manage only a single hoop, from Kuehnle, at the mid-point of the fourth period, losing by a final score of 39-24. Kuehnle led the way with 10 rebounds and nine points, plus three steals. Rinaldo and Arcari each chipped in with four points, with R inaldo adding four rebounds and three steals. Romanoff led the team in steals with four, adding three points, two rebounds and two assists. Luther and Cade each contributed two points, with Cade gathering two rebounds. Sibiskie grabbed six rebounds and three steals. Coginchaug is 6-2 overall, and 5-1 in Shoreline Conference play.
Town Times | towntimes.com
Friday, January 17, 2014
A15
Helmet
Boys Basketball
From Page 14
Devils drop below .500 By Alan Pease
The Ridge did cause a bit of a wave in the ski industry when it announced that all customers will be required to wear a helmet. Boarder or skier, young or old; it doesn’t matter. No hard cover, no lift ride. Many resorts require all kids in the learn-to-ski programs to use a helmet, and some include them in the junior rental package. Several mountains require all on-snow employees (instructors and patrollers) to be hard covered, and one resort I know of makes lift operators wear hard hats. The National Ski Area Association is ambivalent on the matter. To each their own, and N.S.A.A. makes no recommendation on the matter. Remembering “Stratton vs.
Sunday,” it seems to be a matter for each company’s legal team. The jury is still out. My observation over the last couple of weeks leads me to believe about half of the adults on the mountain are using a helmet. I conducted a very unscientific survey, and answers were all over the place. The ski pros (instructors and patrollers) I asked, felt 60 to 70 percent of the adults were using a hard cover. Random skiers in the base lodge guessed in the 40 to 50 percent range. The Ridge may have started a trend, or caused itself a problem. My best guess is it will take about two seasons to find out. Only time will tell. Until then, ski as safe as you can, and follow the code.
go along with two steals and pushed the lead to 37-24 entering the final period, two assists. Coginchaug lost the game as they coasted to a 49-37 O n D e c . 3 0 , t h e at the charity stripe. The victory. Rod r i g ue a nd Ter r i l l Coginchaug boys hosted the Knights converted on 14 undefeated White Knights of their 17 attempts, while shared scoring honors with from Westbrook, and while Coginchaug connected on 10 points apiece. Rodrigue they gave the Knights a just one of two from the line. added eight rebounds, three On Jan. 9, after several blocks and two assists, and tough game, they ultimately weather-related postpone- Terrill adding two boards. fell short, 39-36. The Devils got off to a ments, Coginchaug hosted Doyle scored seven points, great start, jumping ahead t he 5 -1 P a nt he r s f rom grabbed five rebounds and assisted twice. Powers scored 10-1, and leading 10-3 with Cromwell. After getting an early 5-3 five points and picked up two one quarter in the books. In the second period, a lead, all thanks to Powers rebounds. Granger had four Cam Powers bucket made buckets, Cromwell jumped points and four steals, and the score 17-5, but Westbrook ahead at 11-5 after one period, Markoski had two points and reeled the Devils back in and maintained the six-point two rebounds. Coginchaug is 2-3 overedge at halftime, 19-13. with a 6-0 run. Three treys, plus a sepa- all, and 1-3 in Shoreline Cogi nchaug got backt o - b a c k b a s k e t s f r o m rate 7-1 run by the Panthers Conference play. Alex Markoski and Devin Rodrigue, but Westbrook finished with two three-pointTown Times Business Service Directory ers in the last 80 seconds, one being a rare four-point play as time expired in the half, leaving the Devils ahead 21-18. The third period saw the Knights start with two straight Landscape & Garden Center baskets to surge ahead, but a free throw from Markoski Full Service Florist: Funerals, and a bucket from Rodrigue Special Occasions or Just Because... again put Coginchaug on top. Baskets from Rodrigue and 191 Meriden Road (Rte. 66) Middlefield Zach Terrill wrapped around two Knight free throws put 860-704-8414 • unclebobsgarden.com Coginchaug ahead 28-24, but the Knights hit two more from the charity stripe, and THE DIRT GUY finished the period with 601R Guilford Road an old-fashioned threepoint play to make it 29-28 Durham, CT 06422 Westbrook. 860-303-0500 A Terrill three tied the • Tractors • Blowers • Lawn Mowers • Hedge Trimmers game one final time at 31-31 Your best choice for • Tillers • Snow Blowers • Trimmers • Chainsaws • Generators two minutes into the final topsoil, mulch, compost Sales - Repair (All Models) - Parts period, and the Devils got as and so much more! Welding - Pick-up & Deliver - Buy & Sell Used Equip. close as one point, 37-36, on a 860-349-3854 Stan Prusinski Powers trey with 30 seconds www.dirtguy.com 152 Guilford Rd. - (Rt. 77) - Durham remaining. But Westbrook Durhampowerequipment.com hit both ends of a one and one for a three-point lead. Rodrigue scored 12 points, grabbed n ine rebounds, ...serving Durham, Middlefield & Rockfall blocked two shots and asSpecializing in Bathroom Remodeling sisted twice. Powers scored Joy Boone • Painting/Dry Wall nine points, grabbed six reAdvertising • Tile Flooring bounds and four steals, and • Basements/Skylights assisted five times. Terrill scored eight points, and • Decks/Patios/Sheds Markoski five. Jack Granger • Odd Projects had two points and two reCT Lic. 0612088 • No Job Too Small 11 Crown Street, Meriden, CT 06450 bounds, while Conor Doyle 203-317-2313 • fax 203-235-4048 pulled down five boards to Robert Trombetta 860-798-5374 Middlefield, CT advertising@towntimes.com
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Commentary
Their top 10 and my two cents I shook my head when I read the top sports stories of the year as judged by the Associated Press. 1) Boston Marathon bombings. 2) Lance Armstrong disgrace. 3) NFL concussion lawsuit settlement. 4) Baseball drug bans of A-Rod, etc. 5) Aaron Hernandez arrest. I’m not diametrically opposed to the collective opinion of 96 U.S. editors and news directors when the tenets of journalism are considered, but they apparently didn’t ask the sports people.
If the real world were a department store, sports would be the toy department. We turn to sports as entertainment when our work is done, and while the sports world is rife with greed, corruption and cheating just like anything else our species touches, I would have liked to see one actual sports result among the top five stories of the year. The Red Sox winning the World Series was sixth. The Ravens winning the Super Bowl was seventh. The dramatic turnaround of Auburn’s football team comes in at No. 8. If I can relegate the terrorists, the
cheaters, the criminals and the legal issues aside to the front page, I would have to consider the way the Tigers beat Alabama on the return of a short field-goal try as time expired as No. 1. The Red Sox World Series success, the Ravens winning the Super Bowl, the Heat adding another NBA title and the greatness of LeBron James would all be on my list. Ninth on the AP list is the Manti Te’o soap opera, followed by the Miami Heat winning their second straight NBA championship. I realize I would be chastised for being naïve and
out of touch at an editorial meeting, but I would much rather prefer that we stick to the games. As a person who would much prefer to watch reruns of “Gunsmoke” for the umpteenth time rather than “American Idol,” I wholeheartedly accept that. Out of touch? Perhaps. Pollyanna looking at the world through rose-colored specs? Sure, I’m guilty, but I’ll keep holding on to what I believe is a better way sports no longer matters. … While we’re on pet peeves, how ridiculous is the obsession with fantasy teams? I watch the ticker on the bottom of the screen
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during NFL games and I see numbers flashing by for quarterbacks, receivers, running backs and Ken kickers. Lipshez Well, let From the Lip me tell you something, fantasy freaks. There isn’t one of those skill-position people who would be going anywhere without the unsung heroes in the offensive line. Let me see you incorporate them in your fantasy world. The funny part about it is players like Peyton Manning, Tom Brady, Marshawn Lynch and Lesean McCoy would be the first to tell you that. If you need any more proof, consider the 2013 New York Giants. Other than asking contemporary fans to keep their fantasies to themselves, I have this to say: Giants GM Jerry Reese better spend his cash on a free agent guard and tackle. Fantasy. Humbug! A generation of casual NFL fans is growing up not understanding or caring about anybody numbered 50-79. Include the heart and soul of the sport in these fantasies and then maybe you’ll come close to understanding the nature of the sport. … I had to laugh when I read a report from something called The Sports Xchange that the New York Yankees’ offseason moves have “ensured” them of a return to the postseason. I have two views of this. First of all, since when does a team that sorely lacks pitching pick up some aging offensive stars and suddenly be thrust ahead of the Red Sox and Tampa Bay Rays? Second, the word “ensure” takes this ironic twist. Baseball continues on the path where the wealthy have See Top / Page 19
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Friday, January 17, 2014
Faith
A17
De-stress the Buddhist way As you do this your feeling of being stressed and hurried will disappear. Tara Springett M.A. has been a fully qualified Buddhist teacher since 1997. She is the author of The FiveMinute Miracle, Soulmate Relationships and Advanced Manifesting. Her website is: www. taraspringett. com.
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reasons that come into your mind why sitting quietly for half an hour is “a waste of time,” “useless” or whatever else you may tell yourself to avoid doing it. All you need to do is to envelop yourself with a feeling of love and goodwill just like a mother would send love to a child who has trouble settling down. Once you become accustomed to inner and outer space you will become more comfortable with it. And then you can drop some of your daily activities and allow the possibility of empty time in your daily schedule.
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Why are so many people stressed out ... people who work normal job hours and have normal-sized families? Most people assume that chronic stress is due to having too much work and too little time. In my experience the answer is not quite as straightforward. Yes, people who are stressed often have a diary bulging with urgent appointments and their personal life is also chock-ablock with a massive amount of things which do not allow for a minute’s rest. But that alone does not explain why people are so stressed. In order to find the answer to chronic stress we have to look a little deeper than time management and organisation tools. In my work as a Buddhist therapist I have noticed that there is one thing that many people fear like nothing else – this one thing is empty time. The thought of spending even a single hour with nothing to do – no television, no phone, no Internet, no reading, no conversation and not even a glass of wine, fills many people with an intense aversion and even dread. And it is the fearful avoidance of empty time and silence that is one of the main reasons why so many people are stressed. In an never-ending attempt to fill even the last minute of the day with activity and entertainment there is just no room left for breathing . There simply is no time to relax. Our fear of stillness and emptiness can take many forms – there is the fear that we are useless and not needed by anyone else, fear of being forgotten and fear of loneliness and boredom.
Usually, all these fears are rather unconscious if we are chronically stressed. But if we would attempt to be completely alone and do nothing for just one weekend these fears would become very apparent. In order to reduce our stress we do not have to spend whole weekends by ourselves. But it would be good to make time for stillness and silence for at least 20 minutes each day. You do not even have to learn to meditate. Just sit quietly by yourself and notice what is going through your mind. Notice particularly all the
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Library Briefs Durham Public
Taste of Durham - A Community Party, Saturday, Feb. 1, 6 to 9 p.m. A fee is Library T h e D u r h a m P u b l i c charged. Tickets are availLibrary is scheduled to be able at the library. For more closed Monday, Jan. 20, in i n for m at ion , c a l l (8 6 0) observance of Martin Luther 349-9544. Programs for Kids: King Jr. Day.
Winter Market The Dudley Farm Winter Farmers’ Market is scheduled for Saturday, Feb. 1, 9 a.m. to noon, at the Munger Barn. The market features baked goods, eggs, handmade art and crafts, honey and maple syrup, jams and jellies, naturally raised
meat, and pickles. The winter market is scheduled for the Saturday of each month, through May. Dudley Farm is located at 2351 Durham Road, North Guilford. For more information, call (860) 349-3916 or visit www. dudleyfarm.com.
Bring lunch; dessert provided. Saturday, Jan. 18, at 12:30 p.m. Discuss “How to Steal a Dog” by Barbara O ’ Con nor. R e g i st r at ion required. Magic Stor ybook Fairy Stories (ages 4 to 8). Thursday, Jan. 30, 6:30 p.m. Act out fairy stories with music, props and scenery. Programs for Young Adults: Practice SAT test (high school students). Saturday, Ja n . 18 , noon to 3 p.m . Prepare for the SAT by taking a practice test. Register at the desk or call (860) 349-9544. A f ter school mov ie “ Pe rc y Ja c k s on S e a of Monsters” (ages 12 and up) Wednesday, Jan. 22, 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. Stop Motion Movie
Bouncing Babies (birth to17 months). Mondays at 11 a.m. Drop in. Mother Goose Storytime (18 to 30 months). Mondays at 10:15 a.m. Drop in. Time for Tots (2 ½ to 3 ½ years). Wednesdays at 10:15 a.m. Drop in. Preschool Storytime (3 ½ to 5 years). Tuesdays at 10:15 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Drop in. Bedtime Storytime (ages 2 to 5 years). Mondays at 6:30 p.m. Drop in. Story Magic (Grades K to 2). Saturdays at 10:30 a.m. Drop in. Kids in the Kitchen (8 to 11 years). Wednesdays, Jan. 29, Feb. 5 and 12 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Observe, learn, try, saute, boil, bake, mix, fry taste, enjoy. Lunch Bunch Book Discussion (Grades 4 to 6).
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Library hours are: Monday through Thursday 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Saturdays 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.; closed Fridays. The library is scheduled to be closed Monday, Jan. 20 for Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Program Saturday, Feb. 8, at 1 p.m. - Meet Eric D. Lehman, author of “A History of Connecticut Food: A Proud Trad it ion of P udd i n g s , C l a m b a k e s & S te a m e d Cheesebu rgers” a nd “A H istor y of Con nec t ic ut Wine: Vineyard in Your Backyard” at the Levi E. Coe Library. For more information and to register, call (860) 3493857 or stop by the library.
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Making with Legos (ages 12 to 18). Wednesday, Jan. 22, 6 p.m. Learn to create a movie using the stop motion technique and Legos. Pizza and beverages provided. Register at the desk or call (860) 349-9544. After school movie - “Fast & Furious 6” (ages 12 and up) Wednesday, Jan. 29, 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. Teen Book Club (ages 12 to 18). Wednesday, Jan. 22, 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. This month’s book is “Steampunk!” Teen Adv isor y Group (ages 12 to 18). Saturday, Feb. 1, 11 a.m. Discussion on how to improve the library for young adults. Origami (ages 10 to 18). Thursday, Feb. 6, 4 to 5 p.m. Learn the art of paper folding. Register at the desk or call (860) 349-9544. Program for adults Mystery Book Discussion. Tuesday, Jan. 21, at 7:30 p.m. Discuss “Child 44” by Tom Rob Smith. Copies of the book are available at the library.
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Friday, January 17, 2014
A19
Local food and farm conference March 1
Top From Page 16
all the advantages. What the Yankees have “ensured” is that they will compete for a playoff spot. Money, you see, will allow a team to prepare itself well for the long haul of 162 games, leaving the small-market teams desperately trying to hold onto their players and banking on those in the running for Comeback of the Year awards. Yes, the Yankees have “ensured” like only the Yankees, Dodgers, Red Sox, Rangers, et al., can. Thankfully, the human effect, which includes heart (# RedSoxClubhouse) and sadly injury may just make such “ensuring” merely a vehicle to win the Hot Stove Headlines pennant.
mation and sell local foods, Connecticut crafts and garden tools. Learn about purchasing shares of food from farms with Community Supported Ag riculture Programs at the CSA Fair. There is a fee to attend and early registration, before Feb 1, is available now at www.ctnofa.org or by calling (203)308-2584. Those interested in being a vendor, sponsor or donor should contact CTNOFA or e-mail linda@ctnofa.org.
team up with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration to observe whales in their natural environment. T he stowaway w i l l watch, inquire, learn, participate, and use his or her creative energy to share the voyage experience with the general public through blogging, videos, social media, and activities in the port cities. Stowaway ca ndidates must be 21 years or older.
Prior sailing experience is not required, but curiosity and enthusiasm are a must. The stowaway will learn and take on any jobs associated with living and working on a 19th-century vessel including handling the sails and lines, steering the ship, and scrubbing the decks. Compensation, in the form of a stipend, will be paid. For more information, to apply and submit a video entry, visit www.mysticseaport.org/stowaway.
Seaport stowaway contest Mystic Seaport is looking for applicants, through Feb. 18, to become a stowaway aboard the Charles W. Morgan during her 38th voyage in the summer of 2014. Following a $7.5 million, multi-year restoration, the Charles W. Morgan will embark on a voyage throughout New England for the first time in more than 80 years. The stowaway will sail aboard the Morgan, America’s oldest surviving merchant
vessel, during her threemonth voyage, from May to August, commemorating America’s maritime heritage. The Charles W. Morgan plans to stop at historic ports of call throughout New England, including New London, Newport, R.I., and Vineyard Haven, New Bedford, and Boston, Mass. She will also anc hor of f t he coa st of P rov i ncetow n , M a ss . , where the Morgan will
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The Town Times welcomes submissions regarding upcoming community events. These brief items run free of charge. We do our best to run a submission at least one time, however, we cannot guarantee a submission will be published on a specific date and content may be edited. Send submissions to news@towntimes.com or contact Marsha at (203) 317-2256. If you have specific requirements contact your sales representative at (203) 317-2313.
can discover new recipes at cooking classes, and activists and organizers can come together to discuss the organic food movement. Teachers include garden instructors, Connecticut’s farmers, chefs, community activists and nutritionists. Leading up to the event, a detailed list of workshops will be added to the website at www.ctnofa.org. Attendees can also visit with vendors and exhibitors who will distribute infor-
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Danbury—The Northe a s t O rga n i c Fa r m i n g Association of Connecticut has scheduled its Winter Conference for March 1 at Western Connecticut State University, 181 White St. Danbury. The program is suitable for gardeners, food lovers, farmers, families, environmentalists, and cooks. CTNOFA’s conference is a
a Distinguished Fellow for the Leopold Center for Sustainable Agriculture and president of Stone Barns Center for Food and Agriculture in Pocantico Hills, N.Y. The 2014 Winter Conference will feature workshops for all levels and interests: children can learn about worms, gardeners about backyard chickens and vegetables, locavores (one who prefers locally grown foods) and healthy eaters
celebration of local food and organic farms and last year the event attracted 800 local food enthusiasts. The 2014 Winter Conference’s focus is on the beginning farmers who are providing food for Connecticut and growing farmer support programs and networks. To discuss young farmers, new farmers, and an inclusive approach to the local food system, CT NOFA will host keynote speaker Frederick L. Kirschenmann,
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Press release
A20 Friday, January 17, 2014
Town Times | towntimes.com
Superintendent since the departure of Andre Hauser last spring. When then-Superintendent Sue Vicarro resigned shortly after, the BOE decided to focus on the superintendent search, allowing the new superintendent to take part in the principal search. The goal, according to Veronesi, is to have a principal lined up by May, which is possible with “a pretty precise time line.” Of the other changes in the
From Page 1
as a hard-working, supportive community. The school grades are divided differently in Hebron, with a K-6 school followed by a 7-12 high school. Veronesi said she is “thrilled” to have a separate middle and high school. Getting a principal for the district’s high school is a priority of her first school year. CRHS has been without a permanent principal
district, Veronesi spoke of them as a mixture of opportunity and challenge. About implementing Common Core, Veronesi said, “There’s not a finish line. It’s going to be this ever-evolving process.” Part of the challenge will be simultaneously writing, implementing, and reviewing the new curriculum while also using a new teacher evaluation system, she said. “So many of these things are true indications of advance-
ment in what we know about teaching.” Veronesi described the building utilization study as part of a trend of declining enrollment in Connecticut districts. “We need to be deliberate and responsive in what we do with that,” she said. “I’m trying to be a very astute listener and observer.” Veronesi emphasized the necessity of collaboration in the building utilization study, requiring input from the ed-
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ucational planning firm, the BOE, and the community to make the best decision. This fits with her style of leadership, she said. “My style of leadership is a collaborative one. We are all better for working together.” In the immediate future, Veronesi said she will continue to visit the schools to meet the staff and students and looks forward to working for the students and meeting the community.
News From Page 9
a time to talk about food and recipes and what the holidays might begin to look like. December is the holidays, and feature opportunities abound to explore the passions of folks who put the love in the season and to help bolster local economies by urging support and showcasing local business. And, of course, it’s time to think about how to end the year. Often in Town Times’ early days, co-founder and art director Marilyn Keurajian would conjure up a collage of photos from the year passed for the first front page of the new year. Sometimes we collaged headlines. Once or twice we used just one evocative photo. Some newspapers do a year in review, but that’s a very labor intense project, and we never seemed to have time to do it justice, plus this editor was never convinced that it was the best use of space, so we used our entrée into your homes to bring you the creative work of your friends, neighbors and local children. We enjoyed that use of our space. So this is the skeleton of an editor’s year, but the miracle of an editor’s life is that each year, like each person, is clothed in astonishing and varied detail. But that’s a theme for another column to come. Sue VanDerzee is cofounder and a former editor of Town Times. Follow us on Twitter: @TheTownTimes