2-4-2011TownTimes

A life-changing trip to Haiti

Sara Kennedy, of Middlefield, created an ever-last-ing bond with Mydlie, a little girl living in Haiti,where Sara and her mom, Elisabeth, traveled lastmonth to visit the HELO houses. See more photosfrom the Haiti trip along with a full story of Sara’s ex-perience on page 9.

Photo submitted by Sara and Elisabeth Kennedy

Volume 17, Issue 43 Serving Durham, Middlefield and Rockfall Friday, February 4, 2011

In this issue ...Calendar............................4Durham Briefs................15Middlefield Briefs...........14Sports..........................20-22Healthy Living section...11-13Spotlight........................16-17

Sales contract for Powder Ridgeapproved by Middlefield BOS

Sue VanDerzeeTown Times

At a special meeting at-tended by over two dozenresidents on Jan. 31, the Mid-dlefield Board of Selectmen(BOS) voted unanimously toapprove a sales contract forthe 250-acre Powder Ridgeproperty to Alpine Associ-ates of Crested Butte, Col-orado.

Terms of the sale include a$1 million price tag, with a$25,000 deposit due at con-tract signing, $275,000 atclosing and the remaining$700,000 is seven annual in-stallments of $100,000 each.Also included, in the select-men’s view as part of thepurchase “price,” is the com-mitment by Alpine Associ-ates to spend at least $2 mil-lion on “permanent im-provements” to the site with-in the first two years, andthe further commitment torestore downhill skiingwithin two years of the clos-ing.

Both the $1 million cashpayment and the $2 millionin improvements will be se-cured by separate mortgagesheld by the town of Middle-field. In addition, Middle-field will hold the develop-ment rights to the propertyso that Alpine Associates, aswell as any other possible fu-ture owners, will be limitedin their use of the propertyto activities that fall underthe category of “outdoorrecreational facility.”

A further conservationeasement will be placed onthe 4-5-acre open field ad-joining Powder Hill Road.The field, in order to pre-serve the viewscape, can beused only for haying and ex-cess parking for a particularshort-term purpose with noactual parking improve-ments allowed.

The reversion clause inthe Nerden Camp quit claimdeed, originally granted byZemel Brothers in 1966, willremain as is, with owner-ship of the Nerden Camp

property going to the town inthe event that facility isclosed.

Additionally, the townwill retain “easement ingross” rights over the prop-erty to access any above-ground water sources forfirefighting both on theproperty and at surroundingproperties. The town willalso retain, for three yearsfrom the date of closing, theright to conduct a wind ener-gy feasibility study.

The quad chairlift mustremain on-site for at leastseven years, without writtenapproval from the town toremove it.

The text of the agreement,which comes with nine at-tached “exhibits,” or equip-ment lists, actual mortgagedocuments, etc., is availableby email from the townclerk’s office. The entire doc-ument runs 78 pages. Theagreement itself is 12 pages.Attorney John Corona,

The roof of the Middlefield Community Center was being cleared on Tuesday, Feb.1, as the snow began to fall...again. Residents and businesses were advised toclean off their roofs to prevent damage that was expected to occur with the accu-mulation of snow and ice this week. Photos by Cheri Kelley

More snow and ice means more work for youSee Powder Ridge, page 8

Snow dayupdate

At the time of printing,there had been sevensnow days for RegionalSchool District 13. Thelast three days will bemade up during April va-cation, as there are onlyfour snow days built intothe district’s calendar.RSD13 would like familiesto plan for these changes.As the weather continues,updates will be made.

Index of AdvertisersTo advertise in the Town Times

call Joy Boone at 860-349-8026

Town Times Community Briefs Friday, February 4, 20112

Grace Lutheran Preschool1055 Randolph RdMiddletown, CT

(860) 346-0766

Call for moreinformation

1189486

Now takingenrollment

for 2011-2012School Year

FREE CHAMILIA BRACELETOR BANGLE OR DROP CHAIN NECKLACE

TO 1ST 100 VISITORSWith a $85 Bead Purchase.

$55-$64 Retail Value. One per customer. Must be present.

1187906

Monday-Friday 10:30-6, Saturday 10-6, Sunday 12-6

PERROTTI’S COUNTRY BARN288 Baileyville Rd.(Rt. 147), Middlefield(1 mile south from the intersection of Rt. 66 & Rt. 147)

860-349-0082rrs TM

Winter Trunk ShowsChamilia Trunk Show

Saturday, February 5

Vera Bradley Trunk ShowSame Weekend Sat., Feb. 5

$20 Gift CertificateWith Any Vera Bradley Purchase of

$100 or More(Gift Card Must Be Used Within 30 Days)

1189499

FIREWOODFOR SALE

Mixed Hardwoods -18’ Lengths

Split & DeliveredOne Cord - $220Two Cords - $420

Stacking, other lengthsand volume available

Allan’s Tree Service860-349-8029

Grace Lutheran Preschool1055 Randolph RdMiddletown, CT

(860) 346-0766

Call for moreinformation

1189486

Now takingenrollment

for 2011-2012School Year

FREE CHAMILIA BRACELETOR BANGLE OR DROP CHAIN NECKLACE

TO 1ST 100 VISITORSWith a $85 Bead Purchase.

$55-$64 Retail Value. One per customer. Must be present.

1187906

Monday-Friday 10:30-6, Saturday 10-6, Sunday 12-6

PERROTTI’S COUNTRY BARN288 Baileyville Rd.(Rt. 147), Middlefield(1 mile south from the intersection of Rt. 66 & Rt. 147)

860-349-0082rrs TM

Winter Trunk ShowsChamilia Trunk Show

Saturday, February 5

Vera Bradley Trunk ShowSame Weekend Sat., Feb. 5

$20 Gift CertificateWith Any Vera Bradley Purchase of

$100 or More(Gift Card Must Be Used Within 30 Days)

1189499

FIREWOODFOR SALE

Mixed Hardwoods -18’ Lengths

Split & DeliveredOne Cord - $220Two Cords - $420

Stacking, other lengthsand volume available

Allan’s Tree Service860-349-8029

Academy For Little Learners.......7Ace Oil .........................................3Allan’s Tree Service ..............2, 21APEC Electric............................22Assisted Living Of Meriden .......17Avenue Enterprises...................20B & R Construction......................5Batters Box............................7, 16Berardino Company Realtors....23Binge, Bruce..............................20Bogen, Charles, Jr., CPA..........18Boylin, William, DMD.................12Brenda’s Main Street Feed .......12Cahill & Sons.............................19Carlton Interior...........................10Carmine’s Restaurant .................3Centurion Exterminating............18Charette, David .........................14Conroy, John, DMD...................13Cyclone Home Systems............15Daricek Landscaping.................19Dean Autoworks..........................7Durham Dental ..........................11Durham Family Eyecare ...........12Durham Fitness.........................11Durham Healthmart Pharmacy ....24Durham Kitchen...........................3Durham Wine & Spirits................5Family Tree Care ......................20Fine Work Home Improvement ...3, 20Fuel & Service .............................5Fugge, David M.........................22Glazer Dental Associates..........11Golschneider Painting...............19Grace Lutheran Preschool ..........2Green Mattress Clean.................6Griswold Plumbing Services .....21Hansen Contracting ..................22Home Works..............................20Ianniello Plumbing.....................21

John’s Café & Catering .............15Kasek, Sharon...........................23Kim’s Cottage Confections..........3Lema, William J., DMD..............12Lyman Orchards..........................5Magic Carpet Toys ....................14Masonicare................................10Middlesex Community College ...15Mim’s Oil....................................10Movado Farm ............................21Neil Jones Home Improvements..19New England Dental ................14Northern Middlesex YMCA .......13Orthodontic Specialist ...............13Pathways To Balance ...............22Perrotti’s Country Barn................2Prete Chiropractic Center..........11Raney, Jason, DMD..................13RLI Electric ................................18Roblee Plumbing.......................21Rockfall Co ................................22RSDL Home Improvements......18Singles Alternative.....................14Skincare Studio ...........................7Snow Services.............................6Split Enz ....................................20Sweet Surrounding....................19T-N-T Home & Lawncare..........21Tile Renovators .........................22Torrison Stone & Garden ..........18V Nanfito Roofing & Siding .......10VMB Custom Builders...............18Whitehouse Construction..........19Wild Wisteria ...............................6Windows Plus............................14Zettergren, Kevin.......................23

Strong SchoolReads!

On Tuesday, Feb. 8, at 6:30p.m., parents, students andvarious community mem-bers will split into smallbook discussion groups atStrong School to discussFarewell to Manzanar, thetrue story of a JapaneseAmerican family duringWWII, by Jeanne Wakatsukiand James D. Houston. Com-munity members will act asfacilitators for the group,and there will be a lively ex-change of thoughts and opin-ions regarding the book. Ifinterested in participating,please contact Joanne Badin,[email protected],or call 860-349-8984; studentsmay sign up by seeing Mr.Klimas at Strong School. The

book is available at the LeviCoe, Durham and StrongSchool libraries. The snowdate is Feb. 15.

K-Club dinnerThe K-Club, 168 Main St.

in Rockfall, is hosting abaked stuffed shrimp dinneron Feb. 19 from 5 to 7 p.m.Call 860-347-9521 for more in-formation and to make reser-vations.

CoginchaugFamily Night

Coginchaug Boys Basket-ball presents Family Nighton Friday, Feb. 11. Bring theentire family to the MaynardStender gymnasium atCoginchaug High School andcheer on the “Blue Devils” as

CorrectionsWe strive to bring you the most accurate information

available each week, but if you see something in TownTimes that isn’t quite right, give us a call at 860-349-8000,and we’ll do our best to make things right.

In last week’s “Cooperstown dreams really do cometrue” article, Artie Koba’s name should also have been in-cluded in the cutline for the attached photo.

they take on the “ThunderBirds” of North Branford.The J.V. game starts at 6 p.m.Varsity game at 7:30 p.m.Half time will be fun with theCoginchaug Pep Band per-forming, and there will befree prizes. One student fromeach school in the districtwill win an official “BlueDevil” prize.

Lyman OrchardsWinterfest

The fun side of winter willbe on display the weekend ofFeb. 12 and 13, when LymanOrchards hosts its 39th annualWinterfest, from 9 a.m. to 5p.m. This two-day celebrationof the season is held on the sce-nic grounds of one of the oldestfamily farms in America, andis made possible this year, inpart, by Big Y World ClassMarket.

New to Winterfest is a pro-fessional ice sculpture compe-tition called “Ice Wars”. Ac-cording to John Lyman, exec-utive vice president of LymanOrchards, “On both Saturday

and Sunday, skilled chainsaw-wielding ice artists fromaround the country will be go-ing head-to-head carving ice tobeat the clock, and each other,while creating fantastic icesculptures.”

All the sculpted ice-blockart produced in the course ofthe Ice Wars competition willbe put on exhibition for up-close inspection by Winterfestvisitors. “The event is a con-test judged on physical effortand aesthetics,” said Ice Wars’producer Bill Covitz, owner ofIce Matters in Waterbury.“Visitors to the Ice Wars eventwill also play a role in decid-ing the winner by voting fortheir favorites,” said Covitz,himself an internationallyrenowned ice carver and for-mer national champion.

Ice Wars will be great fami-ly fun. In honor of the big 40’ x60’ tent required to keep thesun’s ultra-violet rays frommelting the ice, the theme ofthe competitive event is “Un-der the Big Top.” Contestantswill all work Big-Top Circusgraphics into their sculpturesfor the added enjoyment of the

younger fans.

Also on the Winterfest agen-da – snow or no snow – arehorse-drawn wagon rides,fruit-tree pruning demonstra-tions provided by expert Ly-man arborists, Siberian huskysled dog mushing demonstra-tions and free-prize raffles. Iftemperatures and snow condi-tions allow, other activitiesare planned. Indoor experi-ences will be focused on foodfrom 12 to 4 p.m.

In addition to Big Y Market,other sponsors of Lyman’s2011 Winterfest include; Bene-fit Resource Group, LLC ofFarmington, Liberty Bank ofMiddlefield, Guida’s Dairy inNew Britain, All-Waste Inc. ofHartford and N&D Sports, inHamden.

Farmers MarketCome to the Indoor Winter

Farmers Market at the Dud-ley Farm held on the firstSaturday of the month, Feb-ruary thru May (2/5, 3/5,4/2, 5/7/11). Market hoursare 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Pro-duce, baked goods, maplesyrup, honey, jam, farmfresh eggs, handcraftedsoaps, jewelry, greetingcards and more! The DudleyFarm is located in NorthGuilford at the corner ofroutes 77 & 80. For furtherinfo please call 860-349-3917.

Friday, February 4, 2011 Town Times 3

We Ship Anywhere!16 Main Street - Durham Village - (Lower Level)

860-349-2256 ❤ www.kimscottageconfections.com

Taste the Romancewith sweets and treats from

Kim’s Cottage Confections❤ Chocolate Covered Strawberries

❤ Truffles ❤ Chocolate Hearts and Roses❤ Cakes ❤ Cookies ❤ Gourmet Apples

❤ Chocolate Popcorn

Store Hours: Wed. 10-3, Thurs., Friday 10-5, Saturday 10-3

1187489 We Ship Anywhere!16 Main Street - Durham Village - (Lower Level)

860-349-2256 ❤ www.kimscottageconfections.com

Taste the Romancewith sweets and treats from

Kim’s Cottage Confections❤ Chocolate Covered Strawberries

❤ Truffles ❤ Chocolate Hearts and Roses❤ Cakes ❤ Cookies ❤ Gourmet Apples

❤ Chocolate Popcorn

Store Hours: Wed. 10-3, Thurs., Friday 10-5, Saturday 10-3

1187489

1190216

www.carminesdurham.comfor our menu

Carmine'sPizza

& ItalianTake-Out

Carmine'sPizza

& ItalianTake-Out

Carmine'sPizza

& ItalianTake-Out

(860) 349-5411We Deliver!

1190287

325 Main Street, Durham • 860-358-9280

Monday NightsWith The PurchaseOf A Reg. AdultDinner Entree ValuedOver $10.00

KIDS EATFREE

BYOB

A D D I T I O N A LPARKING IN REAR.

10% OFFSENIORS ONW E D N E S DAY S

FINE Work Home ImprovementOffers Carpentry Work, Snow

Removal, Gutter Cleaning.(860) 349-6597 CT Reg. #00558904

1188618

1188403

AAcce Oe Oilil Company LLC

24 HourEmergency Service

Cash, Senior &Volume Discounts

Call Today203-630-9141

CT Reg. #HOD 446 rrs TM

School calendaraccommodates parents,teachers, students, the law

By Mark DionneSpecial to Town Times

Many elementary studentsthroughout District 13 begintheir school mornings withcounting tools such as blocks,pennies, sticks and hash marksto record the total number ofdays they’ve been in school. Notto spoil the suspense, but nextschool year those kids will tallyup 182 days.

That’s the total number inthe 2011-12 school calendar ap-proved by the Board of Educa-tion on Jan. 20. The calendar,designed by SuperintendentSue Viccaro and the adminis-trative team, is shaped by tra-dition, the demands of thestate, the needs of parents,teachers and students andthen battered by the whims ofnature.

Some calendar issues haveno flexibility. The state re-quires 180 school days and over-sees the CMT and CAPT test-ing, scheduled again next yearfor March. Holidays are alsosacrosanct. Next year, Christ-mas falls on a Sunday with stu-dents getting a half day on theFriday before. New Year’s Dayalso arrives on a Sunday withstudents getting Monday, Jan.2, off. Parents expect vacationtime and time to recover fromthe vacation time.

The first day of school forstudents in 2011-12 is Sept, 1, aThursday, giving the studentstwo days of school before La-bor Day weekend.

Professional developmentneeds chip away at District 13’scalendar without eliminatingentire days. In 2011-12, there arefive delayed openings of twohours. These days are spreadthrough the school year, be-tween six and 10 weeks apart, al-lowing teachers to meet in teamsfor long term planning. Spacingthe days out gives teachers timeto implement their plans andmonitor their success.

Board of Education mem-bers have received some com-plaints from parents aboutthe inconvenience of delayedopenings in the current yearbut will use the same systemnext year. The board said it iswilling to change next year’scalendar if there’s a groundswell of opposition, though

Roof collapses on Greenbacker barnCheri KelleyTown Times

During the snowstorm onWednesday, Jan. 26, throughthe night sometime between 9p.m. and 3 a.m., the calf barnon the Greenbacker Farm onRoute 68 in Durham col-lapsed, killing one animal.

“It was pretty amazing thatonly one animal was killed,”said Melissa Greenbacker.“The front part of the 10 mid-dle pens was crushed. Thecalves were trapped; we hadto cut the others out. We arethankful that there were nopeople in the barn at thattime, and we hate to loose anyanimals, but it could havebeen a lot worse.”

The Greenbackers areseeking secure barns thatcould house the calves andare looking for help. Theyhave about 15 calves that areon milk replacement, whichthey have moved to the mainbarn for now. They are con-cerned about their main barnwhere the adult animals stayand the milking takes place,and wouldn’t want to movethe calves to a place wherethe roof could come down onthem again.

Some family and friendsare coming to help removethe snow from the barn roof,which Melissa said, to herknowledge, hasn’t been nec-essary in 20 years. “I haveheard of a lot of barns aroundthe state collapsing. Thefarming community oftencomes together to help, It isreally nice to have that,”

Melissa stated. The Green-backers need to remove thecalves and place them in asafe secure location, and re-move the snow from the barn

roof. If you know of anyonewho might be able to help,please contact MelissaGreenbacker through e-mail:[email protected].

some members suggested thatusing a different model wouldnot accomplish the goals of pro-fessional development and not-ed that BASREP (Before and Af-ter School Recreation Enrich-ment Program) at Korn Schoolhas offered a limited program ofchild care on those days.

According to their web-sites, other districts have dif-ferent ways of scheduling pro-fessional development days af-ter the first day of school.Meriden lists only two suchdays early in their calendar,but they are full days. Middle-town uses two full days, plusseven shortened daysthroughout the year that dif-fer for the high, middle and el-ementary school levels.Wallingford lists five staff de-velopment dates after the firstday of school, each time clos-ing school for the entire day.

Next school year’s calendarwas also designed to follow thenew state law requiring theoption of a second conferencefor all grades, adding two ear-ly dismissal days in March.This year’s calendar had to beamended after the law passed.

If the winter of 2011-12 is any-thing like the current winter,April vacation will be a largelytheoretical concern. Beyondfour days added to June, snowdays will again be made up fromthe start of April vacation.Should the district exhaustApril vacation, the current plancalls for excess days to be addedto the end of the already-extend-ed June.

The school calendars comeout far enough in advance toallow planning time for teach-ers and parents, although cal-endars, like the law and theweather, are subject tochange.

The Greenbackers are looking for secure barns to housethe calves that have been displaced after the snowcaused the roof of their calf barn to collapse last week.

Send us your events

Town TimesP.O. Box 265

Middlefield, CT 06455Fax: 860-349-8027 E-mail: [email protected]

Call: 860-349-8000

Town Times & Places Friday, February 4, 2011 4

FRIDAY

February 4Tot Time

The MOMS Club ofDurham and Middlefieldsponsors a weekly Tot Timeat the Middlefield Communi-ty Center. It is held everyFriday from 10:30 a.m. tonoon. This open-age play-group is available for all res-idents and their children ofDurham, Middlefield andRockfall. No RSVP is re-quired. For more info con-tact Ann at [email protected].

ConcertThe Coginchaug Show

Choir will perform at 7:30 p.m.TGIF

The Memorial SchoolTGIF evening for sixth gradestudents begins at 6:30 p.m.

Eat-Pray-SingCongregation Adath Israel,

8 Broad St. in Middletown,wants you to join in celebrat-ing the special joy of Shabbatat “Pray-Eat-Sing.” Thesespecial high energy serviceswill begin at 5:30 p.m. makingthem family friendly. Ser-vices will be followed by a tra-ditional Shabbat meal at 6:30p.m. and finished off withwarm conversation and songled by Rabbi Seth Haaz. Theevening is free of charge andopen to the public.

SATURDAY

February 5DAR Valentines

Looking for a fun way togive back? Join members ofthe Wadsworth Chapter DARin making valentines for theresidents of the State Veter-ans’ Home in Rocky Hill.We’ll be gathering at 10 a.m.at Church of the Epiphany inDurham, 79 Main St. Pleasecontact Judy with questionsat 860-663-2703 or at [email protected]’s Day Sampler

Join your friends at Guil-ford Art Center for a craftyValentine’s Day from 1:30 to 4p.m. Sew a heart pillow, deco-rate a jewelry box and designheart accessories to wear!For more info contact GAC at203-453-5947 or on the web atwww.guilfordartcenter.org.

SUNDAY

February 6CRHS Concert

Coginchaug’s Show Choirand Jazz Band performanceswill be held in the CRHS au-ditorium at 4 p.m.

TUESDAY

February 8Improv Techniques forBetter Job InterviewsMelanie Szlucha is the fea-

tured speaker for this pro-gram from 6 to 8 p.m. in theHubbard Room at the Rus-sell Library, 123 Broad Streetin Middletown. She will re-view key techniques to usewhen you are asked unex-pected questions during ajob interview. Learn how toreally listen to what otherpeople are saying and trustyour instincts before re-sponding to “brain teaser”questions. There will be a se-ries of group exercises topractice effective “improvi-sational” approaches.

Strong School ReadsThis annual book discus-

sion is for students, parentsand community members todiscuss the book Farewell toManzanar, by Jeanne Wakat-suki and James D. Houston at6:30 p.m. at Strong School.The snow date is Feb. 15.

WEDNESDAY

February 9Knit Club

Come knit or crochet at theDurham Activity Center everyWednesday from 6:30 to 8 p.m.

FRIDAY

February 11Tot Time

The MOMS Club ofDurham and Middlefieldsponsors a weekly Tot Timeat the Middlefield Communi-ty Center. It is held everyFriday from 10:30 a.m. tonoon. This open-age play-group is available for all res-idents and their children ofDurham, Middlefield andRockfall. No RSVP is re-quired. For more info con-tact Ann at [email protected].

Durham/Middlefield Youth & Family ServicesDMYFS Winter Programs, Session II

There’s something for every teen from jewelry-making to sculpture, Wii fun and more!Programs begin the week of March 28. Registration deadline is March 21.

Go to www.dmyfs.org to download the registration form and mail to DMYFS.

Wii Challenge: Super Mario Brothers, Wii Sports and more!Grades 7-10

Mondays from 2:30 to 4 p.m.Three week session: March 28 through April 11Location: Durham Library on the lower level

Event is free and snacks are included.Wii Challenge is an opportunity for teens to experience the new era of Wii with SuperMario Brothers, Wii Sports Resort; Dance, Dance Revolution and more. We will also

check out Wii Fit with activities including skateboarding, yoga, ski jumping and evenballoon popping. All this and more Wii games will keep you having fun!

Game Room MadnessGrades 5-6

Tuesdays from 3 to 5 p.m.Three week session: March 29 through April 12

Location: DMYFS Game Room, 405 Main St. in MiddlefieldFee: $15 for session and includes a healthy snack.

Join us at DMYFS for two hours of ping-pong, foosball, basketball free throws, airhockey and PS2 gaming system fun. We’ll even crack open a few classic board games orcheck out an old movie now and then so there will be something for everyone. Arrange-

ments can be made to take the school bus to DMYFS.

Sculpture WorkshopGrades 7-10

Wednesdays from 2:30 to 4 p.m.Three week session: March 30 through April 13

Location: Durham Activity Center (DAC), 350 Main St. in DurhamInstructor: Alicia Melluzzo, artist and gallery owner

Call for fee information.Create a relief sculpture of your choosing from start to finish including sculpting a

mold, casting and final painting and finishing. This class will be an opportunity to ex-plore sculpting with Alicia! Arrangements can be made to take the school bus to the DAC.

Jewelry and Beading WorkshopGrades 7-10

Thursdays from 2:30 to 4 p.m.Three week session: March 31through April 14

Location: DAC, 350 Main St. in DurhamInstructor: Marcy LaBella, artist

Call for fee information.Join Marcy and create amazing custom jewelry and beaded objects that will spark your

creativity. Learn how to bend wire to create your own findings and leave with three dis-tinctly unique projects you will be proud to show the world! Arrangements can be made

to take the school bus to the DAC.

Donations Needed for DMYFS Program:We are looking for the following items for our Jewelry and Beading class and would ap-

preciate any donations greatly. Many of your old items can be de-constructed and re-usedto make fun and unique jewelry items. If you want to donate, please contact us at

[email protected] - leftovers from your projects are great

Vintage or costume jewelry - especially beaded - we can take them apart and recon-struct them

Old non-working watches - NOT DIGITALOld necklace chains or buttons

Jewelry finding such as clasps, ear wires, crimp beads, etc.22, 20, 18, 16, 14, gauge copper or brass wire

22, 20, 18, 16, 14 gauge craft wireDMYFS would like to thank the Durham Middlefield Wellness Council for supporting

our Winter Youth Programs. Their financial contribution makes it possible for us to offeraffordable workshops for our community’s youth!

Call 860-349-0258 with questions or for more information.


1188091

MIDDLEFIELDAPT. FOR RENT

Call 860-982-3000

2 BR w/spacious roomsin quiet setting. No pets.No smoking. $875/mo. &

heat. 2 mos. sec. req.1 BR unit also available

$775/mo.

1190217

J. MarottaDurham, CT

S1-394808P1-282720

Plumbing, Heating, & Cooling

(860) 349-4328(860) 349-4328(860) 349-4328

• Large Volume Discounts• Emergency Burner Repair• New Installation on Boiler/Furnace

WINTERFEST!

Busses Welcome

Apple Barrel open every day, 9am-6pm

ICEWARS5 CARVERS, 5 BLOCKS, 5 HOURS!

YOUPICK THEWINNER!Siberian Huskies • Horse-drawnWagon RidesFruit-tree Pruning Demo • Free Food Samples

Check Activity Schedule atlymanorchards.com!

32 Reeds Gap Road, Middlefield • 860-349-1793

Feb. 12 & 13

1190223

All cigarettes sold at CT State minimumDurham W ne & Spirits

6D Main Street, Durham • 860-349-5646Open 8:30 - 8:00

We have whatyou need for

all your SuperBowl Party

NEEDS

1189611

All cigarettes sold at CT State minimum

Durham W ne & Spirits

6D Main Street, Durham860-349-5646

Open 8:30 - 8:00

www.durhamwines.com

USPS 021-924Published weekly by

Record-Journal PublishingCo., d/b/a Town Times,P.O. Box 265, Middlefield,CT 06455.Periodicals Postage Paid

at Middlefield, CT and atadditional mailing offices.

P O S T M A S T E R: Sendaddress changes to TownTimes, P.O. Box 265,Middlefield, CT 06455.

1183309

1188091

MIDDLEFIELDAPT. FOR RENT

Call 860-982-3000

2 BR w/spacious roomsin quiet setting. No pets.No smoking. $875/mo. &

heat. 2 mos. sec. req.1 BR unit also available

$775/mo.

1190217

J. MarottaDurham, CT

S1-394808P1-282720

Plumbing, Heating, & Cooling

(860) 349-4328(860) 349-4328(860) 349-4328

• Large Volume Discounts• Emergency Burner Repair• New Installation on Boiler/Furnace

WINTERFEST!

Busses Welcome

Apple Barrel open every day, 9am-6pm

ICEWARS5 CARVERS, 5 BLOCKS, 5 HOURS!

YOUPICK THEWINNER!Siberian Huskies • Horse-drawnWagon RidesFruit-tree Pruning Demo • Free Food Samples

Check Activity Schedule atlymanorchards.com!

32 Reeds Gap Road, Middlefield • 860-349-1793

Feb. 12 & 13

1190223

All cigarettes sold at CT State minimumDurham W ne & Spirits

6D Main Street, Durham • 860-349-5646Open 8:30 - 8:00

We have whatyou need for

all your SuperBowl Party

NEEDS

1189611

All cigarettes sold at CT State minimum

Durham W ne & Spirits

6D Main Street, Durham860-349-5646

Open 8:30 - 8:00

www.durhamwines.com

USPS 021-924Published weekly by

Record-Journal PublishingCo., d/b/a Town Times,P.O. Box 265, Middlefield,CT 06455.Periodicals Postage Paid

at Middlefield, CT and atadditional mailing offices.

P O S T M A S T E R: Sendaddress changes to TownTimes, P.O. Box 265,Middlefield, CT 06455.

1183309

Homeless in Middlesex County — locals experience the realityBy Elisabeth KennedySpecial to Town Times

Cars circle around a steeldrum in an otherwise vacantparking lot. A small group ofpeople form another circlearound the drum, huddledaround a roaring fire, nottoasting marshmallows butdeciding what one thingthey would keep with them ifthey became homeless, andin what part of the country itmight be better to be home-less. “I hate the cold,” ex-plained Joanne Halibozek.“Last year I didn’t sleep wor-rying about frostbite and los-ing my toes. But, I will sleepout again because others donot have a choice – they haveto sleep out, every day.”

Teenagers Jacob Burt andVictoria Koch searched thestar lit night, identifying thebig and little dippers, unde-terred by the cold. Seven-year-old Madison curled upin her mother’s lap, still thebest place in the world, evenin the freezing cold.

Seventeen members of theMiddlefield FederatedChurch had just come fromthe Homeless AwarenessEvent at South Church inMiddletown, joining approx-imately 10 other churchesfrom Middlesex County. EdBonilla of United Way pre-sented the Middlesex Coun-ty Coalition of Housing andHomelessness’ (“MCCHH”)“An End in Ten program.”MCCHH is a coalition ofcommunity leaders, non-profit organizations, govern-ment, business and faith

groups which have joined ef-forts to prevent and endhomelessness by 2017. Bonil-la presented statistics (3,829homeless in CT: 2,508 adults,521 families, 782 children*)and outlined plans and serv-ices put in place since 2007.The programs are working:Middlesex County has seen a30 percent reduction inhomelessness in singleadults and 36 percent reduc-tion among families, 49 unitsof supportive housing and 10affordable housing unitshave been built, and preven-tion and assistance fundinghas kept families in theirhomes with one-time grants($100,000 awarded to date toover 1,000 families). Heurged the audience to stayinvolved and to get the wordout – help is available.

Mayor Giuliano expressedsurprise to see over 150 peo-ple at the event and urgedcontinued involvement inthe effort to end homeless-ness, stating that 90 percentof American families arejust three months from per-sonal bankruptcy, and manyunforeseen circumstancescan cause any of us to be-come homeless. He ex-plained the city’s approach— not managing the prob-lem, but solving it — and ex-plained the strategic priori-ties of providing supportiveand affordable housing firstthen services for mentalhealth, addition, and other

issues that cause homeless-ness. According to Giuliano,in 2008 the homeless popula-tion cost the city $90,740. In2009 that figure dropped to$17,480 due to preventativeservices put in place by MC-CHH.

Participants broke intogroups to play “Hunger 101,”receiving an “identity” andbudget to live by. Some wereundocumented and thus in-eligible for social services,others had a family, mosthad little cash to purchasefood in their budgets. We vis-ited food banks, and those el-igible tried to apply for foodand financial assistance.Groups came back togetherto discuss experiences andimpressions. Most of uscame away with a new un-derstanding of food insecuri-ty and the challenges of com-pleting complicated paper-work in a foreign language,or the added challenge of notbeing able to apply due to le-gal status. I, personally,came away committed to do-nating to area food banks af-ter repeated trips to the foodbank yielded only potatochips and chocolate chipcookies. Can you feed your-self, let alone your family, on$1 per day? I couldn’t. How-ever, the Connecticut FoodBank can: $1 donated to thefood bank will provide threemeals; $30 will feed one per-son for a month.

Fifty million Americans,

including 17 million children,struggled with hunger in 2009.In Connecticut, one in sevenhouseholds face food hard-ship, one in six children arefood insecure. The CT FoodBank serves six of eight coun-ties in Connecticut and serves300,000 each year and an addi-tional 1,800 children eachweek through the backpackprogram. Participants wereagain urged to stay involved,volunteer and support localand state food banks.

The audience then heardfrom three leaders of theHomelessness Committee:

Fred, Craig and Carla, whoshared personal and painfulstories of their homeless-ness. Fred suffered an injuryand job loss that caused himto become homeless and bat-tled depression and addic-tion issues that kept himhomeless until family friends

See Homeless, next page

Madison, Tim and Tammy Burt, with Chewbacca,trying to stay warm by the fire. Photo by Elisabeth Kennedy

Town Times Friday, February 4, 20116

1187968

Joseph A. Mignosa, Owner Operator860 614 8990 • [email protected]

1190294

354 Main St., Durham (860) 349-1550(Next to Carolyn Adams Country Barn)

A Specialty Gift and Floral Boutique

VALENTINE’S DAY“Just a Heartbeat Away”

♥ Jewelry ♥ Perfumes ♥ Shea Butter Lotion♥ Romantic Everlasting Roses ♥ Chocolate Truffles,

unique candy gifts ♥ Heart Shaped Lavender Wreaths

“All gifts wrapped and ready for giving”

Create a Heart Warming Entryway this Valentine’s Daywith Our Unique Door Decorations!

Custom orders are always welcomed.

Landscaping By:Snow Services LLC

• SNOW PLOWING• FIREWOOD• SCREENED TOPSOIL• FIELDSTONE• BACKHOE SERVICE• DELIVERY AVAILABLE

Phone Number www.snowservicesllc.net860-692-0096 [email protected]

1188809

1187968

Joseph A. Mignosa, Owner Operator860 614 8990 •[email protected]

1190294

354 Main St., Durham (860) 349-1550(Next to Carolyn Adams Country Barn)

A Specialty Gift and Floral Boutique

VALENTINE’S DAY“Just a Heartbeat Away”

♥ Jewelry ♥ Perfumes ♥ Shea Butter Lotion♥ Romantic Everlasting Roses ♥ Chocolate Truffles,

unique candy gifts ♥ Heart Shaped Lavender Wreaths

“All gifts wrapped and ready for giving”

Create a Heart Warming Entryway this Valentine’s Daywith Our Unique Door Decorations!

Custom orders are always welcomed.

Landscaping By:Snow Services LLC

• SNOW PLOWING• FIREWOOD• SCREENED TOPSOIL• FIELDSTONE• BACKHOE SERVICE• DELIVERY AVAILABLE

Phone Number www.snowservicesllc.net860-692-0096 [email protected]

1188809

came to his aid. He describedtrying to find a warm place tosleep, huddling with his armsinside his shirt, trying tomaintain body heat, and tripsto the emergency room due tofrostbite. He shared that thechallenges we felt in “Hunger101” are real, having to dig inrestaurant including dump-sters for food, and ultimatelygoing to jail for larceny. “I didwhat I had to do to survive,” hesaid.

Carla’s mental health issuesand schizophrenia led to addic-tion and homelessness off andon over the course of 25 years.She shared poetry written dur-ing a winter spent homeless af-ter a shelter closed, forcing herto find shelter under a watertower. Her poetry was poignantand moving and hushed thecrowd.

Craig was born and raisedin Middletown. He is college-educated and speaks four lan-guages. He had been workingin Asia, but returned to Con-necticut due to health con-cerns. His mother had died,her home sold, and he had no-where to go. The Departmentof Social Services initiallyplaced him in the Eddy Shelterand later in the SheppardHome. He described the chal-lenges of not only finding suffi-cient food, but food consistentwith a diabetic diet. He sharedthat there are many homelessin Middletown living underbridges; he feels lucky to have

been placed in transitionalhousing and said he is proofof the difference that “hous-ing first” makes.

Fred, Carla and Craig allencouraged the audience tostay involved and active inthe fight against homeless-ness. “You are the future, youare my hope,” Fred ex-pressed. “Change yourworld,” Craig encouraged,and Carla urged, “Let the seedof awareness grow and takeyou where it will.”

Back in Middlefield, stand-ing in a circle of fellowship offriends, warmed by a roaringfire, hand and foot warmers, Irealized that to thousands,even these are luxuries. As Iretreated to my warm bed, Ithanked God for these bless-ings and vowed to make a dif-ference in the fight againsthomelessness and hunger.

To join the fight to endhomelessness in Connecticut,spread the word about theseprograms, donate to local andstate food banks, raise moneyfor the United Way’s HousingAssistance fund, or write let-ters to your legislator to de-mand restoration of fundingfor SNAP (Supplemental Nu-tritional Assistance Program,formerly food stamps). Con-sider taking part in a WalkAgainst Hunger, or volunteerat a soup kitchen or foodpantry. As we were told: “Weare all a part of the solution.”Many of us are dangerouslyclose to homelessness. Let ussafeguard programs and con-tinue to raise funds andawareness to win the battleand end homelessness in ourgreat (and very cold) state!

Connecticut Coalition toEnd Homelessness

(www.CCEH.org)

Connecticut Food BankJanuary 2011

Middlesex County Coalitionon Housing and Homelessness

860-346-8695 [email protected]

CT Food Bank’s WalkAgainst Hunger

May 1, 2011 in New Haven;May 15 in Bridgeport

and May 22 in Waterbury.Call 203-469-5000 or visit

www.ctfoodbank.org.

Homeless (Continued from page 5)

Photos: from top to bot-tom, Seth Azevedo sits bythe fire; Fred, Carla andCraig share their experi-ences of being homeless;Victoria Footit, KirstenKruger and Jesse Azeve-do contemplate life with-out food or shelter.

Photos by Elisabeth Kennedy

Can you imagine beingHomeless?


454 Main St., Durham

349-2011www.theskincarestudio.biz

The Skincare Studio... rejuvenation for the skin & spirit

Looking for a gift for your sweetheartfor Valentine’s Day???

Look no further than a Gift Certificate for asoothing treatment from The Skincare Studio!!!

Just call or visit us online - it’s that simple.

Facials - PedicuresManicures - Waxing

❤ ❤

❤❤

❤❤

1190298

Attention Families!Academy for Little Learners

68 Main Street, Durham860-349-0909

Open House & RegistrationSunday, February 13th

1:30 pm-3:30 pmWednesday, February 16th

4:30 pm-6:30 pmSNOW DATE March 5th 2:00-4:00

All Are Welcome!Preschool, Pre-K & Kindergarten

Enrichment ProgramsBefore and After School

K-4th GradeFull day Option available!

7:30 AM - 5:30 PM

1184969

.com

1190486

UPCOMING CAMPS AND CLINICS6 WEEK ADVANCED CAMPSHitting Beginning 3/14 • Pitchers and Catchers 3/16 • Infield 3/18YOUTH FUNDAMENTAL CAMPS

Beginning 2/15FEBRUARY VACATION CAMPS2/14-2/18 and 2/21-2/28

21 Marne St., Hamden203-248-2398 www.battersboxonline.net

BATTER’S BOXBATTER’S BOXBATTER’S BOXCT’S #1 BASEBALL AND SOFTBALL TEACHING FACILITY

Get a jump on the season with the states best instructors for over 20 years

From ‘Charlotte’s Web’ at Lyman School to ‘Law & Order’ on NBCBy Cheri Kelley

Town Times

“Steve was delicious,” ex-claimed a great white sharkin a Snickers candy commer-cial that depicts a focus groupof sharks discussing whichhuman was tastier after eat-ing different candies. Thisshark was born and raised inDurham, of all places — well,the actor who performed thevoice-over was anyway.Michael Barra grew up intown, and this commercial isone of his latest projects. TheSnickers commercial has be-come a viral video and is see-ing a bit of controversy allover the web. Some say it ishilarious, while others thinkit is borderline “too much.”Whichever side you are on, itis definitely something to beremembered.

Barra said that he audi-tioned three times for theshark role. He was workingon a film in Hartford, andthey had to change the film-ing schedule so that he couldgo to the last audition. “Mostvoice-over auditions are donein the booth; for this, it wascast on camera,” Barrashared. “We sat in the chairswhere our sharks were andwere all dressed in grey. Themovements that we made,like with our hands, are whatthe fins of the sharks are do-ing in the finished commer-

cial. They used our move-ments as inspiration.” He hada great time with it and isvery happy to have done thework.

When asked if he knew at ayoung age that he wanted tobe an actor, he said that heplayed Wilber in a perform-ance of “Charlotte’s Web” atJohn Lyman School. Hethought that it was fun, but hewasn’t sure then that this waswhat he wanted to do. Lateron, when he was in sixthgrade he went to a dramacamp, in Cromwell where heperformed in a show called“Front Street.” Barra stated,“It was based on the old Ital-ian community in Hartford,

and Martin Scorsese’sdaughter DomenicaCameron-Scorsese played arole in the production whileshe was attending WesleyanUniversity. It was duringthis experience that I decidedthat this was what I wantedto do. I haven’t really lookedback since.”

The Town Times asked ifBarra considered himself atactor status and whether ornot he felt like he has, “madeit,” Barra responded, “I defi-nitely consider myself an ac-tor, though I did when I was insixth grade and decided thatthis was my path in life. As faras having made it, I would sayI am at the transitional stage

now, from unknown to work-ing actor. I am starting to getmore consistent work, and peo-ple in the industry are startingto know who I am. I still have along way to go, but I am proudof where I am and very excitedabout the future.”

Barra also appeared onNBC’s “Law & Order” twice.The first time was an “Under 5”role, which means that he hadfive or less speaking lines. Inthis role he was a skate shopclerk. The detectives came in,and asked him questions aboutthe skates, which was a clue inthe case.

In the second role on “Law &

See Barra, page 23

Michael Barra, of Durham,achieving his dreams onerole at a time.

Letters policyThe Town Times intends to present a forum for the lively

exchange of ideas and issues. To facilitate the publication ofyour contributions, several guidelines should be followed.Letters to the editor must be signed, with a phone numberincluded. The writer will be called to confirm authorship.No anonymous letters will be printed. Contributions by anyindividual or group will not be published more frequentlythan once a month. Every effort will be made to print all let-ters received. However, the selection and date of publica-tion will be at the discretion of the editor. Finally, the opin-ions expressed by our letter writers are not necessarilythose of this newspaper. Deadline: Tuesday noon for Fridaypublication.

Town Times Opinion Friday, February 4, 2011 8

Town Times488 Main St., P.O. Box 265, Middlefield, CT 06455

http://www.towntimes.com

News (860) 349-8000 [email protected] (860) 349-8026 [email protected] (860) 349-8027Marketplace (877) 238-1953 (toll-free)

Town Times is published every Friday by the Record-JournalPublishing Co. and is delivered to all homes and businesses inDurham, Middlefield and Rockfall.

Stephanie Wilcox, EditorCheri Kelley, Reporter

Joy Boone, Advertising SalesDee Wilcox, Office Manager

Contributors: Chuck Corley, Diana Carr, Trish Dynia, Elisabeth Kennedy, Karen Kean, Judy Moeckel,Kathy Meyering, Tori Piscatelli and Sue VanDerzee.

Letters to the Editor

Alexis reminderI wanted to remind every-

one that my new band will beat the Cypress on Saturdaynight, Feb. 12, just in time forValentine’s Day weekend.

We were booked as “Mov-ing Kevin,” but as we market-tested the name, it was notwell received. We have decid-ed to change it to “CasualTies” though no tie is re-quired to come (ha ha). Noteveryone gets it right the firsttime, and we are comfortablethat now we have it right.

Just to recap, “Casual Ties”is Greg Johnson of Durham,Mike Vijda of Middletown,Dave Joslin of East Hampton,Art Kurpaska of Bristol andmyself on bass. We have avery diverse list that includesTom Petty, Green Day,Matchbox 20, Goo Goo Dolls,

The Stones and CollectiveSoul. It is a good mix of olderstuff and newer hits thatshould please all. Dave’s sax,flute and harp will be fea-tured, as well as Greg’s keys.Mike’s cutting guitar work ison the money and the rhythmsection is killer.

Casual Ties is very excitedas this is our first job, and wecan’t wait to get out and getgoing! We are unique enoughthat we feel the Cypress hasnot had anything like us be-fore, and hopefully we willraise the bar (yes, pun intend-ed)! We plan to start around 8p.m. so come early to get aseat. Please tell all of your(our) friends so a great timecan be had. Thanks for all pastand future support.

Doug Mentlick,Durham

Deadline reminderThis is just a friendly reminder that the deadline for news items, pictures, articles and

events is Monday at noon for publication that week. Please keep in mind that we do ourvery best to get all items in the paper, but we can’t guarantee. Check back the followingweek or on our website, www.towntimes.com. The deadline to submit letters is Tuesday atnoon for publication that week.

counsel for Alpine Associ-ates, drafted the agreement,and Middlefield town attor-ney Ken Antin assembledthe exhibits after months ofnegotiation between bothparties.

Antin, as well as townplanner Geoff Colegrove,who was also involved in theprocess, were available atthe meeting to walk the se-lectmen through the docu-ment before their vote. An-tin went page by pagethrough the 12-page agree-ment, with Colegrove addingbackground information asrequested.

The sale includes approxi-mately 25 acres in Meridenand Wallingford combined,along with 220+/- acres inMiddlefield.Public comment

Following BOS approval,First Selectman JonBrayshaw opened the meet-ing to public comment. Notsurprisingly, there was plen-ty of it. Susan Maloney of 121Powder Hill Rd. led off.“Who is Alpine? And I’mconcerned the price of $1million is too low,” she said.

Selectman Mary Johnsonexplained that the major partof any property’s value is itsvalue for development, par-ticularly residential develop-ment, and that Alpine hasgiven up that value. (For ex-ample, the town recentlyspent $118,000 for the devel-opment rights to 18 acres ofproperty that used to be partof the Merriam ChristmasTree Farm in Rockfall. Thetown did not purchase theland; they purchased therights to develop the landfrom owner Bob Merriam.That’s about $6,555 per acrefor those rights. Using thesame value for the rights atPowder Ridge, the town hasforgone $1.44 million becausethey will retain the develop-ment rights, and thus a sub-stantial portion of the valueof the land. Adding $1 million

and $1.44 million brings thevalue of the purchase not toofar from the $2.75 million thetown spent to purchase theproperty in 2008.)

Former owner Ken Leav-itt noted that it would be“easy” to fulfill the downhillski area part of the contract.He added that he has a prob-lem with one word of theagreement, “and that wordis ‘paintball.’ I don’t approveof this activity,” he said.

The word “paintball” ac-tually appears, along with“snowboarding,” “ziplin-ing” and “uses incidentalthereto,” in Exhibit G (8).According to town plannerColegrove, the addition ofthose words is an attempt tobring up to date the cata-logue of allowable uses origi-nally developed in the 1970s.“At that time, nobody hadheard of paintball, ziplinesor snowboarding,” Cole-grove continued, “but theseactivities have become popu-lar components of outdoorrecreation.”

Even so, in order to con-duct these activities, AlpineAssociates, should they ac-tually purchase the proper-ty, will need to file for a spe-cial permit with the Middle-field Planning and ZoningCommission and be ap-proved.

Audience member andresident Marianne Coronaadded a little historical per-spective. “I was on the Plan-ning and Zoning Commis-sion when the applicationwas first submitted for afour-person lift, and we de-nied it originally as ‘unsuit-able.’ That seems a little ab-surd now.” She continued, “Ican’t wait for the lights to goon again at Powder Ridge.”

Several audience mem-bers asked if the success ofthe venture could be guaran-teed, to which Brayshawreplied that the town’s guar-antee was that they wouldhold two mortgages. “No-

body can guess the future,”he concluded.

Resident Dwight Fowlerthanked the participants for“their grueling effort overseveral years” to bring a po-tential buyer this far. “Wehave to give and take,” hecontinued, “if we want tohave anything up thereever.”

Finally, audience memberChristine Leavitt askedabout getting the word out tomore people about subse-quent meetings, perhapsthrough flyers in the TownTimes.What happens next?

This provided the perfectintroduction to the processover the next 90 days. Ac-cording to Brayshaw, thevery next step is to haveAlpine sign the approveddocument and hand over acheck for $25,000 to be placedis escrow. After that,Brayshaw will sign the docu-ment. That will set the 90-day clock ticking.

During this time at leastone, and possibly several,public hearings with AlpineAssociates in attendancewill be held so that towns-people can question them di-rectly on their plans for Pow-der Ridge.

Finally, the selectmenwill call a town meeting tovote on the sale.

Powder Ridge (Continued from page 1)

Don’t miss out

Check the events inTown Times &Places to see

what’s happening inDurham, Middlefield

and Rockfall

Town Times860-349-8000

Friday, February 4, 2011 Town Times Columns 9

Though I walk through thevalley of middle school…

Over the past fiveplus years as princi-pal of Strong MiddleSchool, I have written17 articles for theTown Times. Twelveof those articles wereco-written with Cogin-chaug graduateDanielle Charette who now attendsSwarthmore College in Pennsylva-nia. Recently, I revisited these writ-ings and found that many of the prin-ciples and messages hold true today.Life as a middle schooler is challeng-ing even for the most balanced of ourDurham and Middlefield teenagers.Add in all of these recent snow daysthat disrupt the natural rhythms andschedule of a teen, and a recipe forstress is ripe. With this in mind, I

present to you a re-worked version of asubmission from Feb-ruary 2008.

Danielle Charettehad written an articleentitled, “Political Di-versity Thrives atCoginchaug.” In this

article she stated, “It’s within this at-mosphere of purposefully hooded per-sonal viewpoints of our instructorsthat we can instead infuse, quite won-derfully, an exposure to these wider,self-discovering prospects.” Indeed,she is a gifted writer and an independ-ent thinker. Danielle is adept at valu-ing the opportunities she has received

Dr. Scott V. Nicol, principalStrong School

A View FromDistrict 13

‘I have never been so happyand fulfilled as I was that day’Christmas in Janu-ary, Part II Sara’sstory:

When we first ar-rived in Port-auPrince, I was over-come by sadness and shock by thestate of Haiti. Seeing the damage ofthe Jan. 12, 2010 earthquake on TVand first-hand are two shockinglydifferent experiences. The destruc-tion and chaos in the city is heart-breaking, and a sight that could nev-er be described or portrayed in pic-tures. However, all of those feelingswere erased during my most memo-rable day on the trip at the HELOhouses.

We visited the houses briefly on ourfirst day, where I was greeted as“Mami Sara” and learned my visit waslong-awaited by all of the children. Onthe day of the party, I was able to spendtime with all 46 kids and watch themenjoy every moment of the celebration.Three boys — Kendy, Sodlyn and JeanGiles — spent the day by my side. Thethree became my friends when I sim-ply took a picture of them playing onthe ramp. Immediately they becameaddicted to the camera — following mescreaming “photo! photo!” and de-manding hugs, kisses and carrying, Icouldn’t help but think the only thingthese kids want to be happy is love, tofeel as though someone is there just forthem, to make them feel safe for a fewminutes. I took a moment to myself af-ter my epiphany because the thoughtmade me cry. Actions and emotionsmy parents wouldn’t think twiceabout, these children most likely did-n’t receive very much of. I spent myday playing, kissing and hugging thechildren as they stuffed their faceswith rice and opened their new toys.At the end of the party, I don’t thinkanything could have made those kidsstop smiling, a sight I couldn’t getenough of.

Amongst all the destruction andgrief in their country, it’s comfortingto know Haitians are still able to car-ry on. The children at HELO opened

my eyes to realizethat if they can con-tinue to play andlaugh, I can do thesame on a tough day.Their faces are still in

my mind every day, making mesmile and giggle every so often, and Iknow they will stay in heart for therest of my life. I have never been sohappy and fulfilled as I was that day,knowing the children in HELO’sneighborhood were fed a veryhealthy portion of food, and everychild received a new toy.

The trip was one filled with manyemotions, veering between shock,sadness and extreme happiness. Iplan on going back as often as I canwith my mother, continuing to makea difference just as she has been do-ing for years. Not only did my bondwith my team and the children be-come very strong, but the bond be-tween my mother and I reached an-other level that could not be put intowords. Seeing her in action in Haitirather than hearing the stories after-wards was something I wouldn’ttrade for the world. I cannot beprouder to share her with 46 chil-dren who deserve her great heartand caring love, and to know theirlives are forever changed because ofthe opportunity she’s given them.

Photos, clockwise from top:Elisabeth Kennedy at the kid’stable, Jean Giles with sticker, theHELO party.Photos submitted by Sara and Elisabeth Kennedy

Sara and Elisabeth Kennedy

Guest Column

A new day for HartfordI was tempted to

start this column bystating that there is anew “climate” inHartford, but thatcould be confusedwith all the snow thatwe are getting thisyear. There is, how-ever, a distinctly newspirit and optimismin Hartford, engen-dered in great part bya new governor andabout 20 new statelegislators who willhelp to give us a newstart on some veryold budget and eco-nomic problems.Governor Rell livedabout an hour and ahalf from the State Capitol and elect-ed to work out of her home most ofthe time. Governor Malloy, on theother hand, has moved his homefrom Stamford to the governor’s res-idence in Hartford, and his car canbe seen at the Capitol in the earlyhours of the morning and the latehours of the evening. He is a gover-nor with his hand on the wheel, andthat is uplifting in a time of financialcrisis.

Part of our state crisis has beenthat we have over-borrowed in thelast several years. We have soldenough state bonds so that the inter-est we pay to bondholders is 12 per-cent of the state budget, the highestin the country. We have totally ex-hausted our rainy day fund. My fa-vorite magazine, “The Economist,”now calls Connecticut “Creditcutt!”Perhaps because Governor Malloy

was a city mayor, hewell recognizes ourcredit problems andhas made statementsof firm oppositionagainst extending ourcredit, particularlyby borrowing to payoperating costs. Don’tmiss his budget mes-sage on Feb. 16.

Another one of mySenate colleagues hasbeen convicted, thistime for stealing fromthe state, and he hasnow resigned fromthe Senate. In this col-umn, I have previous-ly mentioned the con-viction of anothersenator for taking

bribes, another senator for racket-eering and another senator for for-gery, all in the six years that I havebeen serving. As a result, the printmedia has referred to our state as“Corrupticut.” I have introducedtwo bills which seek to improve ourintegrity. One is a Code of Legisla-tive Conduct, and the other would es-tablish a Senate Ethics Committee todeal with the misconduct and con-flicts of interest of our members. Al-though it is still the early weeks ofthe 2011 session, neither of thesebills has received the support of leg-islative leaders or otherwise moved.You may want to weigh in here.

Let me close by issuing to each ofyou an invitation to come to theCapitol before we adjourn in June,observe our work and have aprovocative luncheon with yourstate senator.

Sen. Ed Meyer

From theState Capitol

See Middle School, next page

Cookingcontest at LeviCoe Library

Cooking and bakingare great family bondingand learning activities.Choose a recipe from a li-brary cookbook, cook andthen see what the judgeshave to say on Thurs-day, Feb. 24, at 2 p.m.For a full list of rulesstop by or call the LeviCoe Li-b r a r y ,Main StreetMiddlefield,8 6 0 - 3 4 9 -3857.

Town Times Friday, February 4, 2011 10

Cheshire Road, Wallingford ~ Masonicare is not-for-pro�t

“ randma, you never told meyou were a card shark!”

GIt can be a delightful sur-prise howAssistedLivingatMasonicare atAshlar Villagebrings out the best in some-one you love . . . such as newinterests, new friends andrenewed vitality.

We make it easy to enjoy lifeto thefullestwithsupport foreveryday living. Spaciousapartments . . . healthy anddelicious dining . . . a bass-stocked, 9-acre pond . . . scenic walkingpaths. . . activities to ful�ll longtime interests or spark new ones— and there’s never a community fee.

And, Masonicare’s unsurpassed range of healthcare options —from routinemedical services to long-term care, even a specializedmemory care neighborhood— are all on our campus.

For more information or to schedule a tour, call1-800-382-2244 or go to www.MasonicareAssisted.org

1186186

Furniture & Interior Decorators60 Chamberlain Hwy., Kensington (860) 828-4176

1190020 ,INC.

InteriorDecorating

Creative Affordable SolutionsFor Your Home or Business

Call Nancy Trottfor your Appointment

1189890ROOFLEAKS??

SNOW OR ICE BUILD UP??Call Us for EMERGENCY REMOVALWE HELP WITH INSURANCE CLAIMS

V NANFITO ROOFING & SIDINGLic. #570192

(203) 639-1634 or (860) 621-6898

MIMS OILCall for Current Price

Fuel AssistanceAvailable

(203) 238-7512H.O.D. 7

www.mimsoil.com

$AVE NOW!

1186832

not only from her loving par-ents, but also from her publicschool experience, having re-ceived her entire formal edu-cation from Regional SchoolDistrict 13. Danielle gets it.She understands that herteachers facilitate her educa-tion; they do not direct it. Sheunderstands that her teach-ers – from Brewster to Strongto Coginchaug have attempt-ed to present her with learn-ing structures that requireher to “think” as she developsher life-long learning skills.And most importantly,Danielle understands thatone’s journey at its primalcore is unique to the individ-

ual and therefore, their ulti-mate responsibility. It is quiteimpressive that Danielle haslearned this life lesson at suchan early age. To be frank, Itruly did not grasp this con-cept until my mid–20s, eventhough my parents continu-ously led me to the water thatI failed to drink for so long.

As principal of Strong Mid-dle School, it is my responsi-bility to work with the Strongstaff to assist students in theirprogression toward realizingthis key to life’s success. Es-sentially, it is the purpose ofall educators to facilitate theemergence of each life-longlearner at Strong and else-

where.Of course, this is a daunting

task for all involved. Parentslove their children. Teacherscare for their students. Stu-dents yearn for their inde-pendence. Emotions run highwhen times are tough. All stu-dents have peaks and valleys –it is just that some valleys forsome students tend be deeperand longer than others. More-over, for many, these valleysemerge during middle school,coinciding with the onset ofadolescence. Yet, all valleyshave roads, however winding,that lead one away from itsdarkness and back to the lightat the summit.

At Strong Middle School,we have a wide range of stu-dents. We have 7th graderswho yearn for the elementaryschool recess that they hold sodear and 8th graders whospend much of their wakingday trying to grow up too fast.It is a challenge for teachersand parents to keep up, for stu-dents change week by weekduring this stage of their lives.They exhibit behaviors neverbefore seen during their gram-

Middle School (Continued from page 9)

mar school days. It can beemotionally draining, espe-cially for parents, but it is thereality we see year in andyear out.

The one variable that re-mains constant and is aclear indicator that a stu-dent’s dark valley is bright-ening is quite simple. Theirwords and actions turn pos-itive instead of negative.The blame game or excusenetwork disappears and isreplaced by a gradual self-discovery of what type ofperson they want to be.Every Strong studentshows at least a glimmer ofthis character trait beforeleaving us after two years.It is something we areproud of; it is something wesaw shining ever so bright-ly in Danielle throughouther stay. So, when thesnow falls and the normalroutines are set aside, re-member – it is not “if”your child will discovertheir inner self aware-ness, but “when.”


Dr. April J. Prete

PRETECHIROPRACTIC CENTER

& ACUPUNCTURE

CALL FOR APPOINTMENT16 Main St. Unit 302 Durham, CT 06422 • Office 860-349-0639 Fax 860-349-0519

[email protected]

• Sports Injuries• Auto Accidents• Work Related Injuries• Personal Injuries

• Low Back & Neck Pain• Headaches• Carpal Tunnel• Sciatica

Specializing in the treatment of

Most Insurances Accepted

ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS

1187155

6 MAIN ST., DURHAMDURHAM FITNESS

For more information

860-349-2480Gift Certificates Available

durhamfitnessct.com

WEIGHT MACHINES • FREE WEIGHTSCARDIO MACHINES • FITNESS CLASSES

PERSONAL TRAINING AVAILABLE

AnniversarySpecial!

No Other Fees

$50 Annual Fee per personCoupon must be presented at time of sign-up.

Expires: 02/19/2011

a month per person (Paid in full or EFT)

(Across from Dari-Serv)

Only $10

1190289

16 MAIN STREET, DURHAM349-3368

WWW.GLAZERDENTAL.COM

1190283

JASON GLAZER, DMD • KATE GLAZER, DMD

• State-of-the-Art Dentistry

• Friendly, Caring, Clean Atmosphere

• Providing the Full Range of DentalServices

• No More Silver Mercury Fillings

1183615

William J. Witkowski, D.M.D.Allan A. Witkowski, D.M.D.

360 Main StreetP.O. Box 177Durham, CT860-349-1123

Healthy Living Healthy Living Healthy Living Healthy Living Healthy Living

Fitness tips all winter longBy Cheri Kelley

Town Times

With the weather that hasbeen slamming into Con-necticut this season, it ishard for many to maintaintheir fitness routines. Don’tsweat it! There are somegreat activities that can bedone when it is chilly out-doors.

According to Take OffPounds Sensibly Club Inc.(TOPS), “A 150-pound personburns an average of 285 calo-ries per hour building asnowman, 319 calories perhour during a snowball fightand 214 calories per hourmaking snow angels.” Thereare all sorts of fun and fami-ly-centered wintry activitiesthat can be done to help burncalories; many of them are sofun, folks won’t even thinkthey are working out. Someexamples TOPS gives arebuilding a snow fort or igloo;having enough snow tomake a huge snow villagewouldn’t be an issue thisyear. Another idea is to havea scavenger hunt with win-ter nature items, like birdnests, pinecones, icicles oranimal tracks.

Some more traditional tipsfor winter workouts are fromAndy Moses of CT FitnessCoach in Durham. Moses be-lieves people should eat asmall, protein-based mealevery two-and-a-half to threehours. Moses said, “Everytime we eat, our metabolismsare elevated, which raisesthe core temperature of the body.”

Moses generally recom-mends people set fitnessgoals before the cold weathercomes. If you’re an outsideexerciser in the summer, hethinks, you should set goalsto get you through the win-ter. “If you don’t like thewhole gym scene, you couldbuy a few dumbbells or a setof changeable dumbbells anddo some free weight circuittraining to get you rippedand ready for summer,”Moses continued. “Freeweight circuits are simply agroup of resistance exercisesdone one after the other withlittle rest in between, and an

extended rest at the end ofthe circuit. This type of train-ing is scientifically proven toburn tons of calories andkeep your metabolism superelevated for up to 36 hours af-ter your workout.”

F o rthose whohave work-out equip-ment int h e i rh o m e s ,Moses rec-o m m e n d si n t e r v a lt r a i n i n g .He believes interval training ismore entertaining and engag-ing than just traditional car-dio. “Interval training is anall out effort followed by an ac-tive rest. In other words, walk slowly for one minute and then

sprint for 30 seconds. The greatthing about doing this type oftraining is that the body willburn body fat for the instantfuel it needs to be able to musterup the energy to go from a slowwalk to a sprint. On the otherhand, the body adapts very quickly to steady state cardiowhich will put a stop to your fatloss progress after a very shortamount of time.”

There are many who longfor fresh grass to run in or anon-slippery surface to jogon, but remember, accordingto TOPS, shoveling snow canburn 340 calories an hour;it’s just the cookies and co-coa that await us inside thatare tricky!

The Core Club opening soonA variety of classes on health and fitness will be of-

fered at The Core Club, LLC, a new facility that willopen in early spring at Carolyn Adams Country Barn inDurham, one floor below the Durham Activity Centeron Main Street.

Classes will be open to everyone and will includeYoga, Zumba, boot camp, linedancing, belly dancing, spinning,meditation and health seminarssuch as healthy cooking, healthyeating and much more. For priceinformation and more details,contact Cheryl Salva at 860-349-8419.


1187154

Dr. William Boylin, Ph.D.Family Therapist

Specializing in:Substance Abuse • Teenagers

Grief & Loss

6 Way Road, MiddlefieldTel. 349-7033

Now offering daytime hours

243 Main St.Durham, Rt. 17Corner Main & Maiden

Experienced DoctorsSmall Town Service

Eyecare • Glasses • Contacts860-349-2323

WE HAVE

MOVED

Dr. Frances E. Sites, O.D. Philip M. Perrino, O.D.

1190246

1190286

Brenda’s Main St. Feed L.L.C.58 Main Street, Durham (860) 349-0410

Let Us HelpDid You Know A Simple Diet Change Can Cure -

Paw Licking, Dry & Itchy Skin, Infected Ears & More? Nature's Variety, Raw Diets

Solid Gold, Wellness, Innova,Taste of the Wild • EVO, Canidae.

WE STOCK SAFE PET ICE MELT

Pets’ Wellness

For YourFor Your

Pets’ Wellness

Cosmetic Bonding

Gum Therapy

Crowns & Bridges

Dentures & Repairs

Emergencies

Fillings

Root Canals

Regular Hours:Tues.-Fri. 9 am-6 pm

(860) 349-70066 Way Road, Middlefield

(Near Powder Ridge Ski Area)William J. Lema, D.M.D.

William J. Lema, D.M.D.General Family Dentistry • Children & Adults

State of the Art Dentistry in a Caring, Small Office Atmosphere

Saturday & Evening Appointments Available

1187153

Healthy Living Healthy Living Healthy Living Healthy Living Healthy LivingConnecticut banspesticides on athleticfieldsEnvironment Committee co-chairman Sen. EdMeyer poses Friday, Jan. 21, with a ‘Thank YouConnecticut!’ poster that was created and donat-ed by Grassroots Environmental Education ofNew York in recognition of Connecticut’s role inbecoming the first state in the nation to ban theuse of pesticides on public and private schoolathletic fields. Pictured from left are Grassrootsexecutive director Patti Wood, EnvironmentCommittee co-chairman Representative RichardRoy, Senator Ed Meyer, and Dr. Jerry Silbert, ex-ecutive director of the Watershed Partnership.

Photo submitted

Healthy Livingweb update

This week pages 11-13 arededicated to healthy living,so we thought it would beinteresting to hear what thecommunity does for theirhealth. So we asked, “Howdo you stay healthy?” By

Tuesday, eightpercent said “Iwatch what Ieat;” anothereight percentsaid “I havegood lifestylehabits;” no-body chose “Iam physicallyactive” but 64percent chosea combinationof all of theabove. Oh, and

19 percent said “I don’t stayhealthy.” Maybe thisweek’s healthy living sec-tion will inspire these folks!

Remember, “There’smore to being healthy thannot getting sick.” Health isabout diet, exercise, avoid-ing smoking and other badhabits, getting enoughsleep, doing things dailythat make you happy andmuch more. Healthy livingis also much bigger thaneach of us individually. Itincludes the condition ofthe environ-ment we livein, so thinkoutside thebox for waysyou can lead ahealthy life.

Facts about health:*Ground flaxseed added to daily diet has been shown tolessen hot flashes, inflammation, and be beneficial to

people with cardiovascular disease and diabetes.*In the Netherlands, there are more bikes than people.

*Preliminary studies show that acetic acid, whichis found in vinegar may lower blood pressure.*An afternoon nap is proven to provide a serious

benefit to memory.


WE’LL PAY YOUTO WORK OUT!

99 Union Street, Middletown, CT 860.347.6907 www.midymca.org99 Union Street, Middletown, CT 860.347.6907 www.midymca.org

Work out at least 10 times in yourfirst 30 days at the Y AND

We’ll refund the $50 joiner’s fee!*

(NOW YOU DON’T HAVEANY EXCUSES!)

M I D D L E S E X

Y M C

* New Members Only,Some Restrictions Apply

1185655

Y M C A1183614

• Children and adults• Cutting edge technology• Invisalign available• Lingual braces now available• No charge for first visit

ORTHODONTICS

Dr. John Conroy

282 Main Street Extension at Sanseer Mill,Middletown (near Stop & Shop) (860) 347-4618

Creating Beautiful Smiles!

www.conroyortho.com

❖ Free Consultations❖ Evening appointments available❖ Most insurances accepted/Flexible Payment Plans

Right off Rte. 9 - Lots of free parking

(860) 346-9259 (860) 635-2675535 Saybrook Rd. 26 Shunpike Rd.

Middletown Cromwell

ORTHODONTIC SPECIALISTS* Invisalign, Traditional & Clear Braces

*Dr. Paul Baldyga &Dr. Daenya Edwards

http://orthospecialist1.com

1187157

• Invisalign• Clear Braces• Digital X-rays

• Free Consultation• Flexible Financing• Cutting Edge Technology

85 Church St., Middletown, CT 06457(860) 228-9800 • www.raneyorthodontics.com

1186489

Healthy Living Healthy Living Healthy Living Healthy Living Healthy Living

Dozens of residents fill the Durham ActivityCenter for Monday Night Yoga class.

Photos by Cher i Kel ley

The benefits of Yoga include increased flexi-bility, increaed lubrication of joints, ligamentsand tendons, massaging of all organs in thebody, toning the muscles and a complete

Surprising healthfacts from thepast four decades

According to BistroMD,there have been some sur-prising health facts in recentheadlines that have left manyof us wondering if we are eat-ing or practicing the righthabits to keep us healthy.Added weight=increasedcancer risk

Over the past 15 years, sur-prising health facts about thelink between weight gain andcancer have made many of ussecond guess the foods we eat.

With the increase in thepopulation of obese and over-weight Americans growing,so has the list of cancers asso-ciated with this phenome-non. This list has grown to in-clude postmenopausal breastcancer, as well as colon,esophagus, kidney, and pan-creatic cancer.

For many of these cancers,the increased risk depends onwhere your body stores extrafat, and how much of a percent-age you have. When it comes toprostate, breast, and ovariancancer, increased amounts offat in your abdominal areatend to increase your risk ofgetting the disease.More java…less java?

Coffee has gotten a bad rep-utation, but recent studieshave shown that people whodrink an average of two cupsof coffee per day have a de-creased risk of getting certaintypes of cancers.

Besides reducing the riskof certain cancers, caffeinefound in your favorite brewcan also decrease your risk ofgetting type 2 diabetes.

When researchers com-bined multiple studies withpeople drinking an average offour to six cups of decaffeinat-ed and regular coffee, theyfound that most of these peo-ple had a 30 percent lowerrisk of getting diabetes, thanthose who never drank coffee.Just go easy on the sugar andthe half and half.Get your zzz’s, or gainmore weight

A lack of sleep basicallycauses an increase in stressresponse, which causes youto become hungry. Get ahealthy seven to eight hoursof sleep a night to avoid high-carb snack overload.

Middlefield Town Briefs Friday, February 4, 2011 14

FISHING TACKLELocal collector looking forold or new Rods, Reels,Lures. Highest pricespaid. Call Dave anytime(860) 463-4359

1188812

A Specialty Toy Store

1190270

• Puzzles • Dolls • Action Figures • Board Games• Lego • Trading Cards • Arts & Crafts

• Hot Wheels • Stuffed Animals • Infant Toys

With this coupon. Excludesdiscounted merchandise.

Expires 2/28/11

30%OFF

Your Entire Purchase

(Located on 2nd floor near Center Court & Macy’s)(203) 886-0061 • www.magiccarpettoys.com

Westfield Meriden Mall470 Lewis Ave., Meriden

* Many brand names available

Hard to Find ToysAlways In Stock

• And Much More

1190168WINDOWS PLUSFREE IN-HOME ESTIMATES • 1-877-567-5914 • 203-269-8723

21 NORTH PLAINS INDUSTRIAL RD., WALLINGFORDVisit us at www.windowsplusinc.com

CT Reg. #574938 • Fully Insured

NFRC CERTIFIED •MADE IN THE USA• Best Prices Guaranteed• Tax Exempt • Energy Star• Fed. Tax Credit QualifiedWOODGRAINS & COLOR

VINYL SIDING • STORM ENTRY DOORS • AWNINGS

Nationally RatedEnergy EfficientON SALE!

1190030

SINGLESPre-Super Bowl Dance PartySATURDAY, FEB. 5th • 8 p.m.-12:30 a.m.

in the ballroom of theRocky Hill HOTEL

100 Capital Blvd., Rocky Hill 06067(Exit 23/West St. off I-91)DJ/Top 40 & Soft Rock

Coffee & Dessert • Cash Bar • Adm. $14 -Casual Attire/Jeans O.K. for this party!

Sponsored by “for SINGLES only ...”Info: (860) 633-0600 • 1-800-824-3083

www.singlesdances.com (inc. map)NEXT DANCE: FRI., FEB. 11th

Annual Valentine’s Party • Lady-in-Red ContestAqua Turf Club, Plantsville

Offer expires on 9/30/06 All Denture Material ADA Approved

Put Your Best Smile Forward!

Offer expires on 11/28/03 All Denture Material ADA Approved

Complete Affordable Family Dental Care!• Fillings • Crowns • Cleanings • Bridges • Teeth Whitening • Cosmetic Dentistry

Payment Options Available

Most Insurance Plans Are Accepted

DENTURES $199 to $959UPPER OR LOWER

Extractions and Dentures at same appointment!

NO NEED to be without Teeth!

Dentures availvable

in 24 hours.Relines and Repairs

while you wait.

10% Senior Discount

ORANGE

MERIDEN

501 Boston Post Rd. Liberty, Sq. Plaza

533 South Broad St. Townline Sq. Plaza

203.799.3311

203.238.7968

Call Now For A FREE Consultation!

NEW ENGLAND DENTAL 899 Offer expires on 2/28/11 All Denture Material ADA Approved

1190162

DENTURES5 Styles starting at $199

newenglanddentalct.com

Middlefield Government Calendar(Unless otherwise indicated, all meetings are held in the

Community Center.)Monday, February 7

7 p.m. — Board of SelectmenWednesday, February 9

7:30 p.m. — Board of Education at Brewster School6:30 p.m. — Planning and Zoning

Tuesday, February 157 p.m. — Conservation Commission

Wednesday, February 167 p.m. — Inland Wetlands & Watercourses Agency

7 p.m. — Metacomet Regional Windfarm CommitteeThursday, February 177 p.m. — Board of Finance

7 p.m. — DMIAABTuesday, February 22

7 p.m. — Zoning Board of Appeals7 p.m. — Board of Selectmen

Be cautious withsnow banks

In photo above, Jack Cahillremoves snow from in front ofthe Middlefield Post Office lastSunday. This will make it easi-er to get in and out of the drive-way. Drivers need to be morecautious and courteous whenapproaching driveways andintersections with their vehi-cles due to the poor visibility

from highs n o wb a n k s .T h i sw e e k ’ ssnow hasmade trav-eling achallenge.Submittedby BillFowler.

Valentinesluncheon atSenior Center

Enjoy a heartwarminglunch on February 14 at theMiddlefield Senior Center.Come celebrate friendship,love and everything hearts.We will be serving apricotglazed chicken, whipped po-tatoes, green beans and yel-low squash, 12 grain breadand for dessert cherry tartwith whipped topping, coffeeand tea. Word games will beplayed throughout the mealwith prizes for all the win-ners. The suggested donationis $2. Please make your reser-vation by Thursday, Feb. 12,by calling 860-349-7121.

Park and Recactivities

Parents, want a night sanskids to celebrate ValentinesDay? Then have we got a dealfor you! The MiddlefieldPark and Recreation Depart-ment is again sponsoring amovie marathon and sleepover party for Friday, Feb.11. The program is open tokids ages 6 - 11 and will beheld at the Middlefield Com-munity Center. You can dropyour kids off at 6 p.m. Fridaynight and pick them up at 8a.m. Saturday morning.There will be pizza and juiceand lots of popcorn, and theywill have a continentalbreakfast in the morning.Have them bring a sleepingbag, pillow and a mattress ofsome kind, if possible. Thecost will be $7.50, and the par-ty is limited to 30 kids. Call ore-mail to reserve your spot! Ifyou have any questions, callChris at 860-349-9926. Chaper-ones are also needed.

The Middlefield Lion’sClub is sponsoring an iceskating party at the StrictlandIce Skating Pond (across fromthe entrance to PeckhamPark) on Saturday, Feb. 12.The party is scheduled to runfrom 3 to 7 p.m. There will bemusic, a bonfire, hot dogs, hotchocolate and maybe somemarshmallows to roast! Bringyour special someone and en-joy some good, old fashionfun! Free to all! Rain date isSunday, Feb. 13.

The Middlefield Park andRecreation is sponsoring, forthe first time, an Ice FishingDerby on Lake Beseck onSaturday, Feb. 19. Partici-pants must register ahead oftime by going to www.mid-dlefieldparkandrecreation.com. Prizes will be awarded$100 for the biggest (heaviest)fish, $50 for the next heaviestand $25 for the smallest (baitfish not allowed.) Check-inwill start at 7 a.m., and thederby will start at 8 a.m. andwill end at 1 p.m. when tallieswill be taken and prizesawarded. Entry fee $10 for anindividual and $20 for a fami-ly. Report to the Lake BeseckBeach parking lot to checkin. Weather and ice condi-tions may cause cancellationof this event. For more info,call Chris 860-349-9926.

Friday, February 4, 2011 Durham Town Briefs 15

11894471190014

Introducing the ElectroluxPremium Line...

UltraOne™ UltraSilencer™ Delux

Maximus™

www.cyclonehomesystems.com

Cyclone Home Systems • 800-322-5006124 White Oak Drive • Berlin, CT

Available exclusivelyat Cyclone!

$799msrp $599msrp $399msrp

MentionThis Ad for

10% off

1184911

Durham Government Calendar(All meetings will be held at the Durham Library unless

otherwise noted. Check the town Web page at www.townof-durhamct.org for updates.)

Saturday, February 59 a.m. — Board of Selectmen (budget meeting) at the Town Hall

Monday, February 77:30 a.m. — Planning and Zoning

7:30 p.m. — Clean Energy Task ForceTuesday, February 8

7:30 p.m. — Conservation CommissionWednesday, February 9

6 p.m. — Board of Education at LymanThursday, February 10

7:30 p.m. — Zoning Board of Appeals at the Town Hall

EPA talk atlibrary

A public hearing will takeplace on Tuesday, March 8,at the Durham Public Li-brary at 7 p.m. to hear a pres-entation from the Environ-mental Protection Agencyon the upcoming soil excava-tion work on the MerriamManufacturing Companystudy area. There will be anopportunity for public com-ment. The soil excavationwork is being done to learnabout the extent of contami-nation on the property fromwaste that leached into thetown’s water supply, con-taminating several privatewells.

Winter safetyinformation

Due to recent weatherevents, the town of DurhamDepartment of EmergencyManagement is recommend-ing that all residents andbusiness owners with roofswith a five pitch or less(ranch type homes, flatroofs) safely clear the snowand ice.

All other roofs should besafely cleared at least twofeet back from the exteriorwall to prevent ice damming.

Residents and businessesare urged to call local con-tractors to inquire aboutsnow removal.

The Durham Fire Depart-

ment warns residents of thepotential for carbon monox-ide (CO) backing up intobuildings from combustiondevices. Especially on newerconstruction, residents areurged to please take the timeto clear snow from the areawhere furnaces, hot waterheaters, clothes dryers andother appliances vent outsidethe building.

Should your carbonmonoxide (CO) alarm acti-vate, please evacuate thebuilding and call 911.

The Durham Fire and EMSDepartments also request thatresidents and local businessesclear snow that may be block-ing your house number. In anemergency, first respondersneed to be able to see yourhouse number from the street.

We also request that youdirect normal town servicerequests to the service re-quest form.

Service Request Forms

can be found at the DurhamTown Hall at 860-349-3452 orby visiting www.townof-durhamct.org. Please use 911for emergencies only.

Middletown Nissansweepstakes winnerE d m u n dWaz, ofD u r h a m ,picked uphis new2011 Maxi-ma on Jan.26 at Mid-dletown Nis-san as theNissan Sweeptstakes winner. The second annual“Keep Summer Rolling” sweepstakes was designedto motivate customers to visit their local partici-pating Nissan dealership to have their vehicle serv-iced between Aug. 1 and Sept. 30, 2010. Waz was

Town Times Spotlight Friday, February 4, 2011 16

CONNECTICUT BOMBERS2011 8-12 YEAR OLD TRYOUTS

Be Part of the Northeast’s #1 Travel Baseball ProgramTryout/Clinics Begin on 2/6 for 6-21⁄2 Hour Sessions

REMEMBER WE MAKE THE PLAYERSWE DON’T RECRUIT

SUCCESS IS MEASURED NOT BYWINS AND LOSSES

BUT BY A PLAYERS ABILITY TOCOMPETE AT THE NEXT LEVEL

21 Marne St., Hamden203-248-2398 www.battersboxonline.net

1190324

1185482

1189865

Presidents’ Day Auto 2011

PUBLISHED:Monday, February, 21

AD DEADLINE: Friday, February 11

To advertise, call Fran at (203) 317-2316 oremail: [email protected]

Presidents’ DayAuto 2011

Learn What’s New!& Where To Get It!

– PLUS –Money Saving Couponsfrom Your Local Service

Professionals

Dahlmeyer and Paski to wedSharon Dahlmeyer-Giovannitti and

Joseph Giovannitti of Durham an-nounce the engagement of theirdaughter, Lauren Marie Dahlmeyer,to Henry Michael Paski, son of Greggand Deborah (Paski) Charlton of Meri-den.

Lauren is the granddaughter ofFrederick and Marjorie Dahlmeyer ofDurham. The future bride is a 2005graduate from Coginchaug RegionalHigh School and attended Central Con-necticut State University. She is cur-rently employed by Masonicare andworks as a nursing assistant. Henry isthe grandson of the late Henry andJanet Paski of Meriden. The groom is a2001 graduate of Platt High School andis currently employed by Omnicare asa pharmacy technician.

The groom proposed to Lauren in aromantic toast on Christmas day in2009 with all of her family present.The wedding will take place on June 4,2011, at The United Churches ofDurham with a reception to follow.

Mercy High School stu-dents were recently inductedinto the McAuley Chapter ofthe National Honor Society.These Durham juniors wereinducted: Sarah Bower,Shannon Egan and AlexaMarks.

The following studentshave been named to the dean’slist at Western New EnglandCollege for the fall semester of2010. Students are named tothe dean’s list for achieving asemester grade point averageof 3.30 or higher: Tayler A.Dontigney of Durham, afreshman majoring in market-ing, and Matthew M. McCor-mack of Middlefield, a juniormajoring in mechanical engi-neering.

The University of Hart-ford has named the followingstudent to the dean’s list forfall 2010: Michael F. Roc-capriore of Middlefield.

Chrissy Civetelli ofDurham,a 2000graduateof Cogin-c h a u g ,h a se a r n e dher doc-torate de-gree att h eU C O N Nschool ofPsycholo-

gy in November 2010. She re-ceived her undergrad fromSarah Lawrence College inBronxville, NY. She is cur-rently employed as a schoolpsychologist at AshfordSchool (K-8) in Ashford, CTand has also worked for thepast 12 years with Middle-town YMCA and Camp In-gersoll as one of the summerCamp Directors.

Photo submitted by Ingrid Scalise

Central Connecticut StateUniversity President JackMiller is pleased to an-nounce the fall 2010 Dean’sList. Chelsea Ahearn, KyleBreininger, Eric Francis,Crystal Kolman, JackieManiscalco, Daniel Nord-strom, Brenda Weise andMolly Norton fromDurham. Edward Jones,Thomas Liljedahl, BrianMakuch, Adriana Perovic,Maygan Salzano and

Friday, February 4, 2011 Town Times Spotlight 17

Providing in-home eldercare services through-out Connecticut since 1996, our goal is to helpseniors maintain their lives to the fullest whilecontinuing to live at home.

• Homemakers• 24 Hour Live-in Companions• Personal Care Services• Fully insured,

employees bonded,comprehensivebackground checks.

• Free in-homeevaluation by an RN

• RN owned andoperated

Technologically advanced products which promoteindependence, safety, and improved quality of lifefor clients living in private homes or communitybased settings.

•Wi-Fi Remote Monitoring Systems whichmay address emergency response, falls,med compliance, nutrition, and wandering.

•Automated Medication Dispensers to improvecompliance.

•GPS Locator Devices•Personal Emergency Response•Technical Specialist will do in-home visits to

teach use of Wii Sports and games, and othercomputer related activites which can enhancethe lives of seniors.

CT Registration #0000124

203-634-8668www.assistedlivingct.com

203-235-TECHwww.assistedlivingtechnology.com

1188393

Rachel Spinks from Middle-field. Jamie Martin, DylanPedersen and Ashley Stru-chowski from Rockfall.

Durham resident andW i l l i a mR a v e i sReal Es-t a t eA g e n t ,D e b b i eHuscher,has beenr e c o g -n i z e dwith the

2011 FIVE STAR Real EstateAgent Award and will be fea-tured in Connecticut Maga-zine.

Designed to measure over-all satisfaction, participantsin more than 74,000 house-holds rated their real estateexperience based on nine cri-teria areas, including cus-tomer service, communica-tion, integrity, negotiation,market knowledge, closingpreparation, marketing thehome, finding the right homeand overall satisfaction.

Debbie has enjoyed consec-

utive years as the top produc-ing agent in her office andlends more than 20 years ofsales and marketing prowessto her clients. Submitted photo

Springfield College hasnamed Daniel Sawicki ofDurham, to the dean’s list foracademic excellence for thefall 2010 term. Daniel is a sec-ond-year student whose ma-jor field of study is businessmanagement.

The University of RhodeIsland is pleased to announcethat Kathryn L. Carria ofDurham, was named to theURI fall 2010 Dean’s List.

Bailey Bennett, class of2014 at Connecticut Collegeand a resident of Durham,has been named to the dean’shigh honors list for the 2010fall semester.

Leanne Meiman ofDurham has earned honorsfor the fall semester of the2010-2011 academic year at theUniversity of New Hamp-shire.

Dan Miramant of Durhamwas honoredon Saturday,Jan. 22, at theannual ElksLodge HonorsNight ceremo-ny. Dan wasnamed Offi-cer of theYear for hisinvolvementin many com-mittees and willingness to giveback to the community. “Nomatter what you ask of him, heis there to lend a hand with end-less energy and enthusiasm,”his proclamation read. Aschairman of the Patio Commit-tee, Dan, along with a group offellow Durham and Middlefieldmembers, raised over $20,000 torenovate the Lodge patio. He isa graduate of Xavier HighSchool and Middlesex Commu-nity College, as well as HartfordState Technical College. Submit-ted photo

The University of Connecti-cut recently announced thestudents who attained theDean’s List for the fall 2010 se-mester: Michael Cavanaugh,

Ryan Ciarlo, Erin Curtis,Joe Davis, Makayla Davis,Brendan Donecker, CodyDonecker, MeaganFairchild, Gregory Frank,Samuel Frey, CatherineGarvis, Justine Kokoszka,Alexandra Kuehnle, EricaMason, Jeremy Newell, Eliz-abeth Riggles and DeanneWallace all from Durham,Aaron Plude, James Schererand Gregory Smith all fromMiddlefield and CharlesKreutzkamp and Kevin Laczboth from Rockfall.

Kingswood OxfordSchool in West Hartford,CT announced that War-ren C. Hadley Jr. ofDurham is on the honorroll for the fall semester.

To send us yourspotlight, email the

Town [email protected]

Brewster Activities

As part of BrewsterSchool’s “We CelebratePositive Behavior!” pro-gram, John Vumback andCameron Neville workedhard to model respectand responsibility andearned and saved 200 bal-loons in order to enjoy aspecial lunch with princi-pal Nancy Heckler.

IDS Pajama Day

The Independent Day School in Middlefield recent-ly celebrated Pajama Day with an Amazing Gracetwist. In combination with Pajama Day, the thirdgrade sponsored a cereal collection which was do-nated to the Amazing Grace Food Pantry in Middle-town. Pajama clad, three-year-olds to eighth-gradestudents donated 97 boxes of cereal to the center.Elliott Evans of Middletown, front and center on thefloor, was the Lower School Division Head for theDay and had chosen pajamas for an IDS Spirit Day.

Photo submitted

Korn School ‘Informance’

Cheryl Wiener, instrumental teacher, conducted the KornSchool band students through their “Informance” for theirparents on Wednesday, Jan. 19. The Informance allowsthe band to perform informally before an audience and al-lows the parents to see how much progress their childrenhave made.

Photos submitted by Eileen Chupron

Schools in Town Times Friday, February 4, 2011 18

1186033 Lic. & Ins. EI 183930

Residential Wiring SpecialistLandscape Lighting

Design • Install • Service

It’s Tax Time!✓ Individual & Business Income Tax

preparation✓ IRS authorized E-filer (direct deposit

refunds...)✓ Personalized service, year-round planning✓ Flexible appointment times, reasonable

fees

Charles R. Bogen, Jr., CPA40 Main Street Phone: (860) 349-3667Durham, CT 06422 Email: [email protected]

1189613 HIC LIC # 566924

1182100

860-349-0119www.torrisonstone.com

Snowplowing

1185951

V.M.B. Custom Builders“No jobs too big or small”Mike GerchyOWNER/BUILDERSpecializing in Historic Renovations and CustomCabinets, Additions, Decks & Roofs35 Maiden LaneDurham, CT 06422(860) [email protected]“Complete Jobs From First Stud To Last Touch Of Paint”Fully Insured & Licensed HIC #614488

1189485

RSD

Home Improvement & RepairsSpecializing in Bathroom Remodeling

CT Lic. 0612088

Robert Trombetta 860-798-5374 Middlefield, CT

• Painting/Dry Wall• Tile Flooring• Basements/Skylights• Decks/Patios/Sheds• Odd Projects• No Job Too Small

L

1186484

Connecticut BusinessLicense #B-2045

TERMITES • ANTS • ROACHES • RODENTS • BEES • SPIDERS • FLEAS • TICKS

Wallingford 203-265-7328Waterbury 203-756-6028Southington 860-426-1040

Joe Simmons, Sr.License #S-2712

Joe Simmons, Jr.License #S-4909

www.ridofbugs.com

CENTURION EXTERMINATING LLCPEST CONTROL SERVICE

CENTURION EXTERMINATING LLCCENTURION EXTERMINATING LLCCENTURION EXTERMINATING LLCCENTURION EXTERMINATING LLCCENTURION EXTERMINATING LLCCENTURION EXTERMINATING LLC

Family Owned & OperatedFamily Owned & OperatedFamily Owned & OperatedMention this ad and receive

$10 off any pest control service

Town Times Service Directory

Brewster first graders trav-eled to the Peabody Muse-um on Monday, Jan. 24,with RSD13 outdoor educa-tion specialists, Marcy Klat-tenberg and Lori Martin,along with Brewster artteacher Ruth Beames. Stu-dents were guided by thestaff through the bird ex-hibit, the Native Americanartifact exhibit and theNorth American habitat.

Photos submitted by Patti Checko

Janna Jose, a Brewster firstgrader in Maura Caramanel-lo’s class, uses the technolo-gy of the Smart Board to clas-sify mammals and insects.

Harlem Wizards at Brewster“Broad-way,” amemberof theH a r l e mWizards,v i s i t e dB r e w -s t e rS c h o o lon Mon-d a y ,Jan. 24. The team played the BK Bruisers on Satur-day, Jan. 29, at the Coginchaug Gym at 3 p.m. Pic-tured are Claire DeFlora, Elyse Boothroyd, EamonAugur and Kolby Pascarelli, Brewster students whowon free tickets to the game. Photo submitted by Patti Checko


Custom Window Treatments and Slipcoverswww.suedeane.com

Sweet SurroundingsCustom Decorating Services

Sue Deane 860-349-3580Middlefield, CT

1188798

GOLSCHNEIDER PAINTINGResidential Commercial

30 Years ExperienceInterior Painting

WallpaperingAndy Golschneider • (860) 349-3549CT Lic. #HIC 606826 Durham, CT

11843651183610

Insured Free Estimates

860-349-3033Snow Plowing

Cahill Septic ServiceEst. 1965

• Septic tank cleaning• Septic systems installed & repaired

• Sewer drain cleaning • Portable restroom rentals270 Main St., Middlefield 860-349-8551

1185954

1186037

349-8771

Home Improvements LLCRoofing Systems • Vinyl Siding • Replacement Windows

Storm Doors/Windows • Prime/Patio DoorsSkylights • Porch Enclosures

FREE Estimates Reg. #517277No Obligation Fully Insured

NEIL JONESNEIL JONES

neiljoneshomeimprovements.com

WHITEHOUSE CONSTRUCTION, INC.• Paving • Gravel Driveway Restoration • Top Soil • Retaining Walls

• Drainage • Septic Systems • Excavator, Backhoe, & Dozer Work• Light & Heavy Hauling • Commercial & Residential

Randy Whitehouse (860) 349-1904Durham, CT Fully Insured

1185955

CT Lic. #554559


Sheehan Michael earns rank of Eagle ScoutBy Susan Michael

On Nov. 27, 2010, SheehanMichael received the rank ofEagle Scout. Sheehan’s Ea-gle Court of Honor was a spe-cial celebration of his ef-forts. Surrounded by friendsand family coming from asfar away as Wyoming andMinnesota, Sheehan re-ceived the Eagle Medal, andother signs of the highestrank in scouting. One high-light of the ceremony waswhen Stefan Michael, Shee-han’s father, shared a spe-cial history of scouting inthe Michael family.

Sheehan’s Eagle projectstarted in the fall of 2007when he proposed work onimprovements to the CurtisWoodland open space. Shee-han met with the DurhamConservation Commissionto discuss his plans, whichincluded removing invasiveplant species, clearing andmarking trails, rerouting atrail that went through wet-lands, and clearing vegeta-tion from around the en-trance gate, which hadgrown shut and was notfunctional. He completed hisproject in late March of 2010.

Once the project was ap-proved Sheehan organizedcrews to remove invasivespecies, which includedRussian olive trees, multiflo-ra rose and bittersweetvines, from the grasslandfield. Fellow scouts and lead-ers from Troop 27, neighborsand family members helpedwith the labor intensiveproject. Mr. Jim Smigel andMr. Ron Stannard generous-ly volunteered to brush hogthe property once the largerbrush was removed andpiled in the center of thefield. Mrs. Susan Williamsdonated the use of her trac-tor to rake the field, whichwas also greatly appreciated.

Once the brush was cutand removed the stumps

were sprayed with herbicideto prevent re-growth. Twopiles of brush accumulated,one the size of a tractor trail-er truck. Sheehan arrangeda controlled burn with theDurham Fire Explorers. Mr.Craig Bradinini advised thecrew. The first attempt toburn the brush in May of2009 didn’t work because it

was too green. Further workwas done over the summerand fall of 2009. Then lastMarch Mr. Bradinini and theExplorers returned for a suc-cessful final burn.

Sheehan marked twotrails on the wooded portionof the Curtis Woodland openspace. There is an orangetrail and yellow trail. Thetrail was rerouted in placesto avoid walking throughvernal pool areas and wet-lands.

The Curtis WoodlandOpen Space is a great loca-tion to hike and cross coun-try ski, as well as ride hors-es. The field is open andthere is a nice perimeterpath that is mowed regularlyfor easy walking. The twoloop trails travel through avariety of deciduous forest,some maple, beech, oak andhemlock. There are braidedstreams and vernal pools inlower parts of the property.

Sheehan Michael.

FOUND

Kyocera cell phone S2410Black. Found on side ofroad in Old Farms/Stage-coach Road area. Battery isdead so it can’t be turned onto find out the phone num-ber. Call 860-349-0778 if youthink it's yours.

Korean Spirit and Culture at Durham LibraryPlease join the library on Saturday, Feb. 12, at 11 a.m.

for an introduction to Korea’s rich history and culture.There will be a film, presenters in native costume and asampling of Korean cuisine. Informative and fun for thefamily, ages five and up. Registration is required, pleasecall 860-349-9544.

Town Times Sports Friday, February 4, 2011 20

Property MaintenanceBegins Here

Property Maintenance ForHome and Office

Lawn CareWeekly Mowing

Snow/Ice ManagementPlowing, Sanding, Walkways

Dependable FacilitiesMaintenance Services

Carpentry/HVAC/Plumbing/ElectricalTaking New Accounts

(860) 349-1168

1187151

HIC #0628655

1186038

Dan Jacobs OwnerDependable & Reasonable

Insured & Licensed CT Lic. #00558904

860-349-6597 Free Estimates

Residential Roofing Specialist

1180114

203-457-9652

1184960

❋ Carpentry❋ Repairs❋ Skimcoating❋ Windows & Doors

❋ Kitchen/Bath Remodeling❋ Painting❋ Sheetrock & Taping❋ Basement Finish

Lic. #574850

Phone: (860) 349-8384

“Saving Marriages Since 1983”

1185953

Total Hair CareHair - Nails - Tanning

16 Main Street • Durham, CT • (860) 349-6901

Bruce BingeCustom Building & Remodeling

Contractor

• New Homes • Additions• Kitchens • Garages • DecksAll Types of Remodeling & Renovations

HIC #0606486

Call after 5 pm (860) 347-1445

1186035


Coginchaug boys basketball beats Old Lyme, Cromwell, ClintonBy Alan Pease

Special to Town Times

Coginchaug tops Old LymeOn Friday, Jan. 14, the

Coginchaug boys hosted theWildcats of Old Lyme in aShoreline Conference Basket-ball game. The Devils jumpedout to an early lead, 15-10,with Ethan Donecker ac-counting for seven of the Dev-il’s 15 points in the period,with Tommy Ryan gettingfour, and Erikson Wasyl andEJ Luther each scoring two.

The second period wasslow for both teams, with theWildcats managing only eightpoints, but the Devils wereeven lower at six, with Erik-son scoring four and BrockHoyt accounting for two, tomaintain the lead at the halfwith a 21-18 score.

Old Lyme scored almost asmany in the third period asthey did in the first half with15, while Coginchaug could

net only 13, still maintainingthe lead. Tommy Ryan scoredfour in the period, with Wa-syl, Luther and Hoyt eachscoring two, while RobyGraenger, attempting the firstthree-pointer of his career astime ran out on the period,nailed it to give the Devils thelead again at 34-33.

In the final period, theWildcats scored 14, whichproved to not be enough, withthe Devils dropping in 21points for the 55-47 win. Wasylled the way in the period withseven, with Ryan scoring six,Hoyt adding four, and Do-necker and Jay Norton eachcontributing two points.

Wasyl led the way for theDevils with 15 points, addingfour rebounds and an assist.Ryan was right behind Erik-son with 14 points, plusadding four assists and tworebounds. Donecker had ninepoints, five rebounds and anassist. Luther had a season

high for the team with nineassists, also adding fourpoints and four rebounds.Hoyt scored eight, was theleading rebounder with six,and also had a block and asteal.

Off the bench, Graenger hitthat big three-pointer, andhad a rebound, while Nortonscored two and pulled downtwo rebounds.

Thanks to Randall Lutherfor the stats on this game.Devils out-point Panthers

On Saturday, Jan. 22, theCoginchaug boys, at 6-1 in theSLC, traveled to the then 7-1Panthers of Cromwell for abattle to determine secondplace in the league behindValley Regional. The Devilscrept ahead early, leading 8-7at the end of one, extendingthat to a 25-17 lead at the half.

The Panthers stormed backin the third period, outscor-ing the Devils 14-9 in the peri-od, but Coginchaug still led

34-31. In the final period,Coginchaug outscored thehome team 13-8, to wrap upthe win with a 47-39 score.

Wasyl led the way for theDevils with 21 points, withRyan adding 11, Doneckereight, Luther four points, andHoyt scoring three.Coginchaug edges pastMorgan

On Tuesday, Jan. 25, theCoginchaug boys traveled toClinton to visit the Huskies ofMorgan in a gym that is al-ways tough for a visitingteam. Wasyl carried the scor-ing burden early with 11,while Ryan added three, giv-ing the Devils just enough toknot the score at 14 all at theend of the first.

Both teams had more trou-ble scoring in the seconds, asboth Ryan and Lutherdropped in four points, andAndrew Markoski, seeing hisfirst game action after miss-ing the first nine games with a

fractured wrist, scored onepoint, putting the Devilsahead 23-21.

Wasyl again paced the Dev-ils in the third period with fivepoints, while Donecker scoredfour and Markoski added twoto leave Coginchaug ahead 34-31 entering the final period.

Morgan started the last pe-riod by hitting a three-pointerto keep the score at 34 all, butthe Devils ran off eightstraight, with a Ryan two, asingle free throw from Luther,then a two from Luther, then aLuther assisted trey fromRyan to put the Devils ahead42-34. Morgan went on theirown 9-0 run, as the Devilsmissed their next eight shots,to take the lead a final time at43-42. Hoyt’s first point of thegame, on one of two from theline, tied the game for the sev-enth time, and Donecker’sbasket with two minutes leftput the Devils up for good at45-43. Wasyl hit one of twofrom the line with under aminute to go, which proved tobe essential, as the Huskies hita two with time running out tomake the final score 46-45 infavor of the Devils.

Wasyl led the Devils with 17points, adding two rebounds,two steals and two assists. Ryanscored 12 points and also had asteal. Luther had seven assists,seven points, two steals and arebound. Donecker was theleading rebounder with eight,adding six points and twosteals. Hoyt had four re-bounds, a block and a point.

Off the bench, Markoski hadthree points, two reboundsand a steal, and Graenger hada steal.

Thanks to Randall Lutherfor the game stats.

As I write this, Cogin-chaug is 8-2, 8-1 in the Shore-line Conference and in sec-ond place. Barring furthersnow postponements, theywill have played a Tuesdaygame at Westbrook, and willhost third place Cromwelltonight, Friday, Feb. 4, inwhat should be another ex-c i t i n gcontest .G a m etime iss c h e d -uled for7:30 p.m.– come ondown andcheck itout!

Friday, February 4, 2011 Town Times Sports 21

1185952GriswoldPlumbingServices LLC

Tim Griswold860-554-5219

Emergency Service • Residential & Commercial• Well Water Tanks• Well Pumps• Water Treatment & Purification• Sewer & Drain Cleaning

• Drain Line Repair/Replacement• Fixture Replacement• Water Line Repair• Frozen Pipe/Thawing

1186680

SeniorDiscounts

Any Service$150-$550

Any Service$550-$950

Any Service$950 & above

With coupon. Not combinable. Expires 2/15/11

$25 OFF$50 OFF

$100 OFF

Allan’s Tree Service~ professional care at its best ~

• Pruning • Cabling• Tree & Stump Removal

• Spraying & Disease Control• Bucket Truck

Allan Poole, Licensed Arborist Phone 349-8029Established 1976 • Fully Insured • Work Guaranteed in Writing

Ct.LIC#61798

1185947

1183611

Movado Farm Inc.

RidingLessons

Adults and children

349-8728Route 17, Durham, CT

www.movadofarm.comHeated Indoor Arena

1186034

Specializing in Service & Repairs of Plumbing Systems• Kitchen & Bathroom Remodels • Toilets, Faucets & Piping Repairs• Water Heater Replacements • Submersible Well Pumps, Jet Pumps

• Pressure Tanks • Water Main Repairs • Well RepairsLicensed & Insured Lic #PL204680

1185946

860-349-0467


Coginchaug girls basketball defeats Westbrook, CromwellBy Alan Pease


Devils destroy WhiteKnights

On Monday, Jan. 24, theCoginchaug girls visited theLady White Knights of West-brook, dominating the gamefrom start to finish. Theyoutscored Westbrook by atleast nine points in every pe-riod, leading 14-5 after thefirst period, 32-11 at the half,60-20 after three periods, andending with a 75-25 win.

Sam Mancinelli recordedanother triple-double with12 points, 12 assists and 10rebounds, then filling outthe score sheet with threesteals and a block. LaurenEsposito led the Devils inscoring with 19 points,adding four steals, three as-sists and a rebound. AudreyBiesak had 16 points, four as-sists, three rebounds andtwo steals. Andrea Bragahad four points and four re-bounds, while AmandaBoyle had five rebounds, twoassists and a steal.

Off the bench, OliviaCorazinni scored seven,adding four rebounds, threesteals and two assists. Mor-gan Kuehnle had seven re-bounds, three assists, twosteals and a block. KatelynWilliams was a double digitscorer with 10 points. AlisonLuther scored five, with anassist and a rebound. KimRomanoff had two points,two steals and two assists.Caryn Sibiski had five re-bounds and a block, VictoriaBuonanni had two reboundsand Kasi Whitaker had a re-bound.Fourth quarter surge topsCromwell

On Friday, Jan. 28, theLady Blue Devils hosted thePanthers of Cromwell. Theteams entered the game in atie for second place, behindPortland, in the ShorelineConference at 10-2, and thewinner would leave withsecond place outright.

The Devils fell behind ear-ly, scoring only seven pointsin the first period, while thePanthers jumped on top 9-7.Esposito, Biesak and Boyleeach scored two, whileMancinelli dropped in onefrom the line.

In the second period,

Coginchaug started cold, asCromwell went to a 15-7 lead.Finally, Romanoff ended thescoring drought, dribblingthrough traffic down theright side of the lane and hit-ting the layup, then feedingBiesak for a three. After an-other bit of a dry spell,Biesak hit another from be-yond the arc, this time as-sisted by Mancinelli, toknow the score at 15 all.Cromwell scored fourstraight, two of four from theline and a two, but Boyleconnected on a rebound put-back, and Mancinelli hit onefrom the line, to trail by onlyone at 19-18. The Panthersclosed the half out hittingboth ends of a one and one tomake the half time score 21-18, with the visitors on top.

To open the second half,Cromwell had the openingpossession, but Biesak stolethe ball near mid-court, anddrove the length of the floor

to close that gap to one point.A Cromwell basket was an-swered by Mancinelli, butCromwell scored the nexttwo buckets to go up 27-22.Boyle and Esposito had back-to-back buckets, both assist-ed by Mancinelli. Cromwellscored again, and after miss-es by both teams, then aquestionable charge callagainst Biesak, Mancinellistripped the ball in the lane,and passed it ahead to thestreaking Biesak for thescore. Cromwell wrappedtwo baskets around two freethrows from Mancinelli. Therest of the points in the quar-ter came from hitting one oftwo from the line, withCromwell doing it twice,then after a steal and gettingfouled, Biesak repeating thefeat, with Cromwell closingthe period by hitting thefront end of a one and one tolead 36-31 entering the finalperiod.

In that final period, Ro-manoff opened the scoringoff a Mancinelli assist, thenMorgan Kuehnle fed Esposi-to for a trey that knotted thegame at 36 all. The Panthershit a two, then Mancinelliwith a single free throw.Cromwell hit their own sin-gle free throw, then Espositofed Biesak for a huge three-pointer to put the Devils ontop for the first time sincethe first period, 40-39.Cromwell was not done, hit-ting on both ends of a oneand one, but Esposito set upKuehnle for a basket for a 42-41 lead. One of two from theline for the Panthers knottedthe score, then after a Cogin-chaug miss, the Panthersconnected from beyond thearc to go on top 45-42, butthat was to be their last scoreof the game. After a Cogin-chaug turnover, Espositomanaged to get the ball backby taking a charge. This

soon led to Biesak getting aone and one opportunity, forwhich she calmly drainedboth ends. After a Pantherturnover, Esposito foundMancinelli for an old-fash-ioned three point play, withMancinelli converting onthe free throw, for the sixthand final lead change of thegame and a 47-45 lead.Cromwell took a wild shot ontheir next possession, andwith about 20 seconds left,the Devils had the ball undertheir own basket. With a fivesecond count getting danger-ously close, making a playthat won’t show up on anystat sheet, Romanoff had thepresence of mind to get theball over the scrum of play-ers in the near court towhere Mancinelli could runto the ball and get fouled.Mancinelli hit both shots,and whether the Panthers

See Girls, next page

Town Times Sports Friday, February 4, 2011 22

Commercial • Residential • Industrial • Licensed • Insured

APEC ELECTRICAll

PurposeElectrical

Contractor"Electrical Construction Built on Quality"

Joseph W. Fontanella 860-349-0303“No Job Too Small”

Lic.# E1123497

1185948

1188811

Specializing in Custom InstallationsRepair & Maintenance

Ceramic • Natural Stone • Glass

Quality Workmanship Done With Pride

Gary Chabot Fully Insured(860) 349-2152 CT Lic. #0575361

1184361

YOUR REMODELING SPECIALISTS> Kitchens > Bathrooms > Roofing > Siding > Window Replacement

> Decks > Additions > Gutters/Leaf GuardFully Licensed and Insured CT License #559832 HIC Locally owned and operated

Call today for a FREE estimate.860.349.1758 Ask for Tray CELL 860.790.6290

Ceramic Tile InstallationExperienced, Quality and

Personalized Service

CallEd Hansen

(860) 349-1173Licensed HIC #0572247 & Insured

1187159

1188800

DAVID M. FUGGEAntique & Fine FurnitureRefinishing & Restoration

Professional ServiceSince 1976

1183616

Durham, CT (860) 349-1131Pick-up & Delivery


hit their final desperationshot or not, the game waswon. Cromwell could notconnect, making the finalscore 49-45.

Mancinelli was the leadingrebounder with 10, andnotched a double-double with12 points. She also had six as-sists, four steals and a block.Biesak was the leading scorerwith 18, adding five steals,three rebounds and three as-sists. Esposito had a solidgame with seven points, fivesteals, four rebounds and fourassists. Boyle scored six,adding three blocks and threerebounds. Making what I be-lieve was her first start, KimRomanoff had four points, twosteals, a rebound and an as-sist.

Off the bench, Kuehnlehad four rebounds, twopoints, a block and an assist.Andrea Braga also played.

The girls are 12-3, 12-2 inthe Shoreline conference. Bythe time you read this, theyshould have played at Mor-gan and against North Bran-ford, with the next game be-ing Monday, Feb. 7, at homeagainst Haddam Killing-worth. Game time is 7:30 p.m.

Look to CASCIAC.org tocheck on any weather-relatedschedule changes.

Girls (From page 21)

Durham Demons secure win over HamdenBy Melissa Marteka


In the game of basketball,there are game-winningshots and game-winning freethrows. For the DurhamDemons and Kyle Fontaine,there was the game-winningsteal as the sixth-grade bas-ketball player stole the ballat half-court in the waningseconds, securing a 31-29 winover Hamden Sunday.

The Demons raised theirrecord to 7-4 with the winand played just well enoughto win over a team they haddominated during a scrim-mage last month. TheDemons were led by JackMurphy, who had 8 points.Griffin Murphy, Owen Gon-zalez and Trevor Morrisadded four each. Fontaineadded three points. Ryan Vy-nalek led the team with sixrebounds and Jack Murphyadded five.

“The team played thewhole game a step slowerthan Hamden,” coach TedMorris said. “We had a cou-ple of lucky steals toward theend that kept us in the game,but we sure seemed deter-

mined to givetheir guysevery opportu-nity to win.There were afew momentswhere theboys moved

the ball up the court withthree or four passes, and gotthe easy layup, and you real-ly enjoy those momentswhen they happen. We need totry to make that the norm andnot the exception.”

And it appeared the gamewas won when Kyle Grenierstole the inbounds pass andlaid it in giving Durham thebiggest lead of the game at30-23 with 1:52 remaining.But Hamden went on a 6-1

run feeding off Demonturnovers cutting it to 31-29with 25 seconds left. Afteranother turnover — theDemons had 25 during thegame — Hamden set up forthe tying basket. ButFontaine stole the ball withfour seconds left, giving theDemons the win.

The Demons jumped outto a quick 8-2 lead on basketsby Aidan Doyle, Griffin Mur-phy , Jack Murphy and Gon-zalez, but midway throughthe second quarter, the gamewas tied 8-8. With it 12-12, theDemons went on a 6-0 spurton baskets by Jack Murphy,who put back his own re-bound, Fontaine and Gonza-lez to lead 18-12 at the half.But a sluggish third quarterand a lone basket by JackGriffin saw Hamden tie thegame at 20-20 leading to thefateful fourth quarter.

Babe Ruthbaseball sign-ups

Babe Ruth Baseballsign-ups will be held onSaturday, Feb. 5, from 9a.m. to noon and Tuesday,Feb. 8, from 6 to 8:30 p.m. atthe Middlefield CommunityCenter for boys age 13-15.

CT BulldogsAAU Basketballtryouts

Bulldog tryouts will beon Monday, Feb. 7, at theIndependent Day Schoolin Middlefield, 115 LaurelBrook Road. Boys ages 9-11 tryout from 6 to 7 p.m.;ages 12-14 from 7 to 8 p.m.Contact Macy Watson at860-613-0051 or email [email protected] formore information.

Middletownmen’s adultsoftball league

Planning is underway forthe 2011 Middletown Men’sAdult Softball season. If youare a Durham or Middlefieldman interested in starting anew team, or have an estab-lished team that wants tojoin the league, email [email protected] details. Visit www.mid-dletownctsoftball.com.

For Sale inMiddlefield

Queen size pillowtopmatress with split boxspring, metal frame andheadboard. Paid $1,700,asking $300 or best offer.

Computerized treadmil.Paid $800, asking $150 orbest offer.

Call Laura at 860-593-0327.


1190381

DU

RH

AM

40 Main St., Durham349-0344

www.berardino.comBeautiful Views!

Huge Price Reduction! 3 bed, 2 bath raised ranch featuring an open floor plan,vaulted ceilings w/ skylights, large deck & 2 car garage. Over an acre of land offersa level back yard w/ mature plantings, privacy & wildlife. Potential to finishadditional family rm & bath. Needs work but a great value at only $229,900. CallBerardino Realtors 860-349-0344 for more information or a private showing today!

1190215

860-828-3230 (OFFICE)KEVIN ZETTERGREN

OPEN HOUSE SUN, Feb 6, 1-397 HUBBARD STREET, MIDDLEFIELD $379,900

Whisk away those winter blues and dream about summer pool fun! Private 2500 SF Colonial boasting openfloor plan - Great Room, newer Kitchen w/granite, ss appls., 3-4 Bedrooms, 2 full baths, first floor laundry, 2car attached garage, hardwd. flrs., 2 frplcs. Wonderful heated gunite pool overlooks fenced yard with hugeentertaining patio. DIR: CHERRY HILL TO HUBBARD - ACROSS FROM MEMORIAL SCHOOL!

LOOKING TO START YOUROWN BUSINESS?

Have you thought about becoming anAVON representative?

Only $10.00 start up cost. Up to 40% commission.

Call Sharon Kasek at 860-635-3038.

1187974

SUDOKUANSWER

CROSSWORDANSWER

1185116

Total Space Available: 7,500 SFRental Rate: $5.50 /SF/YearMin. Divisible: 3,600 SFProperty Type: IndustrialProperty Sub-type: WarehouseZoning Description: Enterprise zone

INDUSTRIAL SPACE FOR LEASETax and Moving Incentives!

Call: 203-317-2330 for more informationor search our listing on LoopNet.com (11 Crown Street, Meriden, CT)

1187720

Located in Meriden, CT onproperty zoned c-1, EnterpriseZone with potential tax incentives &moving expense incentives.

This 3,600 sq. ft space isexpandable into adjacent space fora total of 7,500 sq ft of space.Some of the features are coveredloading docks, 24 hour tractor traileraccess, up to 20’ ceilings, highvoltage available, office / bathroom /

security camera on site.Centrally located in downtown

Meriden, CT. Convenient access tomajor highways and railroad/busterminal. (Rt. 5, I-91, Rt. 15, Rt. 66are within a mile of location.)

Order” was for SVU, specialvictims unit, and he playedthe first suspect. The detec-tive picked him up on thestreet and brought him in,where they then had an inter-rogation scene. Barra stated,“It was quite interesting, Iworked with Ice-T, which wasgreat. We were filming out-side in Harlem, and 200 to 300people were just watching thefilming right there on thestreet. ‘Law & Order’ is kindof an iconic show so to be inthe interrogation room waspretty interesting.”After filming the episode, hesaid he received a bunch oftexts saying he was officially aNew York actor because “Law& Order” is like a rite of pas-sage. “I would love to do itagain,” Barra said, but thereis a certain period of time thatneeds to pass before an actorcan be cast as another charac-ter. Barra continued, “It hap-pens a lot. It’s great becauseit’s a reputable network showwith nine to 12 million view-ers an episode, and it is a goodresume builder. “Law & Or-der” is really great about giv-ing people their first chance.”

Barra spent the last year inMiddletown but lived thefour-and-a-half years beforethat in New York City. He ismoving back to the city onFeb. 1. Barra’s new apartmentis in Washington Heights inNorthern Harlem. He said it isreally great because the loca-tion is only a 15-minute com-mute to Times Square. He willbe moving in with a friendwho he met while attendingthe Greater Hartford Acade-my of the Arts.

The way in which accom-modations are set up for ac-tors in TV, on “Law & Order”for example. Barra explained,“For Under 5 they would haveto cast locally, so I wouldn’thave gotten the role if I wasn’t

local. For larger parts, theywould be zoned for pay forovernight accommodations,they would have paid-for trav-el and hotel if they cast out ofLA, for example.” On set theyprovided a honey wagon forhim, which is a smaller trailerwith a dressing room for theday of shooting.

Barra is currently workingon a film called, Rising Star.The movie takes place in Hart-ford, in places like the Con-necticut Science Center andthe Mark Twain House. Thefilm focuses on the life of an in-surance company worker.Barra shared, “The lead findsout what is important in life tohim; it is really relevant to thestate of the economy right now.”On Feb. 25 will be a rough cutscreening at the Mark TwainHouse, open to the public withan admission fee.

Barra also just finishedshooting the first six episodes ofa new web series called“Brosephs.” Barra describes, “Itis about three people with differ-ent personalities living in a one-bedroom apartment in Manhat-tan, and it’s like ‘It’s AlwaysSunny in Philadelphia’ meets‘The Odd Couple’.”

Another project he is work-ing on is The Awesome 80’sProm, an off Broadway theaterproduction that Barra hasbeen doing since Aug. 2007.Barra stated, “They are reallygreat about letting me do other

projects and then comingback. It’s how I joined theStage Union Equity.”

When asked what his fa-vorite has been role so far, hesaid, “That’s a hard question;the biggest thing I have everdone was the SVU role. I had ablast, and it was the biggest ex-posure. I really don’t have asingle favorite. Each role doessomething totally different. Iget to inhabit these differentworlds and play, and nextweek it will be something dif-ferent. I think that’s what at-tracts me to this career.”

Barra went on a nationaltour with Man of La Mancha,and spoke of his time, “We hadover 200 performances insomething like 45 states, and itwas cool to go to so many loca-tions and was also a careerhighlight.”

His parents and sister havealways been extremely sup-portive. Barra spoke about hisdad taking him to rehearsalsall over the state, some inHartford or East Haddam. Hesaid, “My dad would bring abook and hang out until I wasready to go home, because thelength of time it took to drive

both ways just didn’t makesense for him to drop me offand then come back to pick meup.” Barra was 16 when he hadhis first New York audition.His parents came with him,and after that, they were reallygood about letting him audi-tion. His mom and sister of-ten threw cast parties, and hesaid that at any performancehe did, there was usually atleast one member of his fami-ly in the audience. Barrasaid, “My sister came to see alleight performances of TheSeagull, that I was in at SUNYPurchase Conservatory. Theywere three hour performancesand she had to drive one hourand 15 minutes each way. Thatis very supportive!”

Living in New York City af-ter growing up in Durhamwas intimidating at first, “Icould walk into the DurhamMarket and in three aisles, Icould see 10 people that Iknew. In New York you couldreally get lost. I loved growing

up in Durham, and wouldn’tchange that at all. The artswere still a cool thing to do inDurham, but in New York youcan get to anything within a15-minute subway ride; bothhave their good points.”

The advice Barra wouldgive to young actors inRSD13 is this: “Find any op-portunity to act, be it classes,community theater, schoolplays etc. It is a craft thattakes a lot of time and effort.You may come across actingteachers who tell you theirway is the only way, butknow that it’s not. Take whatworks for you and leave therest. Find your own method.Always be open to learningnew things, and I don’t onlymean about acting. Be curi-ous about the world you livein. You never know who youmay play and what piece ofknowledge will come inhandy.”

Check out Barra’s websiteat www.michael-barra.com.

Barra (from page 7)


Health Mart®

PHARMACY

DURHAM HEALTH MART PHARMACYSale ends 2/28/11

Friendly Hometown Service Phone: (860) 349-3478FAX: (860) 349-1240

321 MAIN STREET,DURHAM, CT 06422

Monday-Friday 8:30 am-8 pm • Saturday 8:30 am-5 pm • Sunday 8:30 am-1 pm

Compare To Theraflu Compare To Robitussin

Compare To Bengay Ultra Compare To Gas-X

Additional select Bayer & Aleve items available Additional select Coricidin items available Additional select Alka-Seltzer and Phillips’ items available

Compare To

February SALE!February SALE!February SALE!

Bayer

Compare To Softsoap

Compare To Colace

SUNMARK®

ASPIRINAdult Low Dose, 81 mgOrange or Cherry Tablets,36 Count

$149

SUNMARK®

FLU RELIEF THERAPYCherry Flavor8.3 Fl. oz.

$339

SUNMARK®

TUSSINAssorted Formulas4 Fl. oz.

$329

SUNMARK®

PAIN RELIEF CREAMUltra Strength4 oz.

$499

SUNMARK®

STOOLSOFTENERSoftgels, 100 Count

$499

SUNMARK®

GAS RELIEFExtra StrengthSoftgels, 50 Count

$639

SUNMARK®

VITAMIN C500 mgTablets, 100 Count

$439

SUNMARK®

VITAMIN D31000 iuTablets, 100 Count

$739

SUNMARK®

ANTIBACTERIALLIQUID SOAP7.5 Fl. oz.

$129

BAYER ASPIRIN81 mg Low DoseEnteric Coated Tablets, 120 Count

ALEVE220 mgCoated Caplets, 50 Count

$599

CORICIDIN HBPCough & ColdTablets, 16 CountMaximum Strength FluTablets, 20 Count

$449

ALKA-SELTZEROriginalEffervescent Tablets, 36 Count

PHILLIPS’Milk of MagnesiaWild Cherry, 12 Fl. oz.

$429YourChoice

Documents

2-4-2011TownTimes