Newington Town Crier 08/28/2015

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William C. Collins, superintendent of Newington Public Schools.

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towN CRieR Friday, August 28, 2015

Local funeral home awarded for excellence

Enhanced learning

STAFF WRITER

“These funeral homes are committed to exceeding families’ expectations every day and represent the very best in our profession.”

See AREA, Page 7

Ray Shaw | Special to the Town Crier

School year brings new academy, tech to Newington classrooms

By ROBERT STORACE STAFF WRITER

NEWINGTON — As the Newington school district opens another year, 75 middle school students will be taking part in two hands-on academies.

The Biomedical Academy attached to Martin Kellogg Middle School opened its doors

last year, and the Aerospace Academy, which is in a wing attached to John Wallace Middle School, debuted Aug. 26 when school opened.

Both academies, educators said, will give middle school students a step up in their learning and can be used as a tool in promoting the town’s education-

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“It makes our schools very attractive and is very 21st century-oriented,” said Newington Board of Education Chairman Marc Finkelstein. “They are a great advertisement for the school system and the community and should be attributed to See SCHOOL, Page 5

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members that represent more than 10,000 funeral homes in 39 Two area funeral homes countries. received national recognition this “We offer our congratulations to week for providing all NFDA memsuperlative service bers that earned while abiding by the 2015 Pursuit rigid professional of Excellence and ethical stanAward,” said dards.

NFDA President N e w i n g t o n’s Robert Moore Newington IV in a stateMemorial Funeral ment.

“These Home and New funeral homes Britain’s Burritt are committed to Hill Funeral exceeding families’ Home were expectations every announced Aug. day and represent 24 as winners of the very best in the 2015 Pursuit of our profession. We Excellence Award are proud to count from the National them as members Funeral Directors ROBERT MOORE IV of NFDA.” Association, two NFDA President Newington of seven funeral Memorial is also a homes in the state and 155 in previous inductee into the NFDA the country to attain the honor. Hall of Excellence.

The NFDA has almost 20,000 The accolades given to Newington Memorial and Burritt Hill constituted a dual triumph Free for Duksa Family Funeral Homes, Volume 55, No. 35 which owns them both, as well as Newington’s Fisette-Batzner Funeral Home.

By JEFF GEBEAU

Local News

2| Friday, August 28, 2015

NEWINGTON TOWN CRIER

ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT Jonathan Broitman Kane, a senior majoring in mathematics and composition at the University of Rochester, has been named to the dean’s list for academic achievement for the spring semester.

He is studying in the university’s

College of Arts, Sciences and Engineering, as well as in the Eastman School of Music. Kane, a resident of Newington, is the son of Randall and Tina Kane, and a graduate of Newington High School.

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Connecticut Kenpo Karate of Newington is moving to a new location in October.

Ray Shaw | Special to the Town Crier

Kenpo Karate on the move Dojo owners to benefit from new space

By JEFF GEBEAU STAFF WRITER

NEWINGTON — Connecticut Kenpo Karate, which for more than 20 years has been located at 64 Market Square, is moving to the Best Market Plaza in October.

Co-owner Wayne Panguay said the owner of the Market Square building is selling it, and the new owner intends to use rather than lease its space, meaning the dojo has to relocate by Oct. 1.

Panguay and his wife, co-owner Leanne Brophy, see benefit in their displacement from the Market Square. The proximity of the market to their new location at 135 Lowrey Place will give Connecticut Kenpo added exposure, and the soon-to-happen repaving of the plaza parking lot could also help draw increased traffic, Brophy said.

The new location has 2,250 square feet, about the same as the old site, Panguay said. In addition, the configuration of the

space — which used to contain a bank and has the layout of one — affords rear storage and a glass foyer for a viewing lobby that provides more separation from the instruction area than he currently has.

Brophy said the new floor plan will let the dojo use space more efficiently with less wasted room.

“The space is gonna be great,” she said, citing the extra bathroom that will allow for separate student and staff lavatories, along with an office area and higher ceilings. “We’ll have a better floor plan, I think. It’s definitely gonna have a bigger feel.”

Panguay said the relocation won’t permit the dojo to offer additional classes because its schedule is already full, with 23 classes between nights and Saturdays that are led by himself, Brophy and six other black belt instructors, all of whom also have full-time jobs.

The facility will continue to divide its 6 to 11-year-old “Dragons” group between less advanced sessions for white, yellow, orange and green belts and more advanced sessions for blue, purple, red, brown and black belts. Four and 5-yearold “Little Dragons” will still all

meet together, as will the 12 to 17-year-old and adult groups, he said.

Connecticut Kenpo’s demonstration team, which consists of students between ages 8 and 15 who have at least blue belts, will also continue to perform exhibitions at fairs and sporting events, and the dojo will still participate in several tournaments per year.

Other operations of the facility will also remain the same, he said.

“I’m just gonna pick up my dojo and reinsert it [into the new space],” he said.

Panguay, Brophy and their staff train a total of about 50 students in the American variant of Kenpo, which combines Japanese and Chinese hand-tohand techniques and stresses the self-defense aspect of martial arts. The owners foresee enrollment growing in their new space, perhaps even doubling.

“The whole staff and even the students are very positive about the change,” Panguay said. “I think it’s gonna work out really, really well.”

Jeff Gebeau can be reached at jgebeau@newbritainherald.com or (860) 801-5205. Follow him on Twitter at @JGNewBritHerald.

Friday, August 28, 2015 | 3

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NEWINGTON TOWN CRIER

Newington High students excited to start school year

By ROBERT STORACE STAFF WRITER

NEWINGTON — Holly Normandeau was looking forward to the high school experience all summer.

Normandeau, who began her first day as a Newington High School freshman Aug. 26, said entering high school “will help me get out of my comfort zone. I want to try new things and meet new people.”

While “summer went by too fast,” Normandeau, 14, said she’s looking forward to “getting involved in more after school activities and sports. I want to volunteer more and help around the community. I also want to know I can be independent.”

While Normandeau was getting familiar with finding her classes and her way around Newington High, Marissa Michaels is a pro at it.

Michaels, a senior, said she has always appreciated that Newington High, which has about 1,300 students, “is really diverse.”

“There are a lot of different kids here,” said the 17-year-old, who lives just two blocks from the school. “You have musicians, peo-

“At first, as a freshman, I thought I’d do football for the exercise, but now football is a part of who I am,” he said.

Fellow football player Aveontae Frazier, who is a running back and strong safety, said, “I like the sports programs.”

“Everyone is so friendly and you do not see a lot of bullying,” Frazier, a 15 year-old sophomore, added.

For 16-year-old junior Noah Hedberg, the best part of going back to the school is “seeing all of your friends again. I also like meeting my new teachers and seeing some different ones.”

Hedberg said his favorite subject is history.

“I have a passion for it,” Hedberg said. “I’m also big into politics, that’s a huge interest. I really like Donald Trump. I love what he’s Amelia Parlier | Special to the Town Crier Freshman student Jordan Brunetti, junior Noah Hedberg and senior James Lavery return to Newington High School saying, but I don’t think he’s electWednesday, Aug. 26, for their first day of classes. able. If I could, I’d vote for Ben Carson [Republican candidate for ple on the math team and people be back. What I will remember very friendly. Everyone, from the president]. He is really well-spoin theater.” most about this school is how teachers to the students, will help ken and educated. He’d represent the United States very well.”

A member of theater, marching we are all one. Everyone is very you out if you need it.” band and orchestra, Michaels — accepting here.”

Lavery said he’s excited to be who plans on majoring in lighting That sentiment was echoed by back on the Newington Indians Robert Storace can be reached at design at SUNY Purchase next 17-year-old senior James Lavery, football team, where he plays right (860) 801-5202 or at rstorace@ newbritainherald.com. year — said, “I am very excited to who said, “The people here are tackle and nose guard.

GPS devices to help riders track CTtransit buses

By JOHNNY J. BURNHAM STAFF WRITER

NEWINGTON — The Department of Transportation recently announced that it will soon be much easier to find out exactly where your next CTtransit bus is and when it will arrive at your stop.

CTtransit buses are slated to be equipped with GPS devices that will provide real-time bus locations to riders.

“This is all part of transforming our system,” Gov. Dannel Malloy said. “It’s good for residents, it’s good for businesses and it’s good for CTtransit.”

This project will provide “intelligent technology” for passengers on 500 CTtransit buses throughout the state. Similar GPS tracking information has already been successfully deployed on CTfastrak buses in central Connecticut. The

new system is made possible by a $7 million allocation that was approved last month by the State Bond Commission.

The state DOT, which is headquartered in Newington, is encouraging riders to download apps to their smartphones, such as “Transit App,” that will utilize the GPS tracking information provided on the bus system.

“With real-time bus location information, it’s another step in our effort to take Connecticut into the future,” Malloy said.

“We want the CTtransit experience to be easy and user-friendly, and the addition of this technology will make travel more convenient and reliable. This is a smart, strategic step in continuing the modernization of our infrastructure to move us towards a new era in economic growth that will sup-

A CTtransit bus pulls up to a stop on Main Street in Newington.

port Connecticut families and businesses and create a best-inclass transportation system.”

The installation of the new technology is the next step in a multiphase, statewide project that will include introducing

new electronic fare boxes over the next six months. It will be compatible with the latest in new high-tech, fare-paying options so that Connecticut can begin the design of a smartcard payment system, as well as

Johnny Burnham | Staff

smartphone ticketing, according to state officials.

There are several CTtransit stops in Newington, including on Cedar Street, Willard Street, Main Street, East Cedar Street and Lowery Place.

Local News

4| Friday, August 28, 2015

NEWINGTON TOWN CRIER

Letter: Applauding Indian Hill back rent forgiveness To the Editor:

Concert pays tribute to jazz legend Billie Holiday

BY LISA BACKUS STAFF WRITER

NEWINGTON — Minutes after Alta DeChamplain belted out Billie Holiday’s “Yesterdays” Tuesday night before a crowd gathered at the Lucy Robbins Wells Library, she explained that she had been singing the song since she was 15.

“It was the first Billie Holiday song I learned,” she told the crowd.

With DeChamplain on vocals, her husband Matt on keyboard and fellow musician Matt Dwonszyk on bass, the trio helped the library celebrate the centennial of Holiday’s birth in style with a concert that drew dozens.

Reference Librarian Cynthia Wolcott approached the musicians about doing a performance celebrating Holiday’s life on the recommendation of her son who is also a musician.

“He said they were New Yorksized talent at local prices,” said Wolcott, who hosted the performance.

Holiday, along with Ella

Fitzgerald, was one of the first female jazz singers to break out and generate a fan following for their unique style that still exists today. Holiday’s life was punctuated with sadness and addiction, DeChamplain said. Her parents died young.

She spent much of 1947 in jail on a drug possession charges, according to her unofficial website. She died in 1959 at age 44.

“I’ve listened to Billie Holiday since I was a young child,” said Newington resident Estelle Gonsalves. “I followed her career until she died. I just love the sound of her voice. It was very different, it was plaintive and she was quite exotic looking.”

DeChamplain said she came to appreciate Holiday when she attended the Greater Hartford Academy of the Arts.

DeChamplain met her husband and Dwonszyk at the school as well. The trio recently performed a Holiday tribute, which led Wolcott to schedule them for a performance with support from the Friends of the Library.

Matt DeChamplain also plays the stride piano, an instrument he learned by using the player piano rolls with their strategic holes that indicate the notes, his wife said. His CD, “Stride-Bop” can be purchased through mattdechamplain.com.

Alta DeChamplain acknowledged she couldn’t impersonate Holiday’s style, but she could offer her own tribute by reviving the songs that made the jazz singer a legend.

“We’re not here to copy anyone,” her husband said. “But we are doing our own thing in their tradition.”

The concert crowd of about 80 often tapped their feet to the beat of Dwonszyk’s bass as the trio performed.

“I love this library,” said Wethersfield resident Lois House.

“I love music. I thought it would be a fun night. She [Holiday] was a great performer.”

Lisa Backus can be reached at (860) 225-4601, ext. 5066 or Lbackus@ newbritainherald.

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From left, Matt DeChamplain, Matt Dwonszyk and Atla DeChamplain perform Billie Holiday songs Tuesday at the Lucy Robbins Welles Library in Newington.

The Town Council discussed back rent owed by the Indian Hill Country Club at their Aug. 11 meeting, and I was disturbed by some councilors who seem to be chasing pennies at the expense of dollars.

Indian Hill CC is the only parcel of open space in this town that costs taxpayers ZERO dollars for maintenance or upkeep. In fact, it’s the only parcel of open space that actually generates income for the town. Understand that the cost of equipment, labor and materials continue to rise at the same time golf is experiencing a downturn nationwide, resulting in declining membership to offset these costs at many courses.

If the entity that leases and maintains the course goes bankrupt, that would put our town in the unfortunate position of spending $1 million dollars or more a year to maintain the course in its current condition, rather than realizing income from the property. The math is simple: a restructuring in rent from $5,000 to $4,000 a month going forward (total $12,000 for the coming year) to give the club and town time to come up with creative solutions

costs less than a million dollars (“… the cost of additional hires, equipment and expertise that we just don’t have” according to our town attorney).

I see this as similar to a Chapter 11 restructure, enabling current management to get back on their feet while creative ideas are pursued, and a revaluation of the property is assessed in committee.

Meanwhile the $4,000-permonth rent will continue to be paid to our town.

I applaud the Democratic council members who voted for the agreement extension which our town attorney says will “provide time to come up with that new model and assure that the club maintains the course.”

The three Republican councilors who voted against the agreement were in full campaign mode and were quick to say that their “no” votes had nothing to do with their support for open space, but simply about the money owed in backrent.

The reality here is that without the debt forgiveness and reassessment, they put both open space and taxpayer dollars at risk.

Friday, August 28, 2015 | 5

Local News

NEWINGTON TOWN CRIER

School district rolls out new programs for students

Continued from Page 1

our superintendent’s vision.”

In an interview this week, Superintendent of Schools William C. Collins discussed the academies and other initiatives coming to the district.

The academies, Collins said, are vital because “there is a significant need in the health care and aerospace fields.

They are two areas of growth in Connecticut.”

Collins, who was a teacher at Newington High School in the 1980s and has been the district’s superintendent since 2009, said students in the two academies spend only a small portion of their day in their regular middle school class.

Most of their day is spent in the academies.

The 50 students in the Biomedical Academy get a “project task” and can learn things ranging from “developing prosthetic limbs to designing eyeglasses for different people. They will also learn how to draw blood and can learn about veterinary science,” Collins said.

The “idea of the academy is to explore different pathways in the medical field,” he added.

In addition, Collins said, the Biomedical Academy has partnered with Jackson Laboratories in Farmington, which has helped write some of the curriculum.

“The staff from Jackson comes

here and works with students and the staff,” he said.

Leading the Aerospace Academy this year is Bryan Holmes, a retired lieutenant colonel in the U.S. Air Force who once worked at NASA. “By the time they [students] leave the academy they will have learned how to fly six different types of aircraft,” Collins said. “They will also design and actually build an aircraft.”

In addition, Aerospace Academy students will learn about astronomy, weather and engineering.

Those interested in joining one of the academies must go through a lottery process, officials said.

In other news, Collins said, the school district this week “began rolling out our 1-to-1” program, which includes giving every child in grades three through eight a Ray Shaw | Special to the Town Crier Chromebook that they can take William C. Collins, superintendent of Newington Public Schools, discusses new educational programs planned for the school year. home.

“That’s how they will do their homework. It’s all new,” Collins For local news, opinion, classifieds and more.... said. In total, the district is giving out about 2,400 chrome books, which cost about $200 each.

In addition, Collins said, the district is distributing about 1,000 iPads to students in kindergarten Excellence in childcare through grade two. The iPads will and pre-school development only be used in class. In September 860-632-2496 2016, Newington High School students will also receive individAfter the Stork TER comes the… ual Chromebooks, he said.

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The new Aerospace Academy has opened, and elementary and middle school students will get Chromebooks.

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6| Friday, August 28, 2015

NEWINGTON TOWN CRIER

New space, more opportunities for young dancers

Backstage Academy of Dance recently moved to a larger location at 37 Ann St. in Newington. Open registration takes place Sept. 2, 3 and 8 between 5 and 8 p.m. For more information, call (860) 665-8300. Pictured are Simply EnFuego Dance Company dancers from the academy.

Cedar Hill Cemetery to present lecture about Rev. Joseph Twichell SPECIAL TO THE TOWN CRIER

HARTFORD — Cedar Hill Cemetery Foundation invites you to “Mark Twain’s Minister,” a lecture by Steve Courtney Thursday, Sept. 3, at 5:30 p.m.

Courtney, author of the award-winning “Joseph Hopkins Twichell: The Life and Times of Mark Twain’s Closest Friend,” will discuss the congregational minister who for 40 years was the confidant, traveling companion and conversational foil for great writer and humorist Mark Twain.

A graduate of Yale, Twichell left his studies at Union Theological Seminary to enlist as a chaplain during the Civil War. Following his service, Twichell finished seminary in Andover, Massachusetts.

In 1865, he was installed as the first pastor at Asylum Hill Congregational Church, where he stayed for 47 years. Twichell and

Twain met in 1868, becoming fast friends and constant companions.

Courtney, a former writer and editor for The Hartford Courant and publicist at the Mark Twain House & Museum, received a 2009 Connecticut Book Award for his Twichell biography. A popular guide, Courtney has also led numerous Cedar Hill tours focused on Mark Twain’s companions and cohorts.

The lecture will be held under a tent at the Colt Monument on section two of Cedar Hill.

Admission is $5 and free to Cedar Hill Cemetery Foundation members.

Cedar Hill Cemetery is located at 453 Fairfield Ave., Hartford.

For more information, visit cedarhillfoundation.org or contact Beverly Lucas at Cedar Hill Cemetery Foundation at (860) 956-3311.

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NEWINGTON TOWN CRIER

Area funeral homes win national award Continued from Page 1

“The pursuit of excellence award is a coveted award to me that illustrates an extraordinarily high level of commitment from our staff to the communities that we serve,” said Diana Duksa Kurz, co-owner of the family-owned businesses and a Certified Funeral Service Practitioner (CFSP). “Ultimately, families that we’re serving throughout central Connecticut feel that they are remarkably well-served by us, and we take that great pride in that.”

Alexander Scott, company funeral director and public relations director, said the award is one for the entire staff of both Burritt Hill and Newington Memorial to share.

“It takes the entire funeral home. Every staff member brings so many special things to the table, and everyone’s talents synthesize together,” he said. “When they are able to manifest those

talents for the families we serve in a way that goes above and beyond industry standards, it’s very gratifying.”

To earn the NDFA prize, Burritt Hill and Newington Memorial had to demonstrate outstanding performance in such areas as adhering to federal and state regulations, providing ongoing professional development opportunities for staff, offering high-quality programs and resources for bereaved families, publicizing funeral home services through a variety of marketing, advertising and public relations programs, participating and actively serving in the funeral service profession and being involved in their local communities. They also had to uphold a pledge of ethical industry practices, Kurz said.

Measures taken by the funeral homes to fulfill these criteria include providing staff members with opportunities to earn CFSP,

Friday, August 28, 2015 | 7

Local News

File photo

Newington Memorial Funeral Home at 20 Bonair Ave. in Newington.

Certified Preplanning Consultant (CPC) and other credentials, designating a single employee whose primary responsibility is to follow up with and provide resources to bereaved families after a funeral, having employees on the boards

of directors and committees of state and national funeral service associations and coordinating veterans clothing drives and other local charitable activities, she said.

“We’re setting a standard that I feel puts us in a different category

as a service provider,” Scott said.

“And that’s exciting.”

Jeff Gebeau can be reached at jgebeau@newbritainherald.com or (860) 801-5205. Follow him on Twitter at @JGNewBritHerald.

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8| Friday, August 28, 2015

NEWINGTON TOWN CRIER

New hires welcomed to Newington schools

SPECIAL TO THE TOWN CRIER

NEWINGTON — On Aug. 17, 11 new teachers and administrators met bright and early at Newington High School for their first day of a week-long orientation. It’s purpose: to ensure incoming employees are well trained for their upcoming responsibilities.

The new members kick started their careers in Newington Public Schools with a warm welcome and several activities planned by the Office of Human Capital Development.

The day began with a continental breakfast prepared by cafeteria staff, followed by a video which introduced each new hire. During the video, principals introduced their respective new hires, who were then welcomed

by Board of Education members.

After a short meet-and-greet, the new staff members embarked on a day full of team building activities, seminars and work-

shops.

One such activity was a scavenger hunt organized in order to familiarize the new members to the Newington area. The scavenger hunt led the new hires to different areas around town where they had to find and solve riddles, with each leading them to their next clue. Some of the areas visited by the new hires were schools in the district, the Lucy Robbins Welles Library and Stew Leonard’s grocery store.

“The purpose [of the scavenger hunt] is to familiarize the new hires with the community and each other in order to make this next week of orientation less stressful,” said Daniella Arthurs, an intern who helped organize the event.

After lunch, the new hires settled down to receive their first of many training schedules, all of which will help them be successEleven new hires for Newington Public Schools at a recent orientation. ful in the upcoming year.

Town receives $2.5M grant for senior housing upgrades

File photo

Gov. Dannel Malloy recently announced $18 million in grants to local communities to help fund 10 affordable housing developments.

NEWINGTON — The town will get a $2.5 million state grant to make upgrades at the New Meadow Village, Cedar Village and Keleher Park senior housing developments.

The grants were announced Aug. 26 by Gov. Dannel P. Malloy and state Department of Housing Commissioner Evonne M. Klein.

The money is part of an overall $18 million in loans and grants the housing department is awarding local communities to help fund 10 affordable housing developments in the state-sponsored housing portfolio.

The Newington Housing Authority will also have access to an additional $1 million in financing from the Connecticut Housing Finance Authority.

The three developments account for 106 senior housing units in Newington. Rehabilitation of the developments will include new roadway and site lighting, new vinyl siding, several unit conversions for ADA compliance, new bathrooms, new boilers at Cedar Village, new exterior doors and

VCT flooring.

“My administration has made increasing the availability of affordable housing a key component of our strategy to invigorate Connecticut’s economy,” Malloy said. “When we secure more housing for our state’s residents, we are making a proactive effort to stimulate economic activity and create more jobs in Connecticut. We are working on a detailed 10-year plan that recommends priorities and plots out capital investments to revitalize some of the state’s existing affordable housing and will make the properties sustainable for the long term.”

The grants come as part of the 10-year, $300 million state-sponsored Housing Portfolio Revitalization Initiative, which is jointly administered by DOH and the Connecticut Housing Financing Authority (CHFA) to fund the rehabilitation of a portfolio of over 340 properties at which approximately 19,000 people reside. In many cases, this housing offers the only affordable option for some of the state’s lowest income residents.

“I am proud that Governor Malloy has made housing such an important part of his administration,” said Klein. “By taking these necessary steps to rehabilitate our housing portfolio, we are ensuring that Connecticut residents will have an affordable, quality and safe place to call home for years to come.”

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NEWINGTON TOWN CRIER

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Ellie

PET OF THE WEEK: ELLIE SPECIAL TO THE TOWN CRIER

Ellie is a 5-year-old American bulldog and she can live in a single-family home or condo.

Ellie wants to live with kids over 12 years age and would prefer to be the only pet so she can get all the attention. Ellie is a high-energy kind of dog and is looking for a home where she can get lots of exercise every day. This is a great dog with lots of potential for the family with bully-type of dog experience.

Remember, the Connecticut Humane Society has no time

limits for adoption. Inquiries for adoption should be made at the Connecticut Humane Society located at 701 Russell Road in Newington or by calling (860) 594-4500 or toll free at 1-800-452-0114.

The Connecticut Humane Society is a private organization with branch shelters in Waterford and Westport. The Connecticut Humane Society is not affiliated with any other animal welfare organizations on the national, regional or local level.

Do you suffer from ugly, painful VARICOSE VEINS?

Newington police report the following: Jose Cruz-Gonzalez, 20, of no known address, was charged Aug. 1 with possession with intent to sell narcotics, possession of drug paraphernalia, operating a drug factory, possession of narcotic substance, sale with intent to sell narcotic substance within 1,500 feet of school and possession of narcotics within 1,500 feet of school.

Brendan Foy, 34, of 34 Pepper Bush Lane was charged Aug. 6 with operating an unregistered motor vehicle and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Richard Maloney Jr., 27, of 93 Clinic Drive, New Britain, was charged Aug. 12 with possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of a narcotic substance.

Michael Spear, 26, of 476 Norton Parkway, New Haven, was charged Aug. 12 with possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of a narcotic substance.

Pawel Wojnarowski, 42, of 58 Timothy St., was charged Aug. 12 with two counts nuisance dog and two counts roaming at large.

Dale Pelletier, 48, of 131 Dayl Drive, Kensington, was charged Aug. 14 with second-degree assault with a motor vehicle (intoxication), driving under the influence, reckless driving, failure to maintain lane, and driving wrong way on divided highway.

Derek Lowe, 47, of 80 Howard St., was charged Aug. 16 with disorderly conduct.

Ketan Patel, 30, of 219 Lowery Place, was charged Aug. 16 with criminal violation of a protective order.

Bruno Ignacio Jr., 28, of 391 Nederwerfir Road, South Windsor, was charged Aug. 16 with failure to obey control signal, operating a motor vehicle under suspension, no insurance, reckless driving, operating an unregistered ATV, interfering with a police officer and breach of peace.

David Myers, 36, of 30 Babcock St., Hartford, was charged Aug. 18 with failure to drive right, failure to drive right, failure to carry license, operating a motor vehicle without a license and driving under the influence.

Peter Sanford, 20, of 27

Commonwealth Ave., was charged Aug. 17 with third-degree assault, third-degree criminal mischief and second-degree breach of peace.

James Gibson Jr., 21, of 35 Ginger Lane, East Hartford, was charged Aug. 17 with misuse of plate, no insurance, improper number of stop lamps, operating an unregistered motor vehicle and possession of marijuana.

James Deakle, 20, of no known address, was charged Aug. 17 with sixth-degree larceny.

Amy Arnett, 28, of 95 Kensington Ave., New Britain, was charged Aug. 18 with reckless driving, engaging officer in pursuit, disobeying traffic signal and violation of emissions inspection.

Ian Murzin, 38, of 567 Franklin Ave., Hartford, was charged Aug. 18 with first-degree criminal trespassing and sixth-degree larceny.

Darius Lesinski, 24, of 33 Hiltbrand St., Bristol, was charged Aug. 18 with third-degree identity theft, second-degree forgery, sixth-degree criminal attempt to commit larceny, third-degree burglary and sixth-degree larceny.

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Sports

10| Friday, August 28, 2015

NEWINGTON TOWN CRIER

Scholarship created in honor of Newington icon

By ERICA SCHMITT STAFF WRITER

N EW I N GT O N — Policeman, coach, friend: the late Richard Gable Sr. was loved by many in both Newington and East Haddam.

The lifelong Newington resident was the volunteer assistant baseball coach at Nathan Hale-Ray High School in East Haddam for 14 years until passing away of kidney disease and cancer last November at age 75.

To honor his legacy, the Gable family recently established the Richard A Gable Sr. Scholarship. Awarded in June, the first scholarship went to Crandell Hemphill, a senior at Nathan Hale-Ray High School who was accepted into the PreSeminary Honors Program at Trinity International University in Deerfield, Illinois.

Gable Sr. volunteered as assistant to his son, Richard Gable Jr., who works as head baseball coach at the school.

“Traveling 45 minutes from Newington every day he became very close not only to the players, but also the community,” Gable Jr. said of his father.

The scholarship was part of an effort to keep that presence alive.

“My father was beloved by the people in this town and a lot of the players, so we just felt we wanted to carry that tradition on,” he added.

Gable Sr. was a mentor to his players, who called him “Mr.

Mr.” However, according to his son, he enjoyed being on the field with them as much as they did with him.

Due to the difficulties of finding a volunteer — who also happens to be certified in first aid and CPR — to take on such a role six days a week, his position has yet to be filled.

“I don’t think we can ever replace him,” Gable Jr. said.

Aside from his time at Hale-Ray, Gable Sr. was also a community icon in Newington.

He joined the Newington Police Department in the late ’60s, where he worked until the early ’90s. After retiring from the police force, Gable became director of security in West Hartford schools.

He was a football coach at Newington High School, leading the teams to state championship wins in 1979 and 1980.

He was also one of the founders of the Newington Midget Football League, which is still thriving today.

“He was a staple at Newington The baseball team at Nathan Hale-Ray High School in East Haddam, which Newington native Richard Gable Sr. coached.

High School football games up until the last year when he started getting sick,” his son said.

The scholarship will be funded through donations and fundraising events. It is open to Nathan Hale-Ray High School seniors who have played at least one year of baseball.

Donations can be sent to Richard A. Gable Sr. Memorial Scholarship, P.O. Box 364, Moodus, CT, 06469.

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Father and son Richard Gable Sr. and Jr. coaching baseball together.

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Friday, August 28, 2015 | 11

Sports

NEWINGTON TOWN CRIER

McDonald worked hard to achieve NHL dream

By MATT STRAUB STAFF WRITER

NEWINGTON — Colin McDonald didn’t play high school hockey while growing up in Wethersfield. By his teenage years he had already moved beyond that level, playing junior hockey for the New England Jr. Coyotes.

This doesn’t mean, however, McDonald had an easy way up through the game. Instead, his rise from local product to now Philadelphia Flyers forward was marked by the same thing which has earned him every opportunity he has had, which is hard work.

His father, Gerry, toiled long enough to earn a shot with the Hartford Whalers when Colin was a child. It during this time McDonald learned both about work ethic and the game he fell in love with.

“I went to high school every day, came home, dropped off my books and went up to Enfield every day for four years,” McDonald said. “I was fortunate to have some really good coaches growing up. Obviously my father played, and he coached me I can’t even remember how many years during my early development.

Having someone who played in the NHL play a big part in your early development helps. I had Lincoln Flagg and Gary Dineen as my coaches and they put a lot of guys into Division I hockey, which is kind of where I always wanted to play.”

McDonald would move on from the Jr. Coyotes and the Eastern Junior Hockey League to Providence College, but even though he had fulfilled one of his childhood dreams, he had another. Growing up around the NHL gave McDonald extra incentive to try and reach the ultimate level.

“I was around the [now XL Center in Hartford] all the time,” McDonald said. “After my dad got done playing he did the radio for the Whalers with Chuck Kaiton. Then he did the [AHL’s Hartford] Wolf Pack on television for a couple of years. I’d sit up in the catwalk and watch the game.

Then, it was always being able to go down to the locker room after the game and see how big the guys were and how they trained. That’s something that always stuck with me. I realized then how much

New York Islanders’ Colin McDonald looks to stop the Nashville Predators’ Ryan Ellis during a Nov. 12, 2013 game.

work it was going to take to reach that level. It was exposure a lot of kids don’t get, so I was really fortunate my dad maintained and stayed in the game so I could have those experiences.”

Following in the footsteps of a pro hockey player comes with some pitfalls, but none of them were induced by McDonald’s family, which never let McDonald try to get by on his name alone.

He was never forced into the family business, either.

“I never felt pressure at all,” McDonald said. “[Gerry] introduced me to the game at a young age and it became all I ever want-

ed to do. There was never any pressure to follow in his footsteps or pressure that I had to play hockey. I played other sports but hockey was the game I was pretty good at. I decided to focus on just hockey I think it was my junior year of high school. I was fortunate that it worked out for me.”

About to turn 31, however, McDonald wants things to work out even more. The one-time second-round pick has had stints in the NHL with three teams, most recently the New York Islanders, who liked him but didn’t hold on to him this offseason after ushering in a bit of a youth movement.

“I was really happy with the Islanders,” McDonald said. “It’s hard to sign with a new team, but things had kind of run their course there. They were bringing in some young guys, and when you’re a fourth-line guy the only place to go is out of the lineup.

It was no surprise. The only hard part is not getting to be around those guys.”

Now, however, comes a chance with the rival Flyers, who also think highly of McDonald. As has always been the case, however, he won’t be handed anything.

“I think Philly is a good opportunity for me,” McDonald said.

AP

“I think they like the way I play.

There’s not a lot you can control in this game, but I’m trying to control what I can when I step on the ice. I think with my resume now and having proven myself in the American League, I think they see I don’t belong at that level. So hopefully it works out, but I have to go out and prove myself every day.”

He’s been doing so his entire career.

Matt Straub can be reached at (860) 801-5203 or mstraub@ newbritainherald.com. On Twitter: @mattattheherald

Local News

12| Friday, August 28, 2015

WETHERSFIELD LIBRARY WETHERSFIELD PUBLIC LIBRARY OFFERS NEW ONLINE RESOURCE: The library has announced that it now offers Lynda.com, a premier online learning resource to Wethersfield Library cardholders. Lynda.com is a great way to improve your skills for personal or professional growth. Create an account today to access more than 3,000 online courses. From Photoshop to financial literacy — there is a topic for everyone. Courses can be taken on any desktop, laptop or tablet. Certificates of completion are also available. To learn more visit wethersfieldlibrary.org.

GLASS LAMP SHADES ON DISPLAY: Thirty five years of artistry, engineering and craftsmanship come together at the library for the month of August. The unique glass works of Rich Sozanski will be showcased on antique lighting fixtures. Sozanski is the owner of Discount Lighting Outlet, 677 Silas Deane Hwy., Wethersfield. For information and directions to the library, visit wethersfieldlibrary. org or call (860) 257-2811.

PHOTOGRAPHY EXHIBIT: Photographs

by Desiree Figueroa are on display at the library. Figueroa is a freelance photographer from Wethersfield. She enjoys capturing beautiful moments in time with her camera. Her favorite subjects are flowers, gardens and

butterflies. She has recently begun photographing people and enjoys seeing their faces light up when they see their photos for the first time.

Figueroa’s photographs will be on display during the month of August.

For information and directions to the Library, visit www.wethersfieldlibrary. org or call (860) 257-2821.

WETHERSFIELD LIBRARY CLOSED LABOR DAY WEEKEND: The Wethersfield Library will close for Labor Day weekend Saturday, Sept. 5, through Monday, Sept. 7. The library will resume its regular hours Tuesday, Sept.

8. The library’s regular hours are 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday, Tuesday and Thursday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday, Friday and Saturday, and 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday. At any time, the library may be reached on the internet at www.wethersfieldlibrary.org where you may search the catalog, use the online databases, download an audiobook, ask a reference question, or renew, reserve or request a book.

SECOND SATURDAY CINEMA: Second Saturday Cinema at the library meets Sept. 12 for a 1:30 p.m. showing of Walter Long’s 1957 film “Desk Set” starring Katharine Hepburn and Spencer Tracy. Two extremely strong personalities clash over the computerization of a TV network’s research department. 103 minutes.

Second Saturday Cinema is free and open to the public. Registration is not required. For information call the library at (860) 257-2811, or visit the library.

LIBRARY OPEN SUNDAYS IN SEPTEMBER: The Wethersfield Library will be open from 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday afternoons, beginning Sept. 13. The library’s regular hours are 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday, Tuesday and Thursday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday, Friday and Saturday and 1 to 5 p.m.

Sunday. At any time, the library may be reached on the internet at www. wethersfieldlibrary.org where you may search the catalog, use the online databases, download an audiobook, ask a reference question, or renew, reserve or request a book.

COMPUTER CLASSES: The library will offer two computer classes on Monday, Sept. 14. At 2:30 p.m. “Introduction to Excel” meets. Never used a computer before? Learn the basics including mouse skills, highlighting, and storing files. Students will use laptop computers provided by the library. No experience necessary!

Registration is required. At 6:30 p.m. “Lynda.com” will meet. Learn all about lynda.com, a brand new resource at the library, that offers a huge array of online technology training courses. You can use this

ROCKY HILL EVENTS MEMORY IMPAIRMENT PACKETS AVAILABLE: The Atrium at Rocky Hill is offering information packets for those needing more information and resources on memory impairment, such as Alzheimer’s or dementia. For more information contact Erin Hall with The Atrium at Rocky Hill, (860) 563-5588, or email, ehall@benchmarkquality.com.

ROCKY HILL HIGH SCHOOL EVENTS: The first meeting of the Rocky Hill High School Parent Advisory Committee is scheduled for Wednesday, Sept. 30, at 7 p.m. in the school library. New teachers will be introduced to parents. All interested parents and guardians of high school students are encouraged to attend. Rocky Hill High School has scheduled Open House for Wednesday, Sept. 16. Parents and guardians are invited to Open House at the school from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. During each 10-minute class period, classroom teachers will present an overview of course content, with emphasis on their expectations for student performance and achievement. Follow-up meetings or telephone calls are encouraged.

Administrators, guidance counselors, and support staff will be available throughout the evening to answer questions. Members of the Student Senate will be on hand to serve as guides as parents travel from class to class.

Refreshments will be served in the cafeteria.

YOGA IS OFFERED AT WICKED Z DANCE & FITNESS: Wicked Z Dance & Fitness Studio, 412 Cromwell Ave., Rocky Hill, offers yoga classes. Michelle Lombardo, owner and licensed Zumba® Fitness instructor and AFAA

NEWINGTON TOWN CRIER

product to learn basic to advanced computer skills. You must have a Wethersfield Library card to use this service. Registration is required.

Register in person at the library or by calling the Adult Services Information Desk at (860) 257-2811, or email registrations to library@wethersfieldlibrary.org.

TUESDAY NIGHT MOVIE: Join us Tuesday, Sept. 15, at 6:15 p.m. at the library for a free showing of “The Theory of Everything” starring Eddie Redmayne, Felicity Jones, Tom Prior.

Directed by James Marsh. Biopic of the celebrated scientist Stephen Hawking. Enrolled as a graduate student at Cambridge, Hawking establishes himself as one of the leading minds of his generation, and begins to win the heart of Jane (Felicity Jones). After one of his earliest breakthroughs, Hawking is diagnosed with ALS. As the years progress, Jane starts to feel more like a nurse than a wife, and Hawking begins to have feelings for a woman who is hired to care for him. Rated PG-13 for some thematic elements and suggestive material. (123 minutes). Tuesday Night Movies are free and open to the public. Registration is not required, but seating is limited. For information call the library at (860) 257-2811, or visit the library.

SEPTEMBER TIME TO TALK: Wethersfield Library’s “Time to Talk” a free conversation group for new English language speakers meets Tuesday evenings beginning Sept. 22. The discussion group will meet from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. Sept. 22 and Sept. 29.

Adult English language learners are invited to come develop conversation and speaking skills in a warm, friendly environment. This program is free and open to the public. Registration is not required. For more information call the library at (860) 257-2811, or visit the library.

For Children DROP-IN STORY/PLAY TIME: The library invites children of all ages and their caregivers to come to Drop-in Playtime/Storytime. The drop-in playtime is held Fridays from 10 a.m. to noon. A librarian will be on hand at each session to share a short story and a song at 10:45 a.m. No registration is required. Children’s programs are canceled on any day when the Wethersfield Public Schools are closed due to weather. For more information, visit the library, go to wethersfieldlibrary.org, or call the Children’s Department at (860) 2572801.

WETHERSFIELD EVENTS certified group fitness instructor, is celebrating four years at the Rocky Hill location. 500 students pass through the doors on a weekly basis to enjoy the nearly 20 hourly classes that are offered for only a $7 drop in fee. To round out her students’ fitness program, yoga is offered two times per week by certified yoga instructors, Wednesdays at 9:30 a.m. and Saturdays at 8:15 a.m. The yoga classes are for all body types and all skill levels and focus on increasing strength, balance, flexibility, circulation and mental focus. For monthly-pass information and class schedule, visit www. wickedzfitness.com.

SUPPORT GROUP: The Atrium at Rocky Hill offers a Support Group for those caring for someone with Alzheimer’s or Dementia. The Support Group is open to the public. The Atrium does offer Adult Daycare during the duration of the support group at no cost. The Group meets every second Saturday at 2 p.m.

For more information contact Erin Hall at (860) 563-5588, or ehall@benchmarkquality. com TOPS of Rocky Hill/Wethersfield [a nonprofit weight loss support group] meets weekly Wednesday evenings at Mapleview Health and Rehabilitation Center, 856 Maple St. (Route 3), Rocky Hill. Meetings begin with weigh-ins starting at 6:30 p.m. The chapter is open to all, however, program content will emphasize taking off and keeping off weight following bariatric surgery. More information and contacts can be found at www.meetup.com/ TOPS-AFTER-BARIATRIC-SURGERY.

GFWC — NEWINGTON/WETHERSFIELD WOMAN’S CLUB: Summer is coming to an end and school will begin this week for most teachers and students. The calendar is getting full and so we would like to invite you to join us as our monthly meetings resume Tuesday, Sept. 22 at the Newington Senior Center on Cedar Street.

Members gather at 6:30 p.m. for a social time and the meetings start at 7 p.m.

For more information, visit the Facebook page; GFWC — Newington/Wethersfield CT or our website; www.gfwccrossroad.org. or stop by our booth at the annual Newington Waterfall Festival on Sept. 19, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

CEDAR HILL CEMETERY FOUNDATION OFFERS HARTFORD LANDMARKS & LEGACY TOUR: Join Cedar Hill Cemetery Foundation Saturday, Aug. 29, at 10 a.m. for the Hartford Landmarks & Legacy tour. From the Goodwins to Colts, Keneys and Popes, Cedar Hill Cemetery is the final resting place for many of the namesakes of Hartford’s landmarks. Explore the connections between these prominent residents and the cemetery with former Cedar Hill staff member and popular guide Mellissa Craig.

Cedar Hill Cemetery is located at 453 Fairfield Ave. in Hartford. Admission to the program is $5.00 and free to Cedar Hill Cemetery Foundation and Greater Hartford Arts Council’s Lets Go Art members.

For more information, contact Beverly Lucas at blucas@cedarhillcemetery.org or

NewingtonTownCrier.com

(860) 956-3311. Visit cedarhillfoundation. org, for future programs and events.

MILITARY WHIST: CenterPoint Community Church will sponsor a Military Whist to be held at Pitkin Community Center, 30 Greenfield St., Wethersfield, Sept.

17. Doors open at 6 p.m.; playing begins sharply at 7 p.m., with instructor Kevin Welch. If you haven’t played Whist before, come and join the fun. No experience necessary. No reservations required and walk-ins are welcome. Admission: $6.

Refreshments, door prizes, and raffle. For information, call Joe at (860) 258-0662.

COMMUNITY CHURCH PLANS FLU CLINIC: CenterPoint Community Church in conjunction with Walgreen Paharmacy will hold a flu clinic from 1 to 3 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 22 at CenterPoint, 840 Silas Deane Hwy.,in the Marcus Insurance Building.

Walk-ins are welcome and encouraged to attend. Free refreshments. For more information, contact Pastor Chris Skowronek at (860) 571-8415.

WETHERSFIELD SETBACK CLUB: The Wethersfield Setback Club meets every Friday at Pitkin Community Center on Greenfield Street. New players age 55 and over are always welcome. Setback games begin at noon, but come earlier to enjoy free refreshments. For additional information, contact Joe Mehan at (860) 258-0662.

NEWINGTON TOWN CRIER

NEWINGTON EVENTS GFWC — NEWINGTON/WETHERSFIELD WOMAN’S CLUB: Summer is coming to an end and school will begin this week for most teachers and students.

The calendar is getting full and so we would like to invite you to join us as our monthly meetings resume Sept.

22 at the Newington Senior Center on Cedar Street. Members gather at 6:30 p.m. for a social time and the meetings start at 7 p.m. For more information, visit the Facebook page; GFWC — Newington/Wethersfield CT or our website; www.gfwccrossroad. org. or stop by our booth at the annual Newington Waterfall Festival on Sept.

19, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

“THE FIRST 240 DAYS”: State Rep. Gary Byron and State Senator Paul Doyle will speak and answer questions about “The First 240 Days” in a forum sponsored by the Kiwanis Club of Newington at 7 p.m. Monday, Aug. 31 in the Great Room of the Paradise Restaurant, 10 East St., corner of South Street, New Britain. Byron, who assumed office last January, will give an overview of what has been accomplished so far, what was not achieved, and his view of what the future holds.

Doyle will do likewise. Both Byron and Doyle concur in urging all citizens to come and make their concerns heard. Questions from the audience are encouraged. The Kiwanis Club of Newington presents this program in the public interest as part of its ongoing series of Public Interest Forums which started in 1986. The restaurant’s

regular price menu will be available.

It is suggested that those who wish to eat should arrive early, well before the program. Information and directions are available at (860) 594-4495.

NEWINGTON FARMERS MARKET: The Newington Farmers Market, located behind Market Square’s municipal parking lot, is open every Thursday, 3 to 6 p.m. and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. For more information, contact Val at (860) 571-0084 (home) or (860) 716-9086 (cell).

TAKE PART IN NCTC’S GOT TALENTFIRST ANNUAL VARIETY SHOW: Whether your talent is singing or comedy or magic or extreme hula-hooping, the Newington Children’s Theatre Company invites area youth, ages 7-25, to showcase their skills and artistry in the first annual “NCTC’s Got Talent” fundraiser Saturday, Sept. 26, at 7 p.m. An evening of entertainment for the whole family, “NCTC’s Got Talent” will bring local talent and community members together to enjoy diverse entertainment while raising money for future NCTC programming. Soloists and group acts are welcome to audition. Each act is limited to three minutes and must be family friendly.

Auditions are set for Tuesday, Sept.

8, and Saturday, Sept. 12. Each audition will last approximately five minutes. Download a registration form/talent show guidelines from www.NCTCArts.org. Call (860) 666-

Friday, August 28, 2015 | 13

Local News NCTC to schedule your audition.

PARISH WIDE TAG SALE: The Church of The Holy Spirit Ladies Guild will hold its annual tag sale Friday, Sept. 11, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and Saturday, Sept. 12 from 8 a.m. until 1 p.m. A $5 admission fee is charged to attend the preview event Friday, Sept.

11. Come early for the best selection of furniture, collectibles, kitchen/ household items, books, holiday items and more. The Church of The Holy Spirit is located at 183 Church St. The tag sale is held in the Father O’Connor Hall. For further information, contact Debbie Hebert at (860) 666-2576.

POT LUCK SUPPER: For its membership meeting this year, St. Mary Women’s Club will hold a Pot Luck Supper at 6 p.m. Monday, Sept. 14, in the Parish Hall, 652 Willard Ave. Bring your favorite Pot Luck Dish (appetizer, entree, side dish or dessert) and enjoy a delightful and tasty evening with your fellow parishioners. This is a perfect opportunity for new members to join and immediately share in the camaraderie of the women’s club. We look forward to sharing the evening with many new as well as long-time members! Call Trish by Wednesday, Sept. 9 at (860) 202-7773 to sign up and register your culinary contribution.

NEWINGTON/WETHERSFIELD WOMAN’S CLUB BOOTH AT WATERFALL FESTIVAL: GFWC — Newington/ Wethersfield Woman’s Club ask the

public to stop by its booth at this year’s Newington Waterfall Festival for some delicious baked goods. The festival takes place from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 19 at Market Square in the downtown district.

In the event of rain, the festival will be moved to Saturday, Sept.

26. Proceeds from this and other fundraisers help the club to continue its local scholarships as well as other projects. If interested in joining the club, go to Facebook at GFWC Newington/Wethersfield CT or at the website www.gfwccrossroad.org NEWINGTON HIGH SCHOOL CLASSES OF 1969-1972 REUNION: Newington High School Classes of 1969 to 1972 will be having a combined reunion Saturday, Oct. 17 at the Marriott, Day Hill Road, Windsor, from 7 p.m. to midnight. Cost is $65 per person.

No tickets sold at the door. Any NHS classes of that era are welcome to attend. For further information, visit Facebook @ Newington High School Reunion: Classes 1969-1972, or call Sue Ginn Tine at (860) 667-0763.

Class of ’72 is holding a raffle for a memorial scholarship to the Class of 2016. Contact Sue for contributions or information.

SENIOR AND DISABLED CENTER NEEDS COMMUNITY’S EXPERTISE: The Newington Senior and Disabled Center is seeking National Accreditation for the third time. The center, located at 120 Cedar St., was the

first in Connecticut to achieve this distinction from the National Council on Aging’s National Institute of Senior Centers (NCOA-NISC). The first step toward accreditation is to engage in a self-assessment process with a broad evaluation of operations and strategic planning. The center is seeking community members with expertise, experience or passion in the listed areas to assist in the evaluation.

The time commitment is approximately eight to 10 hours over the course of three months. The areas are governance, volunteer management, program development (enrichment, adult education, wellness, intergenerational, active living etc.), fiscal management, architecture and/or interior design and transportation. Call Dianne Stone at (860) 665-8768 for more information.

SUPPORT GROUP: Newington — National Alliance on Mental Illness, Newington CT affiliate. A support group for family and friends of people with mental illness meets the second Tuesday of each month from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Newington Senior and Disabled Center, 120 Cedar St. The group focuses on sharing experiences and information with others in similar situations. Occasionally, expert speakers are scheduled to present topics of interest. The next meeting is Tuesday, Sept. 8. For more information, contact Michele at (860) 205-9542 or Debby at (860) 830-2129.

NEWINGTON LIBRARY OVARIAN/BREAST CANCER AWARENESS: Wednesday, Sept. 2, 7 p.m.

Join Linda Steinmark, a certified cancer genetic counselor working in the oncology field. She will explain genetic testing in regards to ovarian and breast cancer. She will explore who like Angelina Jolie should be tested and why for BRCA and BRCA2 and more. Registration required.

EVENING BOOK DISCUSSION “DEFENDING JACOB”: Thursday, Sept. 3, 7 p.m. This month’s reading is “Defending Jacob” by William Landay.

Everyone is invited to attend.

SACRED JUSTICE: Wednesday, Sept.

9, 7 p.m. Marian Mesrobian MacCurdy, professor and author of “Sacred Justice: The Voices and Legacy of the Armenian Operation Nemesis,” will speak about how she came to write the book. Operation Nemesis, in which her grandfather played a part, was a clandestine effort to carry out the death sentences given to the Turkish architects of the Genocide who had escaped punishment. Registration required.

TASTE OF CONNECTICUT — HONEY MAKING: Monday, Sept. 14, 7 p.m.

Join us for Honey Making with Philip Moore, Hilltop Apiaries, of West Hartford. Learn about the process of bee keeping and making honey. Several winners will be awarded a jar of honey. Registration required. Sponsored by the Friends of the Library.

BROWN BAG IT WITH A DOCUMENTARY: “I am Big Bird” Tuesday, Sept. 15, noon. The story of Carroll Spinney, Sesame Street’s Big Bird and Oscar the Grouch since 1969. Running time 90 minutes. Bring a brown bag lunch. Beverages and desserts will be provided. Sponsored by the Friends of the Library.

EMERGENCY AND END OF LIFE PLANNING: Wednesday, Sept. 16, 7 p.m.

Alexander Scott, a licensed funeral director in Newington, will address many common questions regarding end of life issues. Topics discussed will include pre-planning services, Title 19/Medicaid awareness, personalization, and legal choices.

There will be opportunity for questions in forum or privately. A special life-saving informational magnet will be made available to all attendees.

Registration Required.

TECHNOLOGY @ THE LIBRARY: Call to register for all technology programs at (860) 665-8700. Google Everything! Thursday, Sept. 10, 6:30 to 8 p.m. Mystified by the vastness that is Google? Come and learn about what Google can do for you—all for free!

This demo class introduces Google Search, Drive, Gmail, and more. Bring your favorite device and questions.

TECH 4 U: Thursday, Sept. 17, 1:30 to 3 p.m.; Thursday, Sept. 24, 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.; Thursday, Oct. 15, 1:30 to 3 p.m. Do you need help download-

ing your eBook or searching for work on the Internet? For help with your specific technology questions, make an appointment for a 45 minute session with a Librarian today!

TEEN ADVISORY BOARD: Tuesday, Sept. 8, 2 to 3 p.m. For ages 13 to 18. Help us make the library a better place for you! Give input on teen events, and help develop the collection of teen materials. Earn a community service hour for sharing your opinion! You must be willing to participate in discussions. Pizza will be served. Registration required.

Sponsored by the Friends of the Library.

TEEN GAMING AFTERNOON: Tuesday, Sept. 22, 3 to 4:30 p.m. For grades 6-12. Come play on the library’s Xbox Kinect and Wii! Feel free to bring your own games (video or tabletop), Nintendo DS and DS games, or even a gaming console. Please contact Bailey at bfrancis@newingtonct.gov if you do want to bring a gaming console. Board games will also be available. Registration required.

FOREVER YOUNG ADULT BOOK CLUB (YA): Monday, Sept. 28, 6 to 7 p.m.

Lienhard Room Whether you’re in your teens, attending college, or are a little less Y and a bit more A, we encourage you to be a part of this great new program. FYA is open to everyone high school age and up.

Light refreshments will be served.

Registration required. Sponsored by the Friends of the Library.

Children’s Activities (Unless noted in the program description, registration is required for all Children’s programs in the Children’s Department or by calling (860) 6658720.

LIBRARY CARD SIGN-UP MONTH!: Calling all children from birth through eighth grade who live in Newington!

Come to the Children’s Department anytime between Sept. 1 to 30 to sign up for a library card and receive a free goody bag (new registrants only). Sponsored by the Friends of the Library.

PLAY WITH US!: Tuesdays, Sept. 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29, 10:15 to 11:15 a.m. Join us for this program geared to families with young children who have special needs. Meet with birth to three-year-old resource professionals and socialize with your peers.

All are welcome. Sponsored by the Friends of the Library. Partnered with Creative Interventions, LLC. JUST A STORY AND A SONG!: Wednesdays, Sept. 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30, 10:15 a.m. Join us for a 30-minute all ages storytime. We’ll enjoy a story (or two) and a song (or two) to welcome in the morning.

LET’S MAKE MUSIC TOGETHER: Tuesday, Sept. 8, noon. Children ages 2-4 and a caregiver are invited to experience music together. We will sing, explore instruments and rhythm patterns, dance and more. Come join the fun! Sponsored by the Friends of the Library.

HALF-DAY FUN: Tuesdays, Sept. 8 and 22, 2 to 3:30 p.m. You have a half day, so it’s Game Day at the library.

Stop by and see what we have in store for you! Sponsored by the Friends of the Library.

SUMMER READING RECOGNITION ASSEMBLIES: Wednesday, Sept. 9, Anna Reynolds and Elizabeth Green Schools. Thursday, Sept. 10, John Paterson and Ruth Chaffee Schools.

Children who read for 10 days or more for Every Hero Has a Story! will receive a certificate at special school assemblies these days. All students will enjoy a Frisbee demonstration

by World Class Frisbee Shows.

Assemblies funded by the PTA/PTOs of Newington Public Elementary Schools.

CHESS CLUB: Wednesday, Sept. 9, 4 to 5 p.m. Like to play chess? We will set up our program room for all who like to play chess. Bring a friend or find one here! Sets will be available to use here and check out for use at home. Sponsored by the Friends of the Library.

NEWINGTON TOWN CRIER

14| Friday, August 28, 2015

First fall meeting of Newington Art League to be held Sept. 9

Mosquitoes test positive for West Nile in Wethersfield SPECIAL TO THE TOWN CRIER

SPECIAL TO THE TOWN CRIER

The first meeting of the Newington Art League’s fall season will be Wednesday, Sept.

9, at 6:30 p.m. at the Newington Senior and Disabled Center (Ceramics Room).

The meeting is open to the public, and new members are always welcome. The September guest demonstrator will be artist Diane Cote demonstrating oil sticks.

The league meets on the second Wednesday of September, October, November (second Tuesday this year due to holiday), March, April and May. Each meeting includes a brief business meeting followed by a demonstration in one of the visual arts. The league also holds a holiday party in December and a picnic in the summer.

The league continues to hold open workshops for members Mondays from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. and Tuesdays from 6 to 9:30 p.m. at the league’s new location, 679 Willard Ave. These free workshops offer members an opportunity to paint in any medium and share the experience of other artists.

An annual spring art show

Newington Art League President Pat Tanger.

is held at Town Hall in conjunction with the town-wide art show. It also participates in the Newington Extravaganza, the Waterfall Festival and awards an annual scholarship to a Newington High School senior on Scholarship Night.

Membership in the Newington Art League is open to all — both Newington residents and nonresidents. The requirements are simply an interest in the visual arts and a willingness to be an active participant in the league’s activities.

Membership offers artists the opportunity to show work in the league’s shows and exhibits, vote on league business and hold office in the league.

Officers for the 2015-16 year are President Pat Tanger, Co-Vice Presidents Celestine Bernard and Ellen Shuman, Treasurer Flo Dickie, and Secretary Christine Mansolf.

For additional information, visit newingtonartleague.org, the league’s Facebook page or contact Pat Tanger at (860) 6665026.

Each year, the Connecticut Mosquito Management Program conducts mosquito monitoring throughout the state to detect the presence of viruses such as West Nile virus (WNV) and Eastern Equine Encephalitis virus (EEE).

On Aug. 6, a mosquito tested positive for WNV at the Goff Road collection site in Wethersfield.

While WNV infections are treatable, symptoms may occur three to 14 days after being bitten by the infected mosquito and may include slight fever, body aches, headache, rash and conjunctivitis. These symptoms can be relieved with over-thecounter medications. However, anyone experiencing a high fever, stiff neck, severe headache, disorientation, vision loss, numbness or muscle weakness should consult a doctor.

To prevent these illnesses, the Central Connecticut Health District reminds residents to take the following precautions: ∎ Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants when outdoors; it is especially important to cover the arms and legs of children.

Clothing should be light-colored and made of tightly-woven materials that keep mosquitoes away from the skin. ∎Cover babies’ playpens and carriages with mosquito netting when outdoors. ∎Eliminate sources of standing water, such as stagnant ponds, ditches, flower pots and old tires, as mosquitoes only need a few tablespoons of water to lay eggs. Drain children’s pools, clean clogged gutters and flush birdbaths and fountains once or twice a week. Dispose of tin cans, plastic containers and any similar containers that have accumulated on your property.

Anyone with questions or concerns about mosquito control, WNV or any public health issue may contact the CCHD, serving the towns of Berlin, Newington, Rocky Hill and Wethersfield, at ccthd.org or on Facebook.

Additional information about mosquito control can be obtained from the CT Agricultural Experiment Station at ct.gov.caes and the Deptartment of Agriculture at ct.gov/doag.

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Friday, August 28, 2015 | 15

NEWINGTON TOWN CRIER

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NEWINGTON TOWN CRIER

16| Friday, August 28, 2015

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