16
Town Crier NEWINGTON By ALEX SYPHERS STAFF WRITER During the Newington Chamber of Commerce “State of the Town” address Thursday morning, Newington’s Mayor, R-Jeff Wright, hit out against the Newington Board of Education’s fiscal policies, calling administrative and teacher salary increases and the expenditure of the board’s Health Benefits Fund surplus, “unsustainable” spend- ing, which is negatively affecting Newington’s taxpayers. “We are in a recession, a tough recession, businesses are hurting. We have to change our philosophy. I don’t think tacking taxes at 3 percent is enough anymore,” said Wright. “We need an operational pause for the taxpayers of Newington. We need to have a few years in a row of zero percent tax increases.” The Board of Education has requested a budget of $61,576,654 for the fiscal year 2011-2012, a 3.9 percent increase over last year’s budget. With the inclusion of a $738,638 Federal Education Jobs Fund Grant, the increase is reduced to 2.69 percent. During his three years in office, Wright claimed the town’s operating budget has increased by 1 percent, total- ing $28,491,420, during the fiscal year 2010-2011, while the Board of Education’s budget has increased, on average, 3.4 per- cent over the last three years. “We [the town] have controlled the increases on our side,” said Wright. “Our challenge is the increases the Board of Education needs.” Employee sala- ries, which account for 85 percent of the board’s budget, were exorbitant, Wright claimed; increasing on average each fiscal year by 5.6 percent, with 45 percent of Newington’s teachers making $80,000 or more. “We can’t afford to give giant increases to our employees on the backs of our taxpayers,” said Wright. “It’s unacceptable.” The salary increase was set dur- ing contract negotiations with the Newington Teachers Association Union in 2007, said Board of Education Chairman Stephen Woods; the contract is set to expire in the 2012-2013 fiscal year. The board’s proposed staff cost for the 2011-2012 school year was $41,818,064 a 3.8 percent increase over the 2010-2011 fiscal year with the possible loss of 24 teaching posi- tions. Wright also touched upon the Newington Public School’s Health Benefits Account, which funds the system’s insurance program, saying that the board’s spending of surplus monies in the fund was costing Newington’s taxpayers. According to an agreement made between the town and the Board of Education in 1996, any surplus funds in the account at the end of the fiscal year could be used by the board. At the end of the 2009-2010 fiscal year there was a surplus of $644,595, which the board spent on special education programs and teaching materials. The town had a surplus of $195,049 at the end of the 2009 to 2010 fiscal year. “The town essentially produces those surpluses by themselves. We never see a substantial surplus come from the Board of Education,” said Wright,” ... surpluses can’t be spent because surpluses are there.” After the presentation Woods explained that the surplus funds in the Health Benefits Account are spent on items the school system has identified as areas of need. “We are in a hard place,” said Woods. “We need to provide a proper education but we also have to be respectful to the abilities of the taxpayer to be able to afford that. If we had a good year in health benefits, those things that we had to defer — books pencils paper buses — that is what we spend it on.” “We have taken a system that was about to fail,” continued Woods about Newington’s public schools, “and we made it into a great system, not a good system, a great system, and if you look at it we have done that with very minimum dollars.” State of our Town Chris Richie | Staff Mayor Jeffrey Wright speaks during Newington’s annual state of the town address at Newington High School Feb. 10. Volume 52, No. 5 Free Friday, February 18, 2011 VEGGIE WORLD V E G G I E W O R L D OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK Deli Closes 1/2 Hour Early Twin City Plaza, Newington 8 6 0 - 6 6 5 - 8 2 8 8 giant grinders with FREE can of soda Cannot be combined with any other offer. $ $ 55 5 5 .. . . 00 0 0 00 0 0 $ $ 55 5 5 .. . . 00 0 0 00 0 0 Starting at.... S E E I N S I D E F O R G R E A T S P E C I A L S S E E I N S I D E F O R G R E A T S P E C I A L S

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Page 1: 021811 NTC Flipbook

TownCrier

NEWINGTON

By Alex SypherSStaff Writer

During the Newington Chamber of Commerce “State of the Town” address Thursday morning, Newington’s Mayor, R-Jeff Wright, hit out against the Newington Board of Education’s fiscal policies, calling administrative and teacher salary increases and the expenditure of the board’s Health Benefits Fund surplus, “unsustainable” spend-ing, which is negatively affecting Newington’s taxpayers.

“We are in a recession, a tough recession, businesses are hurting. We have to change our philosophy. I don’t think tacking taxes at 3 percent is enough anymore,” said Wright. “We need an operational pause for the taxpayers of Newington. We need to have a few years in a row of zero percent tax increases.”

The Board of Education has requested a budget of $61,576,654 for the fiscal year 2011-2012, a 3.9 percent increase over last year’s budget. With the inclusion of a $738,638 Federal Education Jobs Fund Grant, the increase is reduced

to 2.69 percent.During his three

years in office, Wright claimed the town’s operating budget has increased by 1 percent, total-ing $28,491,420, during the fiscal year 2010-2011, while the Board of Education’s budget has increased, on average, 3.4 per-cent over the last three years.

“We [the town] have controlled the increases on our side,” said Wright. “Our challenge is the increases the Board of Education needs.”

Employee sala-ries, which account for 85 percent of the board’s budget, were exorbitant, Wright claimed; increasing on average each fiscal year by 5.6 percent, with 45 percent of Newington’s teachers making $80,000 or more.

“We can’t afford to give giant increases to our employees on the backs of our taxpayers,” said Wright. “It’s unacceptable.”

The salary increase was set dur-ing contract negotiations with the Newington Teachers Association Union in 2007, said Board of Education Chairman Stephen Woods; the contract is set to expire in the 2012-2013 fiscal year.

The board’s proposed staff cost for the 2011-2012 school year was $41,818,064 a 3.8 percent increase over the 2010-2011 fiscal year with the possible loss of 24 teaching posi-tions. Wright also touched upon the Newington Public School’s Health

Benefits Account, which funds the system’s insurance program, saying that the board’s spending of surplus monies in the fund was costing Newington’s taxpayers. According to an agreement made between the town and the Board of Education in 1996, any surplus funds in the account at the end of the fiscal year could be used by the board. At the end of the 2009-2010 fiscal year there was a surplus of $644,595, which the board spent on special education programs and teaching materials. The town had a surplus of $195,049 at the end of the 2009 to 2010 fiscal year.

“The town essentially produces those surpluses by themselves. We never see a substantial surplus come from the Board of Education,” said Wright,” ... surpluses can’t be spent

because surpluses are there.”After the presentation Woods

explained that the surplus funds in the Health Benefits Account are spent on items the school system has identified as areas of need.

“We are in a hard place,” said Woods. “We need to provide a proper education but we also have to be respectful to the abilities of the taxpayer to be able to afford that. If we had a good year in health benefits, those things that we had to defer — books pencils paper buses — that is what we spend it on.”

“We have taken a system that was about to fail,” continued Woods about Newington’s public schools, “and we made it into a great system, not a good system, a great system, and if you look at it we have done that with very minimum dollars.”

State of our Town

Chris richie | Staff

Mayor Jeffrey Wright speaks during Newington’s annual state of the town address at Newington High School Feb. 10.

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Page 2: 021811 NTC Flipbook

Local News NEWINGTON TOWN CRIER2 | Friday, February 18, 2011

Sonny is a beautiful, white 8-month-old boxer. Sonny is extremely energetic and he would love for his family to train him to be the best that he can be. Sonny is high-energy and loves to play! He enjoys the company of adults, older children, other dogs and cats. Sonny would love to be a part of your family! Visit with Sonny at the Connecticut Humane Society in Newington.

Remember, the Connecticut Humane Society has no time

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

The Connecticut Humane Society is a private organization with branch shelters in Waterford and Westport. The Connecticut Humane Society operates a cat adoption center in the PetSMART store in New London. It is not aff iliated with any other shelters or agencies.

The January Superintendent’s Outstanding Student Award Ceremony was held Jan.24, in the Helen W. Nelson Meeting Room. At that time, students from seven schools in Newington were recognized by the Superintendent of Schools, Dr. William C. Collins. This program, which began many years ago, rec-ognizes students in the Newington Public Schools who have served as

good examples to other students. Students are selected monthly based on nominations of the various teach-ers and principals in each individual school. The nominations can be for an all around good school citizen, a most improved student or a student who has demonstrated some outstanding effort, attitude, attendance or academic achievement.

Students of the Month for January are as follows:

High School — Taylor Dempsey; Parent: Margaret Dempsey / John Wallace — Francesca Parafati; Parents: Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Parafati / Martin Kellogg — Ben Arora; Parents, Mr. and Mrs. Sharad Arora / Anna Reynolds — Daniel Pestrichello; Parents: Phil Pestrichello and Allyson Silver / Elizabeth Green — Michael Stamm Parents: Mr. and Mrs. Newell Stamm / John Paterson

— Nicole Martula Parents: Mr. and Mrs. Remigiusz Martula / Ruth Chaffee — Jason Boghosian Parents: Mr. and Mrs. Lee Boghosian.

Present at the awards ceremony were seven stu-dents, plus parents, grandparents and their guests.

January Outstanding Student Awards

Standing: Ben Arora, Francesca Parafati, Taylor Dempsey, Michael Stamm | Sitting: Nicole Martula, Jason Boghosian, Daniel Pestrichello

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Page 3: 021811 NTC Flipbook

Local NewsNEWINGTON TOWN CRIER Friday, February 18, 2011 | 3

Public Schools residency verification The Newington Public Schools are in the process of conducting

residency verification registration for children who will enter kin-dergarten in August 2011. In order to be eligible for kindergarten in August 2011, a child must be five (5) years of age on or before Jan. 1, 2012. Residency verification registration is required. Registration ses-sions will be held at each elementary school:

RUTH CHAFFEE SCHOOL, 160 Superior Ave., Phone: (860) 666-4687 | Wednesday, March 16 — 4 to 6 p.m.

ELIZABETH GREEN SCHOOL, 30 Thomas St. Phone: (860) 666-3394 | Monday, March 14 — 4 to 6 p.m.

JOHN PATERSON SCHOOL, 120 Church St. , Phone: (860) 666-4657 | Thursday, March 17 — 4 to 6 p.m.

ANNA REYNOLDS SCHOOL, 85 Reservoir Road, Phone: (860) 521-7830 | Tuesday, March 15 — 4 to 6 p.m.

Contact the school in the attendance district in which you reside if you have not received your registration materials. Kindergarten ori-entation appointments will be scheduled at the residency registration sessions. If you do not know your school attendance district, contact the office of the Superintendent of Schools at (860) 665-8612.

Father/Daughter Dance at Anna Reynolds

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To learn more about Middlesex Health Care Centeror to schedule a tour, please call (860) 344-0353.

Conveniently located off of Route 9Only 10 minutes from Rocky Hill

Page 4: 021811 NTC Flipbook

Local News NEWINGTON TOWN CRIER4 | Friday, February 18, 2011

NEWINGTON TOWN CRIERP.O. Box 2158 188 Main St. Bristol, CT 06010(860) 584-0501 • Fax: (860) 585-9283

e-mail: newingtontowncrier@ centralctcommunications.com

A Central Connecticut Communications LLC publication

Michael E. Schroeder — PublisherGary Curran — Classified Advertising Manager

Brenda Kelley — Circulation Director

At Your ServiceWe welcome your phone calls — and your visits.

News CoverageIf you have a story idea or questions call (860) 225-4601 ext. 359.

Sports CoverageIf you have a story idea or question, call sports rporter Andy Ragali (860) 225-4601 ext. 210

To SubscribeTo subscribe or for questions about a subscription, call (860) 225-4608.

AdvertisingCLASSIFIED & LEGALTo place a classified ad, call (860) 231-2444. For legal advertise-ments, call (860) 231-2444.

DISPLAYIf you have questions about placing a display advertisement, call Brenda Vumback, (860) 225-4601 ext. 240.

Copyright 2010, 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: P.O. Box 2158, 188 Main St., Bristol, CT 06010.

The Newington Town Crier (USPS 618-380 and ISSN 0745-0796) is pub-lished weekly on Friday for $31 per year and $52 for out-of-state deliveries, by Central Connecticut Communications LLC, P.O. Box 2158, 188 Main St., Bristol, CT 06010. Periodical postage paid at Bristol, CT and additional mailing offices. Postmaster: Send address changes to The Newington Town Crier, P.O. Box 2158, 188 Main St., Bristol, CT, 06010-6258.

Publisher’s liability for errors or omissions in advertis-ing 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 republica-tion or by a credit applied to advertiser’s account; only one incorrect insertion of the same ad will be subject to repub-lication or credit. No allow-ance shall be made in cases where the advertiser is at fault. Errors, typographic or other-wise, which do not materially affect the advertisement will not be adjusted. In no event shall Imprint be liable for con-sequential damages of any kind.

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Page 5: 021811 NTC Flipbook

NEWINGTON TOWN CRIER Friday, February 18, 2011 | 5

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Page 6: 021811 NTC Flipbook

Your Opinion NEWINGTON TOWN CRIER6 | Friday, February 18, 2011

To the Editor:As a resident of Newington, I

have to offer due praise to Mike Lombardi for his excellent letter in response to Newington’s Mayor. While disagreements do occur between individuals, in our system of government nothing is solved whatsoever by picking fights.

I believe that the issues that our Mayor has with the Board of Education come from an interest our Mayor has in becoming a full-

time politician, not in improving the quality of education in Newington or in providing educational services to Newington’s children.

No member of our Board of Education can think kindly of the regular admonishments and cri-tiques offered by our Mayor. His criticisms will not cause them to see his viewpoint, nor will they result in any action from the members of our Board of Education that he would consider positive and beneficial to

the town of Newington. He will certainly accomplish nothing more than to create personal enemies in his own town by persisting.

The thing that I find most incredible is that Mayor Wright came to my daughter’s school and spent considerable time offering education to her class last year. If he despises education so much, I have to wonder why he would have consented to do that.

Mark Hollis, Newington

In response to the bickering

To the Editor:Since 1954, I have been a

Newington resident who attended our schools and observed its growth. As an adult, my experiences have included employment with the BOE in the school and town hall. I have also worked in the private school sector, which has given me a broad incite into the needs and wants during budgetary times. The disagreements between our elected officials should not be the focus during our budget process. This

is a very difficult time for every-one economically right now and we must make necessary sacrifices and band together in agreement. Newington’s population at large is not rich and putting the burden of increased taxes on its workers is unconscionable. We need to freeze any spending for any reason unless it is absolutely necessary. Forego the raises and renegotiate with the union regarding its unsustainable contractual proposals/agreements.

Refrain from the scare tactics

of layoffs and insinuating that the BOE is undermined in any way because you have to sacrifice...we are all doing our part here. Realize that 59 million is not “chicken feed” and should be sufficient for our schools needs (not wants). We need a break from your ever increasing budgets, it is disgraceful People are hurting and it isn’t the BOE or town employees ... you all have jobs!

Sandra Charland , Newington

Let’s focus during difficult budget decisions

To the Editor:Forget about the future

cost of bleachers and annu-al maintenance costs yet to come. $500,000 for fake grass? REALLY? With a half-million dollars I could ...

* Buy a life-time supply of pomade for Donald Trumps’ hair.

* Double the tax deduction for 8,064 teacher’s purchases of school room supplies.

* Pay unemployment benefits

to 1,047 Newington families.* Make a mortgage payment

on 2,825 Newington homes.* Eliminate the political pos-

turing over the Newington BOE insurance refund (twice?).

* Afford 83 hours of United Illuminating’s CEO’s time.

* Decrease the chances of a Newington athlete’s being offered a college scholarship by .000000014 percent.

* Triple the retirement savings of 908 Newington couples.

* Own 23 percent of a proper-ty located on Newington’s new “Town Green.”

* Add 45,071 titles to the Newington Library’s collection.

* Put 754,633,919 million calories in the Newington food pantry’s kitchen.

* Place six super bowl ads on a local TV station.

* Pander to the few Newington athlete’s parent’s votes swayed by such an obvious ploy.

Wayne Estey, Newington

A half-million better ideas

To the Editor:The proposed New Britain Hartford

busway has become a hot topic in Newington recently, with the Town Council, on which I serve, taking a vote at its last meeting to send a letter to Governor Malloy noting its opposi-tion to a busway and its support for a light railway system. Had I been at that meeting, where the busway topic was added to the agenda by a waiver of the rules, I would have voiced my support for the project.

While the busway has increased in cost since it was first proposed, it continues to be the most cost effective solution to the congestion on Interstate 84 west of Hartford. This is the most congested cor-ridor in the Hartford region, accounting for more than 50 percent of all freeway congestion in the region. Some have for-gotten that busway proposal originated as a study of congestion on I-84. Numerous possible solutions were examined includ-ing expanding the highway, making improvements on other roadways, and building transit improvements. The bus-way, even though it will require an annual operating subsidy (as does all public tran-sit) was the clear preferred alternative. DOT studies have shown that light rail would require an operating subsidy five times that of the busway.

Currently Newington has the unique advantage of being part of both the bus-way and Commuter Railway. We don’t have to choose one! The proposed New Haven/Hartford/Springfield commut-er rail proposal, currently being pursued by the Connecticut DOT with federal and state funding, will place a rail sta-tion in Newington, at the location of Newington Junction. This station will allow for transfers between the busway and the commuter rail line. Newington will now be a central boarding point for local commuters going to New York

City, Boston, and all points in between. These plans will provide a huge boost to our development at the National Welding site, adjacent properties and give our town many economic oppor-tunities in the future.

The goal of the busway will be to allow commuters to avoid the awful I84 traffic, save on gas consumption and reduce greenhouse emissions. Buses will arrive at the stations every five min-utes during peak hours, and a trip from the Newington station to Hartford will take only 10 minutes. All buses will be hybrid and clean fuel vehicles and equipped with bike racks. The creation of a bike trail from New Britain to Newington will give residents another traveling option. In addition to going to downtown Hartford, the busway will tie in many important destina-tions for Greater Hartford residents including Westfarms Mall, UConn Health Center, Hartford Hospital, and CCSU. Light rail would not give us this flexibility.

The busway proposal has gone through years of research, planning and debate. Any new proposal for rail instead of the busway will have to go through a similar process to be at the point the busway is today. With gas prices rising and increasing instability in the Middle East, public transpor-tation has never been more important than it is today. The busway provides affordable transportation and will operating in less than two years.

Let’s get behind the momentum that has been built over 14 years and support the busway and the New Haven, Hartford, Springfield, com-muter rail — rather than yearning for an ill defined, unstudied, idea about rail.

Scott McBride — Dem. Newington Town Councilor

One Newington busway vote

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Page 7: 021811 NTC Flipbook

Our CommunityNEWINGTON TOWN CRIER Friday, February 18, 2011 | 7

While recently winter camping at J.N. Webster Boy Scout Camp in Ashford, The Panther Patrol of Boy Scout Troop 347 won the annual “Iron Chef ” Competition with their winning entrée of Chicken Marsala over pasta with garlic bread cooked outdoors in a Dutch oven. Cherry and blueberry pies cooked over a fire and spar-kling cider topped off the meal as dessert. The entire meal was served on china to enhance the presentation during this legend-ary competition. The Scouts were required to find a recipe, create a menu and shop for groceries with a pre-determined budget. Judging criteria included overall flavor, teamwork and presentation.

Boy Scout Troop 347 ‘Iron Chef ’ competition

Photo courtesy of Mindy Porell

From left: back row: Donte Servidone, Camden Tatsapaugh, Bryan Gionfriddo, Evan Field. Front row: Julian Holmes, Steve Tromba, Jeremy Kemp and Quinton Birchall.

The weekend of Feb. 4 to 6, Webelo II Scouts and Webelo I Scouts from Pack 347 along with the Webelo I Scouts of Pack 345 participated in a Winter Camping weekend at the Mark Greer Reservation located in Bozrah. Scouts worked on fire building exercises, earned their whittling chips, earned their outdoorsman pin and worked together as teams to complete other chores (i.e. washing, rinsing and drying the dishes, keeping the cabin clean, preparing the evening dinner and the flag ceremonies).

A Webelo weekend

Rob Heyl

The Newington Boy Scouts Troop 347 try to fill a truck behind the Firehouse with cans and bottles for their fundraiser.

N.H.S. Project Graduation Safe Night events Newington High School Project Graduation Safe Night Celebration will earn 10 percent when you choose them at the register of the Modell’s Sporting Goods, 3067 Berlin Turn-pike, Newington, and you will earn 10 percent off your total purchase as well* Saturday, March 5 to Monday, March 7. Bonus donation hours: Friday, March 4 from 5 p.m. to close. *Valid March 4 (at 5 p.m.) through March 11 on to-tal purchase excluding sales tax. Excludes gift cards. Other exclusions may apply. Cannot be combined with other offers except 5 percent MVP coupon and Team Weeks. Valid only on in-store purchases. Donation based on net pur-chases after discounts and excluding sales tax. A Spring Fling Dance to benefit the NHS Class of 2011 Safe Night will be held from 7 to 11 p.m. Saturday, April 9 at the French Model Council Club, 1375 East St., New Britain. Cost of tickets is $20. Call Karen at (860) 794-9720 or Beth at 666-7070. Bring your own bever-age and appetizers. Entertainment provided by “Outriggers.”

To the Editor:

I have been a student, a parent, and a resident in Newington for over 30 years. I am also someone who recognizes, pro-motes, and appreciates what our town has to offer.

This past Friday night, my wife, daugh-ter, and family members were excited to support my son’s last year of playing hockey for Newington High School. Tonight was a huge night! We were play-ing one of our rivals, Hall/Southington. As expected, our team gave us one of the best games of the year! Our Newington/Berlin boys played outstanding, played with heart, never gave up and “toppled” Hall/Southington with a final score of 4-2!

What a great night! The seats were filled with Newington, Berlin, Hall and Southington fans. There must have been over 200 diehard supporters that

came out tonight! Not only did they win tonight, but they also clinched a seat in the CT State Tournament by defeating East Lyme/Fitch/Ledyard this past Wednesday evening at CT State College!

Friday’s article, which was published on page 12, inspired me to write you this letter. (Please open to page 12 in the Newington Town Crier which was dis-tributed on 2/11/11 before reading on.)

How can the editor and the staff writ-er publish a half page article written by Anthony Della Calce telling all of Newington how the “Southington Boys Topple Newington in Basketball” and write nothing, not a drop of ink, on our Newington High School Hockey Team?

My family and I’m sure many oth-ers are very disappointed and shocked that our “Newington Town Crier” would rather highlight a basketball team getting “toppled” by a rival rather than report to

our community that their NHS/Berlin Hockey Team is playing great hockey, made states, and is having a tremen-dous year with one of the best winning records in Division III...this is very sad! It is also very upsetting that our families and fans have to rely on our Newington Hockey Booster Club to update our NHS/Berlin Hockey Facebook page in order to provide player updates, highlights, and information that our local town paper has no interest in promoting.

Please do what is right and give your Newington/Berlin High School Program the support, attention, and recognition they so deserve!

There is more to Newington High School sports then basketball and swimming!

Scott R. Tremblay, Newington

‘Newington Town Crier’ fails to recognize, support high school hockey team this season! How can this happen in our town?

Busy Boy Scouts !

>

Your Opinion, continued ...

Page 8: 021811 NTC Flipbook

Local News NEWINGTON TOWN CRIER8 | Friday, February 18, 2011

Keene State College student Hannah Hayes of Newington has been selected for Who’s Who Among Students in American Universities and Colleges.

Matthew Scaringe of Newington was named to the Dean’s List at the University of New Haven for the fall 2010 semester. Full-time undergraduate students must have a 3.50 or better cumulative GPA for the semester to be eli-gible for the Dean’s List.

Academic Achievements

At the library Computer Classes Class size is limited to 10 and reserva-tions are required. Registration begins two weeks before each class is scheduled. Basic keyboarding skills, familiarity with Windows and proficiency using a mouse are required for all classes, except the Basic Computer class. Call (860) 665-8700 to register. If you register for a class and do not attend or fail to give 24 hours notice, you must wait 60 days before you may register for another class. All classes are two hours. All Excel, PowerPoint and Word programs are the Microsoft Office 2003 version. Sponsored by the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving and the Friends of the Library. Basic Email — Google Mail — Thursday, Feb. 17, 10 a.m. Learn how to create a free, personal email account that you can use anywhere. This class is for people who have no e-mail account set up.

“Designing for a Better Garden” Connecticut Master Gardener Rita Bond will give a free visual presentation, “Designing for a Bet-ter Garden,” at the Newington Public Library on Tuesday, March 15, at 7 p.m. Bond has a certificate in landscape design and has taught gardening courses for more than 10 years. She has designed gardens for the Connecticut Children’s Medi-cal Center in Hartford. For more information call the library.

We Buy More So You Pay Less!DELI MEAT BY THE LB:Domestic Ham.........................................................$2.99Imported Ham.........................................................$3.99Virginia Ham............................................................$4.99Peppered Ham........................................................$5.99Krakus Ham (Imp)..................................................$5.99Turkey.......................................................................$3.99Smoked Turkey.......................................................$4.99Peppered Turkey....................................................$4.99Buffalo Chicken.......................................................$5.99Pepperoni.................................................................$5.99Capicola (Hot).........................................................$5.99Mortadella................................................................$4.99Roast Beef................................................................$5.99Liverwurst................................................................$5.99Pastrami....................................................................$5.99Salami........................................................................$5.99Veal Loaf...................................................................$4.49Olive Loaf.................................................................$4.49Bologna.....................................................................$2.99

CHEESE:American (Land 0’ Lakes)....................................$3.99Provolone.................................................................$3.99Pepper Jack American..........................................$4.49Muenster..................................................................$3.99Swiss.........................................................................$4.99Cheddar....................................................................$4.49Havarti (dill)............................................................$4.99

DELI SALADS AND EXTRAS:Egg Salad.............................................................$4.99 LBTuna Salad..........................................................$4.99 LBChicken Salad....................................................$5.99 LBSeafood Salad....................................................$5.99 LBColeslaw..............................................................$2.99 LBGiant (Half Sour) Pickles...................................$.75Deep River Ct’s Own Chips............................$1.25Can of Soda........................................................$1.00 .....................................................................20oz $1.7 5Water...................................................................$1.50Desserts............................................................$.99 Slice

Check Out Our Pre Made Dinners To Go!

Giant Grinders: W/ Can of Soda12” Grinders Hard Roll

Ham...............................................$5.00................$4.00Turkey Breast.............................$5.00................$4.00Bologna........................................$5.00................$4.00Veggie............................................$5.00................$4.00Tuna Salad...................................$5.00................$4.00Salami (Genoa)...........................$6.00................$5.00Pepperoni....................................$6.00................$5.00Pastrami.......................................$6.00................$5.00Imported Ham............................$6.00................$5.00Roast Beef....................................$6.00................$5.00Buffalo Chicken..........................$6.00................$5.00Capicola.......................................$6.00................$5.00Mortadella...................................$6.00................$5.00Seafood Salad..............................$6.00................$5.00Chicken Salad.............................$6.00................$5.00Egg Salad......................................$6.00................$5.00Hot Grinder B.L.T.......................$5.00................$4.00Eggplant Parmigiana.................$6.00................$5.00Chicken Parmigiana..................$6.00................$5.00Meatball Parmigiana.................$6.00................$5.00Sausage & Peppers....................$6.00................$5.00• With your choice of American or Provolone cheese,lettuce, tomato, onions, olives, pickles, cukes, greenpeppers, banana peppers, jalapeno peppers, roastedpeppers, salt, pepper, oil, vinegar, mayo, yellow mustard,spicy mustard, horseradish sauce, hot sauce.

Extra Cheese Or Roasted Peppers .50 Each

2453 Berlin Turnpike Newington, Ct, 06111Phone: (860)666-TONY(8669]

Fax (860) 666-3954 Hours: Mon-Fri 10-7 Sat 9-2

We need your continued support to be able to keep prices low andpass these great savings on to you daily! Please come again soon!Remember we crush the competition and that’s no BOLONEY!

We buy more so you pay less!! Prices subject to change without notice!!!!!!!

Salads: Made Fresh Daily!!Tossed Salad:

W/ Tomato.cukes.onions.................................................$2.49W/scoop of Tuna or Chicken Salad...............................$3.99

Chef Salad:W/ Tomato, cukes, onions, ham, turkey, cheese.......$3.99Dressings: Italian, Ranch, Bleu Cheese, ParmesanPeppercorn, Balsamic Vinaigrette * 1 packet included*

Extra Dressing .50Soups and Chili:Chicken Noodle..........................Sm $2.49......Lg $3.99Chicken Noodle Broth......................................Lg $2.00Soup De Jour...............................Sm $2.49.......Lg $3.99Chicken Chili (When Available) Sm $3.49........Lg $4.99

Email TONYBOLONEYS@HOTMAILCOM with any concernsor questions you may have. THANKS.

ALSO JOIN US ON FACEBOOK @ TONY BOLONEYS(3 FT PARTY GRINDERS AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST!)

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NEWINGTON TOWN CRIER Friday, February 18, 2011 | 9

Salads(Served with pita or garlic bread)

Garden Tossed......................................................6.95crisp lettuce blend, cucumbers, onions, tomatoes, peppers,olives, pepperoncini and croutons.Add chicken........................................................$1.95Caesar....................................................................6.95crisp romaine lettuce, croutons, shaved parmesan, cucumbersGrilled Chicken Caesar........................................8.75crisp romaine lettuce, cucumbers, croutons tossed with hotgrilled chicken & shaved parmesanAntipasto...............................................................8.25Genoa salami, capicolla, roast beef, pepperoni, provolone,mozzarella, crisp lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, peppers,onions, pepperonciniSeafood..................................................................8.25crisp lettuce, tomatoes, cucumber, olives, onions, peppers,pepperoncini, with a large scoop of seafood salad topped withmozzarellaTuna.......................................................................8.25crisp lettuce, tomatoes, cucumber, olives, onions, peppers,pepperoncini, with a large scoop of tuna topped withmozzarellaChef .......................................................................8.25ham, turkey, provolone, mozzarella, crisp lettuce, carrots,tomatoes, onions, peppers, olives, pepperoncini, cucumbers &hard boiled eggGreek.....................................................................8.25crisp lettuce blend, cucumbers, tomatoes, Greek olives,pepperoncini, crumbled feta, served with a stuffed grape leaf.Add chicken........................................................$1.95Add gyro meat....................................................$1.95Cobb......................................................................8.75bacon, hard boiled eggs, ham, cheddar cheese, crisp lettuce,tomatoes, cucumbersPine Loft Salad......................................................8.75pine nuts, romaine, craisins, grilled chicken, gorgonzola,cucumbers

Italian, Blue Cheese, Ranch, Oil & Vinegar, French,Thousand Island, Honey Mustard, Creamy Italian,

Parmesan Peppercorn, Balsamic, Vidalia Vinaigrette,Greek, Raspberry Vinaigrette

AppetizersFrench Fries..........................................................3.50Buffalo Wings served with blue cheese .............9.50Mozzarella Sticks served with mariner sauce ...6.25Jalapeno Poppers served with sour cream .......6.75Garlic Bread..........................................................4.50Garlic Bread w/Mozzarella served with sauce ..4.95Side of Meatballs (2).............................................5.50topped with sweet peppers and melted mozzarella

Hot Oven Grinders or WrapsWraps - choice of white, spinach, sundried tomato or basil

(Wraps - served with sweet pickle & a choice of small cole slaw,potato salad or macaroni salad)

8” Grinders & Wraps 16” GrindersRoast Beef....................................6.95................10.25Tuna Fish.....................................6.25..................9.50Pepperoni....................................6.75..................9.95Genoa Salami...............................6.75..................9.95Italian Combo..............................6.95................10.25Pastrami.......................................6.95..................9.95Chicken Caesar............................6.95................10.25Turkey..........................................6.95................10.25Ham..............................................6.25..................9.50Capicolla......................................6.75..................9.95Veggie...........................................6.25..................9.50Seafood........................................6.95................10.25BLT...............................................6.25..................9.50Grilled Chicken...........................6.95................10.25Philly Steak..................................6.95................10.25

cheese, onions, peppers and mushrooms

Above Grinders/Wraps are served with lettuce, tomatoes,sweet peppers, cheese, mayo or oil & vinegar.

Meatball........................................6.25................9.50Sausage.........................................6.25................9.50Eggplant Parmesan......................6.25................9.50Chicken Parmesan.......................6.95...............10.25Above Grinders/Wraps are served with cheese, sweet peppers& sauceChicken Cordon Bleu Wrap.................................7.50grilled chicken, Swiss cheese, ham, tomatoes & honey mustard

Pizzassmall 10” med. 14” x-lg 18”

Mozzarella...................7.95..........11.50 ........... 13.95Combination of 1 ........ 9.25..........13.25 ........... 15.95Combination of 2 ....... 10.25.........14.25 ........... 16.95Combination of 3 ....... 10.75.........15.25 ........... 17.95Combination of 4 ....... 10.95.........15.95 ........... 18.95Pine Loft Special ........11.75.........16.95 ........... 20.50Extra Cheese................1.00............1.50 ............. 2.00

Hamburger, Sausage, Steak, Peppers, Onion, Pepperoni,Ricotta, Kielbasa, Salami, Mushroom, Ham, Anchovies,

Pineapple, Bacon, Olives, Broccoli, Spinach, Garlic, BabyClams, Jalapeños, Feta Cheese, Eggplant, Chicken, Tomato,Roasted Sweet Peppers, Barbecue Chicken, Buffalo Chicken

Pizza SlicesCheese...................................................................2.00Pepperoni.............................................................2.30

CalzonesFilled with Ricotta, Mozzarella Cheese..............8.25(Marinara sauce served on side)Add any pizza topping ............................. each $1.00

Pine Loft PaninisInspired by Italy. Paninis are made with fresh ingredients

held by bread pressed on a hot grill.(Served with sweet pickle & a choice of small cole slaw,

potato salad or macaroni salad)

Mediterranean.....................................................8.75grilled chicken, feta, tomatoes, provolone, fresh spinach leaves,Greek olivesStuffed Eggplant..................................................8.25mushrooms, sweet peppers, ricotta, provoloneThe Cuban........................................................... 8.50ham, bacon, provolone, Swiss cheese, mustard, sweet picklesTurkey..................................................................8.50caramelized onions, roasted peppers, provolone,basil pesto sauceRoast Beef............................................................8.50caramelized onions, sweet peppers, tomatoes, mayo, provolone

Gyros(Served with our Greek cucumber sauce,fresh chopped tomatoes and red onion)

Grilled Beef/Lamb GyroOR Fresh Grilled Chicken Gyros..............6.50

Dinners(Served with salad and garlic bread)

Spaghetti/Ziti/Shells

w/Sauce............................................................9.25

w/Sausage......................................................10.25

w/Meat Balls ..................................................10.25

w/Eggplant Parmigiana.................................10.25

Ravioli with Cheese, Meat or Spinach..........10.25

House Made Meat Lasagna Parmigiana.......10.50

Baked Manicotti or Stuffed Shells Parmigiana 10.25

Fettuccini or Ziti Alfredo.................................10.25

Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Alfredo................13.95

Hot Beveragessmall large

Hot Teas........................................1.45 ............ 2.00Decaf availableChai Tea Latte ..............................3.00 ............ 4.00Brewed black tea with steamed milkHot Chocolate ..............................2.40 ............ 3.00With steamed milk and whipped creamFreshly Brewed Coffee................1.45 ............ 2.00Regular, French Vanilla, or Hazelnut

DessertsBaklava.............................................................3.60nuts, butter and spices baked in filo pastry, topped with syrupCarrot Cake......................................................3.60Mississippi Mud Pie ......................................... 3.60

Espresso BeveragesAvailable in decaf.

Syrup flavors: French Vanilla, Roasted Hazelnut Caramel,Peppermint Schnapps, and Coconut

small largeEspresso............................................................1.30Espresso roast, expertly brewedCappuccino............................2.90...................3.40An Italian tradition - equal parts steamed and foamed milkpoured over a shot of espressoCafe Latte ...............................2.90...................3.40Steamed milk laced with espresso shot topped with a cap ofwhipped creamCafe Mocha Latte ...................3.20...................3.90Steamed milk with a shot of espresso and sweet mochatopped with whipped cream

Additional shots of espressoor flavored syrup are .89 each

Children’s Menu(children 12 years and under)

Mac & Cheese..................................................3.50Cheese Ravioli.................................................5.50Pasta with Sauce..............................................4.95Pasta with Meatball.........................................5.95Shells with Butter............................................4.95Chicken Fingers with Fries .............................5.95Grilled Cheese with a Bag of Chips................5.25

All children’s meals served with juice.

Tax is NOT included in these prices!

Call or fax your order and we’ll haveit ready for you!

corporate accounts welcome.

Party Room Available.Ask for details!

Fun for all occasions!Call 860-828-9797 for Information

Menu

1474 Berlin TurnpikeBerlin, CT 06037

860-828-9797 fax: 860-828-3686

We Deliver!

01

40

04

Events!Start 7:00 PM

Monday - KaraokeThursday - Open MicSaturday - Live Band

(Call for details)

$2.00 OFF$10 purchase Excludes Beer and wine

$5.00 OFF$25 purchase Excludes Beer and wine

Expires 3/31/11

Expires 3/31/11

Page 10: 021811 NTC Flipbook

NEWINGTON TOWN CRIER10 | Friday, February 18, 2011

You can’t get it any fresher unless you catch it yourself!

376 Berlin Turnpike, Berlin • 860-828-5833Mon.-Thurs. 10am-8pm • Fri. 10am-9pm • Sat. 11am-9pm • Sun. 11am-7pm

$5 off lunch or dinner of $30 or more • dine in or take-out

Blue Lobster Seafood376 Berlin Turnpike • Berlin • 860-828-5833

With this coupon. Not valid with other offers. Excludes Beer & Wine Offer expires 3/31/11

$10 off lunch or dinner of $60 or more • dine in or take-out

Blue Lobster Seafood376 Berlin Turnpike • Berlin • 860-828-5833

With this coupon. Not valid with other offers. Excludes Beer & Wine Offer expires 3/31/11

• Gourmet Entrees • Live Lobsters • Crab Cakes • Lobster Rolls • Calamari

• Shrimp • Scallops • Oysters • Chowder • Bisque & Much More!

NOW SERVING BEER & WINE!Proudly serving the community fresh seafood since 1990

- DINE IN OR TAKE OUT -See our full menu at

www.bluelobsterseafood.com

Page 11: 021811 NTC Flipbook

"The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee" is a hilar-ious tale of overachievers' angst chronicling the experience of six adolescent outsiders vying for the spelling championship of a lifetime.

The show's Tony Award win-ning creative team has created the unlikeliest of hit musicals about the unlikeliest of heroes: a quirky yet charming cast of outsiders for whom a spelling bee is the one place where they can stand out and fit in at the same time.

Newington residents CherieLee Bell and Jessica Frye, are performing with the

Opera House Players at the Broad Brook Opera House. CherieLee is no stranger to the Opera House and Jessica is making her debut at the venue. CherieLee has lived in Newington and worked for the Newington public school system and St. Mary Church for the last 12 years. She is the producer for the show and also plays a bubbly cheerleader speller in the show.

Jessica Frye, a 2008 graduate of NHS, is playing a DC comic nerd speller and also the role of Olive's mom in the production.

Don't miss the chance to see a great show, but you may

also have a chance to be one of our audience spellers on stage!

The show runs through Feb. 27 (Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m.) at The Broad Brood Opera House, 107 Main St., Broad Brook.

CalendarNEWINGTON TOWN CRIER Friday, February 18, 2011 | 11

Art Exhibit at the Library Peter Upton will display his art-work at the Lucy Robbins Welles Library through Feb. 26. A resident of Hartford’s, Upton has a law practice in downtown New Britain. His exhibit may be viewed during regular library hour.

Guest pastor Verline Eldridge, CM, will serve the Church of the Infinite Spirit located in The Masonic Hall, 80 Walsh Ave., at 10:30 a.m. Sunday, Feb. 27. Eldridge is a member of National Spiritualist Church of Norwich (NSAC). For more information, call (860) 646-5976.

Newington/Wethersfield Woman’s Club The program for the GFWC Newington/Wethersfield Woman’s Club Febru-ary meeting will feature Sheryl Fallon, an instructor on Zum-ba Gold at the Pitkin Community Center in Wethersfield. Members should dress in comfortable shoes and clothing to participate as Fallon will demonstrate and teach members the Zumba Gold method form of exercise; different then Zumba in that it is a lower impact form. The meeting is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 22 at the Senior Citizens Center, 120 Cedar St., Newington. For additional information (860) 666-8025.

Art Exhibit Members of the Newington Art League will be exhibit artwork from 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 24 at Mar-ket Square Studios, 1068 Main St. Art and photography from Newington High School students will also be on exhibit.

Churchill Park Picnic Reservations The Newington Parks & Recreation Department has reserved areas at Churchill Park

for rental. Churchill Park picnic reservations begin at 8:30 a.m. Wednesday, March 2 in the Parks & Recreation office. Reser-vations are limited to Newington families, organizations, and businesses and are accepted on a first-come, first served basis. Phone reservations will not be accepted. Proof of residency is required. There are three picnic areas to choose from: Upper Area (open space — no shelter): 40-person limit ($35); Middle Pavilion (large shelter and electricity): 150-person limit ($75); Lower Pavilion (shelter and electricity): 60-person limit ($50). For further information (Many more details on facilities) call the Parks & Recreation Department at (860) 665-8666 Mon-day through Friday between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.

Community Gardens The Community Gardens are located next to the Young Farm property at 282 Church St. Commu-nity Gardens are open to Newington residents only. Garden plot sizes are 20 x 20 feet, and will be roto-tilled and marked by the town. Gardening guidelines are available at the Parks & Recreation office and on the Website at www.newingtonct.gov. Planting date will be dependent on soil and weather conditions but is anticipated to be mid-spring. Water will be available for gardeners — bring your own hoses or containers. The fee for each garden plot is $20. Register in the Parks & Recreation of-fice Monday through Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Returning gardeners may reserve their plot any time before Wednesday, March 30. Registration for New Gardeners begins at 8:30 a.m. Thursday, March 31, (upon availability). Call the Parks & Rec-reation office at (860) 665-8666 for more information.

3rd Annual Wine & Beer Tasting St. Mary School, 652 Willard Ave., will host its 3rd Annual Wine & Beer Tasting

and Auction from 6:30 to 9 p.m. Friday, March 4. Tickets may purchased in advance for $20 or at the door for $25. In addi-tion to featuring select wines from Italy, France, Portugal, and Spain, we’re also highlighting beers. Join us for an evening of wine and beer tasting, passed hors d’oeuvres, live music and the chance to bid on a large array of silent auction items. Don’t miss Brad Field, Chief Meteorologist at NBC-30, who will emcee an extended live auction portion of the evening. Call (860) 666-3844, Ext. 13 with any questions. All proceeds to benefit St. Mary School.

Mediums Day Mediums Day will be held from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Saturday, March 5 at The Church of the Infinite Spirit at the Masonic Hall, 80 Walsh Ave. Twenty-minute readings. Donation, $20. Refreshments, laying-on-of-hands healing.

Preschool Expo Join us at St. Mary School, 652 Willard Ave., Newington, Saturday, Feb. 19. from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. To learn more about Early Education Programs offered in Newington, Wethersfield, New Britain, West Hartford and Berlin. Come to this one-stop event to visit with staff from several pre-school programs for your 3 or 4-year-old including St. Mary Pre-school.

* Free Admission and Free Raffle for Door Prizes* Visit with local businesses that offer services for your

toddler.* Hang out with a New Britain Rock Cat Mascot* Enjoy Arts and Crafts tables for your toddlers.

Photo courtesy of Kristy Chambrelli

The cast of "25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee"

By Alex SypherSStaff Writer

A group of meritorious musical the-atre enthusiasts have undertaken one of the most challenging productions of their lives, hosting a benefit con-cert to raise funds for the Newington Children’s Theatre, while simul-taneously preparing the inaugural performance of a newly created adult theatre program.

The group includes children’s the-atre veterans Cindy Lesser and Kelly Boucher, as well as newcomer, Ian Galligan.

“Because of the economy they have lost some of their grant money. Times are tough,” said Lesser. “We thought we could put together a benefit to help the theater bring in some money, as well as let the people know the theatre is there. It’s a hid-den gem.”

Since 1962, the nonprofit Newington Children’s Theatre has been serving the community’s youth by hosting musical productions, such as this year’s “Beauty and the Beast.”

But all too often, said Lesser, the theatre is left uninhabited. “They probably have four or five week-ends a year where shows are actually

running in the theatre,” said Lesser. “It’s just not enough.” The rest of the year the theatre is dark.

“It’s a great little spot,” said Galligan. “It’s as nice as some off -Broadway the-atres in New York that I have seen. It’s amazing. I felt like I was back in New York. It was a shame to see that it was dark for most of the year.”

In an effort to shed light on the the-atre, the group will host the “118 Miles off Broadway” benefit concert March 12. With Newington being just 118 miles from Broadway the organizers of the fundraiser thought it a fitting title. The night will be filled with per-formances from the areas “grown up performers,” singing classic show tunes from the “Golden Age’” of Broadway to some of today’s most celebrated productions.

There will be hors d'oeuvres, wine, and raffle prizes, ranging from a Jason Varitek signed baseball, gift cards to area restaurants, and jewelry. The event will be hosted by radio personality Jim Masters of CPTV.

During the concert the group will also announce the creation of an adult extension of the children’s the-atre. The new endeavor will offer the community’s “big kids” the opportu-nity to display their talents on stage

as part of the children’s the-atre “Newington Mainstage” program. The inaugural

performance of the “Newington Mainstage” will be the Tony Award nominated musical “[title of show]”, a musical comedy about two strug-gling young writers, writing a musical about two young struggling writers, who are, you guessed it, writing a musical.

“’You may ask what [the title of the show] is about’,” said Galligan, quoting the first page of the script, “’“[title of show]” is about 90 minutes with one intermission.’” He laughs. “This is going to be a show no one has seen before.”

“We are super excited about the benefit and even more excited about “[title of show]”,” said Galligan.

“We are hoping to get a lot of new faces,” added Lesser.

“118 Miles Off Broadway” will be held Saturday, March 12, the reception begins at 7 p.m. the per-formance will begin at 8 p.m. Tickets are $25 each and can be obtained by mailing a check, made payable to NCTC, to: NCTC Performing Arts Theatre, 743 North Mountain Road, Newington CT, 06111, or by calling (860) 666-6282. Tickets for “[title of show]”, which will run June 10 -18, will be available at the “118 Miles off Broadway” benefit.

Local Entertainment

Friday, February 18, 2011 | 11“118 Miles Off Broadway”Newington residents ‘acting’ out

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Local News NEWINGTON TOWN CRIER12 | Friday, February 18, 2011

By AlEx SyphERSStaff Writer

Nestled among the brick and mortar rows of businesses along Market Square, rests one of Newington’s rising small enterprises, Balboni Custom Jewelry, hailing pedestrians with its bright blue “154” above the door. Balboni Custom Jewelry prides itself in being “distinctly unique,” said owner Dan Balboni, not only for its hand-crafted pieces, but more importantly for the way Balboni has kept his gem of a business shining through the over-cast of a faltering economy.

“The uniqueness about it is not the fact that it is custom jewelry,” said Balboni, “it’s the way I set up the business. There are plenty of other custom jewelers. I wanted to make a business that I could sufficiently run by myself.”

On Feb. 27, 2010, in the midst of the economy downturn, Balboni took what he called “a leap of faith,” and opened his doors for the first time. It was a culmination more than 20 years in the making.

Balboni’s journey started in Texas, more than two decades ago. He was working at a health club when one day he was offered a job from a client who was a custom jeweler. He had no experience but “it got his creative juices flowing,” said Balboni recalling his

introduction to the industry.He decided if he was going into the business

he was going all the way and enrolled himself in the Gemological Institute of America in Santa Monica, Calif. He graduated in 1994.

He spent the next decade and a half work-ing for various jewelers around the country, he said, from small business owners to mainstream jewelers until one day he real-ized he had to take the next step and open his own business.

“I looked all over the place,” Balboni said about his search for a store front, “and, lo and behold, where do I find the best space, the town I grew up in. I found that quite interesting. I had come full circle.”

Before opening his doors Balboni re-pol-ished some of the old contacts he had made over his years in the jewelry industry. He knew

before opening he would not be able to keep the staff of jewelers on hand that many mainstream jewelers do. He

had to be creative, he said, in order to make his business work.

Today, Balboni meets with customers and personally work swith them to design a cus-tom piece of jewelry. From this point the design is sent to his network of stone-setters, bench-workers, and casters, throughout the

country.“It keeps my

overhead down,” said Balboni. “The challenge in this industry is, if you are a cus-tom jeweler, that you are working at the bench for 24 hours a day because you can’t get the job done. This keeps me free to do what I need to do in the business.”

Balboniworks on everything from the design of custom pieces to repairs and reproductions.

“Each one is a little bit different,” said Balboni about his pieces, adding that he often can’t sleep at night for the fear of not

satisfying his clientele.In addition to his custom jewelry network,

Balboni has started selling hand-crafted silver jewelry from artisans around the world.

“The custom stuff, that is not something people get every day, that is something people may get once in a lifetime,” said Balboni about his decision to start selling the artisan jewelry.

He wasn’t getting the repeat customers. In addition gold prices were on the rise and sales were becoming fewer and fewer. He couldn’t compete with the mainstream.

“The way to go because of the economy was to move into silver,” he said, “because silver is only a fraction of what gold is and with people losing their jobs and the economy heading south people aren’t going to have the funds to spend.”

Balboni says he has kept to his motto of being “distinctly unique” with his approach to the artisan jewelry.

“I really carry items in the showcase that are unique and what I mean by unique is that no one else carries them,” he said.

Still, at the end of the day, said Balboni, after hours of designing custom pieces and hoping the design was right, the look on the customer’s face makes his job worth it.

“It’s the thought that I did my job right.”Balboni Custom Jewelry will have its one-

year anniversary celebration from noon to 4 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 26 at 154 Market Square, For more information call (860) 665-8041.

Balboni — distinctly unique

Handcrafted silver jewlery such as these have opened new avenues for Balboni Custom Jewelry.

REGISTER ONLINE REGISTER ONLINE

Walk-in registration to be held at Dicks Sporting Goods Newington Walk-in registration to be held at Dicks Sporting Goods Newington March 5th 10am-1pm (last day to register is March 11th) March 5th 10am-1pm (last day to register is March 11th)

SIGN UP TODAY FOR SIGN UP TODAY FOR

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GO TO THIS SITE TO START GO TO THIS SITE TO START www.bluesombrero.com/newingtonsoccer www.bluesombrero.com/newingtonsoccer

SPRING SOCCER SPRING SOCCER

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NEWINGTON TOWN CRIER Friday, February 18, 2011 | 13

Larry Pericolosi, [email protected]

Fully InsuredReg. #HIC0620964

Newington, CT

HOMEIMPROVEMENT LLC

(860) 757-3800

012910

www.thetopshelfhome.com

HOME IMPROVEMENTHANDYPERSONGUITAR LESSONS

29 years

experiencePete Cocolla, 860-463-2734Certified Teaching Specialist

www.guitarstarinstruction.com

Be A Guitar Star Guitar and Bass Lessons

Children & Adults

Enjoyable, Successful InstructionIndividual Programs, Rapid Progress

Learn Your Favorite Songs

0113

11

Real Estate

230 APARTMENTSUNFURNISHED

NEW BRITAIN: 1 br & studio apts. Downtown. Starting at $499/mo. Utils not included. No pets. 203-982-3042.

230 APARTMENTSUNFURNISHED

NEW BRITAIN - 2 & 3 BR avail. $650 - $950. Please call 860-569-0304.

*NEW BRITAIN: 2 BR w/ht & hw, appl. No pets/NS.

$775. Gustin Co. (860) 225-4613.

Having a tag sale? Don’t forget to advertise

it with a fast-acting Classified

to let everyone know! Call 231-2444

230 APARTMENTSUNFURNISHED

NEW BRITAIN - 4 RM w/ht & gas. 467 Allen St. $675/mo. 860-229-5569/860-604-0133.

New Britain- 4 rms, 2 brs, Dwight St., appls. No utils. $695+ sec. 860-490-5312. NEW BRITAIN - Lg 4 BR, 2nd

FL, $900. Burritt St. 860-604-2639

NEW BRITAIN: Spacious 3 br, 2nd flr, sunporch, priv. prkg, $895/mo. Utils not inclded. No pets. 203-982-3042.

230 APARTMENTSUNFURNISHED

NEW BRITAIN: Move-in Spe-cial. $650 mo. 1 mo. free rent, ask for details. In-cludes heat and hot water! 1 br unit. Off street parking, laundry facility, close to ma-jor hwys and bus line. Sec. dep. req’d. Sorry No Dogs, cats with deposit. For info; 203-639-8271.

NEW BRITAIN: Spac, beauti-ful 5 RM, appl, w/d hkp. Off-st pkg. Ref. 860-573-1118

230 APARTMENTSUNFURNISHED

NEW BRITAIN Remodeled 2 & 3 BR townhomes. Private en-try, hdwd flrs, laundry. On bus-line. Ht & hw inc. $750 & up.

860-223-8866.

NEW BRITAIN: Studio $525 & 2 BR, $675. Upper High St. No utils. Available now. No pets. Sol 203-816-7790.

Selling your home? Call

Classifieds at 231-2444

Employment &Instruction

645 GENERALHELP WANTED

BOOKKEEPER PT - Quick-Books knowledge necessary.

Must be organized. 9am - 12pm. Mon - Thurs.

860-953-5676.

819 FURNITURE

BED: All new, still in plastic. Extra, extra thick queen pil-low-top mattress set & frame. Can deliver. $400.

(860) 298-9732.

881 WANTED TO BUY

BUYING 1900s-1960s: Toys, jewelry, bar signs, antiques,

household, political, Sporting. Christine 561-1817.

881 WANTED TO BUY

Old Tools Wanted Always Buying old, used

and antique woodworking, machinist, other hand tools & tool chests. Honest offers made at your home. Please

write this number down. Call Cory

860 - 613 - 1108 Do want ads work?

Do mice like cheese? Call 231-2444.

Page 14: 021811 NTC Flipbook

NEWINGTON TOWN CRIER14 | Friday, February 18, 2011

To Advertise callClassified Department 860-231-2444

PLUMBING & HEATING

Joseph A. Borselle, Jr.

• Repair Service• Home Improvements & Remodeling• Heating Systems Hydronic & Steam• Hot Water Heaters, Sales & Service• Gas Fireplaces & Piping• Drain & Sewer Cleaning

860.948.0510P.O. Box 311231

Newington, CT 06131

Lic #’s 204827-P15155-SM1

392764-S3HIC 0625232

Plumbing & HeatingContractor

1218

09

REALTORS

Cathleen B. HallBroker, G.R.I. SRES860-666-5656 X156 (Office)

Connecticut Realty

860-667-1993 (Home)860-559-6643 (Cell)860-665-8071 (Fax)[email protected] An independently owned and operated member of Prudential Real Estate Affilliates, Inc.

EQUAL HOUSINGOPPORTUNITY

0121

11

REALTORS

Amy KelleherSales Executive

Connecticut Realty155 Lowrey PlaceNewington, Ct 06111Cell:860-416-5652 Off:860-666-5656Fax:860-665-1351 Dir:[email protected] An independently owned and operated member of Prudential Real Estate Affilliates, Inc.EQUAL HOUSING

OPPORTUNITY

0121

11

REALTORS

Denise Lambros, ABRREALTOR®

Leading Edge Society

Connecticut Realty155 Lowrey Place, Newington, Ct 06111Bus 860-594-6946Cell 860-666-7175 Fax 860 [email protected] An independently owned and operated member of Prudential Real Estate Affilliates, Inc.EQUAL HOUSING

OPPORTUNITY

0121

11

REALTORS

Jeff PalumboREALTOR®

Connecticut Realty

155 Lowrey Place, Newington, Ct 06111Bus 860-666-5656 Cell 860-305-8839Fax 860-665-1351 Voicemail 860-594-6965E-mail [email protected]

An independently owned and operated member of Prudential Real Estate Affilliates, Inc.EQUAL HOUSINGOPPORTUNITY

0121

11

REALTORS

Maria ParkerRealtor

155 Lowrey PlaceNewington, Ct 06111Cell: 860-306-6040 Fax:860-665-1351Direct Line: 860-594-6964mariaparker@prudentialct.comwww.mariaparker.prudentialCT.com An independently owned and operated member of Prudential Real Estate Affilliates, Inc.

EQUAL HOUSINGOPPORTUNITY

0121

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JEWELERS

REALTORS

The Best Team in Town

860.666.5656

REALTORS

Donna SavoiaRealtor - Staging Professional

Connecticut Realty155 Lowrey PlaceNewington, Ct 06111mobile 860-424-7565fax [email protected] An independently owned and operated member of Prudential Real Estate Affilliates, Inc.

EQUAL HOUSINGOPPORTUNITY

0121

11

PAINTING

PROMOTIONAL PRODUCTS

01

06

54

Jack Crowley and Tara Drost

• Tee Shirts• Hoodies• Team Apparel

• Pens• Sport Bottles• Grocery Totes

860-827-1181 www.jcspecialt.com

Callfor

SpecialPricing

860-827-1181

M&P Painting“Where quality is always first”

Painting/Staining Professionals

WATER DAMAGE REPAIRS& INSURANCE CLAIMS

Fully Insured • Over 20 Years Exp.CALL TODAY 860-250-0924

OR 860-276-1028Email: [email protected]

2405

802

PLUMBING

Andy WottonPlumbing & Heating, LLC

(860) 833-8153We offer honest plumbing at a reasonable price. Estimates are always given before any work is done, from snaking your main drain to water heaters and boilers, faucets and leaky pipes we do it all. Remember, with Andy Wotton’s Plumbing, it’s not done until you say it is. Call today!

P1 0282605Licensed & Insured S1 0402048

25% OFFlabor on your

next service call

Page 15: 021811 NTC Flipbook

NEWINGTON TOWN CRIER Friday, February 18, 2011 | 15

AIR CONDITIONING & HEATINGMull Bros, Inc. - We are a family business that’s beencatering to your cooling & heating needs since 1945. Weproudly install Lennox, American Standard, Weil McLain& other quality equipment (oil, gas & electric). We alsoservice most makes & models. We are located next to theWethersfield Post Office (behind the penguins and polarbears) at 61 Beaver Rd. 860- 529-8255

BASEMENT WATERPROOFINGJP Bachand Basement Waterproofing - Reliable localcontractor. Hatchway leaks, foundation cracks, sub-floordrainage systems, sump pumps & yard drainage. Fullyinsured, free estimates, written guarantee. Our 27th yearregistered with CT Dept of Consumer Protection (Reg#511842). Call 860-666-9737

CERAMIC TILELen and Jeff Schaller - Fix leaky showers. Regrouting intubs. Bath, kitchen tile installed. 37 years experience.Neat, expert workmanship. Repairs a specialty.Call 242-5805

CLEANING SERVICESPolish/English speaking woman can clean your housewith care. 2nd cleaning 50% off for new clients only.

Satisfaction guaranteed. Insurance Bonded. CallKasia 860-538-4885

HAULINGDump Runs, Clean Outs, We Load It For You. Hon-est, Hardwoorking, Affordable. Max 860-916-5525

PLUMBINGPositano Plumbing, Inc. - 31 years of serving Bristoland the surrounding areas. Specializing in all repairs.Plumbing & heating. Water heater replacement,boiler replacement. CT Lic #202691, 308931. For thebest repair work in the area, please call 860-584-0012,186 West St., Bristol.

REMODELINGFull Service Remodeling - Windows, bathrooms andkitchens. All interior and exterior home or businessremodeling and handyman service. You name it -I’ve done it! Excellent references and competitiverates with over 10 years experience. BBB Accredited.Call Mike 860-690-6505 or Kris 860-348-076 today foryour free estimate. Fully insured and licensed.Lic #565969.

ROOFINGLA Rich, LLC - Master Elite Roofing Contractor withover 500 satisfied customers. Our workmanship iswarranteed for 20 years by shingle manufacturer. Bestwarranty in writing. “Quality you can count on foryears.” We do roof repairs, vinyl siding, windows,seamless gutters. Honest, competitive pricing. Nohidden costs. Free estimates. Fully insured. Writtenwarranties. Clean and courteous installers. CT Lic#565709. GAFELK ME #11852. 860-622-9800 or860-747-4427. www.larichroofing.com

SNOW REMOVALMailboxes dug out, roof snow removal and bobcatsnow work. Commercial and residential. Call Max860-916-5525.

TREE SERVICETotal Tree Service & Landscaping, LLC Fall Cleanup &Lawn Maintenenace. Commerical & Residential. 75 ft.bucket truck. Chipper, firewood, land clearing, stumpgrinding, tree removal. Registra-tion #608808. Fullyinsured. 860-529-8389 or 860-538-0980.

HOME IMPROVEMENT DIRECTORY

to advertise call 860.231.2444

TREE SERVICE

75 foot Bucket Truck

Registration #608808 Fully Insured

860-529-8389 • 860-538-0980

CHIPPER • FIREWOOD • LAND CLEARINGSTUMP GRINDING • TREE REMOVAL

FREEESTIMATESSPRING Cleanup &

Lawn Maintenance

Commercial &Residential

Total Tree Service & Landscaping, LLC

TREE SERVICE

Tree Removals • Pruning • Storm DamageStump Removals • Shrub Pruning

860-563-6581Wethersfield

GRAVER’S TREE CARE

Systemic Micro-InjectionFertilization

SprayingB-0567

Bruce Graver – Licensed Tree Surgeon – Certified Arborist

REMODELING

To Advertise on

these pages call the

ClassifiedDepartment

860-231-2444

REALTORS

Roger Veilleux, ABRRealtor

Connecticut Realty

155 Lowrey Place, Newington, Ct 06111

An independently owned and operated member of Prudential Real Estate Affilliates, Inc.EQUAL HOUSING

OPPORTUNITY

0121

11

TUTORING

0128

11

Just Solve It Math Tutor“WITH MATH THE POSSIBILITIES ARE INFINITE”

TUTOR & TEST PREP FOR: Elementary School Middle School High School College Math Tutoring All Levels

Luis A. Smith Rosario860-833-6252 • [email protected]

www.just-solve-it-math-tutor.com

Page 16: 021811 NTC Flipbook

NEWINGTON TOWN CRIER16 | Friday, February 18, 2011

Deli Closes 1/2 Hour EarlyOPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK860-665-8288860-665-8288 We accept

Food Stamp Benefits

Twin City Plaza, Newington0119

64

VEGGIE WORLDVEGGIE WORLDLOW EVERYDAY PRICES! BIG EVERYDAY SAVINGS!LOW EVERYDAY PRICES! BIG EVERYDAY SAVINGS!

CITERIOMORTADELLAw/ PISTACHIO’S

MOTHERGOOSELIVERWURST

TURKEYPASTRAMI

PECORINOROMANO

MARTINROSOLSVEAL LOAF

BOARS HEADASIAGOCHEESE

BOARS HEADDELUXEHAM

BOARS HEADOVEN ROASTCHICKEN

KOHLERAMERICANCHEESE

LAND O LAKESAMERICANCHEESE

PROVOLONECHEESE

SMOKEDHONEYHAM

WONDERBARGERMANBOLOGNA

$3.99lb

$3.99lb

$3.99lb

$5.99lb

$3.99lb

$5.49lb

$5.99lb

$5.99lb

$3.99lb

$4.49lb

$3.99lb

$3.99lb

$2.99lb

PRODUCE

DELI

IDAHO POTATOES $20$.99ONIONS2 LB

$1.29PEARS

$.99ASSORTEDAPPLES

50 LBBAG

ASSORTED NUTS& DRIED FRUITlb

lb

ROASTED, MAPLE,PEPPER,SMOKED TURKEY

$4.99lb

OLIVEANDPP LOAF

$3.99lb

RUSSET OREASTERNPOTATOES

$1995 LB BAG

lb$1.49ONIONS

3 LB

SWEETCHERRIES

$299lb

$1.99ea.

$1.99lb.

CANTALOUPES

wwwwiiiitttthhhh FFFFRRRREEEEEEEEccccaaaannnn ooooffffssssooooddddaaaa

Cannot be combined with any other offer.

ggggiiiiaaaannnnttttggggrrrriiiinnnnddddeeeerrrrssssSPECIALS

$$$$5555....00000000$$$$5555....00000000Starting at....

OLIVE BAR $4.99lb

HUGESELECTION

$3.99lb

YELLOW MILDCHEDDARCHEESE

POLISHKIELBASA $3.69lbFROM

FINE ASSORTED PASTRIES FROM EDDIE’S BAKERY....muffins, cookies, turnovers, raisin muffins, babka,

danish, fresh bread and rolls.

FRESH SALADS$3.99CHEF

$4.99TUNA

$1.99GARDEN

OLIVE BAR$4.99lb

HUGESELECTION

FINE ASSORTED PASTRIES FROM EDDIE’S BAKERY.... muffins,cookies, turnovers, raisin muffins, babka, danish, fresh breadand rolls. Brooklyn Baking Co. Rye Bread & Armenian Bread

TURKISH BAKLAVA $10.99 lb

BAKERYHOT SELF SERVESOUPSTO GO...CHANGES DAILY!

$1.998 OZ.

$3.4916 OZ.

GRAPES