Volume 20, Number 25
Serving Durham, Middlefield and Rockfall
www.TownTimes.com
Friday, October 4, 2013
Durham Fair embraces The great agricultural tradition pumpkin visits On one hand, the fair strives to highlight and preserve the rich agricultural The Durham Fair, which tradition of the town, as well opened Sept. 26, represented as Connecticut and Greater a clash of cultures and gen- New England. But, the back-half of the erations that was alien to the festival when it began in 1916. fair is a giant concession to By Jeff Gebeau
Special to Town Times
A ride spins on the midway. | (Dan Jackson/Town Times)
See Fair / Page 4
First time at derby he vowed to win By Daniel Jackson
Like tractor pulls and carnival rides, demolition derbies are part of fair tradition, contestants said. Corey Patterson and For those unfamiliar with Patrick Tokarczyk had their a demolition derby, contescars, they both put down the tants get a car, strip it down $25 entrance fee and now, and paint it up. They enter they were waiting for the a dirt-covered pit and smash metal-crunching, tire-spin- into each other until their ning mayhem of a demoli- cars cannot be driven any tion derby to begin at the longer. The two cars that Durham Fair last weekend. survive win the round. To prepare for the event, “ He ’s s c a re d ,” s a i d Tokarczyk got his Nissan Patterson. “Yeah? Like you’re not ei- 240 5x from Patterson, who got it from a friend. ther,” said Tokarczyk. This was the friends’ first Patterson got his BMW 5 time entering a demolition Series station wagon off Craigslist for $300. derby.
Town Times
Durham
modernity, featuring as many amusement park rides as some amusement parks and serving more food items than most. Sights in this area are common to festivals and carnivals of all sizes. Indulgent parents tried to keep up with exuberant youngsters who pleaded for one more turn on their favorite children’s rides, which featured themes such as animals, cars, or trains, or they begged to try the gyrating, kinetic attractions designed for adults. Meanwhile, teen boys and girls acted out rituals of flirting and courtship, as they massed together and immersed themselves in their own social dramas. The amusement park-like section of the fair was discernible before it became
The friends stripped the cars of every seat, every stitch of fabric, all the plastic and every shard of glass. They chained the doors and the hood of the car shut. Toarczyk painted his car like a World War Two bomber, dull olive body, a gaping shark’s mouth on the front. Patterson painted his whole car in gold, down to the hubcaps. And while Patterson is nervous, he has no doubt he’s going to drive out of the demolition pit. “Oh, I’m gonna win. I See Derby / Page 5
Matt Debacco at the Durham Fair with his 1,766.5 pound pumpkin, a new state record. | (Daniel Jackson/Town Times) By Daniel Jackson Town Times
Rising out of a pumpkin patch out of Rocky Hill, a pumpkin entered at the Durham Fair last week broke the state record for heaviest pumpkin. Matt Debacco’s pumpkin weighed in at 1,766.5 pounds. The old state record was 1,487.5 pounds. “The plant grew it,” he said. “I’m taking credit for it.” Gardeners who cultivate behemoth pumpkins use special techniques to push the limits of how big the vegetable will grow. A common misconception people have about growing giant pumpkins is that the growers feed their plants milk, cutting a slit in the vine and using a wick to si-
phon milk into the plant, Debacco said. “No one uses milk. Everyone thinks we use milk.” As soon as the vine is cut, it rots. Instead, Debacco waters and waters and waters his giant pumpkin plants — 80 gallons a day when it doesn’t rain. He also extends the growing season by putting his plants in greenhouses. When the buds form on the plant, he picks off all but one, so the plant will direct all its energy toward the one pumpkin. The plants grow large, covering hundreds of square feet. The plant which grew Debacco’s pumpkin covered 1,100 square feet. “So I couldn’t afford to grow the pumpkin plants in my yard,” he said.
A2 Friday, October 4, 2013
Town Times | towntimes.com
Melissa Albin: More than a librarian
Like us on Facebook: TownTimesNews
PRETE
CHIROPRACTIC CENTER & ACUPUNCTURE Specializing in the treatment of • Low Back & Neck Pain • Headaches • Carpal Tunnel • Sciatica
Dr. April J. Prete
36322R
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS
• Sports Injuries • Auto Accidents • Work Related Injuries • Personal Injuries
Most Insurances Accepted
CALL FOR APPOINTMENT
16 Main St. Unit 302 Durham, CT 06422 • Office 860-349-0639 Fax 860-349-0519 pretechiropractic@sbcglobal.net
Melissa Albin with friends. | (Submitted)
USPS 021-924 Published weekly by Record-Journal at 11 Crown Street, Meriden, CT. Periodicals Postage Paid at Meriden, CT and at additional mailing offices. P O S T M A S T E R: Send address changes to Record-Journal, P.O. Box 915, Meriden CT 06450 1265818
Your
Complete
Auto
Repair
Facility
Locally Owned & Operated Honest And Dependable Service featuring Mobil 1 Lube Express 428 Main St., Durham 30424R
1287245
Melissa made fun times more fun and sad times less sad. She made things better and if something couldn’t be made better, she made me feel better about it anyway. Melissa was an incredibly giving person. You couldn’t know her without knowing this. In the months preceding her move, she went through bags and bags of outgrown clothes, item by item, dividing them up and delivering them to people who could use them. At one point, I suggested she just throw all of these unused and outgrown clothes into garbage bags and bring them all to Goodwill. After all, she had so much to do to prepare for the move. Nope, not Melissa. She continued going through each item, piece by piece. This pair of overalls would be a perfect fit for the sibling of a child she had in Story Time three years earlier. That dress would be perfect for a little girl across Eleven years ago when I town who had eyes to match. moved to Durham, Melissa After weeks of this with no became my first friend and end in sight and moving day the best welcome wagon a fast approaching, I again town could hope for. Melissa suggested she just bring it took the cliché of the quiet, all to Goodwill and be done. introverted librarian and Melissa’s response? “Oh, turned it on its head. She it’ll be fine. I’ll just take it was vivacious, funny, sweet, all to the new house and go compassionate and smart. through it there.” Melissa and I loved taking The Durham Library quickly became my favorite place walks together ... I will conand an excuse to see Melissa tinue to walk these roads and I will imagine that Melissa is and gab about our lives. I will miss her every day somehow with me in spirit. until I see her again. We love I will tell her my stories and you, Melissa. — Claudia O’Connell See Librarian / Page 17 Children felt special when they were with Durham’s Melissa Albin, long-time Head of Children’s Services at t he D u rh a m P ubl ic Library. She welcomed them to their library, encouraged them to read and also to create, dress up, sing, dance, share, and make friends. She would bring penguin stickers back from a conference in the Midwest, because a little girl in Durham liked penguins — and then bring a book too because that little girl had a sister. Parents, as well, felt welcome in Melissa’s area of the library — tired parents, exasperated parents, even Dads. An entire community followed Melissa’s fight against cancer, and an entire community mourned when she passed away Sept. 5, at the age of 42. The following is a sampling of the tributes sent to the Town Times. —Mark Dionne
MON. - FRI. 8-5:30; SAT. 8-NOON
Approved Auto Repair
349-CARE (2273) Rides to work and home available - locally s r
r
TM
Friday, October 4, 2013
Calendar Monday Oct. 7
Thursday Oct. 10
Boys Soccer: 3:30 6:30 p.m. Coginchaug Regional High School, 135 Pickett Lane. CRHS vs. Haddam-Killingworth.
Girls Soccer: 4 - 7 p.m. Coginchaug Regional High School, 135 Pickett Lane. CRHS vs. Immaculate.
Saturday Oct. 5
Tuesday Oct. 8
Football: 1 - 4 p.m. Coginchaug Regional High School, 135 Pickett Lane. CRHS vs. Morgan.
Cross Country: 3:30 - 6:30 p.m. Haddam-Killingworth High School, 57 Little City Road. CRHS at Mega League Meet 2.
Boys Soccer: 6:30 - 9:30 p.m. North Branford High School, 49 Caputo Road. CRHS vs. North Branford.
Go to towntimes.com
34413R
at the Durham Fair?
Cross Country: 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. Wickham Park, Manchester, 1329 Middle Turnpike W. CRHS at Wickham Invitational.
Cross Country: 2:30 - 5:30 p.m. Haddam-Killingworth High School, 57 Little City Road. CRHS at Shoreline Championship.
Send your calendar news to: news@towntimes.com
Friday Oct. 11 Girls Soccer: 6:30 - 9:30 p.m. North Branford High School, 49 Caputo Road. CRHS vs. N. Branford.
Carmine's Pizza & Italian Take-Out
Were You Spotted
Thursday Oct. 17
Historical Society open to the public: 10 a.m.- 2 p.m. Durham Historical Society, 38 Town House Road.
Outboards starting at $79.00 Sterndrives starting at $129.00 Shrinkwrap $8.00per/ft up to 24’ (express cruisers extra) Repower Specials: Outboard, Sterndrives, Inboards Reduced Winter Labor Rates 10% Off All Winter Service Work
www.carminesdurham.com for our menu
2013
Sponsored by
Saturday Oct. 12
We Deliver!
J&S Marine Serivce
860-342-1782
37 Riverview Street - Portland, CT 06480
www.jsmarineservice.com
23058R
Boys Soccer: 6:30 - 9:30 p.m. Hale-Ray High School, 15 School Road, Moodus. CRHS vs. Hale Ray.
Girls Soccer: 3:30 7:30 p.m. Coginchaug Regional High School, 135 Pickett Lane. CRHS vs. Haddam-Killingworth.
(860) 349-5411
36000R
Girls Volleyball: 1 - 3 p.m. East Hampton High School, Maple St., E. Hampton. CRHS vs. E. Hampton.
Friday Oct. 4
A3
37369R
Town Times | towntimes.com
www.linosmarket.com 39284R
MEAT SPECIALS USDA Choice Ground Sirloin 5lbs or more .....$2.89lb USDA Choice Bottom Round Roast .............$2.99lb USDA Choice Rump Roast .........................$2.99lb USDA Choice Eye Round Roast ..................$3.59lb USDA Boneless Rib Eye Steak ....................$7.99lb USDA Boneless Rib Roast ..........................$6.49lb USDA Choice Spoon Roast .........................$4.99lb USDA Choice Veal Cutlets (Medallions) Cut From The Leg ....$7.99lb
7
C T • (8 60) 3
860-349-1123
SUPER SPECIALS
(860) 349-1717
USDA Whole Boneless Rib Roast $4.99 LB WOW WHAT A DEAL GREAT FOR ROAST OR STEAKS AWG WGT 15-17LBS WILL CUT TO ORDER
472 Main St., Durham, CT
Please place catering orders in advance!
We will submit claims to all insurances
we are on facebook
Hours: M-F 7am-7pm Sat. 7am-6pm, Closed Sunday
BONUS BUY
3LBS GROUND CHUCK, 3LBS BEEF CHUCK STEW
$20.13
WITH A PURCHASE OF $10.00 NON SALE ITEMS OR $23.13 We reserve the right to limit quantities. We are not responsible for typographical errors. Expires 10/10/13.
WHOLE BONE IN PORK LOIN $1.69LB WILL CUT IN CHOPS OR ROAST AVG WGT. 20-22LBS BONELESS CHICKEN BREAST 10LB BAG ONLY $16.99 EACH
DELI SPECIALS Land O Lakes American Cheese ..................$3.69lb Finlandia Swiss Cheese ...............................$5.49lb Lorraine Swiss Cheese ................................$5.99lb Boars Head Sweet Slice ..............................$6.99lb Citterio Mortadella .....................................$5.49lb Carando Hot Capicola ................................$5.49lb Russer Cooked Salami ................................$3.89lb Martin Rosol’s Veal Loaf .............................$3.79lb Boar’s Head Ovenold Turkey Breast ............$7.69lb Boar’s Head Corned Beef ...........................$8.49lb Boar’s Head Classic Chicken Breast.............$6.99lb
FISH SPECIALS Fresh Salmon Fillet ....................................$6.99lb Swordfish ..................................................$9.99lb
38530R
2M e a i n S t r 4 9-1
m,
71
Du
47 r ha
et
AN ITALIAN SPECIALTY MARKET!
William J. Witkowski, D.M.D. 360 Main Street P.O. Box 177 Allan A. Witkowski, D.M.D. Durham, CT
A4 Friday, October 4, 2013
Town Times | towntimes.com
Fair visible due to the discordant strains of pop and dance music emanating from the area, although one or two stands played the country music at a moderate volume that was blasting in other sections of the grounds. Musical groups on the
Green and Center Stages, the fair’s two non-main stages, attempted to bridge the cultural divide. A classic rock band played for a few fans on the Green Stage, while a throng amassed on the hillside above Center Stage to hear the inspired harmonies of scholastic choral groups. The fair’s spotlighted en-
Left: Two goats at the petting zoo poke their heads through the fence. Above left: Two men flip chicken at the booth for the Durham Co-operative Nursery School. Above right: A prize hangs from one of the carnival game booths on the midway. Right: Fair-goers look at the photography submissions.
Fall Leaf Clean Up Special Includes:
| (Dan Jackson/Town Times)
Collection and removal of leaves from:
Beds, lawn and paved areas & Final mowing for season — Offering curbside pick-up —
243 Main St. Durham, Rt. 17
Evening & Saturday Hours
Corner Main & Maiden
Call now for your free estimate and to schedule your clean up. Let us do the work, you enjoy the Fall!
Dr. Phil Perrino, O.D.
Eyecare • Glasses • Contacts 37926R
Andersonlawncarect.com
Dr. Frances Sites, O.D.
860-349-2323
1287235
ANDERSON LAWN CARE, LLC 860-349 LAWN
Experienced Doctors Small Town Service
30163R
From Page 1
ORTHODONTICS Dr. John Conroy Dr.Doug John Conroy Dr. H. MacGilpin www.conroyortho.com Where Artistry and Dentistry Align
40192R
1287214 32166R
• Children and adults • Cutting edge technology • Preferred Invisalign provider • Building a New Office to better serve you • No charge for first visit 282 Main Street Extension at Sanseer Mill, Middletown (near Stop & Shop) (860) 347-4618
facebook.com/ezinsurancect “Nationwide Life Insurance Company. Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company and Affiliated Companies. Home office: Columbus OH 43215-2220.”
tertainers are both country stars. Justin Moore and Josh Turner took the main stage on consecutive nights, Friday and Saturday. Debbie Husher, the fair’s marketing coordinator, said one of its primary missions is to preserve and showcase rural agricultural and cultural traditions. She highlighted the 1,230 animals exhibited, including over 200 cows, as well as sheep, rabbits, llamas, goats, chickens, and pigs. Many shows scheduled over the weekend displayed the animals, she said, many of which are recipients of competition awards. One such show allowed attendees to watch as a bull calf, born on Sept. 11, is bottle-fed, she said. Shows featuring horse, ox, and cattle were also scheduled, she said. Husher also mentioned the demolition derby and tractor pull as popular, culturally-suited activities sponsored by the fair. The tractor exhibit is also a frequent destination for fair-goers, Husher said. Jo h n L a Ro s a , ow n e r of Me r i d e n’s L a Ro sa Construction, provided a disSee Fair / Page 16
Town Times | towntimes.com
Friday, October 4, 2013
A5
Derby
PSAT scheduled The PSAT is scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 19, from 7:45 a.m. to 11 a.m., at Coginchaug High School. Deadline to register for the test is Thursday, Oct. 10. A fee is charged. Payment may be made by cash or check. For more information, call the guidance office at (860) 349-721.
| (Dan Jackson/Town Times)
around the track, but finally, it succumbed to the larger car’s attacks. The round ended the way it began. The two surviving cars backed into each other. Patterson climbed out of his car. He stood on the hood and raised two arms in the air to the crowd on the hillside. He then walked away from the pit. The announcer had to remind him to get his trophy. As he collected his trophy and $50 prize money, he rubbed his neck. He won, he said, because his car could take more hits. He couldn’t steer and he had to floor it, but, by golly, he said he would win. And he did.
A BIG THANK YOU!!!
BUsiness, HOme, AUtO, Life & mOre
to the Durham Fair Association for acknowledging the loss of business that occurs during the fair from …
You work hard for your lifestyle Be sure you’re getting the protection and savings you deserve.
Split Endz 16 Main Street, Durham | 860-349-6901
J.C. FARM & GREENHOUSES 385r Wallingford Rd. (Rt. 68) Durham, CT (860) 349-5649
Call us Today
Since 1886
203-481-2684 or visit us online
www.vfmcneil.com for a free, no obligation insurance quote.
Protecting Families & businesses oF connecticut For over 125 years Like Us On
500 east main street, Branford, Ct 06405 203.481.2684 | 800.566.1886 | www.vfmcneil.com
Fresh Native Corn & Tomatoes and other Fruits & Vegetables Hardy Mums Now Available Tomatoes, Eggplant 8” Pots & $4.99 Greeneach Peppers 5 for $20.00 Available for Canning by $14.99 pre-order 12” pots each only
39455R
V.F. McNeil INSURANCE Exceeding Your Expectations
Advertise with us! Call Joy Boone at 203-317-2313
Above: Corey Patterson and Patrick Tokarczyk stand next to Tokarczyk’s car before the derby. Patterson’s gold car is parked in the background. Below: A driver competes in the demolition derby held at the Durham Fair Sept. 26.
Hardy Mums Now Available Pumpkins, Gourds, Corn Stalks, 8” Pots $4.99 5 for $20.00 Apples,each Hay -Bales OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK MON.-FRI. 9-6:30, SAT. 8-6, SUN. 8-5
39511R
know it,” he said. Patterson’s mom, Sue Patterson, is nervous he’ll get hurt, and whoever hurts him, will have to get hurt by her. “They’re little boys in big bodies. That’s all it is.” This year is Kirk Isaacson’s first year in the demolition derby. He’s driving a pink, four-cylinder SAAB. In the past, the fair would separate the big and small cars into different events. But this year, the big cars and the small cars — like his SAAB — are put in the same pit. He looks calm, but he said he’s feeling “adrenaline.” Of course, the event stresses safety. No intentional hits to the driver side door. Drivers can’t put more than three gallons of gas in their cars. He lives in Wallingford, but he grew up in Middlefield. He remembers going to the fair back then, rolling down the hill by the demolition derby pit, and watching the tractor pulls held in the same place. For a time, the Durham Fair used to be quieter, but now “I think the Durham Fair is coming back,” he said. Isaacson said the fair has hosted a demolition derby for only about three years. It was the third round of
the demolition derby when Patterson, Tokarczyk and Isaacson drove their cars with five other drivers into the pit. The ground was torn from the two rounds before, and small car parts littered the ground. The drivers made two lines, four cars facing away from the other four cars. A count down from the audience, and the drivers drove backwards into each other, like a charging line of calvary. The cars proceeded to demolish each other, slowly popping tires, mangling trunks, trying to make that critical hit that would render the other car inoperable. The drivers were dealing with internal issues as their cars took the abuse. Cars stalled and had to be restarted. Wheels were jammed against steel and couldn’t turn. Patterson had steering problems. Soon, it was Isaacson, Patterson and another driver trying to cajole their cars into survival. Isaacson used his Saab’s small size to maneuver
39322R
From Page 1
A6 Friday, October 4, 2013
Town Times | towntimes.com
Commentary
Middlefield Dems introduce municipal candidates Middlefield Democratic Town Committee
Lucy, along with her husband Frank, has been a resPress Release ident of Middlefield for 24 years. She has two daughters, one of whom lives in town, (Election Day is Tuesday, as well as two grandchildren who attend local schools. Nov. 5.) Middlefield Democratic Lucy is a retired teacher, Town Chair Allison Dodge, served eight years on our i n t ro d u c e s t h i s ye a r ’s local Planning and Zoning Democratic slate including Board, and is currently servcandidates for the Board of ing as the chair of our Board Selectman, Board of Finance, of Finance. You might ask Tax Collector, Board of why Lucy has decided to run Assessment Appeals, Town for first selectman. The answer: She believes that our Treasurer, and Town Clerk. town government could be Board of Selectmen Lucy Petrella leads the doing more for its citizens Democratic ticket is candi- and that the town could benefit from more proactive date for First Selectman.
William J. Lema, D.M.D. General Family Dentistry • Children & Adults State of the Art Dentistry in a Caring, Small Office Atmosphere 36306R
Saturday & Evening Appointments Available
Cosmetic Bonding
Regular Hours: Tues.-Fri. 9 am-6 pm
Gum Therapy Crowns & Bridges Dentures & Repairs Emergencies Fillings Root Canals
(860) 349-7006
leadership, accountable budgeting, responsible planning, and an open door policy for all residents. When you get to know Lucy, you will learn that she puts a high priority on details — doing her homework and understanding the issues from every angle. Dave Burgess is the Democratic candidate for second selectman. During his 23 years in Middlefield, Dave has served as a member of the Charter Revision Committee (1992), as Town Treasurer (1997-1999), a member of the Board of Finance (2001-2005), and for the last two years as a member of the Board of Selectmen. Dave has been a social worker with the State of Connecticut for 28 years. Dave is a problem solver and, I believe, you will find him to be direct, honest, and as straight-forward as they come. Board of Finance The two Board of Finance candidates include lifelong resident Susan Hueberger and a newer resident, Laura Williams. Sue is a registered nurse who spent 13 years
working at the Rocky Hill Veterans Home and 9 years at the State Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services. She now works for Hartford Healthcare. She has served on the Middlefield Conservation Commission and is committed to advocating for the residents of Middlefield and Rockfall on the Board of Finance. Though Laura only recently chose to make Middlefield her home, she has terrific energy and enthusiasm and is ready to get involved in helping our community. Laura graduated from the University of Connecticut MBA program with a major in Finance and holds a BA in Economics from Kent State University in Ohio, graduating Summa Cum Laude. In her professional career, she has over 13 years of insurance industry financial expertise and was directly responsible for financial forecasting and the business planning processes while Regional CFO at The Hartford. During the last 5 years she has worked at Hartford Steam Boiler where
6 Way Road, Middlefield William J. Lema, D.M.D. (Near Powder Ridge Ski Area)
“We’ve got YOU covered.” FRE ESTIMAE TES
FALL LS SPECIA
Apple Rehab Middletown *Accepting majority of HMO & Managed Medicare.
“Put yourself in the hands of an Expert” ALL INTERIOR & EXTERIOR REPAIRS 100% GUARANTEED WORK
Roofing ■ Siding ■ Gutters ■ Windows ■ Decks ■ Dormers ■ Baths ■ Total Remodeling 39856R
■
GAF MasterElite ROOFING CONTRACTOR
48th Year
★
Same Owner
“This is the highest level awarded. Only 2% in the U.S. attain this status”
(203) 639-1634 • (860) 621-6898
vnanfito.com
Lic. #570192
Aetna Blue Cross/Blue Shield ConnectiCare Cigna United Medicare Medicaid
APPLE REHAB Middletown 600 Highland Ave • Middletown, CT • 06457 860.347.3315 • www.apple-rehab.com
36377R
100% Financing Available. Ask About Our50 Year Guarantee.
• • • • • • •
she is responsible for the financial management of a $2 million dollar portfolio in addition to actuarial analysis and business planning for engineering and new products. Her background and expertise will make her an excellent addition to our Board of Finance.” Tax Collector and Board of Assessment Appeals Ru n n i n g fo r re - e l e c tion are, Tax Collector Anne Olszewski, Board of Assessment Appeals member Bob Liptak, Town Treasurer Ellen Waff, and Town Clerk Donna Golub. Anne has lived in Middlefield for 37 years and before she became our tax collector, she was active in her husband’s business. She continues to be active in her church’s Ladies Guild. Anne has two sons and is a proud grandmother as well. Bob has lived in Middlefield for more than 40 years and has served on the Board of Assessment Appeals for eight years. He is looking forward to continuing his work on behalf of Middlefield and Rockfall residents. “Ellen has served as Town Treasurer for the last two years and previously served as the shair of the Board of Finance as well as the Assistant Tax Collector. Donna has lived in Middlefield for 36 years and has served as our Town Clerk for 15 years. In addition to her responsibilities as Town Clerk, Donna is the Registrar of Vital Statistics and Assistant Treasurer. In her spare time, Donna is an active member of Vocal Chords. She also is a proud mother and grandmother. Donna has done an outstanding job as our Town Clerk, recently earning her certification even though in her elected position she is not required to do so. During her tenure as Town Clerk, Donna has secured thousands of dollars in grants which have allowed her to electronically index town records making them more accessible to our town residents.
Town Times | towntimes.com
Friday, October 4, 2013
A7
Durham schedules town meeting, plans Coe bridge project a compact wheeler, and a loader — scheduled to be purchased for public works from the highway equipment reserve line after a transfer of $227,000. “We have a pretty big agenda for our Annual Town Meeting,” said Durham’s F i r s t S e l e c t m a n L a u ra Francis. At the BOS meeting, the selectman also looked ahead to potential funding to repair the Coe Road bridge. According to Francis, the bridge is the only one in town eligible for participation in the state’s local bridge program. Under the program, the state commits to funding over 47 percent of the cost. For Coe Road, that means approximately $218,000 for an estimated $460,000 construction project. Francis said she believes the project’s approval is based on the bridge’s poor condition. “This is one of those jobs ... once you know you have to take care of it,” Francis said.
SINGLES DANCE 7:30 PM - 12:30 AM
300 Welch Road Southington, CT 06489
Community hymn sing A Community Hymn Sing, celebrating “Church Hymns, Past to Present,” will be held Sunday, Oct. 20, at 4 p.m. at the Church of the Epiphany, 196 Main St., Durham. Help celebrate the rich heritage of hymn music across history accompanied by a1893 Hook & Hastings Pipe organ. A free will offering will benefit the repair and restoration of the organ. The hymn sing will be followed by light refreshments. For more information, contact Judy Moeckel at jmoeckel@comcast.net or (860) 280-7638; or contact the Church of the Epiphany at office@epiphanydurham.org or (860) 349-9644.
MORE PEOPLE ARE CHOOSING... Ask about our Private Rehab Suites
STRIP STEAK Columbus $ 7.99 lb. Day
Managed by Athena Health Care Systems
39794R
Pine Valley Ballroom
“We should not miss this opportunity.” Francis said she has indicated Durham’s interest in the program to the state.
100 Randolph Road, Middletown, CT 06457 athenahealthcare.com (860) 344-0353
th
Variety of top 40 music Coffee & Dessert • Cash Bar Dressy Attire / Dressy Jeans
Admission $15 includes buffet 7:30 to 9pm “for SINGLES only...” Dances Info: (860)824-3083 • 1-800-824-3038 www.singlesdances.com (inc. map)
“Premium Quality and Old Time Service”
238 Main Street, Durham
860 349 1785
thedurhammarket@aol.com
(Limit 2)
39261R
Saturday, October 5
Noting that the percentage from the state is higher than it could be and that the bridge program can also be de-funded, Francis said,
1290225
At its regular meeting on Sept. 23, the Durham Board of Selectman scheduled a town meeting with a full agenda for Monday, Oct. 7, at 8 p.m. at the Coginchaug Regional High School auditorium. Several town officials are scheduled to be elected at the meeting, including three members for the D u rh a m L i b ra r y B oa rd of Directors, one member for the Compensation Review/Personnel Policy Commission, and one for the Board of Trustees of the Durham Volunteer Fire Company. According to the call to the town meeting, a substantial amount of money will be transferred or carried over at the meeting. From the budget lines for Contingency and Storm Emergencies, $108,788 is scheduled to be transferred to lines dedicated to town engineering, unemploy-
ment compensation, snow removal, Dowd-Commerce Road P ro j e c t , a n d t h e February blizzard. Of those lines, town engineering is scheduled for the largest transfer at $46,151, and unemployment compensation, at $2,198, the smallest. Carryovers totaling $168,568 will be on the agenda for approval. The bulk of that figure comes from White’s Farm Conservation ($78,348) and construction projects on Pent Road ($60,958) and Bear Rock Road ($25,262). The financial transactions were recommended by the Durham Board of Finance at previous meetings. Among the other items at the town meeting is an authorization for Middlefield’s First Selectman Jon Brayshaw to sign contracts with the state for a grant to acquire a new Beast Recycler for the Durham-Middlefield Interlocal Agreement Advisory Board. There are also three vehicles — a one ton pick-up,
36900R
By Mark Dionne
Town Times
sale
Ends 10/14
Made in
USA
Hours: Mon. - Fri. 7am - 7pm, Sat. & Sun. 7am - 6pm • 10% Senior Citizen Wednesdays We are not responsible for typographical errors. We reserve the right to limit quantities.
NEW AT UNCLE BOB’S NO FRILLS PRICING ON STOVES & FIREPLACES
Upgrade to vinyl for $400
SAVE - SAVE - SAVE WOOD - GAS - PELLET Call and ask for Karen
40254R
Funerals, Special Occasions or Just Because... www.unclebobsgardens.com
Uncle Bob’s Florist & Garden Center
Reg. $3170 - other styles available at similar savings
OPEN 7 DAYS
2495
KloterFarms.com 860-871-1048 | 800-BUY-FINE 216 West Rd, Ellington (Corner of Rte 83 & 286)
“Over 20 Years In Business” CT CONT. LIC# HIC0567099
$
Come see what we’re building for you.
M & W 9-6, Tu & Th 9-7, Fr 9-5, Sat 8-5
FREE DELIVERY in CT, MA, RI $1500 min. purchase. Extra charge for Cape Cod, MA.
39375R
191 Meriden Road (Rte 66) Middlefield 860-704-8414
10x12 Sig. T-1-11 Poolside
A8 Friday, October 4, 2013
Town Times | towntimes.com
Opinion Letters to the Editor
School history
To the editor: A few years ago, about 38, the Center School Building belonged to Regional District 13. When D-13 consolidated some schools and other efficiency moves were made, Center School no longer fit into the plans of the district. Therefore, the school building was offered to the Town of Middlefield for a trivial amount of money. Middlefield accepted the offer. Now the problem — what to do with it? Numerous suggestions were made, including demo it, but finally it was decided by the public not to raze the building but to make it into a community center. Our first selectman at the time applied for state funding in order to convert this building according to the town needs and correct numerous building code violations. A small grant in excess of $100,000 was awarded by the state,and a building committee was established. Thus this historical building would not be torn down it would become an integral part of Middlefield. The building committee consisted of five people of various background. With a limited budget and with the
addition of a few more,very small grants the task was accomplished. The building was useful and met building codes both inside and outside. Throughout the years, various small changes have been made to the building but these are normal maintenance &/or upkeep items, nothing more. A recent commentary published by the Town Times, no author was identified, stated that our present first selectman was part of the group that renovated this building and saved it from the “wrecking ball”. This statement is not true, our current first selectman was not part of saving Center School. Al Smith Middlefield (Editor’s note: the commentary was submitted by and credited to the Middlefield Republican Town Committee.)
to congratulate each and everyone of you for your part in our fair this year. I am truly humbled to be part of such a wonderful group of talented people who are all dedicated to the collective success of our great fair. I wanted to thank many of you for your kind comments regarding our fair this year. We all have a lot to be proud of. The structure of our fair as an “all volunteer fair” in my opinion is the heart of what makes our Fair both great and unique. May God Bless our great Fair it’s volunteers and their families. Thank you! Daniel Miramant President Durham Agricultural Fair Association
Teaching moment
To the editor: Every situation with differing viewpoints has a teachable moment. It’s unfortunate Great fair that the “elephant advocates” chose protest over seeking a To the editor: To our 2013 fair volun- more positive and collaboteers: I wanted to personally rative means of community thank you and your families education. Wouldn’t it have been for your participation in our great fair this year. We were more productive and impacttruly blessed to have such ful if the advocates set up a great weather during this booth next to the elephant past weekend. I would like exhibit at the Durham Fair
and invited Durham students to create and discuss posters and artwork to educated fairgoers about their passion for these awesome creatures? Instead of collecting names on a petition to shut down the exhibit, how about collecting a dollar from each person and provide free peanuts or the appropriate nutritional elephant snack to distribute to fairgoers to interact with these animals? Boycotting the fair, being a martyr, and suggesting to our Durham youth that they not attend their town fair was misguided. Our children look forward to the wonders of the fair each year and teaching them to be engaged in positive activity when confronted with an issue will ultimately serve them better. The memories made at the Durham Fair last a lifetime. The only memories some children will have of this year’s event will be that elephants equate to missing out. It’s a shame that this year’s event was tainted by protest as opposed to appreciating the hardworking volunteers that made the fair and our town exceptional. Deborah Hoyt Durham
Letters policy for political season 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
news@towntimes.com advertising@towntimes.com (toll-free)
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 of 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
For Letters to the Editor regarding any candidates or issues that involve the political season, Town Times will only accept and publish letters that are 100 words or less. This policy is in keeping with the policy of the Record-Journal and will be in effect starting with the next edition of Town Times. The last edition for which we will publish letters of a political nature is Oct. 24. We ask writers to focus on their candidate’s worthiness for office and refrain from personal at-
tacks on individuals. As always, we reserve the right to edit letters or to not publish a letter. Letters should contain contact information, including, full name, address and phone number. Only your name and town will be published. If you have a specific role in politics or the political process, please include that information. Letters on other topics will continue to be accepted up to a 300 word limit. Send letters to news@towntimes.com or Town Times, P.O. Box 265, Middlefield, CT 06455.
Political Opinions (100 word maximum)
Above and beyond To the editor: Donna Golub has served the Town of Middlefield as a Town Clerk for the 15 years. During this time, Donna has gone above and beyond her job duties to assist the residents of Middlefield and Rockfall with anything they need. Personally, I never asked a question related to Middlefield or Rockfall that Donna has not been able to answer. Let’s be sure to keep Donna’s pleasant smile by voting for her re-election on Nov. 5. Susan Ingraham Middlefield
Off year election To the editor: In October it’s sometimes hard to remember there’s an election in November. This is an off-year election with no major candidates and little or no TV ads about it. However, minor positions on the slate often have more to do with everyday life than people realize. The Democratic party has put forward a carefully chosen group to represent the people of Durham on Planning and Zoning, The Board of Finance, the Zoning board of Appeals. I urge voters to mark their calendars to vote on Tuesday, Nov. 5. Read supporting letters, become informed about local issues and put your vote where it will count most. Betty Wakeman Long Durham
Dedicated to Durham
To the editor: I am not running for election on the Board of Finance this November, a seat I held over the last year. I will be running for Zoning Board of Appeals and request your support. See Letters / Page 9
Town Times | towntimes.com
Durham Fair off season rentals Items for Durham Fair off season rentals will be accepted on Sunday, Oct. 13, 20, Nov. 3, 10 and 17, from 9 a.m. to noon. Items that need to be placed in storage before Oct. 13 or after Nov. 17, call Pat at (860) 301-5688. A fee is charged to store items.
Letters policy - E-mail letters to news@ towntimes.com, mail to 11 Crown St., Meriden, CT 06450 or fax to (203) 6390210. 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, orga-
nizations 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.
Voter registration The Middlef ield Registrars of Voters are schedule to be in the office at the Community Center, 405 Main St., on Saturday, Oct. 19, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. to register voters for the Nov. 5 Municipal Election. Hand-delivered mailin registration applications must be received by registers (or DMV or voter registration agency) by Oct. 22 and mailed mail-in registration applications must be postmarked by that date for the applicant to be eligible to vote in the Nov. 5 municipal election. Find us on the Web: www.towntimes.com
1266881 1266881
The “financial nosebleed” won’t stop! Who can give you the real During my time on the Board of Finance I have seen facts and truly mind your Martin Anderson in action. taxes? I can. Lucy Petrella He is knowledgeable about Chair, Middlefield the workings of the town and Board of Finance fiscal matters; conscientious about his role on the board; constantly questioning cer- Open government tain financial matters; strategically focused and believes To the editor: in the long term solution. I support Lucy Petrella for He is dedicated to town of Middlefield first selectman Durham and his role on the because she is committed to Board of Finance. Please sup- open government and will port Martin this November. not resort to executive sesTeresa Opalacz sion, as the current adminisDurham tration does. Many important decisions have been made without the prior knowledge Excellent expertise of townspeople. As chair of the Board of To the editor: We a re fo r t u n ate to Finance, Lucy has shown the have someone of Martin ability to lead as well as to Anderson’s caliber inter- control our tax rate. During ested in serving Durham on her tenure as chair, the BOF the Board of Finance. Martin cut the first selectman’s budhas served on the Board of get approximately .62 mils, Finance for the past two which represents a savings in budget cycles. Because of tax dollars in the amount of his extensive experience as approximately $250,000. Lucy deputy commissioner and has proven she can make as acting commissioner of tough decisions. We can’t afthe Connecticut Department ford anyone but Lucy Petrella of Administrative Services, as first selectman. Barbara-Jean DiMauro Martin is uniquely qualified Middlefield to assist Durham in its efforts to reduce expenditures. Martin has been an active Full support volunteer since moving to Durham 17 years ago and he To the editor: brings his personnel expertise Please accept this letter to the town’s Compensation as my full support for Lucy Review and Personnel Policy Petrella for first selectman. Commission. Lucy has a vision for Please join me in elect- Middlefield that includes ing Martin Anderson to the supporting our environment Board of Finance. while promoting reasonable Mary Ryan growth. She understands Durham that a balance is required to support different recreational activities, open space Real facts and growth. Lucy has been on the Planning and Zoning To the editor: The financial information Commission and the Board on Powder Ridge from the of Finance. She understands Middlefield first selectman the connection between preswas misleading. $800,000 of ervation of land and the need the principal was paid, but to build our grand list while only $300,000 came from the maintaining Middlefield’s 20-acre sale. The remaining special character. P l e a s e s u p p o r t Lu c y nearly $500,000, plus $329,197 in interest, came directly Petrella so the Town of M i d d l e f i e l d c a n g r ow from you, the taxpayers. No money will be com- responsibly. Robert Liptak ing from the sale of Powder Board of Assessment Ridge until 2014-2015. At that Appeals time Middlefield will receive $100,000 a year for five years to help with the 15-20 years Find us on the Web: of $200,000-$250,000 annual www.towntimes.com loan payments by taxpayers.
From Page 8
A9
39661R
Letters
Friday, October 4, 2013
CALL NOW FOR FALL CALL NOW FOR FALL SPECIALS & CLEANUPS SPECIALS CLEANUPS STONE& WORK: STONE WORK:
Stone ••Brownstone Traditional DryLay Lay Mortared StoneWalls: Walls:Fieldstone Fieldstone ••Granite Granite Brownstone Traditional Dry && Mortared STONE WORK: Walks & Patios: Brick • Pavers • Bluestone Walks & Patios: Brick • Pavers •Traditional Bluestone Dry Lay & Mortared Stone Walls: Fieldstone • Granite • Brownstone Chimneys && Fireplaces: New & Outdoor Fireplaces Walks & Patios: • Pavers • Bluestone Chimneys Fireplaces: NewBrick & Repair Repair Outdoor Fireplaces Chimneys & Fireplaces: New & Repair Outdoor Fireplaces Snow Plowing and Sanding Snow Plowing and Snow Plowing andSanding Sanding
Experienced •• Early Morning Plowing ExperiencedDrivers Drivers Early Morning Plowing Experienced Drivers • Early Morning Plowing Fleet of Trucks • Dispatcher on Call Fleet of Trucks • •Dispatcher Call Fleet of Trucks Dispatcher on on Call
Call Call Tyler to schedule Tyler to schedule
Call Tyler to schedule FREE your FREE estimate.
ACCEPTING
youryour FREE estimate. NEW PLOW estimate.
CUSTOMERS (860) 349-0119 (860) 349-0119 (860) 349-0119 UP TO DEC 1ST
WWW.TORRISONSTONE.COM • Email: TORRISONSTONE@YAHOO.COM WWW.TORRISONSTONE.COM ••Email: TORRISONSTONE@YAHOO.COM WWW.TORRISONSTONE.COM Email: TORRISONSTONE@YAHOO.COM Satisfaction Guaranteed • Fully Insured • CT Lic.#566924 #566924 Satisfaction Guaranteed • Fully Insured Lic. #566924 Satisfaction Guaranteed • Fully Insured •• CT CT Lic.
A10 Friday, October 4, 2013
Town Times | towntimes.com
Durham Fair’s elephant act protested By Mark Dionne Town Times
A planned, day-long protest of Elephant Encounters greeted visitors to the Durham Fair Sept. 28, as they walked down Maple Avenue towards the top gates. The protest grew out of a petition asking the Durham Fair Association to cancel Elephant Encounters, a trained elephant show booked to make its first appearance at the 94th annual Durham Fair. The petition, organized by Rachel Mann of Durham, eventually collected over 3,000 signatures but failed to persuade the DFA, which voted to continue with the show by a 59-12 vote of its directors on Aug. 14.
Mann said that the protest was the result of the petition’s supporters looking for a peaceful way to register their opposition to the use of elephants for entertainment. “We’re members of the community,” said Jen Kinzel, of Durham, one of the protest’s organizers. “We don’t want to give it a black eye.” Many protesters said that they supported the fair in general and in the past. “We love the fair, just not this act,” Terry Oakes Bourret, of Durham, repeated to the stream of fairgoers. “We’re just here to protest Elephant Encounters, not the fair itself,” said Lauri Buccieri, of New Britain, who said she comes to the fair every year. Most protesters stood si-
Elephant act protesters gather Sept. 28. lently and let their signs do the talking. Preprinted signs read “Say no to Elephant Encounter at the Durham Fair.” One handmade sign displayed a bull hook labeled “Elephant Training Weapon.” One man in the protest drew some laughs from fairgoers with his sign which
read, “I gave up fried dough for the elephants.” Most of the crowd, flowing in from Main Street parking lots and buses, walked past without comment. Some expressed support with thank yous and thumbs up, while others made negative comments or jokes. In the afternoon, one man told the
32400R
1287246
39943R
SUDOKU
33734R
protesters he planned to ride the elephants and another said he would eat the elephants. Although elephant rides have been a part of Elephant Encounters, rides were not offered at the Durham Fair. “Some people say stupid things...but more (are) good than bad,” said Julie Beaumont, of Hamden. The protest lasted from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and with approximately 20 to 30 people participating at various times. Interviewed before the fair by the Town Times, Bill Morris, owner of Elephant Encounters, said that opposition to his show did not happen in other places. “I’m going to tell you why. We’re staying in the Midwest and the people out here are cattle people and animal people. They won’t put up with that crap,” Morris said. Elephant Encounters has faced protesters before in other places, including Maine where Morris’ performance with the Shriner’s Circus led to a failed attempt to ban elephants from the state. On the Sunday of the fair, Morris refused to comment on the protest but said he was happy with the Durham Fair. “It’s a fantastic fair. People have treated us like kings here and because of all the controversy I didn’t expect it,” Morris said. Morris said that the fairgoers gave him a positive reception with no trouble or controversy at his area of the fair. The shows have been See Elephant / Page 16
Town Times | towntimes.com
Friday, October 4, 2013
Food As Art
a culinary celebration
Sunday, November 17, 2013 12:00 - 5:00 Aqua Turf, Southington, CT Get high visibility for your business at the region’s new premier food event.
Food As Art... combines the region’s best culinary delights with nationally acclaimed culinary stars, The Hearty Boys and Susan Heaton, from the Food Channel and Connecticut’s own Kevin Cottle. Hundreds of guests will sample your delicacies or spirits before, during and after our afternoon demonstrations.
Indulge your business BE A SPONSOR. Receive heavy online, print and social media promotion and event visibility. BE A VENDOR. Sell, sample and promote your wares to hundreds of food enthusiasts. REGISTER TODAY IF YOU ARE A: Bakery Caterer Cheese Emporium Coffee Roaster Confectioner Cookbook Author Cooking School
Farm Food Market Kitchen Store Specialty Food Producer Winery/Brewery/Distillery Wine and Beer Merchant And More.
39330R
TO LEARN MORE, CALL: Alyssa Calvanese at the Aqua Turf 860-621-9335, email alyssa.aquaturf@yahoo.com, Or Leigh-Ann Fletcher - 860-877-4324.
A11
A12 Friday, October 4, 2013
Town Times | towntimes.com
Hazardous waste collection
A household hazardous waste collection day is scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 5, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Middlesex Community College, 100 Training Hill Road, Middletown. Residents or Durham and Middlefield may bring common hazardous household waste for disposal free of charge. For a list of items that can and cannot be accepted, visit www.Rivercog.org.
Crowds stretch fair’s ability to provide By Mark Dionne Town Times
Just Menus 2013
The Perfect opportunity for your eating establishment to showcase your culinary choices and prices in our special supplement
Deadline: Friday, Oct. 3rd
Publication Dates: Record-Journal & Southington Citizen Friday, Oct. 18th To advertise, contact your advertising representative or call (203) 317-2312
The Southington
36849R
Citizen
The star of the 94th annual Durham Fair didn’t perform on a stage, get fried in oil, derive from Connecticut grapes, spin round a nd round, weigh 1,766.5 pounds, moo, baa, or trumpet. The star of the Durham Fair was the gorgeous weather, and it visited the fairgrounds for four days. The sunshine and clear skies seemed unfamiliar to longtime fairgoers, who have grown accustomed to at least one washout day. Packing rain gear and judging parking lots by the likelihood of getting stuck has become as much a ritual of the fair as Ride Day. Not a single raindrop fell in Durham and the temperatures stayed in the low to mid 70s from the Sept. 26 ribbon
cutting by Dr. Frances Korn, who attended the first fair as a six-week-old, to the return of exhibits and the handing out of ribbons on Sept. 29. “Who would have thought it would be sunny at the Durham Fair?” asked Lisa Franceschet, of Durham. The record numbers eventually led to a crowd concern and opened gates on Saturday night before the Josh Turner show. The lines for the town green gates backed up to Main Street and then curved south next to traffic. The line, according to witnesses, reached the Dunkin Donuts. I n a s t a te m e n t , t h e Durham Fair Association said, “On Saturday there was surge at the entrance gates and in the interest of public safety, a decision was made by the Fair Association in conjunction with the State
With Mom at Masonicare, we don’t
“
have to worry about a thing.”
Jean Kaas and her late husband always taught their children the importance of planning ahead. And Jean’s family couldn’t be happier that she took her own advice. A West Haven native, Jean moved to Masonicare’s independent living community, Ashlar Village, in 2000. After twelve enjoyable years there, Jean and her family realized she needed a higher level of care. Jean now resides at Masonicare Health Center, where residents with progressed memory loss receive specialized, round-the-clock support. Jean’s daughter Karen says, “My brothers and I are so thankful that Mom is at Masonicare. It’s very comforting to see how much the staff cares about her. They keep her involved in activities and really enjoy her sense of humor. They treat her and us just like family.” Jean’s family also appreciates the full continuum of healthcare services and specialists available on-site. “Thanks to the Masonicare staff and mom’s planning ahead, we don’t have to worry about a thing.”
39711R
To learn more about Masonicare’s Long-Term Care for Memory Loss, call 888-679-9997 or visit www.masonicare.org for more information.
Police to temporarily open the gates. Public safety is our top priority.” The top and bottom gates were opened to prevent the lines from becoming a safety and crowd control problem. The fairgrounds could handle the crowds but the gates could not process them fast enough so temporarily on Saturday night, no admission was charged and the bag inspections were halted. Middlefield’s First Selectman Jon Brayshaw and Durham’s First Selectman Laura Francis praised the decision. Civ ic a nd non-prof it booths reported record days and sold out items as the crowds poured in. The Durham Co-op ran out of plates and forks a nd ser ved it s g r i l led chicken on hot dog holders. According to Franceschet, a Benchwarmers‘ volunteer, its booth was completely sold out. “We sold out of Bison Burgers. We never sell out of Bison Burgers,” she said. Vo l u n t e e r H e a t h e r Deming said the Middlefield Volunteer Fire Department ran out of bread bowls and served its chowder out of cups, with bread slices on the side. “Everywhere you turned there were crowds,” Deming said. The United Churches of Durham had to stop selling lime rickeys for 30 minutes while they waited for new canisters of seltzer to be carted up the hill. “It’s great to see the sunshine and the crowds,” said Cheryl-Ann Tubby. Some volunteers spoke with pride of their booth’s ability to withstand the crowds. “We came right down to the wire,” said Betsy Dean at the DMYFS booth. Dean said they had one gallon of cider left when the fair closed on Saturday. According to Dean, the booth normally needs one trip to Lyman Orchards, but See Crowds / Page 20
Town Times | towntimes.com
Friday, October 4, 2013
Antique car show
Complete Complete Dental Dental Care Care For For The The Entire Entire Family Family NO NEED to be without Teeth! 5 Styles starting at $199*
10% 10% Senior Senior Discount Discount Call Now Now Call For A A FREE FREE For Consultation Consultation
DENTURES UPPER OR LOWER Dentures available Extractions and Relines and in 24 Dentures at same Repairs while hours. appointment! you wait.
Complete Affordable Family Dental Care!
• Fillings • Cleanings • Teeth Whitening • Crowns • Bridges • Cosmetic Dentistry Payment Options Available. Most Insurance Plans Are Accepted. MERIDEN
MIMS OIL
533 S. Broad St., Townline Sq. Plaza
203.238-7968 ORANGE
CALL FOR TODAY’S LOW PRICE 203-238-7512
501 Boston Post Rd., Liberty Sq. Plaza
203.799.3311
38967R
lumberyards in the United States. The car is 12 feet long, weighs 1,700 pounds and has a cruising speed of 35 mph. For more information, call (860) 346-0746.
39789R
The Middlesex County Historical Society’s 28th annual Antique Car Show and Flea Market is scheduled for Sunday, Oct. 6, at Middletown High School, 200 LaRosa Lane. Car registration begins at 8:30 a.m.; judging starts at 11:30 a.m. with trophies awarded at 2:30 p.m. A fee is charged for admission and car registration. Although cars registered for judging must be dated 1988 or older, there is no cut-off date for cars being placed in the car corral. In case of rain, the show will be held Sunday, Oct. 13. A rare 1922 Model “T” Ford, built for the Strong & Hale Lumber Company in Portland, will be featured at the show. Only six cars of this style are known to have been built for various
A13
www.newenglanddentalct.com Offer expires on 11/30/13
All Denture Material ADA Approved
Order online:
mimsoil.com Find us on the Web: www.towntimes.com
24 Hours/7 Days 50 gal. delivery
ENERGY ASSISTANCE AVAILABLE H.O.D. 7
Sacred Heart Academy STRONG VALUES . STRONG ACADEMICS . STRONG LEADERSHIP
WE NE EK XT EN D!
! XT D NE KEN E WE
mickeyfinnstores.com
GIGANTIC clothing & footwear
RAIN OR SHINE
TENT
SALE
TOPS - JEANS - OUTERWEAR SHOES - SNEAKERS & MORE
FRI.
SAT.
SUN. MON.
EXPLORE OUR WORLD OPEN HOUSE
Sunday, Oct. 20, from 1 to 3 p.m.
37284R
Impelled by Christ’s Love
ENTRANCE EXAM
Saturday, Nov. 2, from 8 a.m. to Noon
Founded in 1946, Sacred Heart Academy is an independent, Catholic preparatory day school for qualified young women in grades nine through twelve.
265 Benham Street, Hamden CT | 203.288.2309 sacredhearthamden.org
• MENS • LADIES • KIDS
5
$
RACKS
10
15
$
$
RACKS
RACKS
40036R
OCT. 11TH OCT. 12TH OCT. 13TH OCT. 14TH (12-6) (10-6) (11-5) (10-4)
ALL FIRST QUALITY NAME BRAND MERCHANDISE
874 BERLIN TPKE. BERLIN, CT (860) 828-6547 OPEN: MON.-FRI. (9:30-9) SAT (9:30-6) SUN. (11-5)
A14 Friday, October 4, 2013
Town Times | towntimes.com
Sports
Heart of the Valley The Heart of the Valley Quilt Guild is scheduled to meet, Thursday, Oct. 10, at 7 p.m. at the Portland Senior Center, 7 Waverly Ave. The October program is working on a donation project making blocks out of denim jeans for a youth quilt. Bring denim and flannel scraps, and cutting tools. Heart of the Valley Quilt Guild, a central Connecticut quilting group of about 40 members from area towns, promotes quilting education and charitable causes. Guests are always welcome. For more information, contact Mary MacIlvain at (860) 265-6279.
Youth football: Falcons best Canton Community Submissions A Team Durham-Middlefield 28, Canton 0: DurhamMiddlefield picked up the road win to improve to 4-1 on the season. The Falcons’ ground and pound game worked to perfection; the locals had the triple option working from the get go. Dylan DeGennaro scored on Durham-Middlefield’s first drive to give the visitors a quick 7-0 lead. From there, the Falcons never looked back. Durham-Middlefield’s shut-out defense was led by Anthony Curry and Andrew Gleason. C Team Durham-Middlefield 7,
Canton 0: With the game a scoreless tie, DurhamMiddlefield came out strong early in the third quarter. The Falcons’ began the drive of the game on their own 25. A couple key passes from quarterback Ryan Doyle to Jackson Moore and Josh Mann set the tone for the drive. Power running by Shea Larkin, Michael Roccapriore and A.J. DeFilio moved the ball quickly down field. With great blocking by Moore, Justin Sambor, Sebbie Manning, Jeremy Mangiamelli, Josiah Martinez, Josh Mann, Anthony Toth and Logan Saks, Doyle capped the march with a 20-yard touchdown run and punched in the extra point to give DurhamMiddlef ield its winning margin.
Hoop tryouts The Coginchaug Basketball Club (CBC) will hold tryouts for the 2013-2014 season at Coginchaug Regional High School on the following dates: Monday, Oct. 7: 6 to 7:15 p.m. 5th/6th grade boys; 7:15 to 8:30 p.m. 7th/8th grade girls. Wednesday, Oct. 9: 6 to 7:15 p.m. 5th/6th grade girls; 7:15 to 8:30 p.m. 7th/8th grade boys. Tuesday, Oct. 15: 6 to 6:30 p.m. 5th/6th grade girls; 6:30 to 7 p.m. 5th/6th grade boys; 7 to 7:30 p.m. 7th/8th grade girls; 7:30 to 8 p.m. 7th/8th grade boys. For more information, visit www.cbcthunder. org.
FREE
Consultation Schedule Today!
860-426-1336
33745R
• • • • • • • • • • •
Botox Laser Hair Removal Scar Reduction Laser Skin Rejuvenation Body Contouring • Cool Sculpt Dermal Fillers Laser Vein Reduction Spray Tan • Latisse Facials • Chemical Peels Microdermabrasion Massage
Medical Director: Dennis Buonafede, MD
39760R
196 Queen Street Southington CT EternaVitaMedSpa.com
Town Times | towntimes.com
Friday, October 4, 2013
A15
Carnival games get real Town Times
As fair-goers walk through the midway of one of the fairs in the area, in the deepening dusk lit by the lights of the carnival and perfumed with the smell of fried food, carnival worker Perry Graham calls out to them, inviting them to play his game. Perry Graham has been to many of the agricultural fairs in the area as a carnival game worker. During opening day of the North Haven Fair Sept. 5, he was at his booth, a game where contestants tried to throw a basketball into a hoop a few feet away. A sign nestled among the stuffed animal prizes said every child was guaranteed to win. “Come on, Dad! Let him play!” he tells a father with his young son. They walk over, the man gives Graham a few dolla rs. T he boy misses the first few times, but Graham gives him a few more tries. The boy can’t quite make the basket, so his father holds him up and finally, his shot lands in the hoop. Graham awards the boy a stuffed dog. A few weeks later, Graham was working the Durham Fair. Fair workers bustled to and fro, making last-minute preparations as he sat down with The Citizen before the fair opened Thursday, Sept. 26. The state was inspecting the games on the midway, and he didn’t want to get in anyone’s way, Graham said. We sat in the shade of the cow barn. Twenty, thirty years ago, the carnival environment was very harsh, Graham said. “People hated when the carnival came into town with the exception of the kids who saw only teddy bears and rides,” he said. Some carnival workers were con men and thieves, he said, and people started complaining that they paid $100 for a stuffed animal. The State Gaming Division got involved and now, there is more consumer protection, more guarantees that people will walk away with a prize.
“It’s retail sales. You’re selling teddy bears,” Graham said. He got into the carnival business after 9/11. As a New Yorker and a survivor of the terrorist attack, he became worried about the next attack. Maybe he would not be as lucky, he thought. A friend, who was in the carnival, suggested he try the business. Today, Graham travels with the carnival five to seven months out of the year. During the rest of the year, he works for Pizza Hut, training cooks every time a new franchise location opens. He likes the business because of the interaction with people, of the way people smile after they win and they walk away with a prize. “And for me, that’s what brings a lot of inspiration. See Carnival / Page 23
Perry Graham interacts with fair-goers during a recent fair in central Connecticut. | (Dan Jackson/The Citizen)
CT Registration #0000124
Providing in-home eldercare services throughout Connecticut since 1996, our goal is to help seniors maintain their lives to the fullest while continuing to live at home.
• Homemakers • 24 Hour Live-in Companions • Personal Care Services • Fully insured, employees bonded, comprehensive background checks. • Free in-home evaluation by an RN • RN owned and operated
Technologically advanced products which promote independence, safety, and improved quality of life for clients living in private homes or community based settings.
Special Offer “Care Plus” Program Receive Our Personal Care Services and State-of-the-Art Remote Monitoring System from BeClose® for a low cost of $19.50 per hour.*
*Minimum 40 hours per week.
203-634-8668
www.assistedlivingct.com
•Remote Monitoring Systems which may address emergency response, falls, med compliance, nutrition, and wandering. •Automated Medication Dispensers to improve compliance. •GPS Locator Devices •LifeWatch Emergency Response Systems •Technical Specialist will do in-home visits to teach use of Wii Sports and games, and other computer related activites which can enhance the lives of seniors.
203-235-TECH
www.assistedlivingtechnology.com
25370R
By Daniel Jackson
A16 Friday, October 4, 2013
Town Times | towntimes.com
Elephant
Fair
From Page 10
full all weekend, Morris said, without even standing room in the crowds. Noting the crowded shows, Morris himself raised the idea of the DFA directors who voted to cancel the show. “How about those 12 who voted against me?” Morris asked. “Eat crow.” One man, after paying the extra fee for a family picture with Cora the elephant, sought out Morris inside the ring to shake his hand. “Thanks for coming. See you next year,” the man said. Asked about next year, Morris said, “Definitely. If I’m
asked, I’ll be back.” T h e D u r h a m Fa i r ’ s Marketing Coordinator, Debbie Huscher, said by e-mail that planning for the 2014 fair would not begin until December. Regarding the protest, Huscher wrote, “The protest was peaceful and people could make their decision if they wanted to enjoy the Elephant Encounter or see all the other things the fair had to offer.” During the show, Cora performed tricks like blowing on a harmonica and moving to Morris’ commands. During one evening performance, she smashed watermelons. Regarding the show, Kinzel
asked, “Sure they’re docile now, but how do you think they got that way?” While much of the opposition has been to elephant acts in general, some has been specifically directed at Morris’ business and Cora, who is one of the oldest performing elephants in the country, if not the oldest. Speaking of Cora’s age at the protest, Lili Kinsman of Durham said, “I think he’s trying to squeeze every dime out of her.” Morris’ shows in Connecticut did not diminish that part of the controversy. Morris told audiences at each show that Cora is 52. Morris also told media outlets in-
“My kids feel I made the right decision. I know I did.” Joan ~ assisted living resident since 2011
From Page 4
cluding the Town Times that he acquired Cora when she was two. A placard greeting fairgoers at the Elephant Encounters exhibit said that Cora has been in the Morris family since 1960, putting her at 55 instead of 52. Me d i a re p o r t s u s i n g Morris as a source, including the Bangor Daily News and Charleston’s Post and Courier, put Cora’s age at 44 in 2001 and 47 in 2004, also putting her at 56. Estimates of a Asian elephant’s average lifespan can vary wildly, but zoos consider their elephant populations elderly when they get to 50. Cora’s retirement was on the mind of many at the protest. “Sanctuary for Cora and Shannon” read one sign. Bourret, who like Mann and Kinzel was a constant presence at the protest, said she was turning over the money she made this year parking vendor cars to the Tennessee’s The Elephant Sanctuary for retired elephants.
play of classic trucks for the fair that fits with its motif. “People appreciate them and I like to display them,” he said. Bob Thody, superintendent of the Durham Fair Farm museum, which featured annals of historic regional farms, along with exhibits of 19th century farm equipment, Connecticut dairies, and a blacksmith shop that was manned during the weekend, said that as the years go by, it is challenging to maintain public interest in the area’s agricultural heritage. The perspective of at least one tender-aged resident will leave Thody encouraged, however. Holly Andrews, 3, said she prefers barnyard animals to amusement park rides. But, alas, the reason Andrews provided did not pertain to any notion of the nobility of the farming tradition. “The rides go too fast,” she explained simply.
SUDOKU ANSWER
CROSSWORD ANSWER
33743R
Assisted Living
Memory Care
Adult Day
RIVER BEND FURNITURE STORE & Storewide WAREHOUSE SALE
At Pond Ridge, on the Masonicare at Ashlar Village campus in Wallingford, choice is a way of life. Complementing Masonicare’s continuum of health-care services, our accredited assisted living community offers many living options and personalized support.
Sale
Call today to schedule a personal tour of our welcoming community. Our monthly fees are very inclusive with no up front community fee. 1-800-382-2244 /www.MasonicareAssisted.org 39696R
44 North Plains Industrial Road, Wallingford, CT 39328R
Cheshire Road, Wallingford
Aug. 16, 17, 18 & 19 2013 • 9:00 am-5:00 pm Open Every Friday • Saturday • Sunday • Monday The Warehouse is full!! 10am-5pm 203-265-1331
Town Times | towntimes.com
Obituaries
Paul J. Ruzycki MERIDEN — Paul
Anthony M. Dyer
NORTH BERWICK, MAINE - Anthony M. “Tony” Dyer, 74, of North Berwick, Maine, passed away Thursday, Sept. 19, 2013. He was born to the late Ruth Magee Dyer and H. Kendrick Dyer, of North Berwick, Maine, and Middlefield, Conn. Tony grew up in North Berwick where his family and friendships contributed to his strong character and his childhood adventures were a lifetime source of captivating stories. He was an avid sportsman and spent many happy hours in the Maine woods. He leaves a daughter, Rachael E. Dyer; sister, Pamela D. Bridgeford, of Mansfield Center; sister and brother-in-law, Gretchen and Joseph McEvoy, of Cromwell; niece, Rebecca Opher, husband, Albert Opher and their children, Albert, Olivia, and Camille, of Kennett Square, Pa.; and nephew, Matthew Bridgeford, of San Pablo, Calif. Tony graduated from North Berwick High School in 1957 and served in the U.S. Navy. He graduated from Aroostook State Teachers’ College and Wesleyan University. He taught social studies and history in Regional District 13 in Middlefield/Durham, Conn., until his retirement in 1999. A master storyteller, Mr. Dyer made you feel like you were part of an historic event or childhood escapade. He will be remembered for encouraging students to be independent thinkers. He will also be remembered for his signature bowties. In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting that donations be made to the D.A. Hurd Library, 41 High St., North Berwick, ME, 03906 and/or First Congregational Church of North Berwick, P.O. Box 565, North Berwick, ME, 03906. A memorial will be held on Oct. 19, from 2 to 4 p.m. at the First Congregational Church of North Berwick. Tony’s family also invites you to share stories or condolences at his Memorial Website: http://memorialwebsites.legacy.com/TonyDyer/ homepage.aspx. Arrangements are in the care of the Johnson Funeral Home, 26 Market St., North Berwick, ME.
Find us on the Web: www.towntimes.com
Aunt Clara’s
Coming for a visit . . . If you would like your business to participate, contact your account representative or Kim Boath at 203-317-2312
Diane E. Morris
WATERTOWN - Diane E. (Borrell) Morris, 64, of Woolson St., died Wednesday, Sept. 25, 2013at her home. Diane was born in the Bronx, N.Y., Jan. 27, 1949, daughter of the late Stephen and Frances (Kirkman) Borrell. She was raised in Yorktown, N.Y., and graduated from Yorktown High School. She lived in Ridgefield for many years before moving to Southbury where she lived for several years prior to moving to Watertown a year ago. An accomplished hobbyist, Diane’s interests and activities were diverse. She liked ice skating and horseback riding; was a gifted seamstress; was fluent in German; enjoyed European travel, was a musician and a gardener; an artist and a craftsman. She leaves two daughters, Colleen Morris, of Watertown, with whom she made her home, and Erin Morris, of Norwalk; a brother, Steven Borrell; and three grandchildren, Matthew Schaniel, Lauren Schaniel, and Jeremy Schaniel. She was predeceased by her sister, Denise “Duke” Cahill. Funeral services and burial are private and at the convenience of the family. Friends may call at Hickcox Funeral Home, 195 Main St., Watertown, Sunday, Oct. 6, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Memorial contributions may be made to Regional Hospice and Home Care of Western Conn., 39 Old Ridgebury Road, Danbury, CT 06810. For additional information or to leave an online message of condolence, please visit www.hickcoxfuneralhome.com
Obituary fee Town Times charges a $50 processing fee for obituaries. For more information, call Town Times at (203) 317-2240.
35182R
Joseph Ruzycki, 72, of Meriden passed away unexpectedly but peacefully in his sleep after a brief illness on We d n e s d ay, Sept. 25, 2013. He will be missed greatly by his wife and his children. Paul was the beloved husband of Danielle Flagg. They spent over 30 happy years together. Paul was born in Meriden on March 12, 1941. He was the son of the late Frank Ruzycki, Sr. and Helen Ruzycki. Paul attended Meriden High School and graduated from Wilcox Technical School. He was a member of the Plumbers, Pipefitters and HVAC Local 777. Paul retired in 1996 with 35 years in Local 777 most of his years working for Kay Company of Meriden. Paul was a certified plumber, pipefitter and welder. Paul enjoyed his retirement. He spent the time golfing, taking trips to Florida and going to the beach in Westbrook, Old Saybrook and Newport, R.I. During his life, Paul enjoyed being with his wife and his children. He also enjoyed vacations to the Caribbean islands, Mexico, skiing in Vermont, ice skating, ice-fishing, wildlife and the environment, lake fishing and fishing wherever he vacationed and on his boats in Long Island Sound. He will always be remembered for his great smile and his easy going manner. He is survived by his wife, Danielle Flagg, of Meriden; his children, Sharon Ruzycki and Amanda Ruzycki, of Old Saybrook; brother, Mike Ruzycki and wife, Bernadette, of Colorado; sister, Bonnie Hubbard and husband, Tom, of Meriden; brother, Frank Ruzycki and his wife, Judy, of Georgia; brother, David Ruzycki, of Florida; Brett Flagg, of Granby; Lance Flagg and his wife, Tonya, of New Hampshire; Sharon Ruzycki’s fiancée, Ron Bolduc; Paul’s “like a daughter, Shelly”; and many other nieces and nephews and grand nieces and nephews. Paul’s memorial service will be private. In lieu of flowers, Paul would want everyone to laugh, have fun and enjoy life.
Advertise with us! Call Joy Boone at 203-317-2313
Friday, October 4, 2013
A17
Librarian From Page 2
I will ache for hers. It is not the same but I think she would want me to just keep walking and so I will. — Jody Benbow I am so grateful that she was one of my children’s first teachers. And, what a teacher she was. She made reading fun which was evident when she held a “Pinkalicious” event and turned up at the library with a pink face! The last chapter of her book may have ended, but it will forever live on in our memories and especially in our hearts. —Nina Healy Melissa’s smile brightened up my day and made it sunny when it was raining. — Carly Benbow, age 8 She always made each child feel so special and in return they loved her. Everyone in town knew who she was and especially the children. I would always call her Durham’s very own “ local celebrity” and she would laugh. She was one of the greatest mothers I have ever known as well as friend, wife, daughter, sister and aunt. She will be truly missed and I feel blessed to have known her. — Gina Turner I recall countless hours of learning and fun times that she instilled in my children, and all the children that she lead through Story Time. Jesus said, let all the children come to me. Melissa was like that too, all the children flocked to her and she adored them and they adored her. — Evelyn Kearns One day I got a message that the book I reserved was ready. I thought it was a mistake because I did not recall reserving a book. When I went to ask about it, I found out Melissa had put a new book about horses on reserve for my horse-loving daughter. Melissa knew exactly what my girls liked to read. It was always a fun surprise to see what book was waiting for us next. — Melanie Gargamelli See Librarian / Page 22
A18 Friday, October 4, 2013
Town Times | towntimes.com
Seniors
Get stitchy Durham Recreation has scheduled get Stitchy, an open dew event for quilters and sewers, for Wednesday, Oct. 9, from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Durham Activity Center, 350 Main St. Enjoy the company and support of other crafters. Bring your project and
Senior exercise
Senior exercise is offered Monday, Wednesday and Friday, at the Durham Activity Center. Two classes are offered: 9 a.m. and 10 a.m. There is no cost for Durham residents 60 and over.
sewing machine(including extension cord.) For more information and to sign up, contact Pam Carey at (860) 349-0453, carey_clan@sbcglobal. net or Vicki Berry at (860) 343-0879, vberry11@comcast.net.
Durham senior lunches
Senior lunches are of-
fered every Monday and Wednesday at the Durham Activity Center, 350 Main St. The Elderly Nutrition program is designed to provide nutritional meals, at a low cost to persons ages 60 and over and their spouses. To cover the cost of the meal, a suggested donation is welcome. To make lunch reservations, call Amanda Pedersen, senior cafe manager, at (860)
Town Times Service Directory
Durham Office Equipment
DAVID M. FUGGE
860-349-9252 Bob Granata Samsung Cash Register Sales and Service
Since 1976 29716R
1289917
Durham, CT (860) 349-1131 Pick-up & Delivery
THE DIRT GUY
St. Luke’s Eldercare
601R Guilford Road Durham, CT 06422
St. Luke’s supports successful aging and independent living serving veterans and elders. Free services provided are friendly visiting, out-ofarea medical transportation, transportation for elderly veterans to VA hospitals, grocery shopping services, minor home repair, information/resource referral, individual case management, education/advocacy, The Gatekeeper Program, Access4Care and St. Luke’s Apartments on Broad Street in Middletown. For specific information on their services, call (860) 347-5661. St. Luke’s is located at 760 Saybrook Road in Middletown.
860-303-0500
65R Johnson Lane Durham, CT 06422 860-349-9827
Lic.# 102065
Lic.# 123670
37101R
1289952
www.dirtguy.com
Planeta Electric LLC 32158R
Your best choice for topsoil, mulch, compost and so much more!
Brownstone Psychological Associates, LLC Debra S. Nelson, Psy.D. & Stacia K. Bjarnason, Ph.D.
Hair - Nails - Tanning
38168R
Total Hair Care 34349R
199 Main Street, Durham, CT Durham, CT 860-788-3231 860-788-3231
16 Main Street • Durham, CT • (860) 349-6901
www.BrownstonePsychological.com 37167R
Raintree Lawn Care Lawn Mowing
Residential Wiring Specialist Landscape Lighting Design • Install • Service
860-663-3107
Ernie Laudano • STONE & MULCH DELIVERED • Hedge Trimming
FREE ESTIMATES • FULLY INSURED Serving Durham and Middlefield since 1985
Lic. & Ins. EI 183930
36406R
31816R
Knitters and crocheters meet every Thursday, at 9:30 a.m., at the Middlefield Senior Center for coffee and knitting. Bring your unfinished project or start a new one. The group also makes Afghans for the Middlesex Cancer Center and the MidState Cancer Center. Yarn and needles are available.
Dial-A-Ride provides curbto-curb transportation for the elderly and disabled. This service can be used for medical appointments, shopping, banking and other places, and is available five days a week. Call (860) 347-3313 for a reservation. There is a fee.
Professional Service
Serving Middlesex County Since 1976
Knitting and crocheting
Dial-A-Ride
Antique & Fine Furniture Refinishing & Restoration
Copiers • Shredders Fax • Typewriters • Printers
349-3153. Bingo is offered every Wednesday, at 1 p.m., following the luncheon.
The Middlefield Senior Center is located in the M i d d l e f i e l d Co m m u n i t y Center at 405 Main Street. Monthly lunch menus can be picked up at the senior center or Town Hall. Me a l s a re s e r v e d i n the Senior Café Monday, Wednesday and Friday. For questions or to sign up for any programs contact Antoinette Astle at (860) 349-7121.
Town Times | towntimes.com
Friday, October 4, 2013
Government Meetings
A19
Preschool screening
Durham Government Calendar
N
34888R
EIL
O NE
S
Seasoned Firewood
36459R
Participation is also a pre- are welcome. Regional School District Board of Selectmen, 7 p.m. Parental permission and 13 offers a play based screen- requisite for a child to be Wednesday, Oct. 9 ing for children ages 3 and considered as a role model involvement are required. Planning & Zoning, 6:30 4. The screening allows par- for the preschool program. Children will be separated (Unless otherwise indi- p.m. Screenings are scheduled from parents during the ents the opportunity to have Wednesday, Oct. 16 cated, all meetings are held their child observed by dis- for Friday, Oct. 11, at 9 and 11 screening for an accurate Inlands/Wetlands in the Durha m Libra r y. trict professionals in an in- a.m. in the preschool room assessment. Check the town website at Commission, 7 p.m. For more information, call formal, fun setting to ensure at Brewster Elementary Thursday, Oct. 17 www.townofdurhamct.org their child’s development is School. All district four Crystal at (860) 349-7210. Board of Finance, 7 p.m. for updates.) progressing at an age-ap- year-olds and children turnMonday, Oct. 21 Monday, Oct. 7 ing three by Aug. 30, 20154 propriate level. Middlef ield Housing Fire Department Trustees, Authority, 7 p.m. Durham Firehouse, 7 p.m. Annual Town Meeting, Thayer Auditorium Coginchaug High School, 8 Town Times Service Directory p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 8 Conservation Commission, JO Library, 7:30 p.m. Library Board of Trustees, Library, 7:30 p.m. D u r h a m Vo l u n t e e r Home Improvements LLC f i re Compa ny, D u rh a m Firehouse, 8 p.m. Split to any size you prefer and delivered! Celebrating Our 27th Year Wednesday, Oct. 9 Roofing • Siding • Windows • Doors • Skylights • Decks • Gutters • Custom Carpentry All hard wood! Board of Education, John Flooring • Ceilings • Painting • Sheetrock • Kitchens • Baths • Window/Door Screening Lyman elementary School, FREE Estimates Reg. #517277 7:30 p.m. No Obligation 860-349-8771 Fully Insured Thursday, Oct. 10 Zoning Board of Appeals, Town Hall, 7:30 p.m. Monday, Oct. 14 Historic District Commission, Library, 7 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 15 Board of Finance, Town Hall, 7 p.m. Economic Development Est. 1965 Commission, 10 Canf ield • Septic tank cleaning Lane, 7 p.m. • Septic systems installed & repaired Agriculture Commission, • Sewer drain cleaning • Portable restroom rentals Town Hall, 7 p.m. 270 Main St., Middlefield 860-349-8551 Wednesday, Oct. 16 Planning & Zoning, Town Hall, 7 p.m. • Lawn Repair • Thatching Recreation Committee, • Overseeding Durham Activity Center, 7 • Hydroseeding • Deck Building p.m. • Land Clearing Thursday, Oct. 17 • Excavation & Bobcat Services • Home Improvement Contractor P ublic Sa fety Faci lity • Lawn Mowing Renovations Pla n n i ng • Decorative Patios and Walks Committee, Durham • Block Retaining Walls • Outdoor Living Spaces Rob Volunteer Firehouse, 6:30 • Mulch, Stone, Soil Durham Grant p.m. Delivered/Installed • Tree Cutting & Chipping DM I A A B , M idd lef ield “Total yard renovation and much, much more” Community Center, 7 p.m. Water Commission, Town Fully Insured HIC #0630530 860-301-7722 Hall, 7 p.m. Monday, Oct. 21 Inland/Wetlands, Library, Family Pest Control LLC Commercial • Residential • Industrial • Licensed • Insured 7 p.m. “Our family serving Your family” APEC ELECTRIC Board of Selectman, Town Locally Hall, 7 p.m. All Owned and
Call Joel 860-250-7285
Cahill Septic Service
38221R
37290R 1289954
31825R 1287233
"Electrical Construction Built on Quality" “ N o J o b To o S m a l l ”
Wallingford: (203) 265-7328 Toll Free: (800) 269-0948 www.RidOfBugs.com
Connecticut Business License # B-2045
Joseph W. Fontanella
Lic.# E1-123497
37124R
37493R
31016R
Middlefield Government Calendar (Unless otherwise indicated, all meetings are held in the Community Center.) Monday, Oct. 7
Purpose Electrical Contractor
Operated Since 1977
860-349-0303
A20 Friday, October 4, 2013
Town Times | towntimes.com
Crowds
Advertise with us! Call Joy Boone at 203-317-2313
From Page 12
Town Times Service Directory
Clean As A Whistle
HICLIC #566924 nne
e PA IO n A A a e a d
Keeping homes neat & tidy since 1995 Affordable, Reliable, Trustworthy
CALL NOW FOR FALL SPECIALS & > `ÃV>« }\ Full landscape Design & Installation U Excavation, CLEANUPS Drainage U Lighting & Fencing U Yard Work & Much more... -Ì i 7 À \
Walks & Patios U Steps & Refacing U Pavers, Bluestone Poolscapes U Traditional Walls U Fieldstone, Granite & Brownstone U Outdoor/Indoor Fireplaces & Much more....
References available Offering customized cleaning visits to fit all schedules and budgets
nÈä°Î{ °ä££ U Ì ÀÀ à ÃÌ i°V
> /Þ iÀ / `>Þ v À > Àii ÃÌ >Ìit
29486R
• Tractors • Blowers • Lawn Mowers • Hedge Trimmers • Tillers • Snow Blowers • Trimmers • Chainsaws • Generators Sales - Repair (All Models) - Parts Welding - Pick-up & Deliver - Buy & Sell Used Equip. 860-349-3854 Stan Prusinski 152 Guilford Rd. - (Rt. 77) - Durham Durhampowerequipment.com
27564R
Home Improvement & Repairs
mark.torello@norcom-usa.com NMLS ID# 635951|licenced in CT, FL 860.788.6329
todd.marino@norcom-usa.com NMLS ID# 675632|licenced in CT 860.788.6984
V.M.B. Custom Builders “No jobs too big or small” Mike Gerchy OWNER/BUILDER
Specializing in Historic Renovations and Custom Cabinets, Additions, Decks & Roofs 35 Maiden Lane Durham, CT 06422 (860) 398-0785 VMBCustombuilders@live.com “Complete Jobs From First Stud To Last Touch Of Paint” Fully Insured & Licensed HIC #614488
ZIK’S MASONRY
Specializing in Bathroom Remodeling
Stonewalls • Sidewalks • Stairs • Pavers Chimneys • Brick Work • Tiles • Flagstone Stone Siding • Stucco • Fish Pools 1287231 29549R
CT Lic. 0612088
Todd Marino Senior Mortgage Loan Officer
37187R
• Relining • Cleaning • Rain Caps • Waterproofing • Insurance Claims • Flashing Repair • Crown & Brick Repair NEW ENGLAND • Pellet & Wood Stove CHIMNEY SWEEP & MASONRY Installation Peter Frey 349-9918 *Certified*
RSDL
Mark Torello Branch Manager
16 Main St. Unit 206 | Durham, CT
33 Years
• Painting/Dry Wall • Tile Flooring • Basements/Skylights • Decks/Patios/Sheds • Odd Projects • No Job Too Small
Ask for Jennifer 860-349-1934
1288111 29593R
DURHAM DURHAM POWER POWER EQUIPMENT EQUIPMENT
Free Quotes 30848R
38136R
Accepting New Plow Accounts until Dec. 1st
Robert Trombetta 860-798-5374 Middlefield, CT
860-462-3694 20 Years of Experience Free Est.
HIC# 673801
Fully Insured
38584R
BE N
...serving Durham, Middlefield & Rockfall
Joy Boone
(203) 907-5236
39436R
Serving Durham, Middlefield and East Wallingford
11 Crown Street, Meriden, CT 06450 203-317-2313 • fax 203-235-4048 advertising@towntimes.com
28411R
Advertising
needed three this year. According to volunteers, the Coginchaug Regional High School scholarship bananas and the John Lyman cor n b o ot h were b ot h stocked for the crowds, while the VFW booth ran down to 20 hot dogs. The corn booth did almost run out of quarters, said volunteer Nicole Roberts, who called Saturday “an excellent day.” “It was a record day for the Killingworth Lions,” said the Sunday counter man. Longtime fairgoers struggled to remember four days of such good weather and crowds matching Saturday night. “It reminded me of growing up, seeing that hill filled. It’s good for the fair,” said Steve Alsup of Durham. Families were able to leave the 94th annual Durham Fair because they were done, and not under an umbrella or behind a tow truck, but under clear skies. “We had more to see and more to do!” wrote Durham Fair’s Marketing Coordinator Debbie Huscher in an e-mail after the fair. While attendance figures were not finalized, Huscher wrote those figures were strong. “We were fortunate to have four beautiful, rain free days that helped contribute to the success.” Huscher added that the fair had attractions in addition to the weather. “We had a lot of exciting news for the Durham Fair — reduced admission prices, new and improved Green with the Ferris wheel and the Connecticut Wine Festival, the switching of the motorized events ring and the giant pumpkin breaking the Durham Fair and the state record.” Headline acts Justin Moore and Josh Turner were also strong draws. Moore’s latest single topped the country charts just before the fair. On Sunday morning, the ATMs on the lower part of the fairgrounds stopped working for a period and, while workers in the souvenir booths said it was likely a WiFi issue, the rumor spread that the machines were out of money. Given the crowds, the rumor seemed plausible.
Town Times | towntimes.com
Friday, October 4, 2013
Library Briefs
A21
Like us on Facebook: TownTimesNews
Follow us on Twitter: @TheTownTimes
Levi E. Coe Library
Town Times Service Directory
BEFREE SOLAR
1-888-596-2912 befreesolar.com efre eesola #1 Commercial In ConnecticutResidential NEW Municipal SOLAR LEASE Non-profits
• Pruning • Cabling & SPLIT • FIREWOOD – SEASONED • Pruning • Cabling • Tree & Stump Removal • Tree & Stump Removal • Spraying • Disease Control • Spraying • Disease Control • Deer Repellent
APPLY NOW 203-931-5430
Allan Poole, Licensed Arborist 860-349-8029 website: AllansTreeService.com
BEFREESOLAR.COM
Michael Haglund
LET US DO THE DIGGING.
860-759-2432
We have nearly 20 years’ experience. Call Randy Whitehouse, 860-349-1904. Durham, Connecticut | CT Lic. #554559
860-349-1904 | whitehouseconstructioninc.com Paving Gravel Driveway Restoration Top Soil Retaining Walls Drainage Septic Systems Excavator, Backhoe + Dozer Work Light & Heavy Hauling Residential + Commercial Q
Q
Q
Q
1289926
Q
33196R
Q
Q
Q
FALL
CLEAN-UPS
29675R 1262182
WHITEHOUSE CONSTRUCTION INC.
36378R
Convert To Solar Power Free Installation
CT Lic. #606458
Snow Plowing
Creating & Maintaining Beautiful Landscapes Lic# PL204680
MIDDLEFIELD REMODELING QUALITY CARPENTRY LICENSED & INSURED
HIC 0629899
23144R
1283529
29668R
• ADDITIONS • KITCHENS • BATHS • DECKS J ERRY F INCH • SIDING 860-704-8312 203-919-2031 • ROOFING
860-349-1918
Uncle Bob’s
CT Lic. #600562
Full Service Florist: Funerals, Special Occasions or Just Because... 23118R
1283530
191 Meriden Road (Rte. 66) Middlefield 860-704-8414 • unclebobsgarden.com
Landscape Design/Installation • Hydroseeding Patios, Walkways • Retaining Walls Masonry/Stonework • Excavation/Grading Drainage Work • Tree/Brush Removal www.countrylandscapingllc.com
36443R
Landscape & Garden Center
Personalized LOCKSMITH Service 1289921
Locks Sold, Installed, Re-keyed & Repaired
• Keys cut by code • Master keying • Keys cut while you wait—Guaranteed to work!
155 Main St., Middletown
For Service: 860-346-1651
• Sanding • Staining • Installation • Refinishing • Repairs Specializing in Custom Designs & Quality Workmanship Free Written Estimates • License #00564185 • Insured 25 Years Wood Flooring Experience • CWFloor@aol.com
Phillip E. Mason Jr.
(860) 349-6355
38171R
32090R
082213
Since 1898
Find us on the Web: www.towntimes.com
~ professional care at its best ~
$95 / MONTH
Durham Public Library
Programs for Kids: Preschool Storytimes Bouncing Babies! (birth--17 months). Mondays at 11 a.m. Mother Goose Storytime (18--30 months). Mondays at 10:15 a.m. Time for Tots (2 ½ --3 ½ years). Wednesdays at 10:15 a.m. Preschool Storytime (3 ½--5 years). Tuesdays at 10:15 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Bedtime Storytime (ages 2—5 years). Mondays at 6:30 p.m. School-age programs Story Magic! (Grades K to 2) Saturday, Oct. 5, 19 and 26 at 10:30 a.m. Drop in. Kids’ Club (Grades 3 to 5) Thursday, Oct. 17 from 4 to 5 p.m. Drop in. Lunch Bunch Book Discussion (Grades 4 to 6) Bring lunch, dessert provided. Saturday, Oct. 19 at 12:30 p.m. Registration required. LEGO Club (6 to 12 years). Thursday Oct. 10 from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Drop in. Change the World Before B edti me (ages 4 to 8). Thursday Oct. 17 at 6:30 p.m. Registration required. Lunch Bunch Book Discussion (grades 4 to 6 ). bring lunch, dessert provided. Saturday, Oct. 19 at 12:30 p.m. Registration required.
Allan’s Tree Service
26317R 1282278
Library hours are: Monday through Thursday 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Saturdays 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.; closed Fridays. Programs for Kids: Pumpkin Pizazz, Saturday, Oct. 19, at 11 a.m. Bring a pumpkin to decorate. The library will supply the decorations. Registration is required. For more information, call (860) 349-3857. Programs for Adults: Author talk and book signing – “Connecticut: Off the Beaten Path”. Thursday, Oct. 10, at 7 p.m. Local author Cindi D. Pietrzyk will present a slide show and talk about her travels around Connecticut.
A22 Friday, October 4, 2013
Town Times | towntimes.com
Librarian
Reach every home and business every week. Advertise with us! Call Joy Boone at 203-317-2313.
From Page 17
Town Times Service Directory
LESSONS - English & Western, Boarding & Training Eventing Club, Schooling Shows
GONZALEZ CONSTRUCTION, LLC.
25 COLUMBUS AVE., MERIDEN, CT 06451 • CT HIC #577319
ROOFING – ROOFING – ROOFING
ERIN CECCHINI 860-638-7421 erincecchini@yahoo.com 280 Old Pent Road, Guilford, CT - 4 mins. from Durham Center
GAF CERTIFIED CONTRACTOR LIFETIME LABOR AND MATERIAL WARRANTY
Roofing-Siding-Windows-Gutters-Decks-Painting FREE EVALUATION......PHONE: 203-639-0032 www.gonzalezconstructionllc.com
31880R
www.fivestarperformancehorsesllc.com 37312R
Five Star Performance Horses LLC
23113R
FIVE STAR PERFORMANCE HORSES SIGN UP NOW FOR SUMMER CAMP!
Precision Plumbing Solutions LLC Specializing in Well Repair Licensed & Insured
37112R
860-349-8868
37096R 1289927
It’s the business tool you can’t afford to be without!
6 Way Road, Middlefield www.execoff.com
PrecisionPlumbingSolutions@yahoo.com
P1-0286729 Durham, CT
Bruce Binge Custom Building & Remodeling
Receptionist High-Speed Internet Conference Rooms
Executive Offices
Cell 860-754-6955 Office 860-788-6216
Contractor
65 offices from $350-up (860) 349-7000
• New Homes • Additions • Kitchens • Garages • Decks All Types of Remodeling & Renovations HIC #0606486
Call after 5 pm (860)
347-1445
37098R
1289924
336 Main St. Durham
KENNETH R. JAY Landscape Maintenance & Construction LLC Complete Lawn and Shrub Bed Maintenance Landscape Design and Installation Service HIC #0621170
Stone Work and Pavers Commercial, Residential, Industrial
We spent the rest of our friendship idly bantering back and forth about how I hated the library, the smell of old books and the thought of how many people had touched them and how much she embraced all of those things. Melissa said she felt a history in every book she opened; a history of who had held it and who they had read to. (It should be noted here that the library is a wonderful place, and I am simply a complete germaphobe.) I spent the next few years trying to set her up with my brother-in-law. This was a doomed attempt ... Missy ended up marrying a wonderful man we affectionately referred to as her “veterinarian lover”, Mark. They wed on the fourth of July. The weather was beautiful, the atmosphere full of fun, and the venue kid-friendly. What I remember most about that day, however, was this glow, this sincere passion in Missy’s eyes when she looked at Mark. I was in the presence of true love. [...] When my mom was moved to Masonic in January I found myself spending more and more time with her. I was guilt ridden that I couldn’t help Missy more. What did she do? She consoled me and told me to stay by my mom’s side and she would be there if I need her. If I needed her? Missy was my angel ... I know Missy had hundreds of friends but the amazing thing about her was that she made each one of us feel as though we were her only one. —Deborah Sokol
Call for Your Free Quote on Stonework Now! 1289953 37136R
(860) 346-3827 • (860) 250-0628
29525R 1287230
www.jaylandscape.com
92 Jackson Hill Road, Middlefield, CT 06455
29759R
Got news?
Movado Farms Inc.
Riding Lessons
We’d love to print it along with your photos.
...serving Durham, Middlefield & Rockfall
Joy Boone
Send to:
Advertising
The Town Times P.O. Box 265 Middlefield, CT 06455 news@towntimes.com
NEW Fall Programs
349-8728
Route 17, Durham, CT www.movadofarm.com
11 Crown Street, Meriden, CT 06450 203-317-2313 • fax 203-235-4048 advertising@towntimes.com
36297R
Adults and children
Town Times | towntimes.com
Friday, October 4, 2013
39497R
39484R
Real Estate Page Carnival ers still need to be mindful. “Everyone in there isn’t’ all For me, that’s what keeps on the same page,” he said, me around. I don’t think it’s adding that people should really about the money any walk around the fair, commore because I don’t think pare prices, to find the best you’re going to get super deals. A fried dough booth may be offering a lower price wealthy.” He doesn’t recommend the than one a few rows away. Behind the curtains of the business to anyone who has a family, but as he worked the carnival, there is politics, business, he met other work- various companies vying ers who left family to work for locations, everyone tryat the carnival, who has ne- ing to get a few dollars of the glected education and hy- fair-goer’s money through giene to live the carnival life. entrance fees, shuttle fees, “That’s not good,” he said. food and ride tickets. “The carnival looks good Carnival workers need to be good at retail sales. If they through the eye of a child,” have that skill, they can suc- he said. ceed in the carnival, Graham said. Also, carnival workers should ask anyone — anyone — to play their game. The industry has a saying, he said: “Don’t be afraid to ask anyone, 8 to 80, blind, crippled or crazy.” He has helped blind carnival-goers win his game. “Just because you can’t see doesn’t mean you can’t have fun,” he said. Graham speaks three languages, English, Spanish and Russian, and he can help “carry you through the game” in those languages. While the carnival may have changed over the last few years, he says consum-
MIDDLEFIELD OFFICE SPACE FOR RENT
Approx. 2400 sq. ft. For more information call 860-349-3876
MIDDLEFIELD APTS. FOR RENT 2 Bedroom $875 + Utilities/1 Bedroom $750 + Utilities No Dogs, 2 Months Security Required.
CALL 860-982-3000
Submissions Th e Tow n Ti m e s welcomes submissions regarding upcoming community events. Due to space constraints we cannot guarantee a submission will be published on a specific date and content may be edited. Send submissions to news@towntimes. com or contact Marsha at (203) 317-2256. If you have specific requirements for a submission you must place a paid advertisement. To discuss this, contact Town Times sales representative Joy Boone at (203) 317-2313.
EN PM OP 12-2 Y DA
N
SU
17 Evergreen Ter, Durham Desirable Royal Oak Neighborhood! Stately 4 bedroom Colonial on quiet cul-de-sac. Huge deck overlooking beautiful, private yard. Updated kitchen, roof, siding & windows. Great Value! Only $379,900. Dir: Rt 17 to Royal Oak to Evergreen Ter. EN PM OP 12-2 Y DA
N
SU
HORSE LOVER’S HOMESTEAD! MIDDLEFIELD $419,900 20 Race Track Hollow
This lovely Cont. Cape is on 1.92 flat acres and is a horse lover’s delight! The property features a paddock, 2 stall barn, and tack shed. In 2010, this home was on the House & Garden tour for Middlefield. 1st Flr. Mastersuite w/full jacuzzi bath, sunroom and office. Huge kitchen with island opens to a greatroom w/fireplace and dining room. 2nd floor has separate kitchen w/greatrm and 2 spacious bedrooms. Rare to find acreage that is this private, flat and gorgeous. Call Jackie Williams or Dave Gallitto, Sterling, Realtors 860-343-3820.
PRIVATE AND TRANQUIL SETTING MIDDLEFIELD $368,000 15 Jackson Hill Road
Beautiful 4 bedroom, 2 full, 2 half bath Contemporary situated on 1.54 acres of private land. Gleaming hardwood floors, cathedral ceilings, skylights, eat-in kitchen w/center island, partially finished basement with thermo pane windows. Enjoy Autumn nights with a hot cup of cocoa in the greatroom w/fireplace. The Mastersuite is spacious, bright and boasts two walk-in closets. Tons of space -- make this home your own! Call Jackie Williams or Dave Gallitto, Sterling, Realtors 860-343-3820.
SPECTACULAR VIEWS AWAIT YOU MIDDLEFIELD $275,000 20 Valley Heights Drive
Summer, Spring, Winter and Fall you will be embraced by the outstanding and picturesque views of this luxurious and romantic setting! This Cont. features 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, cathedral ceilings, skylights, fireplace in the den/office and lower level. Large Mastersuite with attached bath. Deck and pool add to the picture perfect enjoyment your family will receive. Call Jackie Williams or Dave Gallitto, Sterling, Realtors 860-343-3820.
860.343.3820
www.sterling-realtors.com
48 Pleasant Ter, Durham Location, Location, Location! Custom Built Colonial on one of Durham’s finest cul-desac’s! Spacious MBR suite w/ media rm, detached oversized 2 car garage w/ walk up & ultra private yard. Mint condition! $424,900 Dir: Tri Mountain Rd to Etzel to Pleasant Ter. M
N 0P OPE 0-4:3 3 2: DAY
SUN
211 Creamery Rd, Durham Handyman Special! One owner 3 bedroom ranch on stunningly beautiful open and flat lot w/ privacy & fruit trees. Needs work but a fantastic bargain. Only $169,900! Dir: Rt 17 or Rt 77 to meeting House HIll Rd to Creamery Rd
Durham & Middlefield’s Local Realtors
349-0344
40 MAIN ST DURHAM 40383R
From Page 15
A23
A24 Friday, October 4, 2013
Town Times | towntimes.com
The Multitude of Powder Ridge Costs
39382R
Political Advertisement