Volume 19, Number 32
Serving Durham, Middlefield and Rockfall
www.TownTimes.com
Friday, November 22, 2013
P&Z: Powder Ridge needs C.O.
The pavilion at Allyn Brook Park is fenced off to allow repairs to some rotting columns and rafters. In April, culvert construction will close Pickett Lane in this area for months.” |(Photo credit: Mark Dionne)
Construction to close Pickett Lane from spring to fall By Mark Dionne Town Times
Access to Korn Elementary School, Coginchaug Regional High School, District 13 Central Office, and Allyn Brook Park will be much more difficult from April to November of 2014, according to construction projections discussed at the Nov. 13 Board of Education meeting and the Nov. 18 Durham Board of Selectman meeting. Major construction repair to a culvert at Allyn Brook Park will close Pickett Lane during that time period. With Pickett Lane closed, buses, parents, students, and staff will only have access to the school facilities by way of Maiden Lane. “It has to be done. It is going to be inconvenient,” interim Superintendent of Schools Ernest Perlini said. “We have to deal with it, but it’s going to be better when it’s done.” In July, Gov. Dannel M a l l oy a n n o u n ce d a $500,000 STEAP grant for
Durham to help prevent flooding on Pickett Lane. The grant, which is the largest STEAP grant awarded, adds to STEAP grants previously awarded to Durham — $200,000 in 2010 and $150,000 in 2011 — for a total of $850,000 in state funds for Pickett Lane. T h e S m a l l Tow n ’s Economic Assistance Program is designed to help small towns with major projects. When the grant was originally awarded, both Malloy and Durham First Selectman Laura Francis, who lobbied for the grant, called the project a priority because of access to the schools and the emergency shelter at CRHS. The project will go out to bid in December with the construction, and the road closure, beginning in April. Noting the number of end-of-year activities at the schools, Perlini has asked the state to hold off on closing the road as long as possible. See Construction / Page 2
Planning and Zoning Commission members discuss subdivision variance requirements. |(Charles Kreutzkamp / The Town Times)
By Charles Kreutzkamp
forcement officer, who reported a “relatively quiet month.” Issues included unregThe Middlefield Planning and Zoning Commission istered vehicles on Oxford meeting Nov. 13 began with Drive and Ross Road and topa report from the zoning en- ics concerning Powder Ridge, Town Times
which is set to open Nov 29. Specifically, pond dredging at Powder Ridge was “not to the depth that they hoped” which the foreman reportedly said See P&Z / Page 4
Animal friends are not forgotten By Cindi Pietrzyk Special to Town Times
Lorna Finlayson has always been an animal lover. When she was younger she dabbled in showing her two dandie Dinmont terriers, Gypsy and Julie. They didn’t show at Madison Square Garden, but they enjoyed the local shows and did quite well. As she got older, she switched from owning dandies, which require quite a bit of grooming and care, and moved on to owning whippets. Her two were named Joker and Hart. See Friends / Page 2
Lorna Finlayson, with her good friend Carol Hagek, next to the memorial. | Photo by Charley Pietrzyk.
A2 Friday, November 22, 2013 From Page 1
all came together,” she said. The Glen Myers family planted a beautiful pink dogwood tree near the edge of Allyn Brook Park. The town of Durham donated a plaque that reads: In Memory Of My Beloved Dogs: Gypsy, Julie, Joker, Hart. Lorna Finlayson. 2013. Barbara Perkins, a friend of Finlayson’s, coordinated with local merchants and craftsmen to obtain and refine a piece of granite on which the plaque was fastened. The Pietrzyk family brought the marker to the park and placed it under the tree, completing the memorial. “It is such a joy for me as well as for many other dog owners who enjoy the park,” Finlayson said, who was overcome with emotion upon
seeing the memorial come together. “I just can’t believe how it happened,” she said. Finlayson is now 90 and doesn’t get to the park all that often. But knowing the memorial is there is a great comfort to her, a lasting tribute to the
joy and love four dogs gave their owner. Finlayson has additional company these days. She recently rescued a cranky but beautiful long-haired black cat named Teddy. (Cindy Pietrzyk is a resident of Durham.)
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Twenty-five years ago, life circumstances, including the death of her husband, brought Finlayson to Durham, where she purchased a condo on Main Street. She was in her mid-sixties and her dogs and her cat were her family. She and her husband never had children and Finlayson has no living family nearby. “My animals were very important to me,” she said. “I met some of my best friends through my animals.” A very special place to Finlayson was the school campus and the area that has become Allyn Brook Park. She “spent a lifetime” there walking her dogs and visiting with
friends. “Walking them on the beautiful school grounds has been a big part of my life,” Finlayson said. Facing dire health concerns, it was necessary for Finlayson to send Hart to live with a good friend while another friend came every day to take care of Finlayson’s aging cat. Hart died about a year and a half ago and her cat recently passed away at the age of about 17. Finlayson was devastated when the last of her beloved pets passed on and still struggles with the loss. She wanted to give her family a memorial in the place where they spent so much time together and mentioned this idea to a friend. The wheels were set in motion, something that Finlayson marvels at. “I can’t believe how it
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Friends
Town Times | towntimes.com
Construction At the BOS meeting, Francis said, “Clearly it’s going to be a huge interruption of operations not just for the school district, but the summer rec program, Little League, football, soccer, the pet fair and general usage of that property.” The construction site also is on the course of the annual Memorial Day Durham/ Middlefield Exchange Club Washington Trail 4K/10K run. In an interview with Town Times, Francis agrees with Perlini’s assessment that the project is an inconvenient necessity. According to Francis the road, “one of the busiest spots of our town,” will be completely closed from about halfway up the hill on the west to the last three parking lots at Allyn Brook Park on the east. The site will be enclosed with fencing, but pedestrians, including Strong School students in physical education classes, will have access to the park by a walkway. The current culvert is both undersized, which has led to flooding, and corroded, which could lead to a costly failure. The project is also complicated because of the interruption of utilities such as data lines, electricity and water in the area. “It’s a very large watershed and it’s a regulated watershed,” Francis said of the complexity of the project. Any construc-
tion costs above $850,000, ac- parking lot. cording to Francis, will have to be handled by the town. Ironically, the closing of Pickett Lane will coincide with the scheduled installaUSPS 021-924 tion of a light at the intersection of Main Street and Pickett Published weekly by Lane. Record-Journal at School district business 11 Crown Street, Manager Ron Melnik noted that if the road has to be Meriden, CT. closed, there will be some value to experiencing the diffiPeriodicals Postage Paid culties during the school year at Meriden, CT and at instead of facing them for the additional mailing offices. first time on the first day of school. P O S T M A S T E R: According to Park and Send address changes to Recreation Director Sherry Hill, the Summer Camp proRecord-Journal, P.O. Box gram will not be at Allyn 915, Meriden CT 06450 Brook this summer. “It’s not 1265818 going to be a good situation. It’s going to be an extensive construction site,” Hill said. Hill said she is beginning K O L PS work on moving the summer O B AL -U programs. “My pick would be F N GAS • WOOD Brewster, if we could have it W EA O L there,” said Hill, who said the PELLET N C elementary school grounds FIREPLACE INSERTS would be a good fit for the Summer Camp program, WOOD PELLETS which is popular among the first, second, and third graders. Shop at Home Hill said she is looking forService Available ward to expanded and safer pedestrian traffic over the bridge at the park’s entrance. Low Prices, Great Quality and Service...What Else is There? Although most of the improvements will be under(Rte 66) ground, current designs also call for a walkway on one side Funerals, Special Occasions or Just Because... of the bridge connecting the CT CONT. LIC# HIC0567099 www.unclebobsgardens.com OPEN 7 DAYS park with Strong School’s rear
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Friday, November 22, 2013
A3
Come In From The Cold! Your backyard grill may be under wraps, but the one in Time Out Taverne’s kitchen is always ready to cook up your favorite Angus burgers and steaks. Craving some “comfort food”? We suggest Pasta Quattro Formaggio (a grown-up version of mac ’n cheese), Pasta Carbonara, Clams over Linguine or Shrimp Scampi Ravioli. Dinner specials feature fresh seafood – try the eco-friendly Barramundi, a Dr. Oz “super food” – plus cold weather favorites like Pork Porterhouse Chops and Grilled Beef Tenderloin Medallions, all expertly prepared in creative presentations. Delicious appetizers, pub-style sandwiches and meal-sized salads complete the menu. Relax near the fireplace in the Taverne’s handsomely appointed dining room, or enjoy the lively atmosphere of the sports-themed ■ Open Mondays from 4 PM; Tuesday-Sunday from 11AM lounge. Affordable wines, fine ■ Wheelchair accessible brews (more than 70 selections!) ■ Hi-Def TVs with satellite and inventive cocktails - delivfeed in the lounge ■ NFL Sunday Ticket ered by a friendly staff – round ■ Reservations welcome out a great dining experience.
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A4 Friday, November 22, 2013
P&Z From Page 1
means “less snow-making capacity.” Another issue reported was a gazebo at Powder Ridge that is over the line into Meriden. Later in the meeting, Mark Branse, legal counsel to the commission, spoke more about the legal situation with Powder Ridge not yet having a Certificate of Occupancy granted by the commission as they prepare to open for business. The commission discussed the possibility of granting Powder Ridge a temporary Certificate of Occupancy. Branse said, “We always have the option to forbear
Town Times | towntimes.com
[and not enforce the regulations] but if Powder Ridge opens without zoning compliance and someone trips and falls… if they didn’t have a C.O. all I can say is that I wouldn’t want to be their lawyer.” Powder Ridge did not respond to requests from The Town Times for comment, but its website indicates that the company is continuing to plan on opening on Nov 29. The Planning and Zoning Commission indicated that the primary obstacle to granting the C.O. was the missing site plan, which was previously discussed in June. The commission also indicated that it had previously agreed to several variances for Powder Ridge’s upcoming site plan, which one member de-
scribed as “relatively common practice.” Some interest by “large stores” was reported by the commission. This development would be at the corner of Washington Street (Rt. 66) and Higby Road. The Rt. 66 Corridor Study, which previously assessed the potential for economic development along the parts of Route 66 that pass through Middlefield, was discussed briefly. The Planning and Zoning commission also engaged in a lengthy dialogue with Joseph Darmanin, who applied to develop a subdivision. As part of Darmanin’s application, a variance from normal regulations as a result of the land’s topography was discussed. The commission was in favor
of granting the variance, but, as Branse explained, recent court decisions have confirmed that the Zoning Board of Appeals must also approve all variances. On the advice of the commission, Darmanin agreed to withdraw his application so that he could go through the ZBA. After obtaining the variance, the commission indicated that as Darmanin had already paid an application fee, the fee for his re-application would be waived, al-
though the decision cannot be made officially until the new application is processed. Darmanin was instructed to include a cover letter referencing the remarks made at the meeting to request that his fees be waived. Planning and Zoning Chair Robert K. Johnson expressed sympathy for the inconvenience, and Darmanin said, “I completely understand.” The subdivision project will be delayed a couple months in order to go through the ZBA.
Dudley Farm holiday open house The Dudley Farm Museum and Farmers’ Market has scheduled its holiday open house for Saturday, Dec. 7 and 14, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. The Munger Barn is scheduled to be open for its 18th annual holiday market. The decorated farmhouse will offer complimentary mulled cider and cookies. Also featured is the annual cookie bake sale and drawing for the centerpieces on display. Over 30 vendors are expected at the Munger Barn, featuring baked goods, eggs, fibers, holiday greens, wreaths, tress and decorations, handmade art and crags, honey, jam and jellies, maple syrup, naturally-raised meats, pickles and soap. Dudley Farm, 2351 Durham Road, North Guilford, can be reached at (203) 457-0770 or visit www.dudleyfarm. com.
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Friday, November 22, 2013
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A6 Friday, November 22, 2013
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Holiday food drive
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The Core Club and 24/7 Gym, 350 Main St., has scheduled its annual food drive. Items in need include cereal, tuna fish, soup (other than tomato), pasta sauce, canned fruit and vegetables, baked beans, rice, boxed potatoes, peanut butter, stuffing mix and cake and cookie mixes. For more information, call (860) 349-9100.
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Miss Joanne’s Learning Center, 82 Cedar St., Rockfall, is participating in the “Coats for Connecticut” coat drive. Donations may be dropped off between 6 a.m. and 7 p.m. Coats will be donated to families in need in the community.
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Friday, November 22, 2013
Holiday gift drive
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Swearing-in ceremony
The Probate Court for the District of Middletown has scheduled its annual holiday gift drive to benefit residents of area health care facilities. Give wish lists are provided by the health care staff. The public is welcome to visit the court, 94 Court St., between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. to pick up a wish list. The holiday gift drive continues through Wednesday, Dec. 18. For more information, call (860) 347-7424.
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A swearing-in ceremony for elected officials is scheduled for Sunday, Nov. 24, at 10 a.m. at the Durham Public Library, 7 Maple St. The public is welcome.
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A8 Friday, November 22, 2013
Town Times | towntimes.com
Opinion Letters to the Editor
Challenge to town To the editor: I would like to express my appreciation for the support I received in the Nov. 5 town election. Although I did not win a seat on the Middlefield Board of Selectmen, I, and those who supported me, provided an important energy and public definition for issues. This we feel would not have happened if we had not entered the race. For example, as we went door to door speaking with residents, many expressed their dismay over the lack of wise use and management of their tax dollars, many folks felt that this situation was hopeless. We say it is not hopeless, we plan to challenge this situation. The lack of transparency in our local government was very apparent, most folks had little idea what the real issues were other than from what they read in “statements” provided to them. As a source to help them to identify what could be important issues, the town website continues to be useless. The town website should be the official source for information and alerts. Both accountability and management can be determined by making this information
available. Furthermore, the town must adopt and allow the public the right to read and research all emails as allowed under state law, based on the provisions of the Freedom of Information statutes. As the Connecticut State Library quotes from Dr. Anne Thurston: “ Freedom of Information doesn’t mean anything if you can’t find the records!” Our plan is to continue with challenges regarding important issues as raised by us during the campaign. Each month our goal will be a letter to the Town Times outlining the responses to the issues we raise. Our first challenge to the administration is the Town of Middlefield website and a public announcement establishing an approved policy for the handling of and access to emails. Marianne Corona Middlefield
For the veterans To the editor: Thank you to all who came our and supported Pack 33 for the pasta fundraiser. We were able to raise over $300 to donate to our selected organization of the Wounded Warrior Fight for the truth Project. A special thanks to To the editor: We would like to thank all the veterans for their atMarianne Corona for her tendance. Thank you for alcontinuous effort and pur- lowing us to serve you. Nancy Toth suit to try to get our town Pack 33 back on track. It is a thankless job. Marianne, we commend you for your hard work and dedication in getting the
Submissions
P.O. Box 265, Middlefield, CT 06455 www.towntimes.com News Advertising Fax Marketplace
(860) 349-8000 (203) 317-2313 (203) 639-0210 (877) 238-1953
facts our to all the voters of Middlefield and Rockfall, as you went door to door during this elections. You have put the truth and the facts our to all and that was all you could do. The people in town have let you down, but more importantly, they have let themselves down and they don’t even know it. Marianne, I know you will not sit back and be a silent do nothing, thank God. Without people like you always fighting for our rights and a better government, one can only imagine how much worse things could be. Thank you again. Susan and Joel Pringal Middlefield
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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
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A little blue at Thanksgiving isn’t so bad the holiday. Ken loved being the host and always enjoyed roasting the turkey. My sister-in-law When many Grace had come of us think of from New York on Thanksgiving, we Wednesday afterthink of Norman noon in anticipation Rockwell’s paintof our getting an ing of a happy famearly start the next ily gathered around day for the drive a table featuring an to Dummerston. enormous roasted turkey and over- Clementsen We often drove the hundred miles up, flowing dishes of other seasonal foods. It is spent the day with my famthe idealized rendering of ily and drove back late the same day. But when we rose Thanksgiving. Not all of us attain it, and on Thanksgiving morning some Thanksgiving Days we discovered that it had snowed hard during the don’t even come close. It’s ages since I thought night and was still snowabout my first attempt at ing. There was no chance making the holiday meal. of getting out of the driveAt the time we lived in a way, much less of driving house with a small kitchen. north. I called with our reThere was an inlaid brown grets. Then I pulled a small industrial-grade linoleum roast from the freezer and on the floor. Wanting to cooked dinner at home. In more recent years I brighten up the kitchen, I naively proposed that Art have found other ways of and I paint the linoleum. I celebrating the holiday. had read in a magazine that Sometimes the invitation it could be done. So the eve- has come from my niece ning before Thanksgiving Diane and husband Alan Day we painted the lino- in northern Vermont. That means being away from leum a lovely blue. Next morning, surprise! home two or three days. It The paint was as wet as it is 250 miles to their place, had been when we dipped too far for me to drive to our brushes into the paint and return the same day. cans the night before. What There are other differences. to do? I had promised to The guests are mostly her cook the dinner. My re- in-laws, farm chores have sourceful husband found to be done before we can sit some planks which he laid down to eat and her dog sits on the floor. From these, by the table eagerly waiting I maneuvered from cup- for any tidbit. Diane is very board, refrigerator and proud of the fact that, exstove to dining room table cept for the turkey and the to sink back and forth, bear- desserts that guests bring, ing dishes and food, both the food on the table has hot and cold. It was a night- come from their own farm. Other times I have mare. Over the next several days we painstakingly participated in the holremoved all of the paint, iday feast created by cleaned off all of the wax Nancy Frieberg and held embedded in the linoleum at the Congregational and successfully applied the Church in Wallingford on Thanksgiving Day. paint. Another year we had Volunteers do all the work, planned to gather at my roasting turkeys, cutting mother and step-father Ken’s house to celebrate See Thanksgiving / Page 26 By Laura Clementsen, Special to Town Times
Town Times | towntimes.com
Friday, November 22, 2013
Renée Bauer writes from Durham By Daniel Jackson Special to Town Times
Editor’s Note: Weeklies staff writer Daniel Jackson is trying to write a novel, or 50,000 words of fiction, during the month of November. He isn’t doing this feat alone, but participating with now 230,000 other writers locally and around the world in National Novel Writing Month, or NaNoWriMo for short. A few weeks ago, I asked if anyone else wanted to share their experiences writing a novel during the month of November. Last week, Renée Bauer of Durham emailed me. She saw the first column the paper published about NaNoWriMo and decided to give it a go. “I checked out the website and although I think its am-
bitious, I work better under pressure,” she wrote. She started by doing some planning of her novel, but now she’s “pantsing it” (writing by the seat of her pants) through November. I sent her a list of questions, things I wanted to know more about her novel. This is what she wrote back: Why are you doing NaNoWriMo? “I heard about NaNoWriMo a few days after I decided to start my novel. The timing was perfect and holding myself accountable is key to completing this project.” What is your novel about? “It is set in 1900 in New Haven. It’s a little bit mystery, a little bit psychological thriller, and a little bit unconventional love story.”
How do you write? Do you have a favorite writing spot? “I wrote the first page while standing in line at Comcast. Now I write whenever I have a few free moments, although usually that is late at night.” What have you learned from doing NaNoWriMo? “It doesn’t need to be perfect. Pages of imperfect words is better than a blank page of no words. Often thoughts and ideas are generated just by sitting down and tapping on the keyboard.” Do you have a questions about what it is like to write a novel? Or maybe, you would like to tell me about your experiences doing NaNoWriMo. I’d love to talk. Email me at reporter@ theberlincitizen.com.
Leaf lament leads to enlightened solution By Joy VanderLek Special to Town Times
I’ve been raking leaves this afternoon. I used to love raking leaves. I loved the crisp, cool fall weather and beautifully multi-colored leaves. That was about fifteen or so years ago, when most of my body parts still functioned correctly. My shoulders and back aren’t too thrilled with the whole raking thing now. Back when I actually liked to rake, I would even call it fun. The house was new … make that new to us. We liked the responsibility of caring for our property … and our leaves. Not so much now. Even our daughter, albeit just a toddler way back then, would help to rake. Granted she wasn’t too good at that part, being her arms were so short and everything. One thing she was good at though, was stuffing the leaf bags. My husband and I would hoist her up, which made her giggle before we even started, then we’d use her to tamp down each bag of leaves to get even more leaves into them. Over and over, up and into the bag she’d go with her little purple, light-up sneakers, one bag after another and another until the bags ultimately lined the whole driveway waiting for the town to come and take it all away. We would also try other leaf collection systems (if nothing more than to give our daughter and her sneakers a break). We
had the blower/mulcher combination. That worked great, but the zipper on the bag kept breaking. We gave up and gave it to the neighbor. He sewed a new zipper on the bag and is still using it today. We don’t talk to those neighbors anymore. We also hired a friend’s son who in a fit of crazed inventiveness, created a monster leaf-sucking, leaf-mulching machine out of old lawnmower parts. Since none of us had a truck to transport the contraption, Jacob walked the thing all the way to our house, about five blocks, and went to work. It was impressive, really impressive—until it broke, about 10 minutes into it. What really gets me about leaf season, though, is our neighbor with the forest. He doesn’t have just one or two trees. No, he has them in the dozens. These are oak trees, about 100-years-old and 100-feethigh. Did you realize oak trees are the last to lose their leaves? So, when every single last leaf of our dogwoods and maples and birches are raked and stuffed into bags, those oaks are just waiting for us —because as you know, each and every leaf will blow into our yard, year after year. To be honest, I have since moved on to a new way to take care of the annual leaf collection. One day, I simply announced that I would rake no more. It’s now my husband’s job. Come to think of it, I don’t shovel snow anymore either.
Advertise with us! Call Joy Boone at 203-317-2313
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Durham Government Calendar (Unless otherwise indicated, all meetings are held in the Durham Library. Check the town website at www.townofdurhamct.org for updates.) Monday, Dec. 2 Historic District Commission, library, 7 p.m. Fire Department Trustees, Durham Volunteer Firehouse, 7 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 3 Town Green Tree Design Committee, library, 5 p.m. C o m p e n s a t i o n R e v i e w/ Personnel Policy Board, Town Hall, 7 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 4 Planning & Zoning, Town Hall, 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 5 P u b l i c S a f e t y Fa c i l i t y Renovations Pla n n ing Committee, Durham Volunteer Firehouse, 7 p.m. Monday, Dec. 9 Board of Selectman, Town Hall, 7 p.m. Inland Wetlands, library, 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 10 Conservation Commission, library 7:30 p.m. Library Board of Trustees, library, 7:30 p.m. D u rh a m Volu nteer Fi re Company, Durham Volunteer firehouse, 8 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 11 Board of Education student achievement, 135 Pickett Lane, 9 a.m. Board of Education, Coginchaug Regional High School, 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 12 Zoning Board of Appeals, Town Hall, 7:30 p.m. Monday, Dec. 16 Board of Selectman, Town Hall, 7 p.m.
Tuesday, Dec. 17 Board of Finance, Town Hall, 7 p.m. E conom ic D eve lopme nt Commission, library, 7 p.m. Agriculture Commission, Town Hall, 7 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 18 Senior Citizen Board, Durham Activity Center, 1 to 5 p.m. Planning and Zoning, library 7 p.m. R e c r e a t i o n C o m m it te e , Durham Activity Center, 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 19 P u b l i c S a f e t y Fa c i l i t y Renovations Pla n n ing Committee, Durham Volunteer Firehouse, 6:30 p.m. M M I A A B , Middlef ield Community Center, 7 p.m.
Middlefield Government Calendar (Unless otherwise indicated, all meetings are held in the Community Center.) Monday, Dec. 2 Board of Selectman, 7 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 4 Water Pollution Control Authority, 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 5 Parks & Recreation Commission, 6:30 p.m. E conom ic D eve lopme nt Commission, 7 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 11 Planning & Zoning, 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 12 Board of Finance, 7 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 17 Zoning Board of Appeals, 7 p.m. Board of Selectmen, 7 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 18 Inland/Wetlands Commission, 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.
A10 Friday, November 22, 2013
Town Times | towntimes.com
Durham Recreation holiday and recreation activities Bread houses at the Durham Activity Center. The craft is for grades 2 to 7 and is limited. Two sessions are scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 14. Session meets from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.; session two meets from 12:30 to 2 p.m. A fee is charged. Cupcake blizzard Santa Party. Join the Recreation Committee and Santa Clause
on Saturday, Dec. 14, from 1 to 3 p.m. for a holiday afternoon with music and a Cupcake Blizzard contest. Take pictures with Santa, and enjoy homemade Cupcakes and hot chocolate. Bake one dozen cupcakes to be judged by Santa’s Elves. Children’s division 12 and under, adult division 13 and up. Awards include best of show,
Join the Community Round-Up Food Drive 49693R
It’s a Neighborhood Thing
Saturday, December 7, 2013 9 AM- 12 noon Leave items by your front door for pickup. If items are not picked up by 12 noon, call Coginchaug High School before 1:00. (860) 349-7221 Teams of students with adults will visit your neighborhood to collect food, toiletries, paper goods, pet supplies, grocery gift cards, or cash donations.
FRIDAY, November 29th ROCKIN’ AROUND THE CHRISTMAS TREE 4:30PM SOUTH GREEN CAROL SING & DANCING
with Middletown High School & Woodrow Wilson Chorus and Fred Astaire Dance Studio
6:00PM PARADE UP MAIN STREET
with the MIDDLETOWN HIGH SCHOOL BAND the Mayor and Santa.
6:10PM THE BERENSTAIN BEAR KIDS & PARENTS arrive on the Hay Ride with
3RD GRADE MIDDLETOWN STUDENTS who were chosen for good school citizenship!
MAYOR DAN DREW will presents certificates. 6:15PM Middlesex Hospital’s Hospice & Palliative Care Program light “The Tree of Lights” VETERANS MEMORIAL GAZEBO
6:20PM TREE LIGHTING on South Green 6:30PM Join the Mayor and Santa for the
TREE LIGHTING on the Chamber roof. FREE pictures with Santa
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Don’t Miss This Annual Holiday Celebration Each Saturday
Saturday, November 30th 10:30 AM – 2:30 PM JINGLE BELLS KIWANIS CLUB of Middletown • SANTA’s Stamp Hunt Game Holiday Story Time with The Berenstain Bears Kids and Parents and Fire Chief Mobile Petting Zoo • Tat Wong Kung Fu Academy Demonstration
Saturday, December 7th
is intended to develop the foot skills necessary to prepare and improve players for soccer. It combines training sessions with competitive play. Space is limited. A fee is charged. Yo u t h Recreation Basketball. Kindergarten through grade 8. Games begin in January 2014. A fee is charged. Students will learn the fundamentals and fun of the game. Body Sculpting offered at the Durham Activity Center, Tuesday and Thursday mornings, 5:30-6:20 a.m. Yoga is offered at the Durham Activity Center, Monday and Wednesdays, Evenings 7 to 8 p.m. and Saturday Mornings, at 7:45 a.m. Men’s Durham Recreation Basketball league is accepting registration. Games begin in January. For more information, call Kevin Walsh, at (860) 690-9453. For more information and registration forms for recreation programs, call (860) 3436724 or visit townofdurhamct. org, Recreation.
Dr. William Boylin, Ph.D.
For information or to volunteer, contact Kathy Bottini, Co-chairperson Coginchaug Regional High School (860) 349-7221 Strong Middle School (860) 349-7255 Sponsored by RSD13 and the Durham/Middlefield Local Wellness Coalition
best frosting, most Festive, and most yummy. Call Durham Recreation at (860) 343-6724 to register for this activity. Cupcakes may be dropped off at the Durham Activity Center on Saturday, Dec. 14 from 11a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Holiday Tree Lighting. Join the Durham Recreation Committee on the Durham Town Green for is annual tree lighting on Saturday, Dec. 7 at 4 p.m., rain or shine. Hot chocolate, cookies and Santa. Sing along with the Coginchaug Regional High School Brass band. Durham Senior Holiday Lunch. Join the Durham Senior Committee on Friday, Dec. 13, from noon to 2 p.m. at the Durham Activity Center for holiday games and a visit with Santa. Lunch will be provided. Holiday deserts are welcome. Bring a friend. Seniors must register for this event. Call Sherry Hill (860) 343-6724. Brazilian Style Indoor Soccer. Jan. 13 through March 26. For boys and girls grades one through six. The program
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Brownies in a Bottle - A great holiday work shop for grades 7 to 2. Saturday, Dec. 14, 9 a.m. to noon. at Strong School. Bake brownies, eat brownies, and layer the ingredients in a bottle and package it for great gift. A fee is charged. Holiday Ginger Bread House Craft. Join Sue Cummings in making Ginger
6 Way Road, Middlefield Tel. 349-7033 Now offering daytime hours
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SANTA CLAUS IS COMING TO TOWN CIVITAN CLUB of Middletown • SANTA’s Stamp Hunt Game Breakfast with Santa at Middletown Park & Rec Office Holiday Story Time with Mayor Dan Drew & Very Hungry Caterpiller Holiday Movies at the Goldsmith Family Cinema
Saturday, December 14th
10:30 AM – 2:30 PM
I’LL BE HOME FOR CHRISTMAS THE EXCHANGE CLUB of Middletown • SANTA’s Stamp Hunt Game Holiday Story Time with Police Chief & Cookie Mouse • Mobile Petting Zoo Special Event with Santa and SANTA’s Stamp Hunt Golden Ticket Winners Ornament Decorating Workshops
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Howard Jansen Exman DURHAM — Howard Jansen (Jan) Exman, 58, of Durham, died suddenly at the family home in Stone Ridge, N.Y., Tuesday, Nov. 12, 2013. He was born in Kingston, N.Y. June 27, 1955, a son of Anne V.W. Exman and the late Frank W. Exman. Jan was a 1973 graduate of Taconic Hills High School, a 1977 graduate of Renssealer Polytechnic Institute in Troy, N.Y. with a degree in mechanical engineering. He also received a masters degree in business from Syracuse University. As an engineer Jan worked for Carrier Corp., Pratt & Whitney, and United Illuminating Power & Light of Conneticut. Recently, he worked in real estate and enjoyed his many “clean up” projects. He also enjoyed working with his land and farming his property in Stone Ridge, N.Y. In addition to his mother of Stone Ridge, N.Y. Jan is survived by his two daughters, Lindley Donecker and Brittany Dalton Exman; two brothers Peter Exman and his wife, Pat, of Bloomington, N.Y., Karl Hermance and his wife, Jennifer, of High Falls, N.Y.; five sisters, Kathleen, of Boulder, Colo., Helen Ernst, of Peach Tree City, Ga., Nancy Exman, of Rock Hill, N.Y., Eva Foster and her husband, Mark, of Woodstock, N.Y., Amy Finkbeiner and her husband, Rick, of Stone Ridge, N.Y. Also survived by many beloved nieces and nephews. Memorial services were held Friday, Nov.15, at the Marbletown Reformed Church, Main St., Stone Ridge, N.Y. The Rev. John Needham officiated. Cremation was held privately. Arrangements are by the George J. Moylan Funeral Home Inc., Stone Ridge, N.Y. www.GJMoylanFuneralHome.com.
Seniors
Samuel D. Hewes
New program
HADDAM — Samuel Douglas Hewes, 65, of Haddam, passed away on Friday, Nov. 15, 2013, at his home. Born in Bennettsville, S.C., he was the son of the late Peter and Edna (Crowley) Hewes. Sam enjoyed music, theater and nature. He will be sorely missed by many friends and family. He is survived by three nephews, Peter Thody, of Canada, Philip Hewes, of Middlefield and Steven Hewes, of Vernon; and a niece, Karen Hewes, of Arlington, Mass. Along with his parents, Sam was predeceased by his brother, John B. Hewes; and his sister, Gayle Thody. A memorial service will be held on Tuesday, Nov. 26, at 5 p.m. at Doolittle Funeral Home, 14 Old Church St., Middletown with the Rev. Dr. Dale H. Azevedo officiating. Burial will be private. There will be no calling hours. Messages of condolence may be sent to the family at www.doolittlefuneralservice.com.
The Middlefield Senior Center has scheduled a TOPS representative for Tuesday, Dec. 3, at 10 a.m. The meeting will discuss the possibility of starting a TOPS program at the Senior Center. TOPS (Taking off Pounds Sensibly) is a weight-loss and nutrition program. For more information, call the Senior Center.
Durham/Middlefield bus The Durham/Middlefield elderly/disabled schedule: Monday, Nov. 23 - Out of county medical Hartford/ Newington. Monday, Dec. 2 - Out of county medical Hartford/ Newington. Thursday, Dec. 5 - Out of county medical New Haven/ West Haven. Friday, Dec. 6 - Out of county medical Meriden/ Wallingford.
Middlefield Senior Center
Joan Lombardo was recently hired as The Middlefield
Thanksgiving holiday program Durham Interchurch Assistance prepares a Thanksgiving Holiday Basket Program for families and individuals. Stresses from financial difficulties, unemployment, medical problems, and other personal or family issues often create unanticipated hardships. Families or individuals having difficulties should call Durham Human Services at (860) 349-3153 to apply for a Thanksgiving basket. Families and organizations can sponsor an individual or family. Donors can provide food gift cards in gift amounts of their choice and send them to Human Services, Thanksgiving Program, Town Hall, P.O. Box 428 Durham, CT 06422. Gift cards must be received by Nov. 18. Donations of turkeys will be accepted on Tuesday, Nov. 26 from 9 to 10 a.m. at Durham Activity Center, 350 Main Street. Call Amanda at (860) 349-3153 if you are interested in donating a turkey. Volunteers are needed to help coordinate distribution from 9 a.m. to noon on Tuesday, Nov. 26. For more information, Amanda at (860) 349-3153.
The Town Times charges a $50 processing fee for obituaries. For more information, call (203) 317-2240.
Senior Center director. New 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. Senior Center Programs The Senior Center offers a knitting group, a card group, a bridge group, an exercise group, a yoga group. Dial-A-Ride Dial-A-Ride will transport seniors to doctor appointments within Middlesex County. It is necessary to be Registered with Dial-A-Ride is required. A fee is charged. The Dial-A-Ride service operates Monday-Friday, 6 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Saturday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. For more information, call Dial-A-Ride (MAT) at (860) 347-3313. Middlefield/Durham Senior Bus The Senior Center has a 17 passenger bus that transports seniors to out of county doc-
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tors’ appointments and twice a week trips. The bus is free; participants pay for their lunch. To reserve a spot on the bus, call (860) 347-5661. Nov. 19- Christmas Tree Shop in Orange, lunch at Olive Garden, and a stop at Talbots. Nov. 20- West Farms Mall, a stop at Trader Joe’s, and lunch at West Farms mall. Nov. 26- Mohegan Sun. Nov. 27 – Pier One Imports, HomeGoods in Saybrook, and lunch at Lenny & Joe’s in Westbrook. Tuesday, Dec. 3 - Trader Joe’s, Dollar Tree, Talbot’s, LL Bean, lunch at Bertucci’s Orange. Wednesday, Dec. 4 - Kringle Candle, lunch at The Farm Table, St. Bernardston, Mass. For more information, call the Senior Center at (860) 349-7121. The Middlefield Senior Center is located in the Middlefield Community Center at 405 Main Street. Monthly lunch menus can be picked up at the Senior Center or Town Hall.
Middlefield Senior Center Activities Monday, Dec. 2 Exercise, 7:45 a.m.; Lunch, noon; Advisory Board meeting, 1 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 3 TOPS meeting, 10 a.m.; Set back, 1 p.m.; Bus Trip to Trader Joe’s, Dollar Tree, Talbot’s, LL Bean. Lunch at Bertucci’s in Orange. Wednesday, Dec. 4 Exercise, 7:45 a.m.; Lunch, noon; Bus Trip to Kringle Candle, Lunch at the Farm Table, Bernardston, Mass. Thursday, Dec. 5 Knit/Crochet, 9:30 a.m.;
Bridge, 12:45 p.m.; Senior Bus to out of county medical appointments West Haven and New Haven. Friday, Dec. 6 Exercise, 7:45 a.m.; Lunch, noon; Bridge, 12:30 p.m.; Senior Bus to out of county medical appointments in Meriden or Wallingford. To make bus reservations, call St. Lukes Transportation at (860) 347-5661. To make lunch reservations, stop by the Senior Center or call (860) 349-7121.
Cannot be combined with any other offers or promotions. Exp. 12/31/13.
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Obituaries
Friday, November 22, 2013
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Perlini outlines school budget priorities By Mark Dionne
Town Times
At the Nov. 13 meeting of the Board of Education, at Korn School, interim Superintendent Ernest Perlini listed “priorities and parameters” for the upcoming 201415 budget. BOE Chair Kerrie Flanagan noted that consideration of budget priorities had begun earlier at a meeting of the board’s Educational Resources Committee. “This is the earliest we’ve ever really had a chance to sit down and start getting a feel for where we’re going in the budget.” Perlini emphasized that the future budget would have to take into consideration the mission statement of District 13 as well as economic realities, mandates, and contractual obligations. He outlined 12 priorities developed with the Education Resources Committee to assist in the upcoming budget process. The priorities
(not in order of importance) are: improvement of student achievement; class sizes comparable to district reference groups (DRGs are public school districts with similar socioeconomic status) and region; implementation of Common Core State Standards; a technology plan connecting technology to curriculum; consideration of instructional time and extended learning opportunities; support of 21st century learning; professional development; facility and capital improvement needs directed by enrollment data; meeting negotiated wage and benefit agreements; providing adequate textbook and teaching supplies; enrichment studies; and consideration of the ability of the community to provide the financial support. “With the Common Core coming in you need more and more professional development. As educators, we did not learn this when we were in school ... It is new, it’s something we all have to
learn together,” Perlini said. “It’s going to make our students better prepared.” Of textbooks and teacher supplies, Perlini said, “You need teacher and tools. Teachers without tools are not going to help move your cause. Tools without teachers are not going to help move your cause.” The last priority, concerning the economic circumstances of the district, Perlini called his “favorite.” Perlini expected to present
a budget with enhancements. “You need to know as a Board of Education what we need in this school district in order to make the district great. ... I will tell you that you will not have the funds to approve all those.” “I think it’s a great document to help us have a point of reference as we’re going through the budget and talking about what’s in it and what’s not in it,” Flanagan said. Perlini, Flanagan, and several BOE members pre-
viously have recommended longer and potentially more careful preparation of the budget. Flanagan said, “We’re really accelerating our schedule and giving the board a lot of chances to get an understanding, not only of the budget numbers, but the approach to the budget and the philosophy behind it.” The BOE meeting, originally scheduled for Dec. 11, has been changed to Dec. 18 at 7:30 p.m. at Coginchaug Regional High School.
Candelora to host Internet safety forum State Representative Vincent Candelora has scheduled an internet safety forum for Thursday, Dec. 5 to help educate parents on internet safety, cyber bullying, social media and cell phone apps. The program is from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at the North Branford Intermediate School cafeteria, 654 Foxon Road, North Branford. Candelora scheduled the forum in response to a parents expressing concern about what their children are doing online, without their knowledge and worry that they lack sufficient understanding of the cyber world in which children interact. Scott Driscoll, a State Capitol Police officer who also works as an online safety expert, is expected to give a brief presentation and to answer questions. The event is free and open to the public. For more information, contact Representative Candelora at (860) 240-8700 or email Vincent.candelora@housegop.ct.gov.
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Friday, November 22, 2013
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Durham moves forward with vehicle tax exemption Town Times
At a public hearing on Nov. 18 that occurred during a regular Durham Board of Selectman’s meeting, town officials decided to move forward with a proposed ordinance to exempt vehicles modified for persons with disabilities from the town’s personal property tax. The ordinance defines eligible cars as “any production vehicle which has been altered or reconfigured or has undergone mechanical or structural changes which permit an individual with a disability to safely drive or ride as a passenger.” A physician’s letter and completed tax assessor’s paperwork would also be required to claim the exemption, which if passed would be effective for the July 1 grand list.
Durham First Selectman Laura Francis said that the impact of the exemption could not be precisely calculated until residents applied, but would likely be small. According to Francis, Hartford passed a similar ordinance and, with a much larger population, experienced a $5,000 drop in revenue. To support the ordinance, Reg Chapman, of Durham, attended the public hearing on the Town Hall’s third floor meeting room, using both his motorized scooter and the Town Hall’s elevator. Francis said, “I’ve been working for the town for 21 years and what a joy it is to even see you up in this room because prior to eight years ago, you wouldn’t be able to get up here.” Eight years ago, renovations to the Town Hall made the building handicapped ac-
cessible with ramps and an elevator. Rick Parmelee spoke about the Americans with Disabilities Act. “We all benefited by that, all of us,” Parmalee said. “I absolutely favor this ... Whatever we lose on the grand list, all of us have reaped these [ADA] rewards all over the country because it’s made buildings more accessible to everyone.” Speakers at the hearing voiced support of the exemption, with some technical questions. Selectman Steve Levy asked if the language of the ordinance would unfairly exclude modifications that allow access to the vehicles. The selectman also clarified that the exemption was for personal property. A company renting handicapped accessible vehi-
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call (860) 349-9100 or visit coreclubllc.com. Middlesex Health Care Center, 100 Randolph Road, is a drop-off location site for Toys for Tots. Donations of new, unwrapped toys may be dropped off through Dec. 17. For more information, call Robin at (860) 344-0353.
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The ordinance would need to pass at a town meeting to be effective. Francis said that in order to group multiple agenda items for a town meeting, the ordinance would likely go to a town meeting in January.
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A14 Friday, November 22, 2013
Town Times | towntimes.com
Tips to host memorable holiday feast StatePoint – Want to be the host with the most this holiday season? Holiday entertaining can be particularly tricky, as everything has to be just right. But you don’t have to let it stress you out, say experts. “From setting the table, to creating a scrumptious dessert station, you can better impress your guests if you are prepared,” says Jessica Joyce, spokeswoman for Bed Bath & Beyond. As you make your plans, consider these helpful tips from Joyce for putting to-
gether the perfect holiday meal and creating an inviting atmosphere all season long: Remove the guess work The key to reducing stress around holiday entertaining is to plan. Start putting together a guest list and menu ahead of time. Determine the hors d’ourves, drinks, main course, side dishes, coffee bar and desserts. Turkey talk Once the menu is selected, make sure you have
the right kitchenware to prepare the meal -- especially the turkey. Turkey essentials include a roasting pan, meat thermometer and gravy separator. Keep in mind that every turkey is different, so your roaster should be able to handle even a 25-pound holiday bird. Your serving plate will need to be large enough to accommodate your turkey, and there should be enough additional room on the plate to surround it with garnish.
With some special touches to your menu and decor, you can make this holiday a memorable one.
MIDDLESEX COMMUNITY COLLEGE
Mix and match dinnerware When it comes to serving guests, it’s helpful to get assorted dinnerware in both white and clear so you can mix and match as needed. Be sure that you have enough of the right glassware for serving cocktails when guests first arrive. Have a water and wine glass on the table for each guest to use during the meal.
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Create a ‘tablescape’ You can make a great impression before your guests even sit down to eat by crafting a beautiful setting. Create ambience by adorning the holiday dinner table and buffet area with seasonally inspired décor and infusing pops of color with the tablecloth, metallic chargers, napkins and fresh flowers.
Mood lighting For a finishing touch, set the mood with candles by Presentation Consider how you’d like using a mix of tea lights and to present your meal to your candlesticks on the table at guests. Whether it’s a sit- varying heights. down dinner or buffet style, For more entertaining tips, your food will be the main focus. A triple slow cooker recipes, gift ideas and other is great for a buffet. It will holiday inspiration, visit, let you cook, keep your food www.BedBathandBeyond. warm and allow your guests com/holiday. to help themselves all at once.
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Town Times | towntimes.com
Friday, November 22, 2013
A15
A handy holiday entertaining checklist StatePoint – One of the best parts about holiday entertaining is spending quality time with friends and family. If you’re rushing around trying to cook and prepare everything, your food may taste great, but you’re missing out on a key element of the season -- togetherness. But the quality of your food doesn’t need to suffer for great conversation, say cooking experts. “With a little advanced planning you can have it all at your holiday gathering -- both a delicious, hearty meal, and quality time with your friends and family,” says Christy Jordan, author of the new cookbook “Come Home to Supper,” a collection of budget-conscious, kidfriendly recipes designed for busy families Jordan is offering this handy checklist for a more fulfilling holiday entertaining season:
ful for holiday entertaining, because they can be made in advance and actually get better as the days go by. They also taste great cold. One to Two Days Ahead Assemble the main course. See Checklist / Page 18
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make dessert. “If I know I am going to have company, I like to make my dessert a few days ahead of time so when it’s time for dessert, I know all I have to do is cut and serve!” says Jordan. Jordan points out that refrigerator cakes are wonder-
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Town Times | towntimes.com
Rambles bring opportunities to explore natural areas Special to Town Times
Getting fit is more fun than ever, thanks to WalkCT Family Ramble, a program born out of Connecticut Forest & Park Association’s desire to get families of all ages and abilities outside and reconnected to the natural world. It’s part of the WalkCT program, which had its beginnings in 2005. With the obesity epidemic getting a lot of attention, CFPA wanted people to know that there are thousands of miles of pathways, trails, and sidewalks in the state that offer a chance to exercise. “For a lot of people hiking means having to get special clothes and shoes and a backpack, and being fit,” said Leslie Lewis, the director of WalkCT. “They think they can’t hike, but everyone can walk. WalkCT was envisioned as a way to bring walking opportunities to the doorstep of everyone in Connecticut. Right now there are 120 walks in the state.”
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CPR and First Aid. “For the trainings, which are held four times a year, we try to find experts in fields like ecology or natural history, or any subject that we think would be of interest to the guides to help them make their programs as much fun as possible,” Lewis said. “The guides choose the trails and what kind of walk they want to lead. Singles and kids are welcome. We want people to know that these are fun and geared for all ages and abilities.” For information on upcoming rambles and their themes, go to www. walkct.org/rambles. There’s something for everybody: scavenger hunts; bug-finding; birding; games for kids; identifying trees by their bark; a moonlight Leslie Lewis, the director of WalkCT stands near the sign for Connecticut Forest & Park hike and listening to owls and night sounds; historiAssociation and the entrance to a trail. cal walks on the rail trails in The program also offers mation about nearby walks, tions. (Other organizations the Manchester area, where technical assistance to com- their level of difficulty, their in the state, independent of the guide talks about the history of the railroad and munities to improve their surface type, their uses (such CFPA, also have walks.) WalkCT Family Ramble is the mills; identifying mush“walkability.” If you go to the as walking, biking, or horses, website (www.walkct.org) and whether or not dogs are free and is held every month rooms; geology; histories of and type in your zip code or welcome), and you’ll find throughout the year. These forests and stone walls; regutown, you will access infor- links that take you to maps walks are led by trained vol- lar six-mile walks to Sleeping and sponsoring organiza- unteers who are certified in Giant Mountain to observe the changes in the seasons; the collection of acorns and leaves by kids, which they then use to decorate baskets. Saturday, November 23 rd Some of the rambles go half a 8:00 PM - 12:30 AM mile and are designed for kids 556 Mulberry St. to “literally stop and smell Plantsville, CT the roses.” Frog Fridays have in the glass room nature lovers going to a pond A variety of top 40 music and learning about frogs and Coffee & Dessert • Cash Bar observing their life stages.” Dressy Attire / No Jeans Admission $15 “We want to make walking “for SINGLES only...” Dances so much fun that you forget Info: (860)824-3083 • 1-800-824-3038 that it’s good for you,” Lewis www.singlesdances.com (inc. map) said. “We want to engage families and get them looking around. We want to get people active so that they’re healthier. We want to con(Includes FREE admission to all baby & mommy nect people to the natural world so that we’re growing a and kids & mommy classes) new generation of advocates for the outdoors and natural NOW Offering Three Yoga Alliance Certified resources. If kids are glued to their electronic devices, 200hr. Teacher Training Programs they’re not going to care if Weekday, Weekend & 30 Day Monthly Intensive the 100 acres next to them is paved over.”
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Friday, November 22, 2013
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State Rep. Al Adinolfi, along with Rep. Themis Klarides and Sen. Len Fasano, attended the Nov. 13 MADD Public Policy Awards at Anthony’s Ocean View, New Haven. Adinolfi received an award because he introduced a bill this year to the Connecticut General Assembly to strengthen drunken driving law with children in a vehicle. If caught, an alleged criminal would face a felony. The bill (H.B. 6701) passed overwhelmingly in the House, but died in the Senate when leaders there decided not to take it up for a vote. Adinolfi intends on introducing the same bill in the 2014 legislative session, which begins in February.
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Town Times | towntimes.com
Walk off that turkey with a family ramble Press Release
Forest & Park Association, designed to bring families, Rockfall – Recover from too fun, and the outdoors tomuch holiday food and foot- gether. Led by trained volunball with a late fall WalkCT teer WalkCT Family Guides, Family Ramble in Vernon. For these free, engaging outings more details, including direc- are offered at trails around the tions, visit www.walkct.org/ state every month throughout the year. Because these rambles. WalkCT Family Rambles is adventures are geared spea program of the Connecticut cifically for families, kids and
their caregivers will delight in this outdoor quest for fun together. Babies in secured backpacks are welcome. To prepare for a safe and enjoyable time: 1. Be ready to begin the Ramble at the scheduled start time; 2. Bring water, a snack, any allergy or other pre-
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behind the pond. This outing is sponsored by the WalkCT program (of the Connecticut Forest & Park Association). Pre-registration is not necessary. Heavy rain cancels because there is a brook to cross, which could be difficult when in flood. There are no restrooms at the park. Phone Susan Barlow, American Red Cross First Aid/CPR-trained WalkCT Family Guide, at (860) 6439776 with any questions. Visit www.walkct.org/rambles for more details. Connecticut Forest & Park Association, founded in 1895, is a nonprofit organization serving Connecticut to protect forests, parks, walking trails, and open spaces for future generations. CFPA maintains the 825-mile Blue-Blazed Hiking Trail System, trains educators to utilize forests as a teaching tool, and is creating healthier communities through its WalkCT initiative. Visit www.ctwoodlands.org for more information.
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Medical Director: Dennis Buonafede, MD
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scribed medications you may need, and your excitement; 3. Leave pets at home or other safe place (unless otherwise noted in the ramble description); 4. Wear sturdy shoes; and 5. Kids, please remember to bring your parents or caregivers. Vernon - WalkCT Family Ramble: Risley Pond Adventure Saturday, Nov. 30, 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. at Risley Pond Get your heart pumping with a vigorous hike from Risley Pond to a rocky ridge with a view toward Bolton Notch. We will encounter rocky terrain, brook crossings, and flat stretches while learning about Risley Pond, owned by the Manchester Land Conservation Trust. Come prepared for a strenuous, approximately twohour walk on one of several loop trails that go around the pond. White-tailed deer frequent the trail and wild turkeys have been spotted
Many entrées can be made ahead of time, such as chilly weather soups and stews. Casseroles also do very well if assembled ahead of time and then placed covered in the fridge to be baked just before supper. You may also consider doubling your recipe and freezing half for later use. Since the season is a busy time of year, having extra meals on hand can save you a midweek headache. The Big Day Set the table, make the bread, pop the entree on the stove or in the oven. Enjoy! “I like to have as many things done as possible before company arrives so I have more time to enjoy my guests,” says Jordan. Making most of the meal beforehand can save you valuable minutes just before supper to bake fresh bread – a true treat and easy to make. More useful cooking and entertaining tips can be found at www.SouthernPlate.com.
Town Times | towntimes.com
Friday, November 22, 2013
Calendar Friday, Nov. 22
Sunday, Dec. 8
Casual bridge - The Durham Activity Center, 350 Main St., schedules casual bridge for every Friday at 6:30 p.m. All are welcome. For more information, call Jim Martinelli at (860) 346-6611. Theatre- Middletown High School, 220 LaRosa Lane, Middletown, has scheduled a modern production of “Romeo and Juliet” for Friday, Nov. 22, at 7 p.m. A fee is charged.
Holiday bazaar - The Wadsworth Mansion at Long Hill Estate has scheduled its annual holiday bazaar for Sunday, Dec. 8, 10 a.m. to 3 0.m., at 421 Wadsworth St., Middletown. Children are free, a donations for adults is appreciated but not expected. The event features various vendors offering homemade baked goods, clothing, jewelry, Christmas arrangements, pottery, wood furniture and more. Lunch will be available for purchase. For more information, call (860) 347-1064.
Saturday, Nov. 23
Dudley farm - The Dudley Farm Museum, 2351 Durham Road, North Guilford, has scheduled an open house for Dec. 7 and 14, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. The Munger Barn will be open for its 18th annual holiday market. St. Nicholas is scheduled to visit. For more information, call (203) 457-0770 or visit www.dudleyfarm.com. Holiday fair - Church of the Hoy Trinity, 381 Main St., Middletown, has scheduled its holiday fair for Saturday, Dec. 7, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Items from over 30 crafters and vendors will be offered for purchase. Lunch will be available form 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Handicapped accessible. For more information, call (860) 347-2591.
Saturday, Dec. 14 Dudley farm - The Dudley Farm Museum, 2351 Durham Road, North Guilford, has scheduled an open house for Dec. 14, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. The Munger Barn will be open for its 18th annual holiday market. For more information, call (203) 457-0770 or visit www.dudleyfarm.com.
Max, a nationally certified Pet Partner therapy dog and his owner/trainer Christina Kursawe, of Durham, recently visited the North Branford Senior Center. Max met many new friends. He often visits retirement and convalescent homes in the area. |Submitted by Frank Garitta.
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scheduled a holiday concert for Sunday, Dec. 8, 2 p.m., at South Congregational Church, 9 Pleasant St., Middletown. The concert is free and open to the public. For more information, visit www. middletownsymphonicband. org.
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Food drive - Boy Scout Troop 27 is scheduled to collect non-perishable food items on Saturday, Nov. 23, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., in the Strong School parking lot. The scouts also plan to clean up the yard around the United Churches of Durham. Theatre - Middletown High School, 220 LaRosa Lane, Middletown, has scheduled a modern production of “Romeo and Juliet” for Saturday, Nov. 23, at 2 and 7 p.m. A fee is charged.
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A20 Friday, November 22, 2013
Town Times | towntimes.com
Explore the many dimensions of gratitude By Amy Flory
Special to Town Times
Halloween is over, and the first batches of leaves have been removed from the edges of our lawns by the hardworking North Haven Public Works Department. If these
two facts haven’t alerted me to the fact that we’re solidly in Thanksgiving season, the Facebook posts sharing what others are thankful for certainly have. With Thanksgiving near the end of this month, November is a natural time
to reflect on the bounty of things in our life that we should be thankful for. In the past few years, a movement has taken hold, and folks are choosing to share one thing they are thankful for each day leading up to Thanksgiving. Gratitude journals have been used to improve mood and studies have found that subjects who kept a daily gratitude journal reported fewer ailments, a greater sense of feeling connected to others, higher levels of alertness, more enthusiasm, were more optimistic about the future, and exercised more.
Naysayers worry that Facebook statuses are insincere, or that others are bragging or embellishing the great things in their lives for the benefit of others, or that thankfulness should be observed all year long, and not just in November. As someone who has participated in the November thankful posts in years past, I can say that focusing on positive things, both large and small, does carry over into the rest of the year. I appreciate a great cup of coffee every day, and I marvel in the magic of my strong marriage continually, but taking the
time to write it down gives those feelings weight and make them more tangible. The activity of transcribing my gratitude helps minimize the negativity that creeps into everyday living. After three years of giving thanks in November, I am skipping the exercise this year, and instead I’m enjoying the gratitude that is spilling onto my Facebook feed from my friends around the world. I am thankful for November, a month where gratitude is plentiful, and where positivity is shared, See Gratitude / Page 26
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Town Times | towntimes.com
Friday, November 22, 2013
A21
Library Briefs
Memorial fund
T he Du rh a m P ublic Library has set up a memorial fund in memory of Melissa Konecny A lbin, former children’s librarian, was died in September. Checks may be payable to the Durham Public Library, attention, Trish Connolly, library director, 7 Maple Ave., Durham, CT 06422.
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Teen Adv isor y Group (ages 12 to 18). Saturday, Dec. 7, 3 to 4 p.m. Share ideas for the library. Drop-in. Tween and Teen Knitting Club (a ge s 10 to 18). Tuesday, Dec. 10, 7 to 8 p.m. Share your knitting project or learn to knit. Yarn and needles available. Drop-in. “Mockingjay” Book Discussion (ages 12 to 18). Tuesday, Dec. 17, 6 to 7 p.m. Discuss the final book in the “Hunger Games” trilogy. Register at the desk or call (860) 349-9544.
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Discussion (grades 4 to 6). SAturday, Dec. 21, 1 2:30 p.m. Bring lunch, dessert is provided. Registrationis required. Programs for Young Adults: Afterschool Movies (ages 12-18). Every Wednesday 3:30 pm. Popcorn and water served. December movies are “Mortal Instruments” and “Despicable Me 2.” Drop in, no registration required. Teen Book Club (ages 1218). Tuesday, Nov. 26, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. “Code Talker” by Joseph Bruchac. No registration required.
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For more information, months). Mondays at 11 a.m. Mother Goose Storytime email Jody Benbow at jodyb enb ow@ ya ho o. com or (18-30 months). Mondays at Sheryl Slight at slightes@ 10:15 a.m. Time for Tots (2 ½-3 ½ sbcglobal.net. years). Wednesdays at 10:15 a.m. Durham Public Preschool Storytime (3 Library ½-5 years). Tuesdays at 10:15 Z i n i o E - M a g a z i n e s a.m. and 1:30 p.m. available - Zinio is an onBedtime Storytime (ages line magazine service that 2-5 years). Mondays at 6:30 allows patrons to view full p.m. digital copies of magazines. School-ages programs It is the same material as the Story Magic! (grades K-2). print version. Magazine is- Saturdays at 10:30 a.m. Drop sues are not checked our so in. they are always available. Kids’ Club (grands 3 to 5). Read online or download Thursdays, Dec. 5 and 19, 4 to read off line. A current to 5 p.m. Drop in. D u rh a m P ubl ic L ibra r y Visit from Santa (all ages). card (or a card from another Saturday, Dec. 7, 1:30 to 3:30 LIOBN library) is required. p.m. Cookies, crafts, photo For more information and opportunities. Drop in. Zinio instructions, visit LEGO Club (6 to 12 years). www.durhamlibrary.org. Thursday, Dec. 12, 6:30 to Programs for Kids: 7:30 p.m. Drop in. Bouncing Babies! (birth-17 Lunch Bunch Book
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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. Holiday hours - The Levi E. Coe Library is scheduled to close: Wednesday, Nov. 27, at 1 p.m.; and Thursday, Nov. 28, for Thanksgiving. Middlefield First Night Library Activities Saturday, Nov. 30, 4:30 and 7 p.m. Drop in for a storytime and craft. The Giving Tree Librarians choose a selection of books that would benefit the children’s collection. Patrons may browse, pay for their donations, take the book home and wrap it. Books are brought to the library on Tuesday, Dec. 3 as a gift to the library. G i v i n g T r e e /O p e n House - Tuesday, Dec. 3, 5:30 to 7 p.m. Children are welcome to help build a graham cracker house. A visit from Santa is expected. Register at the Children’s Department or call (860) 349-3857. Holiday card program - Thursday, Dec. 5, 5:45 to 6:45 p.m. Make two holiday cards with Amy Hoffman. For ages 15 and up, space is limited.
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A22 Friday, November 22, 2013
Town Times | towntimes.com
Sports
There are a few holes in this story That and a lifetime of memories from the old deer camps of Maine
By Mike Roberts
L Suzio Companies, Albie Downes. I hemmed and hawed for Ceruti, a Marlin lever action, a bit when Wayne invited and I was good to go. Whatever happened to me, but at the urging of Edna Well, almost. I borrowed “Deer Camps?” (she probably wanted me what I needed from budDo they still exist? Or have out of the way for a week) I dies who were deer hunters they simply disappeared excepted the invitation and and Downes and I made the w i t h t i m e, went on my first hunting trip 10-hour trip to deer camp in only to be for deer in the deep woods of his pickup truck. Today, beremembered Maine. cause of added highways and by some of I had to borrow a deer rifle shortcuts, you could probably the old tim- from a fellow worker at the make the same trip in much ers, like your ancient outdoor writer? In my Roberts younger years in the The Coginchaug Thunder sixth grade boys travel basoutdoors, I was completely ketball team opened their season with a big 60 – 28 win enthralled with upland bird over the visiting North Haven B team. Leading the way hunting and bird dogs, like for the Thunder was Sean Carroll with 13 points. Del my old English setter with the Cade and Hugh Barrett chipped in with 10 points each very original name of “Spot.” and Justin Penney added nine. Chris Onofrio and Nico I received many invitations Kulpik did a great job on the boards, while Max Temple, to go to deer camps in our Derek Grant, and Adam Copeland played some great denorthern states, but turned fense. The sixth grade boys play at home (Strong School) them down so I could keep next Sunday, Nov. 24 at 10:15 a.m vs. Guilford. on pheasant hunting. Then, submitted by Scott Penney after I married my darlin’ Edna, I was invited to go up to a hunting camp outside of Ellsworth, Maine by retired Meriden firefighter Wayne Special to Town Times
Coginchaug Thunder
less time. When we got off the Maine Turnpike and started to travel on the back roads of Maine, my interest really picked up. The season would not open for a couple of days, but along the way we passed many deer camps and almost all of them showed some kind of activity as they gathered for the traditional opening day of deer hunting. Each and every deer camp had a “Game Pole” set up so they could hang their deer to cool after harvesting them and also to show them off.
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Are you at home during the day while your children are in school? Are you between jobs and love working with children? A 4-four year degree is required to substitute for teachers; teacher assistant substitutes require a high school diploma or higher. You can work as often or as little as you would like and with any grade level. Please check out the District 13 website, www.rsd13ct.org, Employment section for an application and information or call Sue Gaudreau at the Superintendent’s Office at 860-349-7200.
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50240R
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Masonicare has a state-of-the-art GI suite on its Wallingford campus that is open to the community. Partnering with Connecticut GI and Hartford Anesthesiology, we perform a wide variety of outpatient GI procedures including endoscopies and colonoscopies for adults 18 and over. We combine the latest technology with a personalized experience to help you recover privately and quickly. For more information, or if you have a referral, call 203-679-5902. 43259R
Conveniently located off Route 150 in Wallingford. Most insurances accepted.
This was back in the 60s and deer camps were a tradition back then. Deer camps were generally old out buildings that were always in need of repair of some type, and these repairs were tended to by the first arrivals at deer camp. I had yet to go to a deer camp so I was totally unprepared when after some 20 miles of traveling on a Maine road, Wayne said, “Here we are,” as he pulled into a field that abutted an old farm See Story / Page 23
Town Times | towntimes.com
Friday, November 22, 2013
A23
Story thieves. We began hanging our deer in the garage of the old couple that owned the two camps, Syd and Lil Mace. Lil Mace was the hunter in the family and we would make it a point to visit her and Syd at least one night during our say at Mace’s Deer Camps and they would tell us about what Maine was like many years ago. While there was nothing fancy about the camps, there was also nothing fancy about what they charged us per hunter for our stay there. 36459R
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Where else could you hang your hat in a camp that gave shelter, a wood fire, electricity (single wire to the camps) well water and an outhouse for the price of $3 dollars per person, per day? YES, you read that right: three bucks a day! We tried to increase the price, but they would have none of it. Nor would they accept tips when we left. Like everything in life, they aged and we did too. Lil was the first one to die and her
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house. In front of us was a tar paper shack that looked like it had seen better days. It could have passed for a large chicken coop, from the looks of it. I had thought that we would be quartered in the old farmhouse, but Wayne told me the tar paper shack was our “home” for the next week. To say it was “rustic” would be an understatement. It consisted of two very small rooms, one was the kitchen/ dinning area and the other was the bunkroom. The bunkroom had two bunk beds (upper and lower) built into the wall, a small wood burning stove and barely enough room to store our gear. The kitchen area had a large wood-burning stove that took up half the kitchen, a sink, a small counter space and some deer antlers hanging off the walls. The camp did come with a supply of wood for the stove, and I had brought along a Coleman gas stove that ran on Amoco unleaded white gas (remember that?). For water, we drew from a well outside the camp. Our “bathroom” was a one-holer outhouse that required a walk down a woodland path bordered by some pine trees. Now this will come as no surprise to Edna, but I loved the place! I took to that little deer camp like it was a long, lost relative. I would miss my first deer that year, but deer camp had become a part of me and I would spend the next 19 Maine deer seasons in those rustic deer camps and love every minute of it. Later on, I joined forces with guys like Mike Hanlon, Bill Schafrick and Al DiNicola and we would move across the road to what was referred to as “The Big Camp.” The Big Camp had four bunk beds in a much larger bunkroom and the kitchen area had another large wood-burning stove, but the water had to be drawn from the well across the road in back of the Little Camp. It also had an outhouse that featured two holes for taking care of business. You haven’t really lived until you make your way to a rustic privy by
Also, a new breed of hunter appeared on the scene and some of them couldn’t care less about traditions. I say “some of them” because, like in everything, it takes only a few to give all a bad name. These hooligans thought nothing of stealing a sportsman’s deer right off of the meat pole while the hunters were asleep in their bunks. As the years went on, the meat poles showed less and less game because the hunters wanted to protect their hard-earned harvest from
flashlight on a frosty morning with the temperature sitting at about zero degrees. That woke you up better than that first cup of coffee. Sad to say, over the years I have seen these rustic deer camps fall by the wayside one by one and there are only a few of those really old-time deer camps left. One of the main reason is they were generally headed up by an old timer and, when they passed away, the spirit of the old-fashioned deer camps seemed to go with them.
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From Page 22
A24 Friday, November 22, 2013
Town Times | towntimes.com
Story
TIP TOP ATHLETE
From Page 23
Isabella Santoro, of Durham, who attends Holy Trinity School in Wallingford, was chosen MVP during the recent Tom Collette Holy Trinity basketball Tip-Off tournament.|(Submitted by Michele Santoro.)
Lic# PL204680
passing left Syd with a broken heart (they were married for 69 years). Syd went to join Lil the following year and even though we returned to try our hand at Mace’s Deer Camp, without them it was not the same. That would be our last year at Mace’s Deer Camps. There was something special about those old-time deer camps that you had to experience to really understand what they were all about. That is, if you can relish climbing out of a warm bunk to begin your hunting day with the air in the cabin so cool you could see your breath. The first order of the morning was to rekindle the fire in the old wood-burning stove as we huddled around the increasing warmth and made our morning coffee. Amazingly, it did not take that long for the cabin to become toasty warm again as 43968R
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we sat down for our breakfast. The cabin was alive with deer camp aromas: bacon and eggs, fresh-perked coffee and the never-forgotten scent of wool hunting clothes drying by the heat of the stove. And, of course, that first trip to the outhouse across frost covered ground by flashlight. Since we were always the first group of hunters every season, it meant that we were also the first ones to reanoint the outhouse. True to tradition, these outdoor bathrooms were always equipped with an old department store catalog of some kind, but being the city slickers we were, we always made sure to include real toilet paper on our deer camp shopping list. Today, many of these deer camps have been replaced by modernized motels and lodges that offer TV, saunas, hot showers, phones, computer hookups and the like. My last deer hunting trip to Maine was at such a spot and, while the amenities were great, I really missed stepping back into time at a genuine old-fashioned deer camp and the outdoor adventures they provided. Maybe I’ll tell you about a few of them in coming columns. See ya’ and God Bless America and watch over our troops wherever they may be serving. Mike Roberts’ Woods ‘n Water column appears in the Record-Journal.
CT Lic # HCA.0000295
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.
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Friday, November 22, 2013
A25
BEASTLY DAY AT SCHOOL
“Memorial Middle School students and teachers celebrated Halloween with a traditional parade of costumes. Children’s author Paul Acampora, who had been visiting Memorial for several days, transformed into a large robot and turned heads during the outdoor part of the parade. Principal Kevin Brough may not have leapt over tall buildings, but he brought smiles to the students and parents by presiding over the festivities in his alter ego as Superman. Among the impressive student costumes displayed was Pierce Stephan’s velociraptor, which had movable head, jaws and claws. |(Mark Dionne\Town Times.)
Rob Grant
Durham
Fall Clean-ups Hydroseeding Fall Tree Clean-ups Cutting & Chipping Lawn Repair • Thatching Excavation & Bobcat Services Overseeding Home Improvement Contractor Tree Cutting & Chipping Lawn Mowing & Bobcat Services Excavation Decorative Patios and Walks Snow Plowing Block Retaining Walls Contractor Home Improvement Lawn Mowing Outdoor Living Spaces Decorative Patios and Walks Mulch, Stone, Soil Delivered/Installed Block Retaining Walls Lawn Repair • Thatching Outdoor Living Spaces Overseeding Mulch, Stone, Soil Hydroseeding Delivered/Installed
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Ronald McDonald House Charities of Connecticut and Western Massachusetts plans to award a total of $50,000 to 25 local high school seniors this academic year through its scholarship program. Eligibility requirements for the RMHC scholarship are be eligible to enroll in and attend a two-or fouryear college with a full course study and reside in a participating area. Scholarship recipients will be selected on the basis of academic achievement, financial need and community involvement. Applications are available by calling 1-855-670-4787 or online at www.rmhc-ctma.org/scholarships. Deadline to apply is Jan. 21, 2014.
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Vinal Technical High School announced the names of local students named to the first quarter honor roll. High honors - Andrew Conway, Jonathan Conway, Tyler Hall, Wilson Nickel, Shane O’Malley. Honors - Hamilton Brayshaw, Giuseppe Caturano, Zak Caellecz, Jr., Samantha Peters, Chrsitopher Quick.
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School News
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A26 Friday, November 22, 2013
Town Times | towntimes.com
Gratitude
Pets for Adoptions
From Page 20
Tiger and Muffin are only a year old and have been waiting patiently for a forever home together. They were recently separated and did not do well, so they need to be adopted together. Tiger is very outgoing, loving and affectionate. Muffin is a bit more shy, but also very loving and affectionate. They get along great with other cats. Dogs would scare them, and they should be in a home with children over 10 years old or a home without children. They purr when you pet them and love to play. Please adopt them! For more information, call (860) 344-9043 or info@catales.org.
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and I look forward to my friends experiencing all of the wonderful side effects of keeping a daily gratitude journal, on social media or in their privacy of their homes. Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours.
Thanksgiving From Page 26
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them up, peeling and cooking vegetables, setting tables and serving food. There has even been entertainment. Everyone is welcome. Sometimes I have delivered dinners to shut-ins and spent a few minutes chatting with the recipients. It has been a rewarding experience. It reminds me of an old hymn. Now thank we all our God; With heart and hands and voices; Who wondrous things has done; In whom the world rejoices; Who from our mothers’ arms; Has blessed us on our way; With countless gifts of love; And still is ours today.
Gov. Dannel P. Malloy recently released this statement concerning the devastating typhoon in the Philippines: “With millions living in the region now in need of aid, people inspired to donate funds can contact an organization they trust, such as the Philippine Red Cross, the American Red Cross, AmeriCares, or UNICEF, so those organizations can continue to provide the food, medicine and relief that is so desperately needed.” Relief agency contact information: Philippine Red Cross: www.redcross.org.ph Philippine Red Cross: www.redcross.org.ph American Red Cross: www.redcross.org/ AmeriCares: www. americares.org/ UNICEF: www.unicefusa.org/
Town Times | towntimes.com
Friday, November 22, 2013
A27
Tips for finding happiness a day can change your life. • If your children are involved in their own strife with fellow classmates and friends, help them identify common ground. Teach them to forgive and not retaliate. • Set a good example by choosing to notice the good and being happy yourself. Volunteer. Demonstrate that an average person can touch the lives of others.
The world may not be a perfect place yet, but there are many ways to celebrate the positive things in your life and find happiness.
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Specializing in Bathroom Remodeling
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important events, but a steady diet of bad news isn’t good for you. • Teach your children that they have the power to make the world a better one and it starts with belief in oneself. • Take time each day to focus on the good in the present moment rather than being lost in worrisome and often pointless thought. Meditating even 15 minutes
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StatePoint – Are you living a happy life? Most of us face daily routines filled with the stresses of jobs and busy family schedules. And bad news seemingly is all around us, in an increasingly violent world filled with strife and scandal. Yet there are many small changes that can help you and your family live happier, productive lives and improve your community, say experts. “All over the world, people are finding that there really is a way to live happily. They trust life and believe things will turn out well and, if not, they cope. Life tends to prove us right, which is why a positive attitude is so important,” says J. R. Lankford, author of “The Covert Messiah,” which poses interesting questions regarding society, religion and science, as part of a fast-paced mystery thriller series. “Even at the worst of times, people are usually wonderful. We saw teachers in the Newtown, Connecticut shooting give their lives without thought to protect their young pupils. We saw people at the Boston Marathon run toward the danger when the bombs went off,” she adds. It is this observation about the profound and positive aspect of humanity that drives Lankford’s latest novel in her series, which is full of selfless characters willing to risk injury or death for a greater cause. Her novel addresses what would happen if Jesus were cloned and interacted with the modern world today. In a deeply flawed world, Lankford offers some timeless advice for people looking to find serenity and happiness in their daily routines: • Let the things of tomorrow worry about themselves. Yes, keep up with
Allan Poole, Licensed Arborist (B-0384) CALL: (860) 349-8029 EMAIL: arborist@allanstreeservice.com Established 1976 • Fully Insured • Work Guaranteed in Writing
A28 Friday, November 22, 2013
Town Times | towntimes.com
The Largest Family-Owned Real Estate Company in the Northeast An Award-Winning Team
ALWAYS THANKFUL FOR HOME Life transitions can take us by surprise, or be part of a well laid plan. Either way, change has many forms: children are born, adult children move out, in-laws move in, couples divide, families relocate and so on. While our needs change, we all share the desire to make a house a home. Consider your own needs as you read the following reflections as sellers share what it is about their homes that make them feel thankful.
www.TheHuscherGroup.com www.TheHuscherGroup.com
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dhuscher@comcast.net
Middlefield Rd MLS G658112 This house has been known as a homestead for centuries and has protected families and provided well known parties for families and local Durham events. Many great family holidays have been served out of the thoughtfully designed kitchen with this motto in mind “A family that cooks and eats together is thankful in heaven.”
Main St, Rockfall MLS G658225 We are so thankful for the room this house provides for family and friends. From birthday parties and holidays to winter storms, the amenities this house provides allowed us to host and create fabulous memories with family, friends and neighbors. A good thing to be thankful for anytime of the year.
Meeting House Hill MLS G666980 We are thankful for the country charm and wood burning stove that keeps us cozy all winter long. We are thankful for the large wrap around front porch that allows us to watch the world go by on a summer day. Most of all we are thankful to be able to raise our children in a town as wonderful as Durham.
Madison Rd MLS G666136 We love our warm and cozy home and love the beautiful sunsets. We are thankful to have our horses in our own back yard and not have to pay for boarding. Our enclosed porch relaxes you and lets you enjoy nature. We are very thankful for having such wonderful neighbors too!
Mauro Dr MLS G660863 I am grateful for our house because it is on a quiet cul-de-sac and has such a large backyard for the kids to play in, the dogs to run in and my husband to garden in.
Maiden Lane MLS G652800 I will be eternally thankful for Durham and Maiden Lane in my life. There is no better place on earth to enjoy a family, feel free in nature and look at a huge sky.
Crooked Hill We are grateful for the wonderful neighborhood we live in and our great backyard where are grandchildren can freely play. We are also thankful for our 3 car garage and the huge bonus space we have.
Park Place MLS G657045 We are thankful for our quiet cul-desac, our nice level backyard, the floor plan that is very open and four large bedrooms for our growing family. We are grateful to have made special memories here.
Austin Rd MLS G660840 We are grateful for our addition that created a large master suite, 2 car garage and a front porch for relaxing. We’re also thankful for our nice fenced in backyard with our pool and patio.
Sylvan Ridge MLS G649586 I am grateful for my stylish, comfortable and roomy space to call home, and to enjoy with my family and friends. I also appreciate the combination of being conveniently located, yet set back in a quiet country setting.
Lakeshore Drive MLS G657220 We are grateful to have raised a family in this wonderful lake community. We are also grateful to be able to get rental income from our house which has helped us obtain our dream of home ownership.
Main St MLS G664018 My family is thankful for the wonderful memories created in our beloved old home. We have a front row seat for every Memorial Day parade, waving to everyone we know. It’s easy to image the previous hundreds of Thanksgiving meals cooked in the keeping room fireplace, and that is part of our home’s charm.
“On a personal note, I am grateful for the invaluable talents of my coworkers at The Huscher Group.” Sherri Ahern, Realtor – Ellen Paklos, Realtor - Deb Dumont, Marketing Assistant - Jennifer Schulten, Photographer. Special thank you to Claudia O’Connell for all her contributions.
LET US HELP YOU FIND A HOME THAT GIVES YOU PLENTY OF OPPORTUNITIES TO BE THANKFUL.