NEWINGTON
Town Crier
Righting a wrong Friday, December 7, 2012
After radio station breaks promise to local woman, auto shop donates 20K in repairs By ERICA SCHMITT STAFF WRITER
After one radio station broke its promise to restore a local listener’s car, another stepped in and with the help of her gracious community, took over the task. More than just a competition between rival rock stations 106.9 WCCC and Radio 104.1, this marked an opportunity to improve the life of a woman whose health condition shows no signs of improving. Born with the life-threatening Volume 53, No. 45
Free
limb- and tissue-swelling disease lymphedema, nothing is ever easy for Newington resident Michelle Mele. But when she won WCCC’s contest to provide a listener in need $10,000 worth of car repairs, things were looking up for Mele as she anxiously anticipated the installation of a wheelchair lift in her 2001 Honda CR-V. After the station returned it to her in August basically untouched, NBC Connecticut ran a “Troubleshooters” segment calling its bluff. When Radio 104.1 Station Manager Brian Zullo got word of the injustice in late September, he called up his longtime friend Marty Smith, controller at Newingtonbased auto repair shop Turnpike Erica Schmitt | Staff Motors and the two took on the From top left, Radio 104.1 morning personality David Fisch, Turnpike Motors Owner Doug Fernandez and Controller project. See AUTO, Page 3
Marty Smith, with Newington resident Michelle Mele and her newly-restored 2001 Honda CR-V.
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Local News
2| Friday, Dec 7, 2012
NEWINGTON TOWN CRIER
CzepigaDaly law firm to leave town, consolidate offices in Berlin
NEWINGTON
NEWINGTON NEWINGTON Town Town Crier Crier
Town Crier
By SCOTT WHIPPLE STAFF WRITER
188 Main St., Bristol, CT 06010 (860) 225-4601 • Fax: (860) 223-8171 newingtontowncrier@centralctcommunications.com A Central Connecticut Communications LLC publication Michael E. Schroeder — Publisher Gary Curran — Advertising Manager James Casciato — Editor
At Your Service — We welcome your phone calls — and your visits. News Coverage — If you have a story idea or questions call (860) 225-4601 ext. 234. or email newingtontowncrier@centralctcommunications.com Sports Coverage — If you have a story idea or question, call Executive Sports Editor Brad Carroll (860) 225-4601 ext. 212 or bcarroll@centralctcommunications.com To Subscribe — To subscribe or for questions, call (860) 225-4608. Advertising CLASSIFIED & LEGAL: To place a classified ad, call (860) 231-2444. For legal advertisements, call (860) 231-2444. DISPLAY: If you have questions about placing a display advertisement, call Gary Curran (860) 225-4601 ext. 281. Copyright 2012, Central Connecticut Communications LLC. No reproduction or reuse of material without the express written consent of the Newington Town Crier. All rights reserved. To request permission to reprint any material from this publication, write to: 188 Main St., Bristol, CT 06010 The Newington Town Crier (USPS 618-380 and ISSN 0745-0796) is published weekly on Friday for $31 per year and $52 for out-of-state deliveries, by Central Connecticut Communications LLC, 188 Main St., Bristol, CT 06010. Periodical postage paid at New Britain, CT and additional mailing offices. Postmaster: Send address changes to The Newington Town Crier, 188 Main St., Bristol, CT 06010. Publisher’s liability for errors or omissions in advertising copy shall not exceed the cost of the space in which the error/omission occurs on the first insertion. Errors/omissions will be rectified by republication or by a credit applied to advertiser’s account; only one incorrect insertion of the same ad will be subject to republication or credit. No allowance shall be made in cases where the advertiser is at fault. Errors, typographic or otherwise, which do not materially affect the advertisement will not be adjusted. In no event shall Central Connecticut Communications LLC be liable for consequential damages of any kind.
Carol Frances, marketing director, said the move will make it easier to serve clients. “We’re growing and expanding our practice,”she explained. In addition to the Berlin office, the firm will retain its satellite office in Vernon. CzepigaDaly has 18 employees; four are attorneys; a fourth was recently hired as a litigator. “Now we can go to court for our clients,” said Frances, who added that she could not make the attorney’s name public yet. Berlin Mayor Adam Salina w e l c o m e d CzepigaDaly to Berlin. “Since Paul [Czepiga] is a Berlin resident,” said Salina, “I’m sure he’s happy to have a shorter drive to and from work. The firm has an outstanding reputation; we’re happy to welcome them to the Berlin business community.” The firm’s phone and fax numbers remain the same: Call (860) 5947995; fax is (866) 540-4616. E-mail address is plantoday@ctseniorlaw. com.
The elder law and estate planning firm of CzepigaDaly said Tuesday it will consolidate its Wethersfield and Newington offices and move into 4,000 square feet of new space at 15 Massirio Drive in Berlin. Its staff in Wethersfield will be relocating to the Berlin office and leasing space in early January; the Newington staff will follow two months later when the renovation of the new space is complete. The Berlin office is a mile and a half from the current Newington office and across the street from Stop & Shop. “Since the areas of elder law, estate planning and probate require multiple areas of expertise and collaboration, our clients will benefit from having all of our staff in one place,” said Paul Czepiga, a principal of the firm. “Focusing on the needs of our clients, the new office location has street level access and handicap parking, a must for our senior clients. We also responded to their requests for more flexibility in scheduling appointments; so, we can Scott Whipple can be reached at (860) now offer some evening and Saturday 225-4601, ext. 319, or swhipple@ centralctcommunications.com. hours.”
Its staff in Wethersfield will be relocating to the Berlin office and leasing space in early January; the Newington staff will follow two months later when the renovation of the new space is complete.
ABOUT CZEPIGADALY CzepigaDaly, voted top attorneys by Super Lawyers magazine, is a law firm offering estate and tax planning, elder law and elder law litigation, estate administration, probate and special needs trusts services. Its principals are members of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys with offices in Berlin and Vernon. The firm guides its clients through the complexities of and changes in Medicaid eligibility and asset protection. Its slogan is, “We’re dedicated to preserving our clients’ well-being as well as their assets.” CzepigaDaly scored a recent victory in court resulting in a landmark decision expected to affect seniors in Connecticut applying for Medicaid. The Federal Court of Appeals ruled that in the case Lopes v. Starkowski, represented by Attorneys Brendan Daly and Paul Czepiga, the Connecticut Department of Social Services was in violation of federal law when it tried to force a wife to sell her annuity in order for her husband to become eligible for Medicaid.
Here, they do come with instructions The Hospital of Central Connecticut’s childbirth education classes can help prepare you for everything from pregnancy to labor to new parenthood. We even offer a sibling class for soon-to-be big brothers or sisters! To register call the hospital’s Good Life Program at (860) 224-5433 or for information about the classes contact the Childbirth Education Coordinator at jrusso@thocc.org.
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NEWINGTON TOWN CRIER
‘Business as Usual’ to hold fundraising concert
Join us for an evening of A Cappella Music. No tracks, no instruments (even though in some cases it sounds like a full band playing) just five voices singing popular songs from the ’50s through today. The concert will be held at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 14 at the Charles A. Bowes Auditorium at Newington High School on Willard Avenue. Tickets are $10 for adults and $8 for students and senior citizens. One-hundred percent of the proceeds of the concert ticket sales will go to support the music programs at Newington High School including the
chorus, band and orchestra. Business as Usual’s five members originally began their singing careers in various singing groups at Drew University. After graduating, the five members wanted to continue to perform and Business as Usual was formed. Although the members are spread out geographically with two members living in Newington, one in Cromwell and the remaining two in the New York/New Jersey area. Even though music is not their primary career, (three work in insurance, one in IT and one in the watch industry), their
love of music allows them to continue to perform together. Business as Usual has performed all over the Eastern United States in support of various fundraising causes. The group is so dedicated to music, that last year prior to their concert in Newington, they conducted a clinic with the chorus students at Newington High School and this year they will be doing the same as well as a clinic sponsored by the Newington Education Foundation for the middle schools chorus students.
POLICE BLOTTER Kevin Huckaby, 28, of 28 Wilmot Road, Hamden, was charged Nov. 20 with prostitution. Shannon O’Brien, 24, of 174 Prospect St., Middletown, was charged Nov. 20 with prostitition, possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of narcotics. Michael Ciaredella, 23, of 210 Copper Road, Southington, was charged Nov. 27 with failure to maintain lane and driving under the influence. Matthew Morrell, 37, of 9 Eighth
St., was charged Nov. 27 with seconddegree threatening. Marek Sobota, 31, of 17 Wood Ave., Wethersfield, was charged Nov. 29 with driving under the influence and improper passing. Michael Parsons, 28, of 11 Brookside Ave., Old Lyme, was charged Nov. 30 with failure to maintain lane and driving under the influence. Wanda Simpson, 33, of 65 Beaver St., was charged Dec. 1 with reckless endangerment.
Juliet Ricciuti, 42, of 7 Summer Wind, Cromwell, was charged Dec. 2 with driving under the influence. Felix Rodriguez, 29, of 130 Kane St., West Hartford, was charged Dec. 2 with second-degree harassment. Jose Castro, 40, of 27 Dorothy St., Hartford, was charged Dec. 3 with threatening and breach of peace. Heather Kawecki, 30, of 184 Curtiss St., New Britain, was charged Dec. 4 with second-degree forgery and fourthdegree larceny.
Friday, Dec 7, 2012 | 3
Auto shop, radio station, come to aid of local woman Continued from Page 3
“Brian and I have been friends for years; he has some connections, I have some connections and we pulled them both together,” Smith said Tuesday as Mele arrived to pick up her like-new car — two months and $20,000 worth of improvements later. “We just wanted to make a wrong situation right,” said Zullo. “It’s nice to see you can make a difference in somebody’s life.” Mele could walk up until three years ago, when she stopped working and her condition worsened — basically rendering her immobile. Although she still navigates in a wheelchair, Mele can now get in and out of her car without issue. While Turnpike performed the majority of the body work, they called on some of their industry pals to help out. Tire Depot in Bristol provided new wheels, windows came from Auto Glass Unlimited in Plainville, detailing, Executive Auto Group and parts, Hoffman Auto. “Before, it had a lot of wear and tear,” Mele explained. “The front bumper had been ripped off and was held together by clamps … it needed new brakes and a lot of mechanical work,” she continued. “Now it looks exactly like it did in the showroom when I bought it. This means the world to me.” Erica Schmitt can be reached at (860) 225-4601, ext. 210, or eschmitt@newbritainherald.com.
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Local News
4| Friday, Dec 7, 2012
NEWINGTON TOWN CRIER
Cub Scout Pack 345 hikes Simsbury’s Talcott Mountain
Scouts learn about local history, respect for nature on 3.5-mile trek
Along the way, the group explored the base of King Phillip’s Exploring the great outdoors is Cave and talked about the folka traditional childhood pastime, lore behind it. King Phillip is and Newington’s Cub Scout Pack the legendary Indian who burned 345 now has the foundation they down the town of Simsbury in need to do so after a recent trip 1676. up Talcott Mountain in Simsbury. “Getting to the base of the The 10 boys — all fourth- caves was tough because there was graders at Anna still snow on the Reynolds School ground,” Osgood — hiked 3-1/2 said of the feat. miles up the But the real mountain to highlight of the meet one of the hike was when requirements they reached in earning their Heublein Tower, O u t d o o r s m a n PAUL OSGOOD a majestic 165Activity Badge. Cub Scout Pack 345 den leader foot tall piece Along with all of architecseven of their dads ture that was (there are three pairs of twins) built in 1914 and once served they made good use of the time as Gilbert Heublein’s summer by learning about their surround- home. Presidents Reagan and ings and how to treat them with Eisenhower have actually climbed respect. up to the very spot. Once they graduate from the Learning the area’s colorful hisWebelos ranking next year they tory wasn’t necessarily what the will all become Boy Scouts; this trip was all about, however. trip was just one more notch on “Before we went, we discussed the ladder to that ultimate goal. keeping away from the edge and “There’s an outdoor code they not leaving any trace of us being have to be familiar with,” explained there, cleaning up our debris,” Den Leader Paul Osgood, whose Osgood explained. two sons Aidan and Garren are They also made time to enjoy among the group. lunch and the scenery, even “I will do my best to be clean spotting a red-tailed hawk and in my outdoor manners, be care- collecting some pieces of rock ful with fire, be considerate in the resembling arrowheads. outdoors, and be conservation“We got to get a lot of exercise minded,” reads the Code, which and take in some beautiful views,” is followed universally by Scouts. Osgood added. By ERICA SCHMITT STAFF WRITER
“We got to get a lot of exercise and take in some beautiful views.”
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Above, as a requirement to earn their Webelos Outdoorsman Badge, Pack 345 Cub Scouts and their dads hiked Tolcott Mountain Nov. 10. From left, Aidan Shuey, Logan Hendon, Aidan Osgood, Joey Dorsey, Tyler Nystrom, Garren Osgood, Zach Geisler, Andrew Kulowski, Sam Geisler and Alex Kulowski. Below, taking a break and enjoying the view from the base of Heublein Tower are Pack 345 Scouts and their dads. From left, Rich Kulowski, Dean Leader Paul Osgood, Jason Dorsey, Assistant Den Leader Joe Geisler, Ray Shuey, Josh Hendon and Kirk Nystrom.
Last year, Pack 345 took in a breath of fresh air on their own turf, cleaning up nearly 70 pounds of trash from Mill Pond Park in Newington. This winter they’re going to be “roughing-it” with some coldweather camping. Although staying a cabin heated by a woodburning stove, the trip will be an opportunity for the boys to learn some handy survival skills. Pack 345 meets Tuesday evenings, May through October. For more information, contact Cub Master Kevin Mooney at (860) 665-0597. Erica Schmitt can be reached at (860) 225-4601, ext. 210, or eschmitt@newbritainherald.com.
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Local News
NEWINGTON TOWN CRIER
Growing burger franchise Mooyah arrives in Newington STAFF WRITER
No matter your age, income bracket or hair color, everyone loves a good burger and fries. While recently driving past the construction where Fenn Road meets Cedar Street, you may have noticed a new addition to the Super Stop & Shop plaza. It’s called “Mooyah” — officially opened yesterday and will probably be there for years to come, if there are still All-American hamburger and milkshake-loving folks living in Newington. In addition to French fries those are the basic menu offerings at Mooyah, which didn’t leave its home base of Texas until longtime friends and West Hartford residents Matt Rusconi and David Vorchheimer brought it to the northeast just a few years ago. The Hartford location came about in 2011 and Mooyah West Hartford just opened its doors last March. Now there is a third franchise in the state right here in town. “We’re just excited to be a part of Newington,” Rusconi said Monday as newly-hired employees raced around the restaurant preparing for Wednesday’s soft opening, when all proceeds went to benefit the nearby Boys and Girls Club of New Britain. That’s what the Mooyah concept strives to emphasize: simple, tasty food and a strong relationship with the surrounding community. Not only have the pair promised to open 15 different locations across the state in the next seven years providing more than 375 new
jobs in this area alone, but they also want to reach out to local kids. “We want people to approach us about fundraising opportunities for high schools, elementary schools,” Rusconi explained. “We’d really like to integrate ourselves into this community.” Pretty soon they’re hoping the inside of the restaurant is decorated with Newington High School team jerseys and other local paraphernalia. There’s even a huge floor-to-ceiling chalkboard for people to draw on before, during and after their meals. So what is the food all about anyway? A Mooyah burger features two (fresh, never frozen) 3.3 oz. 100 percent Grade A American beef patties that cook up to about a third of a pound. A “Little Moo” is made with one patty. There’s also veggie and turkey burgers, all served on fresh white and wheat buns made in-store daily, or wrapped in iceberg lettuce. Top it with one of five cheeses, any of 17 free sauces and veggies and three specialty toppings. “We hand-form them. I like to compare them to snowflakes; no two are the same,” joked Rusconi, before jumping up excited to show off his new soda machine — a “Coke Freestyle” that offers 100+ different kinds of popular soft drinks. But why opt for soda when their milkshake bar boasts 14 flavors, including Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup, mocha and cookie dough? French fries are made in a sixstep process and sweet potato fries come dusted with a particularly-
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Local News
6| Friday, Dec 7, 2012
NEWINGTON TOWN CRIER
Planned bike route would extend to Newington Junction By SCOTT WHIPPLE STAFF WRITER
THE NEED FOR A
NEW BRITAIN — The New BIKE ROUTE Britain Bike Connectivity Work Group is going public with its According to ConnDOT records, recommendations for a compreNew Britain in 2004/2005 hensive bicycle network for the city. had 28 bicycle accidents per The group met Tuesday in the 100,000 population. This Downtown District headquarters places the city well above and was attended by a working the statewide average of 19 group of cyclists, municipal officials and well below the highest and bicycle advocates. recorded number of 47 in Led by Robert Trottier, a civil Bridgeport. In the years 2005 engineer in the City Department through 2007 New Britain had of Public Works, the group disan average of 24 accidents per cussed a draft of its report, “New year resulting in 65 injuries Britain Bicycle Connectivity and and 1 death. Recently, a cyclist Traffic Calming Study,” prepared was killed on North Street. Ridby TO Design LLC. (“Calming” ers of all ages have accidents, is a shift in emphasis from moving vehicles through a street corridor as quickly as possible to the desire to slow traffic in residential neighbor- on the train there,” he added. “It’s hoods). going to be a pretty neat spot.” The report lists proposed bicycle Newington Town Manager John accommodations based on such Salomone has even dubbed the attributes as street width, traffic multi-use pedestrian trail as the volume, speed limit, on-street park- “CT FasTREK” playing off of the ing and adjoining land use. For name of the multi-million dollar example, a bike lane is recommend- busway, set for completion in Feb. ed for Stanley Street; a Sharrow for 2015. West Main Street (Vine Street to Although a bike plan was proColumbus Boulevard). A Sharrow duced in 1974 by the New Britain is a shared roadway marked and City Planning Commission, a signed for bikes. bicycling network Sharrows operate has never been on the principle developed in New that bicycles are Britain. With the already allowed on current popularmost streets. ity of biking group The bicycle members said network won’t the time is right just drop off the to incorporate a end of the earth low-cost mode of when it hits city transportation into lines, however. the transportaOnce it crosses the tion infrastructure. Newington borOther communider, the five mile TERRY BORJESON ties in the state trail will make its Town Councilor -includingHartford, way to the bus Bridgeport and station currently Plainville - are under construction at Newington developing or studying bicycling Junction. networks. “It’s very unique because that’s Architect Phil Barlow, a conwhere the second CTfastrak stop sultant to the city, said one goal of in Newington is, then you have the the bike route is to get residents to pedestrian walkway ending there, CTfastrak bus stops without drivand then third phase of it will ing their cars. be the New Haven-Springfield Addressing the issue of expense, railway, which will also have a Trottier said most of the work that stop there,” explained Newington will be done on the bike routes will Town Councilor Terry Borjeson, be striping and the city will make the town’s liaison to the Capitol its own signs. Region Council of Governments. “So, we’re not anticipating a large “So you can walk, bike, or take expense,” he said. a bus to the junction, then hop Addressing the issue of safe-
“So you can walk, bike, or take a bus to the junction, then hop on the train there,” he added. “It’s going to be a pretty neat spot.”
Annalisa Russell-Smith | Staff
Above, The New Britain Bike Connectivity Work Group from left, Phil Barlow of TO Design LLC in New Britain, Francis Pickering, deputy director of Central Connecticut Regional Planning Agency, Stephen P. Schiller, New Britain city planner and Robert D.Trottier, civil engineer New Britain Department of Public Works, meeting at the Visitor’s Center Tuesday. Below, A conceptual plan of the New Britain Bike Connectivity routes.
ty, Francis Pickering of the Connecticut Regional Planning Commission, pointed out that town ramps can be dangerous for bikers, especially ramps south of Westfarms mall. Another potentially dangerous area for bikers is on Route 372 to Plainville. Mark Hoffman of the Central Connecticut Cycling Club, said with more bicycles in a community the more courteous motorists tend to act toward bikers. “When drivers start to ride bikes they understand what it’s like to be cyclists,” said Pickering. “As you make the roads safer and the number of cyclists goes up, driver behavior [toward cyclists] changes for the better.” Trottier said he will set up a blog and a draft of the report of the bike plan on the city website (www. newbritainct.gov) to solicit public comments. He said the group will meet again next month to review the status of the project. Scott Whipple can be reached at (860) 225-4601, ext. 319 or swhipple@ centralctcommunications.com.
NEWINGTON DOWNTOWN BUSINESS ASSOCIATION
Friday, Dec 7, 2012 | 7
Local News
NEWINGTON TOWN CRIER
Fine craftsmanship lives at Fazio Shoe & Luggage Repair STAFF WRITER
Tucked in the back lot of Market Square is a hidden treasure that still greases its antique machines on Sunday, smells balmy like old shoe polish and churns leather goods through ‘til they’re good as new. When the construction business started getting slow, Gaetano
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The machines used to mend items — cut soles, stitch hems, buff heels — are from the 1920s and ’40s, at the latest. But they are still in perfect condition and run better than the fancy new ones — just the like the pair of old leather boots or the worn briefcase that Fazio can restore to good-as-new. But be warned, you won’t leave
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Fazio began learning the shoe repair trade part-time. He opened Fazio Shoe & Luggage Repair & Retail in 1977 — 13 years after he moved to the Hartford area from Sicily, Italy. From the very first customers who walked through his door then to the younger generation that now bring their leather handbags, a large clientele need he and wife Cecile’s services. Fazio is one of the only shoe repair shops left around these parts. “Some have moved out of state, but from time to time they mail me their shoes,” Fazio said. He can repair anything leather, but takes care of a lot of shoes, luggage, purses and jackets. They repair soles, heels, stretch shoes if they’re too big, tighten boots if they’re too loose around calves, and also tend to every orthopedic need. “They bring in notes from their doctor saying what the problem is,” Fazio said. This week, one customer’s leg happened to be longer than the other, so Fazio is crafting a shoe solution. But his work is challenging and the shoe repair industry is not too lucrative, hence why Fazio is the only one left in the area besides a few shops in Hartford. A $5 job might take an hour to do. However to Fazio, it’s worth it. They also operate a small retail shop next door that sells new items — shoes, outerwear, luggage and more.
036672
By ERICA SCHMITT
Newington Downtown Business Association is a nonpartisan organization of town center businesses and property owners dedicated to the revitalization and optimum usage of our downtown business district. We encourage everyone to Park, walk, and experience your Town Center. There are many “hidden gems” you drive by every day that can be discovered within a short walk. Please, stop in and meet all the friendly business people who have chosen downtown Newington to serve you and your family.
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Local News
8| Friday, Dec 7, 2012
NEWINGTON TOWN CRIER
Local psychic featured on Discovery Channel show By ERICA SCHMITT STAFF WRITER
There are no neon lights or beaded curtains in Karen Hollis’ Rocky Hill office, flaunting her psychic abilities in that flashy, smoke-and-mirrors manner. But the Newington resident is still able to make a living as a clairaudient intuitive psychic/medium, simply through word-of-mouth. She was even featured on an episode of the Discovery Channel’s “Destination America: A Haunting” for her work with the Ghosts of New England Research Society. The premiere was last Friday. Hollis and her fellow researchers were called into action by the owner of an area tavern experiencing some bazaar happenings, recreated for television when the show was filmed this past June at the Holiday Inn on the Berlin Turnpike. Ryders on Main, located in Meriden, was the site under investigation. Owner Lynn Ryder has been a client of Hollis’ for many years and called upon her to look into the disruptive, inexplicable phenomenon at her bar: some humorous, like an unplugged jukebox playing the theme
from “Ghostbusters.” “I told Lynn to make peace with After Ryder shut down the place it,” she remembers. one Sunday evening, the society’s After taking this and a few other eight-member team set up their measures, the ghosts vanished and equipment and immediately began business at Ryders on Main returned recording electronic voice phenom- to normal. ena. A Tarot reader, Hollis laid out her cards and identified two mischievous entities on-site. “Drunk ghosts” as she calls the energies, were stealing shot glasses from behind the bar and as she found in her readings, hiding them in the establishment’s creepy cellar. There was also the typical slamming doors and disorder of kitchen items, an ice machine operating unplugged and KAREN HOLLIS the alarm system triggering at all Psychic/medium hours of the night. “I determined there was a gentleman — very distraught, had hung The Discovery Channel “discovhimself and returned to Ryder’s, one ered” the story on the Ghosts of New his favorite haunts,” she said with a England Research Society’s website chuckle. and urgently contacted the team to Hollis instructed Ryder and her pursue the show. husband to respond to the para“We call ourselves GONERS; normal activity they observed in a isn’t that funny?” Hollis joked of the nonchalant manner because spir- acronym of the Society, which she its are simply energy, weak in their founded along with longtime paraperformances without live human normal investigator Kurt Knapp. reaction feeding them. “We’re a bunch of people who
“I determined there was a gentleman — very distraught, had hung himself and returned to Ryder’s, one of his favorite haunts.”
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like to run around in the dark and find out, is there anything out there,” continued Hollis, who studied under several renowned international mediums, including James Van Praagh. “It’s our greatest hope that as we do more and more investigations, we’ll be able to catch more evidence of the afterlife. I know something exists beyond this, it’s just a matter of what it is and why,” she says. Hollis works out of her office on the Silas Deane Highway by day, performing readings in-person and over the phone for clientele across the globe. In the evenings, she teaches classes in the Tarot, palmistry and other subjects. But this was never the life she imagined. Actually, it found her. “I was 23 when I had my first reading,” says Hollis, who worked in advertising for many years before ever delving into the supernatural. “That very first time, the psychic told me, this is what you’re meant to be doing and you will be before your 50th birthday,” she remembers, describing her dismissive attitude about the prediction, which turned out to prove true. To see Hollis in the encore viewing of Destination America’s “A
Newington resident Karen Hollis, who goes by the title of clairaudient intuitive psychic/medium, and runs Readings by Karen at 2433 Main St., Suite 9, Rocky Hill, was recently featured on the Discovery Channel’s “Destination America.”
Haunting” watch the Discovery Channel this Friday, Dec. 7, at 9 p.m. or Saturday, when it airs again twice, at 10 a.m. and midnight. Readings by Karen is located at 2433 Main Street, Suite 9, Rocky Hill. (860) 665-8024. Erica Schmitt can be reached at (860) 225-4601, ext. 210, or eschmitt@ newbritainherald.com.
Temporary jobs available to help with Sandy cleanup
HARTFORD — Residents can now contact the state Department of Labor for information on temporary employment opportunities related to superstorm Sandy recovery efforts under a program developed in cooperation with federal partners utilizing a $1.8 million federal grant the state received in the aftermath of the storm. “In addition to temporarily hiring those who have been dislocated or are unemployed, this federal grant will assist the state and our cities and towns in rebuilding in the wake of this devastating storm,” Gov. Dannel Malloy said. Under the terms of the federal grant, applicants must be unemployed as a result of Sandy, or they must have been unemployed prior to the storm and no longer receiving unemployment benefits or other income support. The grant allows Connecticut to fund approximately 120 positions for up to 20 weeks for cleanup,
demolition, repair, renovation, and reconstruction of destroyed public structures, facilities, and lands within affected communities. Temporary jobs may also include working on projects that provide food, clothing, shelter and other humanitarian assistance for disaster victims. Contacts for these employment opportunities include: ∎ New Britain: Carl Walczewski at carl.walczewski@ct.gov; ∎ Hartford: Donna Smith at donna.smith@ct.gov; ∎ Meriden: Karl Eckert at karl. eckert@ct.gov. Residents interested in a temporary position should email their closest contact above, providing their name, address, phone number, email address and current employment status. CTWorks Career Center contact information can be downloaded on DOL’s website at ct.gov/dol by clicking on the “Storm Sandy temporary employment opportunities” link.
Local News
NEWINGTON TOWN CRIER
Friday, Dec 7, 2012 | 9
Troop 347 takes home 1st place in first aid competition STAFF REPORT
Do you know how to splint a broken arm, what to do if someone is bleeding severely, or even what to do at the scene of an accident where multiple people are injured? On Dec. 1, more than 100 Boy Scouts gathered at the Immanuel Lutheran School in Bristol to demonstrate just this sort of knowledge while competing in the Annual Mark Twain District First Aid Meet. The Scouts represented Troops in Avon, Bristol, Farmington, Newington, Plainville, Rocky Hill, West Hartford and Wethersfield. At the meet, teams of Scouts each face five different scenarios and must correctly determine what is wrong with a victim and then treat them. Detailed knowledge and quick responses are needed, as a judge may declare another team member a fainting victim and tell the team to treat him as well. Teams may spend up to a month before the meet learning and reviewing first aid skills prior to the comNewington Boy Scout Troop 347 takes first place in the Pyquag Division, Mark Twain District, Annual First Aid Meet. From left, Tyler Palumbo, David petition. Townsend, Nathaniel Page, Jacob Sirois, Evan Field, Benjamin Page, and Louis Antinerella.
NHS athletes selected to All-CCC Teams The Central Connecticut Conference has made its choices for all-league players. Each of the sports have AllConference teams within their divisions, and Newington was well represented. For football, Newington’s Eric Ryan, Chris Zotti, Jake Hedberg, Jon Yong, Nicholas Mamet and Chris Beauford made the cut for Division I East. For girls soccer, Newington led the way with four players making the All-Conference West
team. They were Brianna Boyko, Meaghan Gustafson, Kaila Lozada and Jalen Middlebrooks. In boys soccer, Newington’s Chris Kapuscinski, Mitchell Ambruso and Rameez Luna made the All-Conference West team. For field hockey, Newington’s Katelyn Dombrowski was placed on the West team. All-Conference players girls swimming and diving were not named on the CCC website prior to publication.
NAACP suspends Conn. critic over rants
WATERBURY (AP) — The former president of the NAACP’s Waterbury chapter has been suspended indefinitely from the national organization over comments he’s made on Facebook and in emails. The Republican-American of Waterbury reports that a recently disclosed letter written last month by national NAACP President Benjamin Todd Jealous said Jimmie Griffin was suspended for making “defamatory and false allegations.” Griffin over the years has accused the NAACP of mismanagement, deception and apathy, and he’s attacked several organization members personally. Griffin says he received the letter last weekend and was stunned by the punishment. He criticized the organization for disregarding his free speech rights.
Local News
10| Friday, Dec 7, 2012
NEWINGTON TOWN CRIER
Local nonprofit groups wary of looming ‘fiscal cliff ’
By SCOTT WHIPPLE STAFF WRITER
For many nonprofit entities, the so-called “fiscal cliff ” approaching as 2012 ends could wreak havoc. Donations could drop. Jobs would be lost, putting more strain on charitable services. Moreover, some economists have warned that the federal budget cuts and tax increases that could take effect early in 2013, as soon as Jan. 1, if the president and Congress fail to act, could plunge a weak economy into a renewed recession. Nonprofit organizations in central Connecticut have begun to evaluate how the so-called fiscal cliff might affect them. Bristol Adult Resource Center is a non-profit organization serving individuals with disabilities. Its executive director, Judy Gebben, says aspects of the fiscal cliff measures “will definitely impact our activities such as our food service. With fewer donations we would serve fewer people.” The United Way of West Central Connecticut serves Bristol, Burlington, Plainville and Plymouth/ Terryville. Because its money is raised
and distributed locally, the organization doesn’t receive federal dollars, and is less likely to feel the fiscal cliff effect. “People are making pledges now to be fulfilled in 2013,” says President Donna Osuch. “We’re optimistic that most of those pledges will be fulfilled.” Osuch says its nonprofit partners are seeing an increase in need, and that some of their grants and other revenues are in jeopardy. Most are serving as many people as possible, but at some point that will no longer be possible. “More people need behavioral and mental health services, but can’t afford them,” Osuch says. “Congress has discussed cutting the income tax deduction for donations to charities, but hasn’t acted. “We’re cautiously optimistic this deduction won’t be cut [since] it not only helps nonprofit charities, but also individuals and families.” Osuch is watching federal leaders to see how they address the looming crisis. “Even if we avoid the fiscal cliff, we still need to strengthen our local
communities,” she says. In New Britain, David Davison, president and CEO of New Britainbased American Savings Foundation, says his organization’s major concern is that nonprofits and programs that ASF supports will suffer from declining donations. The independent charitable foundation is dedicated to strengthening the community by supporting education, human services and the arts. Davison warns that if the fiscal cliff causes another recession, “our endowment assets could drop, resulting in a significant drop in our annual contributions budget.” In 2012 the foundation took in $3.15 million, $100,000 more than in 2011. However, the outlook for 2013 is less bright. Davison says anxiety over the fiscal cliff is influencing the foundation’s planning. “We have to be cautious about new commitments and long-term pledges that could tie up our contributions,” he says Davison is concerned that Congress will eliminate the income tax deduction for donating to charities, drastically affecting donations.
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“If state and federal funds are cut, and generous companies are affected and can’t make donations, then organizations like ours will face a crisis,” he says. CW Resources Inc., in New Britain, is a private, nonprofit vocational rehabilitation agency serving the needs of persons with disabilities and the socioeconomically challenged. Its president, Ron Buccilli, notes that his organization is actually a nonprofit that runs like a business. Still, CW could be affected because it depends on federal and military contracts. “If we all fall over that cliff there will be significant cuts in the Department of Defense,” Buccilli says. “With fewer contracts we’d be operating with less money and probably have to provide less service.” It would also mean fewer jobs for CW’s staff and its clients. “We already lost one commissary contract,” he says. “The government wanted to save money by doing the work themselves.” Like Davison, Buccilli believes less federal money is coming to the state’s nonprofits.
“It will be a mess,” he says. Opportunities Industrialization Center of New Britain trains and places youths and adults into careers. Its executive director, Paulette Fox, says, “If the fiscal cliff is as disastrous as some people speculate, it will negatively impact nonprofits in Connecticut. I hope we won’t be cut out.” The Community Foundation of Greater New Britain connects donors who care with causes that matter in Berlin, New Britain, Plainville and Southington. An independent, nonprofit organization, the foundation invests and administers more than 140 funds with a market value of more than $30 million. Foundation President Jim Williamson says it may be too early to gauge the effect of the fiscal cliff, though it certainly has caused concern among nonprofits. “Philanthropy has its ups and downs,” Williamson says. “Even in [bad] times people respond generously. Here we invest for the long term. The stock market can drop hundreds of points, but we’re going to continue helping people.”
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Friday, Dec 7, 2012 | 11
Local News
NEWINGTON TOWN CRIER
Capital Workforce grant to PET OF THE WEEK fund CCSU career training
NEW BRITAIN — Central Connecticut State University has recently received a grant through Capital Workforce Partners to offer eligible, out-of-school youth, between the ages of 17 and 21 an opportunity to receive training in three science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) career fields. There is no cost to the participants. Participants enrolled in the “Social Enterprise & Workforce Development Project” will be eligible to receive advanced training certifications in emergency medical responder (EMR), basic technical manufacturing technician, or web based programming/ website design. In addition, program participants will acquire retail work experience in a New Britain Downtown store to be launched and operated in association with this project.
Participation in this entrepreneurial business will also provide them with an opportunity to receive national certification in customer service credentials. Other services will include academic tutoring, career competencies development, and interactions with CCSU faculty and local businesses. Program staff will assist with placement into employment and postsecondary education opportunities. Interested young adults may call Thomas Menditto at (860) 832-2215 or e-mail him at menditto@ccsu.edu. The first session of this two-year program will begin Dec. 10. The program is funded in part by Capital Workforce Partners at capitalworkforce.org. This is an approved program under the U.S. Department of Labor through the Workforce Investment Act of 1998.
AmeriCares, Johnson & Johnson team up to help storm victims
AmeriCares has delivered more than $145,000 in Johnson & Johnson products to superstorm Sandy victims in Connecticut, New York and New Jersey. Hygiene kits donated by the multinational manufacturer were given to survivors within only Autobody days of the storm. In the following weeks, AmeriCares followed up with deliveries of Johnson & Johnson baby care supplies, disinfectants, and glucose meters and test strips for diabetic patients. Johnson & Johnson has partnered with AmeriCares for more than 25 years, providing aid to people in need in 63 countries. The company has provided AmeriCares with emergency aid for dozens of disasters, including the 2010 Haiti earthquake, the humanitarian crisis in Libya and Hurricane Isaac in the U.S. “Johnson & Johnson is a trusted AmeriCares partner whose aid consistently helps people suffering from both emergencies and
the everyday crises of poverty,” said Geoff Kneisel, AmeriCares vice president of corporate relations. “After Sandy, Johnson & Johnson’s generous donations fulfilled the most pressing needs of displaced families and vulnerable patients requiring medical care.” AmeriCares relief workers have been working nonstop since Sandy struck, providing $1.6 million in aid benefiting nearly 250,000 storm victims. To date, AmeriCares has delivered 93 aid shipments for affected families in the hardest hit communities and awarded over $450,000 in grants to health clinics and partner organizations helping storm victims. The humanitarian aid organization also deployed its 40-foot mobile clinic to New York City to assist health-care facilities unable to treat patients because of storm damage and power outages.
Maggie is a wonderful young lady! She is a hound mix who would love to go for hikes, swims, car rides, jogs — whatever a young active family would like to do! Maggie is a very active girl, suited to a home with a yard, and needs experienced dog owners! She would enjoy the company of other dogs and has not yet met any cats. She would do best in a home with children older than 10 and together, you can bond with Maggie through continued training (required for adoption). Maggie is a sweetheart who would love to spend every second with you! If you are interested in adopting Maggie, please stop in to the Newington CT Humane Society today! 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, Westport and a cat adoption center in the PetSMART store in New London. The Connecticut Humane Society is not affiliated with any other animal welfare organizations on the national, regional or local level.
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Local News
12| Friday, Dec 7, 2012
NEWINGTON TOWN CRIER
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Friday, Dec 7, 2012 | 13
Local News
NEWINGTON TOWN CRIER
ACLU: Conn. police make it hard to file complaints By PAT EATON-ROBB ASSOCIATED PRESS
Filing a complaint against a police officer in Connecticut can be a confusing and intimidating process, according to a report released Tuesday by the American Civil Liberties Union of Connecticut. The organization conducted a telephone survey of 92 municipal departments and Connecticut’s 12 state police barracks, using volunteer callers who asked a series of anonymous questions about how to file a complaint. The organization said it found problems ranging from departments with no policy for handling complaints to others that implied complainants could be subject to prosecution or deportation. Twenty-three percent of municipal police departments reported having no complaint form for civilians to fill out and 61 percent said they would not accept anonymous complaints, the group found. Two-thirds of departments with online complaint forms included warnings that false complaints would be subject to prosecution, according to the report. The warning in the Connecticut State police online form reads: “False reporting in an attempt to unjustly subject a Connecticut State Trooper to undeserved
discipline or slander, or place his/her employment in jeopardy can result in criminal charges or civil liability.” Lt. J. Paul Vance, a state police spokesman, said that department’s complaint procedure is well established, easy to find and thoroughly transparent. He defended the warning as being part of that transparency. “You want to be completely open, so people understand what they are dealing with in these types of complaints,” he said. The Hamden complaint form asks if the complainant would be willing to submit to a lie-detector test. “In some cases departments said you had to first confront the officer that you had a problem with,” said David McGuire, an ACLU attorney. “Those are all procedures that make it less likely that people will actually follow through with complaints.” The report follows a federal investigation that found a pattern of discrimination toward Latinos by the East Haven Police Department, and led to reforms in complaint procedures there. McGuire said in light of that investigation, it was disturbing that some departments told ACLU callers they would report any complaint
from an illegal immigrant to federal immigration officials. A message seeking comment was left Tuesday with Southington Police Chief Jack Daly, the president of the Connecticut Police Chiefs Association. McGuire said the ACLU will seek legislation that would establish a statewide standard for reporting such complaints. But Rep. Stephen Dargan, a West Haven Democrat who is co-chairman of the legislature’s Public Safety Committee, said he’s not
convinced there is a problem that requires a new law. He acknowledged he had not read the report, but said it presents only one side of the story. “The way to communicate is not to communicate from just one side, but to get everyone involved into a room to talk about it,” he said. “I’m willing to listen to the ACLU, but I also want to listen to police chiefs and other law enforcement officials. If there is a way to better the system that makes everybody happy, then we should do it.”
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Local News
NEWINGTON TOWN CRIER
The mural of the story
There have been some new additions to the Children’s Department of the Lucy Robbins Welles Library. Local artist, Heather Sawtelle, painted a number of murals in early November. On Jan. 12 from 1-3 p.m. the library will be having a “Name the Dragon” contest at its Winter Reading Kick-Off event. After names are submitted, children will be able to come into the library and place a vote on their favorite.
Friday, Dec 7, 2012 | 15
Local News
NEWINGTON TOWN CRIER
Malloy seeks $3.2 billion to protect state from future storms By ANA RADELAT CONNECTICUT POST
Gov. Dannel malloy Monday asked the Obama administration for $3.2 billion to protect Connecticut from another super storm like Sandy by burying electric transmission lines and building new seawalls. Malloy also put the total estimated cost of Sandy’s damage to Connecticut at $660 million. That figure includes both insured and uninsured losses and the destruction of both private and public property, he said. Malloy also cautioned that the estimate is likely to rise as damage assessments continue. The governor said he planned to ask the U.S. Office of Management and Budget Monday for $3.2 billion for mitigation efforts. Those include a series of Army Corps of Engineer flood protection projects, including the construction of new seawalls. Dan DeSimone, the director of Connecticut’s Washington office, said the money would also be used to improve and relocate sewage treatment plants along the coast, improve and fortify vulnerable state and municipal airports and upgrade communication systems so they are storm-proof. But DeSimone said the bulk of the $3.2 billion would be focused on improvements to Connecticut’s electric transmission system, “replacing old infrastructure, burying lines in critical or high density areas (and) establishing micro-grids in high density areas to preserve vital functions.” New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo and New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie had already submitted their emergency requests to the federal government, totalling about $79 billion for both states. Cuomo was also in Washington Monday pressing for money for his state. The New York governor met with congressional appropriators and House Speaker John Boehner, R-Ohio, about his request for $42 billion. But it’s not clear what will become of the bids for money from the governors of Sandy-slammed states. The Office of Management and Budget must first review the requests, then send a final determination to Congress. Congressional appropriators expect OMB to send them a formal request for Sandy funds this week. But Jennifer Hing, press secretary for the House Appropriations Committee, said no one on Capitol
Hill knows what the total figure will be. Whatever it is, it’s likely to be cut back by the GOP-controlled House Appropriations panel. “Once we get the request the committee will give it a good scrub and make a determination on what is needed,” Hing said. She pointed out that Congress’
initial appropriation for Hurricane Katrina, the most expensive storm on record, was $60 billion, substantially less than the governors are asking for in Sandy aid. Then there’s the question of how fast Malloy and the other governors will receive Sandy funds. Congress is in a lame duck ses-
sion that’s expected to end before Christmas, and it has much to do during this brief period. That includes trying to find a way to avoid a looming “fiscal cliff,” when a series of tax cuts expire at the end of the year and deep, automatic spending cuts are implemented. Economists and others have said
that going over the so-called cliff could plunge the nation back into a recession. This story originally appeared at CTMirror.org, the website of The Connecticut Mirror, an independent nonprofit news organization covering government, politics and public policy in the state.
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Local News
16| Friday, Dec 7, 2012
NEWINGTON TOWN CRIER
State considers letting companies invest in social progress Using social impact bonds, companies would profit or see return on investment if social problems show improvement By MARK PAZNIOKAS CONNECTICUT MIRROR
Connecticut took a sober look Tuesday at an intoxicating idea for these tough fiscal times: Use private capital to underwrite new, innovative programs that produce a return for investors only if they solve a social problem. In other words, pay only for success. Goldman Sachs is underwriting a $9.6 million effort to fight recidivism by young offenders in New York City’s jails. If recidivism drops by 10 percent, Goldman gets its money back. A steeper drop could make the bank a $2.1 million return. Whether they are called “payfor-performance” or “social impact bonds,” the concept is generating buzz in the normally staid world of philanthropy, with upbeat stories by NPR, The Economist and the New York Times. A panel of experts told a Hartford audience of social-service providers and state officials, including Gov. Dannel P. Malloy and at least two
state agency heads, that they should embrace the potential, but beware the hype. “The limitations are not to be underestimated,” said Tracy Palandjian, the co-founder of Social Finance. “The economics need to be there. The presence of proven interventions and able providers need to be there.” Investors essentially are betting on non-profit providers of social services to save the state money, most often with programs that cost a little up front, yet can avoid more expensive problems down the road. Palandjian said recidivism and health care costs are two areas with great potential: Keeping people out of prison or out of hospital emergency rooms can produce savings that are significant and, equally important, measurable. “If we can more actively manage chronic illness like diabetes, like asthma, the payoff is very compelling in avoided hospitalization and emergency room utilizations,” Palandjian said. Her group is the affiliate of a
British group using social finance to attack recidivism — a model for efforts in the U.S. Some backers of the approach say they were highly skeptical “Honestly, my first reaction was this is nuts. There can’t be a way to unlock private capital to get something for nothing,” said Jeffrey Liebman, a public policy professor at the Kennedy School at Harvard. “My Ponzi scheme antenna went up.” Liebman now is a believer, though one who says he remains realistic about the significant challenges of making these experiments work. He is a volunteer adviser to New York and Massachusetts, where socialfinance experiments are underway. The programs must be run by experienced providers with a good business plan that identifies results that are measurable, both in terms of value to clients and savings to municipal or state governments, he said. Liebman and others say a benefit of the approach is that it requires a market approach to social services, requiring close monitoring to determine if an approach is a success.
With most social programs, a state might pay for outputs, but not outcomes. Rep. Diana Urban, D-Stonington, a long-time proponent of resultsbased accounting in state government, said an output might be how many people completed a jobtraining course, while an outcome would measure how many people were hired and how their incomes improved. Palandjian, Liebman joined George Overhosler, the chief executive of Third Sector Capital Partners, to talk about the potential and pitfals of social finance. It was one of several panels at a conference organized by the Connecticut Association for Human Services and the Capitol Region Council of Governments. “This is an important conversation to have,” Malloy said. He cautioned, however, that social-finance programs offer an opportunity to test new programs, not replace the core functions of government — an assessment shared by the experts who spoke Tuesday. Liebman, who worked in the Obama administration’s budget office for two years before returning
to Harvard, said every state government relies heavily on private non-profits to deliver services, but few governments measure the quality of those services. “We’re not reallocating more money to the superstars, because we don’t know who they are,” Liebman said. “And we’re not stopping spending on things that don’t work, because we don’t know which things are working or not.” By their nature, social-finance programs require realtime monitoring and testing, he said. “Even if up front we decide to spend money on something that doesn’t work, at least we won’t keep doing it for 20 years, like we do with our normal spending,” he said. “We’ll know.” Effective social programs save money, they said. A failure by the Department of Children and Families today could mean a future client — and expense — for the state’s social services or its prisons, officials said. This story originally appeared at CTMirror.org, the website of The Connecticut Mirror, an independent nonprofit news organization covering government, politics and public policy in the state.
Local business helps during holiday season
Massage Therapy Damato Chiropractic Center and DCC Massage Therapy of Newington with the help of their patients donated more than 75 bags of groceries to the Newington Department of Human Services, which distributes food and gifts to children, adults, the elderly, and people with disabilities. During the months of November and December the food bank provides Thanksgiving food baskets and gifts to approximately 400 households. Thanks to the patients of DCC Massage Therapy they were able to raise over $2500 in groceries this year which was donated the Tuesday before Thanksgiving. “It’s such an awesome thing to do, I had to participate again this year,” said patient Paula Moran. Fundraising efforts were organized by Massage Therapist Cheryl Connolly with the help of Rachel Schwanke, Michelle Rach, Amiee Peloquin, Katie Morissette, Linda Baker, and Dina Smith. “These therapists volunteered their time and offered half price massages to anyone who brought a full bag of food. This is my favorite time of year when we can give back to the community and help our patients out,” said Cheryl Connolly. “I am proud to have these amazing therapists on my team,” said Dr. Eric Damato. “Our patients and staff are extremely generous to take part in such an incredible event.” The goal of Damato Chiropractic each year is to help donate as much food as possible to the local community. And again this year they have successfully surpassed their goal thanks to their patients and staff and look forward to next year. “Thank you so much for your ongoing support of our department and the residents we serve,” said Karen Futoma, director of Human Resources. “Donations to the food bank will help our local residents year round.”
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93 Market Square, Newington 860-436-2065 www.damatochiropractic.com
NEWINGTON TOWN CRIER
Friday, Dec 7, 2012 | 17
Local News
State Vietnam veterans sue military over PTSD NEW HAVEN — The military has failed to correct the wrongful discharges of thousands of Vietnam veterans suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder, an advocacy group says in a federal lawsuit. Vietnam Veterans of America on Monday joined a proposed class action lawsuit in Hartford against the Army, Navy and Air Force. The lawsuit, filed last year by a veteran, says the Vietnam veterans suffered PTSD before it was recognized and were discharged under other-thanhonorable conditions that made them ineligible for disability compensation and other benefits. The lawsuit says the military has refused to review or upgrade the discharge statuses of thousands of Vietnam War-era veterans with service-related PTSD. “People did not understand PTSD during the Vietnam era,” said John Rowan, national president of Vietnam Veterans of America. “Now that we do, these service members must not be denied the recognition and benefits they long ago earned.” The U.S. attorney’s office, which is representing the military in the lawsuit, said it’s reviewing the matter and will respond in court. A Department of Defense spokeswoman said the agency is committed to addressing concerns related to PTSD and has taken numerous steps, including conducting PTSD assessments of service members at military treatment facilities. The initial lawsuit was filed by Vietnam veteran John Shepherd, of New Haven, who says he was diagnosed with PTSD in 2004 but has been repeatedly denied a discharge upgrade. Shepherd and the VVA, which has about 65,000 members, are represented by Yale Law School students who work at a veterans legal services clinic. The students say since 2003 the Army has approved fewer than 2 percent of applications by Vietnam veterans claiming PTSD to upgrade discharges, compared to 46 percent for all discharge upgrade applications in recent years. Some of the veterans denied had at least one medal or had a PTSD diagnosis from the Department of Veterans Affairs, according to the students, who analyzed the Army data. Sen. Richard Blumenthal,
D-Conn., said he sympathizes with the veterans’ concerns and has been working with the Yale Law Clinic, the Department of Defense and state and federal veterans services agencies on a more equitable process to resolve them. “The fact that Post-Traumatic Stress was not understood during the Vietnam War era should not preclude a reconsideration now of individual cases,” Blumenthal said in a statement. The lawsuit estimates about 85,000 of the more than 250,000 Vietnam veterans discharged under other than honorable conditions have PTSD. The discharges were based on poor conduct such as unauthorized absence without leave, shirking, using drugs or lashing out at comrades or superior officers, conduct the lawsuit says was a symptom of underlying undiagnosed PTSD. PTSD is a psychiatric disorder that can develop in a person who experiences or witnesses a traumatic event. Symptoms include flashbacks or nightmares of the traumatic AP Defense Secretary Leon Panetta leaves the podium after speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony for the Vietnam event. The veterans have experienced Veterans Memorial Fund’s next project to honor veterans, the Education Center at The Wall, Nov. 28, in Washington. homelessness, prolonged unemployment and troubled relationships, the lawsuit says. “Isolated and impoverished, they have struggled to cope not only with their war wounds but also with the shame of a bad discharge,” it says. The Army awarded Shepherd with a Bronze Star after his unit came under intense fire and he We Have Over 30 Years Of Heating And Cooling Experience In... entered an enemy bunker and threw a grenade that killed several enemy soldiers, according to the lawsuit. • Installing heating and cooling equipment in new construction Shepherd developed symptoms • Custom design of PTSD after blowing up the enemy bunker and later witness• Replacing existing furnaces, water heaters, humidifiers & central air ing the gruesome deaths of several comrades, according to his lawsuit. • Servicing & maintaining all brands of equpiment Shepherd began to act strangely and was found wandering around a base in a confused state. He eventuSERVICE & INSTALLATION ally reached a breaking point and sheet metal • heating • air conditioning refused to go back out into the field, the lawsuit says. He was charged with failure to www.campbellcooling.com obey an order and was discharged. Shepherd’s application for a discharge upgrade was denied again in June. The Army said he failed to present convincing evidence that his misconduct 43 years ago was the result of PTSD or that his discharge was improper, but he’s appealing the decision.
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Local News
18| Friday, Dec 7, 2012
NEWINGTON TOWN CRIER
Military spending plan with billions for state approved By HOWARD FRENCH JOURNAL INQUIRER
The National Defense Authorization Act of 2013 that won final approval in the U.S. Senate on Tuesday includes billions of dollars in spending for military programs with strong Connecticut ties. The measure passed the Senate by a vote of 98-0. The bill authorizes the nation’s military expenditures for the coming year, which includes a variety of Connecticut’s military equipment manufacturers. For example, the measure authorizes $6.9 billion for the continued development of the Joint Strike Fighter program. Roughly $1.7 billion of the total is for the acquisition of jet engines made by East Hartford-based Pratt & Whitney, primarily at its Middletown plant. Pratt also will benefit from $1.7 billion in development funds provided in the bill for the replacement of KC-46A refueling tanker aircraft, which also will be powered exclusively by Pratt engines The planes are used to refuel other military aircraft in flight. In addition to providing $59.3 million that the Air Force requested for the tankers, the bill authorizes an additional $12
Malloy OKs temporary $550M credit line
HARTFORD (AP) — Gov. Dannel P. Malloy has authorized $550 million in temporary lines of credit at the request of the state treasurer in case the state needs cash to pay its bills. Treasurer Denise Nappier says state government is facing reduced cash levels and obtaining credit lines is a precautionary measure. Malloy’s authorization doesn’t mean money from the credit lines will be used. The Democratic governor’s approval comes as state Comptroller Kevin Lembo is projecting a $415 million deficit in this year’s $20 billion state budget. The shortfall estimate is $50 million higher than the one by the Malloy administration. Republican lawmakers say they’re against borrowing money to pay operating expenses. They say they’ve been questioning the adequacy of the state’s cash reserves for months.
Forecast sees slow growth in New England
AP
In this Aug. 29, 2011 photo provided by the U.S. Coast Guard, a Rescue Helicopter from Airs Station Los Angeles conducts a close fly-by of the Coast Guard Cutter Halibut.
million “to restart the production line” for Pratt’s older JT-8D engines that will eventually power the military planes “for decades,” Sen. Richard Blumenthal,said. In addition, the bill authorizes more than $2.3 billion in funding to procure 96 helicopters made by Stratford-based Sikorsky Aircraft. The bill restores $777.7 million for Electric Boat in Groton to allow the Navy to acquire two Virginia-class submarines in the coming fiscal year, reversing the Defense Department’s decision to
reduce its submarine procurement for that year, Blumenthal said. Sen. Joseph I. Lieberman, D-Conn., cautioned that the Senate and House still need to find a way to head off automatic budget cuts that are set to kick in next month. The budget cuts, known as sequestration and totaling some $1.2 trillion, will occur on Jan. 2 if Congress fails to cut the federal budget before then. The Pentagon’s budget would lose $500 billion.
BOSTON — A new report predicts continued sluggish economic growth in New England and cautions that most states in the region will not return to pre-recession employment levels until 2015. The four-year forecast released Wednesday by the New England Economic Partnership says Massachusetts, New Hampshire and Vermont will have the strongest economies in the six-state region, while Rhode Island will continue to experience the highest unemployment. The economists said Maine and Connecticut will also struggle to reach pre-recession jobs levels before the end of 2016. The forecast assumes some sort of compromise in the ongoing “fiscal cliff ” negotiations, but warns that New England — because of its higher than average per capita income — could be hit harder than the nation as a whole if there is no deal and taxes go up.
Incoming state lawmaker arrested again
BRIDGEPORT — The winner of a Bridgeport state legislative race is facing domestic violence charges, nearly five months after being arrested in a hit-and-run accident. Bridgeport police arrested Christina Ayala on a breach of peace charge Tuesday morning. Authorities told the Connecticut Post Ayala slapped her boyfriend at their home Monday night. The Democrat takes office next month. She was arraigned in Bridgeport Superior Court and released on a promise to appear. She also was ordered to stay away from her boyfriend. She didn’t comment outside court.
Hartford among school districts to split Gates education grants By KATHY MATHESON ASSOCIATED PRESS
PHILADELPHIA — Seven school districts, including Hartford, committed to working with charter schools to improve student achievement will split about $25 million in grants from The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, officials announced Wednesday. The funding is designed to deepen the collaborations among educators in Philadelphia; Boston; Denver; New Orleans; New York; Hartford; and Spring Branch, Texas. “These cities are particularly committed to advancing college-ready strategies in both district and charter schools,” said Vicky Phillips, education director for the foundation’s College Ready program in the U.S. “What we’re most excited about is the common ground that’s getting established.”
Charter schools, which are publicly funded but operate independently of school districts, have been a lightning rod in the debate over education reform. Supporters say they provide innovative and sometimes safer alternatives to traditional neighborhood schools. Opponents contend they drain resources from school districts without providing a better education. The seven grant recipients are among 16 communities that entered into compacts designed to reduce tension between districts and charters. By signing the agreements, which entail sharing resources and best practices, districts received $100,000 and qualified for further funding. Over the next few years, Hartford will get nearly $5 million and Denver about $4 million. The other districts will receive between $2.2 million and $3.7 million each.
Funds will go toward projects including universal enrollment systems, leadership training for aspiring principals and joint professional development for charter and district teachers. Chris Gibbons, the CEO of Strive Prep Charter Network in Denver, said the compacts are formal recognitions “that resources of the public sector are available to all students ... (and that) the responsibility to educate all students well is the shared responsibility of an entire city.” In Philadelphia, the compact includes collaboration with private and Catholic schools. Lori Shorr, the city’s chief education officer, said Philadelphia needs all types of high-achieving schools to reduce poverty, enhance public safety and attract economic development. She also acknowledged that managing charter growth has been a contentious issue
in the financially struggling district, where about 30 percent of the 207,000 students attend charters. Shorr said some tension stems from “early animosities” about charters that have hardened and led to misunderstandings and misperceptions. The important thing, she said, is to “put adult foolishness aside” and focus on what’s best for students. Spring Branch, a district that includes part of Houston and its suburbs, is slated to receive nearly $2.2 million. Superintendent Duncan Klussmann said a new partnership with two charter school operators is designed to spur innovation and a cultural change in the district, which is striving to double the number of students who obtain a degree or certificate in higher education. “To do that, we have to have strong partnerships and collaboration,” Klussmann said.
Friday, Dec 7, 2012 | 19
Local News
NEWINGTON TOWN CRIER
Nappier gets OK for $550M loan to help state pay bills BY KEITH M. PHANEUF CONNECTICUTMIRROR
State government may to need secure $550 million in emergency financing to ensure it can pay its bills promptly this winter, according to a plan prepared by state Treasurer Denise L. Nappier and approved Monday by Gov. Dannel P. Malloy. That proposal wraps a calendar year during which the treasurer frequently had to temporarily transfer funds from various capital programs to keep government’s operating accounts running smoothly. State Treasurer Denise Nappier State Treasurer Denise Nappier has reported reduced levels of available cash for several months. This marks the second time in three years the state has needed short-term financing to help cover its operating expenses. “For several months I have reported reduced cash levels for the state, particularly within the common cash pool that funds daily operations,” Nappier wrote Monday in her letter to the governor, adding she recently had to transfer another $362 million from capital programs after operating accounts slipped into the red. “Circumstances now warrant a contingency plan for ensuring adequate cash resources.” Emergency provisions spelled out in state law direct the treasurer, with the governor’s approval, to borrow funds when the state coffers are at risk of running dry.
“While not something that is undertaken lightly, this action is necessary because of financial decisions that were made over a long period of time,” Malloy spokesman Andrew Doba said Tuesday. “The state’s failure to convert to GAAP (Generally Accepted Accounting Principals,) the exhaustion of the rainy day fund and the decision to borrow to cover operating expenses all contributed to the state’s low cash flow. Allowing access to this line of credit will make sure that service providers and contractors are paid on time for the hard work they do.” Since the 2009-10 fiscal year, state government has exhausted more than $900 million in emergency federal stimulus aid as well as a nearly $1.4 billion emergency budget reserve, commonly known as Connecticut’s Rainy Day Fund. Connecticut operates from a common pool that mingles tax revenues, federal grants and receipts from fees and licenses with borrowed funds. Weekly disbursements from the entire common pool average approximately $540 million, according to the treasurer’s office. The treasurer’s office is allowed to transfer dollars — temporarily — between operating and capital programs. Though it is done infrequently, it has been employed during tough fiscal times when bills exceed tax and other operating fund receipts. And for a while, Nappier used these transfers to stave off the need for borrowing,
ordering them in January, March, April and June. In early January, the level of operating cash had fallen to $67.1 million, a level called dangerously low by some lawmakers. By the end of March, the level of operating cash had risen slightly to $382.8 million, but it fell again to $121 million by late May. Nappier particularly warned of a “significant decline” in available state cash in her June 1 report to the legislature’s Finance, Revenue and Bonding Committee. “The common cash pool balance has fallen substantially during the year,” she wrote. “...The common cash pool is trending downward over time and the need for temporary transfers or other resources is growing.” The cash flow situation also stems from the state’s budget deficit, and particularly from tax receipts and other revenues that continue to run below levels projected when the budget was adopted last spring. State Comptroller Kevin P. Lembo certified a $415 million deficit Monday in the general fund, which comprises the bulk of spending in this year’s $20.54 billion overall state budget. Still, the Republican minority in the state House and Senate, which has argued for the past few years that this transfer system helps mask fiscal problems, intensified its complaints this year as the state increasingly raided its capital projects to help pay its bills. House Minority Leader Lawrence F. Cafero Jr., R-Norwalk, said the
Tuesday that the latest development highlights just how bad the state’s finances really are. “We have reached a new phase: outright borrowing to pay operating expenses,” he said in a written statement. “We need a harsh dose of reality. We cannot simply try to struggle along on a month-to-month basis... Connecticut is essentially out of money and this line of credit underscores that reality.” “I certainly believe and have believed for a long time that the Democrats will look at tax increases as part of the solution” to balancing the next state budget, Senate Minority Leader John P. McKinney, R-Fairfield said, adding that the cash flow problems may put even more pressure on Malloy to raise taxes in his February proposal. “He has yet to make a definitive statement about not increasing taxes in the next budget.” Rep. Vincent Candelora R-North Branford, perhaps the most vocal critic of the transfers, called Monday for Nappier to brief lawmakers on the cash pool prior to the special legislative session to close the budget deficit, tentatively set for the week of Dec. 17. “There needs to be a full disclosure of our financial situation,” he said. “Given the growing deficit projections and continued pressures on cash, I thought it prudent to take this precautionary measure,” Nappier wrote in a statement released Tuesday. “And without a budget reserve fund ... this line of credit is essentially a
low-cost buffer that makes sense given everything that we’re facing.” State government did borrow to help pay its bills in 2010 under a plan crafted by Nappier in March 2009 and approved by then-Gov. M. Jodi Rell. The state obtained $580 million in bond anticipation notes — effectively a short-term loan — that were paid off one year later with an interest charge of about $10 million. But Doba added that the Malloy is not following Rell’s fiscal playbook. The last governor and legislature also borrowed to close a huge, $1 billion deficit in June 2009 — even though the state still had $1.4 billion in the Rainy Day Fund at the time. By borrowing rather than tapping the budget reserve, Rell and the last General Assembly were able to use that $1.4 billion to artificially prop up an unbalanced budget, effectively pushing growing state fiscal problems — plus interest — two years down the road and into the Malloy administration. “We are not doing that,” Doba said. “This is a short term line of credit that will cost the state relatively little and allow necessary payments to be made if the treasurer elects to access it.” Jacqueline Rabe Thomas contributed to this article. This story originally appeared at CTMirror.org, the website of The Connecticut Mirror, an independent nonprofit news organization covering government, politics and public policy in the state.
Seven Connecticut schools to extend teaching day next fall By ANA RADELAT CONNECTICUTMIRROR
More than 3,100 Connecticut students will have a longer school day starting in the 2013-’14 school year, part of an experiment in five states to boost scholastic achievement. “We know our teachers and students need more time in the classroom,” said Connecticut Gov. Dannel P. Malloy. Malloy and Connecticut Commissioner of Education Stefan Pryor were in Washington Monday to accept the first of several annual $300,000 grants from the Ford Foundation and the National Center on Time and Learning. The money will be used to plan, and later fund, a school year that will grow by at least 300 hours in seven Connecticut schools. They are located in East Hartford, Meriden and New
London. O’Connell Elementary in East Hartford and Casmir Pulaski Elementary and John Barry Elementary in Meriden will be involved in the pilot program, as well as New London’s Bennie Dover Jackson Middle School, Jennings Elementary, Nathan Hale Elementary and Winthrop Elementary. Some educators hope the initiative will eventually extend to all schools nationwide. “This is the kernel of a national movement,” said U.S. Education Secretary Arne Duncan. The idea is to help low-income and underachieving students who don’t have the benefit of tutors or other afterschool programs to help them. “The idea that we can tolerate dif-
ferent levels of achievement does not make any sense,” Malloy said. Schools in Massachusetts, New York, Colorado and Tennessee are also part of the experiment. “It’s an extraordinary idea whose time has come,” Duncan said. But extending the school day is not without problems. Not only does it result in increased teacher payroll — as well as other costs involved in keeping schools open longer — but it could also require renegotiating contracts with teachers’ unions to allow some teachers to arrive at work earlier and allow others to stay later. Lengthening the school day may also require teachers’ unions to allow organizations like the YMCA and parent volunteers to provide before and after school activities that would count as part of the school day. Malloy said he hoped
Connecticut’s unions would agree to necessary changes. Connecticut Education Association Executive Director Mark Waxenberg said he could support the initiative because it is planned in collaboration with teachers. “We’re not afraid of the adventure because we are going to be involved,” Waxenberg said. Some of the Connecticut schools in the pilot program already have extended hours, including East Hartford’s O’Connell Elementary. Nathan Quesnel, superintendent of East Hartford schools, said O’Connell students began coming to school 1½ hour earlier last year. To meet the new standards, however, their day will have to be stretched a bit longer. “We’re still debating whether that
extra time will be in the morning or the afternoon,” Quesnel said. But some educators say the quality of the time spent in school is more important than the quantity of time. For example, Federal School Improvement Grants — which funneled $3 billion into low-achieving schools, mostly to increase instructional time — have shown mixed results. Initial U.S. Department of Education results released last month show that performance slipped in more than one-third of the schools that received funding. Mirror education writer Jacqueline Rabe Thomas contributed to this story. This story originally appeared at CTMirror.org, the website of The Connecticut Mirror, an independent nonprofit news organization covering government, politics and public policy in the state.
Local News
20| Friday, Dec 7, 2012
NEWINGTON TOWN CRIER
Panera ‘Stocking Stuffer’ drive to benefit Human Services STAFF REPORT
The Panera Bread on 3120 Berlin Turnpike in Newington, announced that it is holding a “Stocking Stuffer” drive for the Newington Human Services Department, on Sunday, Dec. 16 from 10 a.m. to noon. The first 100 contributors who enter the bakery-cafe will receive a free Panera travel mug and one month of free coffee refills (only at Panera Newington through Jan. 15). Recommended items include personal hygiene products, candy, hats, gloves, scarves, make-up
kits, watches, slippers, flashlights, DVDs/CDs, stamps, blankets, etc. The Town of Newington Department of Human Services, located at the Town Hall on 131 Cedar St. was established in 1955 to assist residents with social, emotional and economic support. In an effort to meet the changing needs of Newington, the department coordinates and provides a wide variety of programs that serve children, youth, families, adults, persons with disabilities and the elderly. “We’re looking forward to seeing
our customers get in the holiday spirit of giving for a great cause like Newington Human Services,” said Brianna Stefano, Newington’s Living Consciously captain. “Let’s help ensure that all the families in our town have a special item to open over the holidays.” Stefano is responsible for making a difference within the cafe and in the town of Newington by maintaining food packaging guidelines for its “Day-End” partners and helping with volunteer events and gift drives like the one happening on Dec. 16.
Panera Newington Holds Food Drive for Newington Human Services All Panera Bread locations are open for breakfast, lunch and dinner and offer a variety of menu items — including breads and bagels, breakfast sandwiches, creative lunch and dinner sandwiches, hand-tossed salads, homemade soups and a variety of espresso beverages. Panera Bread Catering also caters and delivers its full menu for any occasion at the office or home. The breakfast, lunch and dinner assortment is sure to impress every time. For a Panera Bread Catering
menu and more, please visit a cafe or www.paneracatering.com. Panera Bread Newington is owned by one of Panera’s leading franchises, the Howley Bread Group, LTD of Cumberland, Rhode Island. The franchisee owns and operates a total of 25 bakery-cafes in: Greater Hartford/Eastern, Connecticut. For more information, please contact Panera Bread Newington, 3120 Berlin Turnpike, Newington, Connecticut; call (860) 667-8008; or visit www.panerabreadhbg.com.
learning. For more information, contact Maureen Reale of the Newington/ Wethersfield Woman’s Club, (860) 666-5325.
south foyer of the Newington Senior & Disabled Center, 120 Cedar St. Hours: 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday during December.
LILIA SALVADOR EXHIBIT: Artist Lilia Salvador’s floral and landscape paintings capture your attention with her bold use of intense color and great design. Exhibit can be viewed in the
GOING THROUGH, IN THE PROCESS, OR THINKING ABOUT GETTING A DIVORCE?: There is a “Divorce Support Group” to help you get through this major life-altering event, with very caring, sensitive people who have been where you are. This group meets at First Church of Christ, 250 Main St., Wethersfield, every Friday at 7 p.m. December’s meetings are on the 7th, 14th, 21st, and 28th.
Sisterhood will provide lunch following the program sponsored by the Adult Education Committee. There is no charge for lunch or program, but donations will be accepted. RSVP to the temple office at (860) 561-1055. Checks payable to Temple Sinai should be sent to the temple at 41 West Hartford Road, Newington, CT 06111.
EVENTS CALENDAR ITALIAN FILM SERIES: The Italian Film Series will featured “Ciao, Professore!” (1992 — in Italian with English subtitles), at 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 7 in the Silas Deane Middle School, Wethersfield. The event, which is free and open to the public, is sponsored by the Wethersfield High School Italian National Honor Society in cooperation with the Italian Culture Center of Education and the
Wethersfield Chapter of UNICO. MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE: The Connecticut General Federation of Women’s Clubs will be offering memorial scholarships to qualified women. Applicants must possess a minimum 3.0 average and must have completed at least two years of undergraduate study at an institute of higher
860-561-8911 • www.beckers.com
*Payments are made with a check.
17 Locations to Serve You in CT: Newington, Avon, Branford, Bristol, Clinton, Guilford, Manchester, Middletown, Norwich, Orange, Southington, Torrington, Wallingford, Waterbury, Waterford, West Hartford and Windsor Locks.
Open Monday - Friday 10am to 6pm Saturdays 10am to 4pm • Sundays 11am to 4pm
Drive Safer, Longer Mature Driver Safety Program
EVENTS AT TEMPLE SINAI: Professor Ron Kiener, chair of the Department of Religion at Trinity College, will speak about the Arab Spring and its implications for the region, Israel and U.S. interests at Temple Sinai, Newington, following the 10:30 a.m. Shabbat Service Saturday, Dec. 8. The Temple
NUTMEG STATE FEDERAL CREDIT NOW ON WHEELS: Imagine a world where all of the essential services you use on a daily basis would just come to you. Nutmeg State Federal Credit Union is making that a reality, at least when it comes to your banking needs. Nutmeg is launching CT’s first-ever Mobile Branch, a full-service branch on wheels. The Mobile Branch will be on the road daily serving members by making stops at their work places and schools. The Mobile Branch will make its second
See EVENTS, Page 21
Deck the Halls with Attic Treasures! Fa la la la la la la la la
Are you a driver who is 65 years of age or older? Have a FREE Assessment & Safety Screening
Call (860) 249-1245 to make an appointment.
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Participate in a one-hour research study designed to help seniors Drive Safer, Longer. Get tips to make your driving safer and easier. Plus, get a $5 Dunkin’ Donuts gift card!
NEWINGTON TOWN CRIER
EVENTS CALENDAR Continued from Page 20 stop Saturday, Dec. 8, at the Newington Price Chopper from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. During this event Nutmeg State FCU is collecting non-perishable food items to be donated to local Food Banks for those in need this holiday season. “CHRISTMAS BY CANDLELIGHT”: “Christmas by Candlelight” will be presented Sunday, Dec. 9, at 4 p.m. at Church of Christ, Congregational, 1075 Main St., Newington. The church’s choirs and a professional chamber orchestra, directed by Peter Niedmann will sing and ring a delightful assortment of carols in the candlelit sanctuary. This annual town concert is free and open to all. It runs about one hour, making it perfect for families with
Friday, Dec 7, 2012 | 21
Local News
young children to enjoy. Free admission.
for information at (860) 665-8082.
“WREATHS ACROSS AMERICA™ CEREMONY”: The “Wreaths Across America™ Ceremony” will be held at noon Saturday, Dec. 15 at Veterans’ Monument, West Meadow Cemetery. The event is sponsored by Willard-Welles-Stanley Chapter, DAR and May-Davis-Stotzer American Legion Post 117. Ceremonies held simultaneously with the “Wreaths Across America” ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery and at ceremonies in State Veterans’ Cemeteries, Veterans’ Monuments, and local cemeteries throughout Connecticut and nationwide to honor our veterans, past, present and future and their families. Contact Barbara Crede
NEW ENGLAND OPEN HOUSE: The Deming-Young Farm foundation invites the public to a New England Open House from noon to 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 16 at the Thomas Deming farmhouse located at 282 Church St. Join us and experience holiday traditions from the 1830s, 1890s and 1950s. Light refreshments will be available. Dress warmly as the farmhouse is not heated. No restrooms will be available. CHRISTMAS CANDLELIGHT SERVICE: A Christmas Eve candlelight service will be held at 6 p.m. Monday, Dec. 24 at Emmanuel Baptist Church, 296 New Britain Ave. Join us for a time of rejoicing in the
birth of our Savior through singing and a helpful Bible message. Regular services are Sundays at 10:45 a.m. The church website is ebcnewington.com. NEWINGTON HIGH SCHOOL SCHOOL COUNSELING DEPARTMENT UPCOMING EVENTS: Financial Aid Night — presented by Carolyn Karno, Education Funding Strategies. Handouts and additional information will be available. Dec. 10, 6:30 p.m., Newington High School Auditorium; Eighth Grade Parent Night — This program will discuss the grade 8 to grade 9 transition, tips for success, introduction to the course selection process and an overview of some of the changes taking place at Newington High School for the 2013-14 school year. Parents from
Martin Kellogg and John Wallace Middle School are invited to attend. Dec. 13, (Snow Date: Dec. 17), 6:30 p.m., John Wallace Middle School Course Selection Night For Parents of Students in Grades 8 through 11. Academic programs, graduation requirements, grading, course levels and weighting will be discussed. Jan. 7, 2013, (Snow Date: Jan. 8, 2013), 7 p.m., Newington High School Auditorium PSAT Night — For parents and students in grades 10 and 11. School counselors will be discussing how to use the feedback provided in the score report and other resources to improve student academic skills and plan for college and beyond. Jan. 24, 2013 (Snow Date: Jan. 29, 2013), 6:30 p.m., Newington High School Auditorium.
LIBRARY CALENDAR PARENT/CHILD WORKSHOP: Mondays, Dec. 10 and 17, 6 to 7:30 p.m.; Tuesdays, Dec. 11 and 18, 10:15 to 11:30 a.m. Family Place is presenting a series of free workshops for parents and their 1-3 year-old children. Meet other families, share thoughts, and talk with librarians and child development experts as you play and read with your child. Find out about community services that can help you and your family. Brothers and sisters under 5 are invited to join the fun! Register in person or by calling (860) 665-8720. Sponsored by the Friends of the Library. *A light supper will be served before the evening session. NETWORKING TO HELP YOUR JOB SEARCH: Monday, Dec. 10, 6:30 p.m. Learn how to successfully contact and connect with those around you in order to promote your career strengths and goals. Find the tools to network appropriately, and tap into hidden resources to achieve the job you want. Call the library at (860) 665-8700 to register. Sponsored by the Goodwill Career Center. STORIES AND ART: Tuesday, Dec. 11, noon. Join us in enjoying the story of “Mouse’s First Snow” and other stories. After the stories, the children will complete some frosty artwork! Children ages 2 to 4 and their caregivers may call the Children’s Department at (860) 665-8720 to register. Sponsored by the Friends of the Library. EXPLORE TOGETHER! Tuesday, Dec. 11, 3:45 p.m. What do you know about animals in winter? Let’s talk it up and then play Animal Bingo. Afterwards
you’ll complete an activity about the theme. Explorers in grades 1-4 may call the Children’s Department at (860) 665-8720 to register. Sponsored by the Friends of the Library. JR. COOKBOOK CLUB: Wednesday, Dec. 12, 6:30 p.m. Let’s get ready for winter! Join us as we read “50 Below Zero” by Robert Munsch. Then we will make stained glass windows; edible of course. Junior Chefs in grades K-2 may sign up by calling the Children’s Department at (860) 665-8720. Sponsored by the Friends of the Library. JUST A STORY AND A SONG!: Wednesdays, Dec. 12, 19 and 26, 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. No registration required. FAMILY STORYTIME: Every Thursday in December, 6:30 p.m. Stories, songs and more for the whole family all year ‘round. No registration necessary. PLAY FOR ALL: Saturday, Dec. 15, 10:30 a.m. to noon. Come join us for a special needs play group giving parents the opportunity to talk, support and encourage each other, while allowing their children time to play and socialize together. No registration required. CoSponsored by Newington UNICO. TALES TO TAILS: Wednesday, Dec. 19, 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. and Dec. 29, 1 to 2:30 p.m. Children who need to boost their reading skills, or just love a good doggie cuddle, may sign up for a 15-minute session reading to Jessie, a certified therapy dog. Call (860) 665-
8720 to register. COOKBOOK CLUB: Wednesday, Dec. 19, 6:30 p.m. Chefs in grades 3-6 will measure, mix and whisk ingredients to create pumpkin chip cookie batter. You will then bake your cookies at home. Call the Children’s Department at (860) 665-8720 to register. Sponsored by the Friends of the Library. PLAY FOR ALL: Saturday, Dec. 15, 10:30 a.m. to noon. Come join us for a special needs play group, giving parents the opportunity to talk, support and encourage each other, while allowing their children time to play and socialize together. Co-sponsored by Newington UNICO. “SHOCK THE WORLD: UCONN BASKETBALL IN THE CALHOUN ERA”: Monday, Dec. 17, 7 p.m. In 25 years at UConn, coach Jim Calhoun changed a team, a university, a state, and college basketball. Peter F. Burns, Jr. will discuss his book, “Shock the World,” a riveting season-by-season, game-by-game and player-by-player biography of Jim Calhoun’s winning program. Copies of the book will be available for purchase and signing. Call the library at (860) 665-8700 to register. TEEN GAMING NIGHT: Wednesday, Dec. 26, 6:30 to 8 p.m. Grades 6 to 12. Come play on the library’s Xbox Kinect and Nintendo Wii! A variety of video games and board games will be available. Feel free to bring your own games! Snacks will be available. Sponsored by the Friends of the Library. DO-IT YOURSELF HENNA PROGRAM:
Thursday, Dec. 27, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Grades 7 to 12. Come learn the art of henna tattooing. Get creative and design your own beautiful henna tattoo! Instruction and supplies provided. Sponsored by The Friends of the Library. WONDERFUL WORLD OF MUSIC: Thursday, Dec. 27, 1:30 p.m. The young and young-at-heart are invited to hear the Sam Pasco Orchestra perform in the library’s Community Room. The audience will receive a lesson on the sounds of each musical instrument and how notes are strung together to make beautiful songs. Admission is free and no registration is necessary. Sponsored by the Newington Kiwanis. STUFFED ANIMAL SLEEPOVER PARTY: Thursday, Dec. 27, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. and Friday, Dec. 28, 1 p.m. Would you allow your favorite stuffed animal to spend the night in the Library ALONE? Come and join us for a mini-sleepover party. We’ll enjoy music, bedtime stories, crafts and a snack before tucking your stuffed friend into bed. Children and parents will then go home and return the next day to hear all about the fun their stuffed friend had during the night. At that time you’ll enjoy a slide show and pictures of the sleepover, and receive a “Report Card” on how well your friend behaved during the night! Call the Children’s Department at (860) 665-8720 to register your stuffed friend. Sponsored by the Friends of the Library. SCIENCETELLERS: Friday, Dec. 28, 10:15 a.m. Children over the age of 5 can experience the magic of sciencetelling! We’ll learn about the science
of Fire and Ice by hearing the tale of Dragons & Dreams, using experiments of flash paper, exploding bottles, dry ice and more. Wouldn’t dragon’s breath be an amazing sight? Call the Children’s Department at (860) 665-8720 to register. Sponsored by the Friends of the Library. TEEN MOVIE NIGHT AND POTLUCK DINNER: Friday, Dec. 28, 6 to 8 p.m. Grades 6 to 12. Have a favorite dish, appetizer, or dessert? Make it at home and bring it to share! We’ll be watching “Edward Scissorhands” as we sample dishes. Participants must register their dish by Dec. 27 (e-mail Bailey at bortiz@newingtonct.gov) and bring a card listing all ingredients for allergy purposes. COOL CRAFTS: Saturday, Dec. 29, 1 to 2:30 p.m. In honor of the R.E.A.D. dogs, there will be a craft table set up in the Children’s area with doggie crafts! Partake while you are waiting for your R.E.A.D. session or just for fun. No registration needed. Sponsored by the Friends of the Library. MOVIE MADNESS – “BRAVE”: Monday, Dec. 31, 1 p.m. Take a heroic journey with Merida, a skilled archer and headstrong daughter of King Fergus and Queen Elinor. When Merida’s actions inadvertently unleash chaos in the kingdom, she must harness all of her skills and resources — including her clever and mischievous triplet brothers — to undo a beastly curse before it’s too late, and discover the meaning of true bravery. Rated PG, this movie is 93 minutes long. No registration necessary. Sponsored by the Friends of the Library.
NEWINGTON TOWN CRIER
22| Friday, Dec 7, 2012
Classifieds 860-231-2444
placing an ad is easy. Just call !
business hours: monday-friday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm Wanted to Buy 299
Miscellaneous 278 BUS TRIP - Dec 15th, to Radio City Music Hall. Rockettes Christmas Spectacular. Round trip bus fare & tickets, $135. Call Michael 860-690-6010.
Looking for a Job?
Check out our Help Wanted ads or go to
CentralCTjobs.com
ALWAYS BUYING - Vintage electronics, Ham, CB, shortwave, radios, guitars, amps, hi-fi audio, watches. 860-707-9350. Develop the classified habit. You’ll be cash ahead. Call 860-231-2444 ANTIQUES. Always buying, cash paid. One item or entire estate. Clocks, military, cameras, watches, toys, posters, art, jewelry, signs, musician instruments & more. 860-718-5132. Develop the classified habit. You’ll be cash ahead. Call 860-231-2444
Apartments for Rent 720
Condominiums 730
NEW BRITAIN - 1920’s charm. Restored 1 BR, elev, FARMINGTON - Spacious 2 w/w, new cabinets. $625 inc BR twnhse w/gar. Ht & new ht/hw. 860-803-1286 appl inc. $1075 a month. $995 1st & 2nd mo to qualiDevelop the classified habit. fied applicant. Credit background and employer verifiYou’ll be cash ahead. cation required. Call 860-231-2444 Call 860-584-7447. www.stephenrealty.com NEW BRITAIN: TRUCK TIRES - Wrangler Very gd cond. 265/75/16. Bristol: Looking for a bar- 1 br, $680 including ht/hw, & Set of 4. $400. Call after gain? 2 br, 14’ w, $29,900. appls. 860-985-5760. Develop the classified habit. Liberty, 860-747-6881. 11:30 am. 860-770-0138. You’ll be cash ahead. NEW BRITAIN. 2 BR. Newly Call 860-231-2444 renovated. Inc ht/hw. Near Hosp for Special Care, on busline. Bob (860) 463-0904. NEWINGTON: Off Main St. Check out our 1 br Condo, no utils; $800, 2 NEW BRITAIN - Austin St. 2 br, $1200. Immac. All appl Help Wanted ads or go to BR, new crpt, clean. Quiet, incl dishwasherl. Must be 55 +. 860-523-4567. pkg. $675.203-676-4963.
Tires/Parts/Accessories Apartments for Rent 720 645
Looking for a Job?
CentralCTjobs.com
To Advertise in the
home improvemenT direcTory or here’s my cArd call 860-231-2444
HOME IMPROVEMENT DIRECTORY AIR CONDITIONING & HEATING MULL BROS., INC. - We are a family business that’s been catering to your cooling & heating needs since 1945. We proudly install Lennox, American Standard, Weil McLain & other quality equipment (oil, gas & electric). We also service most makes & models. We are located next to the Wethersfield Post Office (behind the penguins and polar bears) at 61 Beaver Rd. 860- 529-8255 BASEMENT WATERPROOFING JP BACHHAND BASEMENT WATERPROOFING Reliable local contractor. Hatchway leaks, foundation cracks, sub-floor drainage systems, sump pumps & yard drainage. Fully insured, free estimates, written guarantee. Our 27th year registered with CT Dept of Consumer Protection (Reg #511842). Call 860-666-9737 CERAMIC TILE LEN & JEFF SHALLER - Fix leaky showers. Regrouting in tubs. Bath, kitchen tile installed. 37 years experience. Neat, expert workmanship. Repairs a specialty. Call 242-5805
CLEANING SERVICES Polish/English speaking woman can clean your house with care. 3rd cleaning 50% off for new clients only. Satisfaction guaranteed. Insurance Bonded. Call Kasia 860-538-4885 HOUSE, CONDO, OFFICE CLEANING Polish/English speaking lady with many years of experience. References upon request. Please call Ela at 860-348-0234 ELECTRICAL SERVICES NDC ELECTRICAL CONTRACTING All aspects of electrical work, additions, new homes, renovations, pools, hottubs, etc. Main service up-grades from fuses to circuit breakers. Fast, quality workmanship. Nick 860-665-7202. CT Lic #E1-180139 GUTTER CLEANING #1 First In Reliability - We Show Up!!! One day service. Our 10th year. Reasonable rates. Senior discounts. Reliable service. Call Rob (860) 982-3300 “A West Hartford Resident” Visit our web site: robpolo.com
PLUMBING POSITANO PLUMBING, INC. 31 years of serving Bristol and the surrounding areas. Specializing in all repairs. Plumbing & heating. Water heater replacement, boiler replacement. CT Lic #202691, 308931. For the best repair work in the area, please call: 860-584-0012, 186 West St., Bristol. ABC PLUMBING, LLC All Plumbing Services Bathrooms & Kitchens Remodeled. Toilets, sinks, hot water, garbage disposals. Will respond to all calls. Licensed & Insured. 860-548-0331. 10% Discount with this Ad REMODELING FULL SERVICE REMODELING Windows, bathrooms and kitchens. All interior and exterior home or business remodeling and handyman service. You name it - I’ve done it! Excellent references and competitive rates with over 10 years experience. BBB Accredited. Call Mike 860-690-6505 or Kris 860-348-076 today for your free estimate. Fully insured and licensed. Lic #565969.
ROOFING LA RICH, LLC - Master Elite Roofing Contractor with over 500 satisfied customers. Our workmanship is warranteed for 20 years by shingle manufacturer. Best warranty in writing. “Quality you can count on for years.” We do roof repairs, vinyl siding, windows, seamless gutters. Honest, competitive pricing. No hidden costs. Free estimates. Fully insured. Written warranties. Clean and courteous installers. CT Lic #565709. GAFELK ME #11852. 860-622-9800 or 860-7474427. www.larichroofing.com TREE SERVICE TOTAL TREE SERVICE & LANDSCAPING, LLC - Fall Cleanup & Lawn Maintenenace. Commerical & Residential. 75 ft. bucket truck. Chipper, firewood, land clearing, stump grinding, tree removal. Registration #608808. Fully insured.860-529-8389 or 860-538-0980.
Friday, Dec 7, 2012 | 23
NEWINGTON TOWN CRIER
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RealtORS
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111612
Give Music Lessons for Christmas
High insurance taking a bite out of your budget? We can help. Contact us!
RealtORS
Andy Wotton Plumbing & Heating Receive
860-833-8153
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An independently owned and operated member of BRER Affiliates, Inc.,Non affiliated with Prudential. Prudential marks used under license.
033489
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39 E. Cedar St Newington, CT 06111 Office: 860-666-1449 x217 Direct: 860-249-1040 Fax: 860-666-1930 John.Oman@JohnOman.com www.JohnSellsNewington.com
Each office is independently owned and operated.
RealtORS
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A Stump Removal Contractor
A Tree Removal Contractor
Landscaping & Tree Service, LLC
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061412
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860-922-3534
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Fully Licensed & Insured • Lic. Reg. 606904
To Advertise Call Classified Department
Systemic Micro-Injection Fertilization
Spraying B-0567
GRAVER’S TREE CARE Tree Removals • Pruning • Storm Damage Stump Removals • Shrub Pruning
860-563-6581 Wethersfield
Bruce Graver – Licensed Tree Surgeon – Certified Arborist
860-231-2444
NEWINGTON TOWN CRIER
24| Friday, Dec 7, 2012
Twin City Plaza Newington, CT 06111
HoURs:
Monday-Friday 7am-7pm Saturday 7am-6pm Sunday 7am-4pm We accept Food stamp Benefits
open 7 days
Ph: 860-665-8288 Fax: 860-665-1458
Fresh Fruit, Vegetables & Groceries Daily from Boston... LOW PRICES! LARGEST SELECTION OF FRUIT & VEGETABLES AVAILABLE
Giant Grinders come with FREE can of soda!-
starting at
5.00
$
Happy Holidays from Veggie World! Huge 3 ft. & 6 ft. Grinders Meat and Cheese Platters Huge Selection of Meats
03337
Salad Platters Many Varieties
• ALL KINDS OF NUTS • RUSSIAN & POLISH CAKES • BABKAS • ANY KIND OF POLISH PIEROGIES OR POLISH KIELBASAS