April North Central News

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FREE! Long History of Serving the Community One hundred sixty-two years of history can be found at the Somersville Post Office. By the time Abraham Lincoln was elected, the post office had already opened and served the public through four presidential administrations. The United States consisted of only 30 states when this post office first opened its doors, and for the past 15 years or so Bob Hall of Somers, left, has been among the many residents to call the Somersville post office his post office. Photo by David Butler II

Snipping, Clipping and Downloading Extreme Coupon Savings By Linda Tishler Levinson With the introduction of “Extreme Couponers” on TLC, many people are talking about the show and asking if what these shoppers accomplish is even possible. These shoppers can be seen purchasing $5,000 worth of groceries and paying around $250. Local couponers say it is possible — to a point.

In This Issue • EAST WINDSOR: Selectmen seek small budget increase ................p. 4 • EAST WINDSOR: Trolley museum opens for 71st season ........................p. 5 • ELLINGTON: High school drama club presents bullying play ........p. 9 • REGIONAL: Walkers sought for Relay for Life ............................p. 12 • ELLINGTON: Friends of Music hold first pancake breakfast..............p. 13 • ELLINGTON: Selectmen seek a 2.14% budget increase ............p. 14

Gina Juliano of Enfield runs the website Gina’s Kokopelli at www.ginaskokopelli.com, which welcomes visitors to her “manic obsession for all things coupon/free/cheap.” A former assistant principal at Weaver High School in Hartford, Juliano lost her $104,000-a-year job in June 2009. Suddenly, she was on unemployment com-

pensation bringing home $26,000 a year. Before her job loss, she and her husband, Gary McNeff, were spending $800 to $1,000 a month on food, toiletries, dog and cat supplies, and cleaning products at the grocery store. Juliano began going on the Internet looking for coupons. “There wasn’t a Connecticut-specific website,” she said.

So, she decided to start her own. “My husband thought I was nuts,” she said. McNeff was concerned that she would only be able to buy junk food or packaged items with coupons. He is a gourmet cook and does the cooking for their family, and he likes to prepare food from scratch. He wanted ingredients to cook with, not

COUPONS/page 3

• ELLINGTON: Senior center offers wide variety of programs ..........p. 17 • SOMERS: Dads & Donuts draws a crowd to the library........................p. 19 • SOMERS: Knorr will be named to Board of Selectmen ........................p. 22 • SOMERS: Local mom will chair efforts for March of Dimes ......................p. 24 • STAFFORD: Selectmen seek 4 percent increase in annual town budget ..p. 26 • EDUCATION: Honor rolls............p. 33 • AUTO: Hyundai Elantra..............p. 37 • CLASSIFIEDS:....................pp. 38-39

• NEXT ISSUE • DEADLINE: April 29, 2011 (860) 698-0020 www.thenorthcentralnews.com

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The North Central News P.O. Box 427 Somers, CT 06071 PHONE: 860.698.0020 FAX: 860.394.4262 E-MAIL: NorthCentralNews@aol.com WEBSITE: www.thenorthcentralnews.com

PUBLISHER/EDITOR Gary Carra CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Barbara Bresnahan Keith Griffin Barbra O’Boyle Linda Tishler-Levinson Deborah Stauffer PHOTOGRAPHERS David Butler II Stacey Lyn McDonald ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Gary Carra Sr. Amy Hartenstein Joan Hornbuckle CIRCULATION

Georgia Michalec PUBLISHER’S POLICY: The information presented in the North Central News is presented for your consideration and does not necessarily represent the views of the publisher or its advertisers. All information is checked for accuracy but cannot be guaranteed. Liability for errors in advertising is limited to rerun of the ad. Errors in advertising should be brought to the attention of the publisher, in writing, within seven days of publication for appropriate credit.

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People Coupons Make a Difference in Tough Times (continued from page 1) boxed, prepared foods, she said. She found that with coupons and store specials they could purchase healthy foods, including fresh foods and even some organic items. She even found an organic coupon database. “We eat lobster. We eat filet mignon. We just have to wait for it to go on sale,” she said. Today, they spend $50 or less a week on groceries. The family includes McNeff’s children on the weekends, as well as four cats and a dog. Juliano said she is able to save so much by stockpiling items when they go on sale and can be purchased using a coupon at the same time. For example, she said she buys pasta only when she can find it at a really good price, which she defines as 50 cents a box or less. When it gets to that price, she buys as much as her family can use in three to four months. To find enough coupons, Juliano buys five Sunday newspapers a week, as well as finding them online. She finds many of them on Facebook, as well as on coupon sites and the manufacturers’ own websites. She buys her toiletries at drugstores. “Grocery stores should be for groceries only,” she said. Often drugstore rewards programs allow her to get items for free. Sometimes she even gets paid to buy an item. For example, she found an item advertised at $5.99. The store would pay $5.99 through its rewards program for her to buy it. She also had a $2 off coupon. The net result is like being paid $2 to buy the item. Sometimes, she adds, she buys items she doesn’t need to get those rewards and then donates them. She then uses the rewards points to buy other toiletries her family needs, along with a coupon, of course. “It’s all free,” she said, noting the 10 to 15 bottles of dish soap she got for free, along with free laundry detergent and dishwasher detergent. She estimates that she gets three to four free tubes of toothpaste a week, donating most of that. “In 2010 I bought $11,000 worth of merchandise, but I only paid $2,200 for

Gina Juliano, of Enfield, runs the website Gina’s Kokopelli at www.ginaskok opelli.com

it,” she said. Of that, she donated $3,000 worth to charities. Melissa Johnson of East Windsor also prides herself on being an expert couponer. When her three children were at home, she said she had to find ways to save money and accommodate their growing appetites. The answer came through coupons. “I look for the best deals and the best coupons,” Johnson said. She too finds coupons both in newspapers and online, combining manufacturers’ and store coupons to get the best deals. The owner of Something Sweet, she does catering and bakes cakes, cookies and

other desserts for her customers. She also will prepare meals for her customers. Johnson said she uses coupons to help keep the cost of the ingredients down. But, she adds, she only buys what she needs with coupons. “I don’t just buy whatever for the coupon. If I buy it, I use it.” Johnson estimates that she can save $30 to $60 a week on her grocery bill using coupons. She also uses coupons for things beyond groceries, from restaurants to entertainment. She likes sites like Groupon and restaurant.com, which offer specials on restaurant meals, as well as discounts for local businesses.

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East Windsor Selectmen Seek 1.96 Percent Increase in Town Spending By Linda Tishler Levinson EAST WINDSOR — The Board of Selectmen is seeking a $13.9 million budget for the 2011-2012 fiscal year. On March 22 the selectmen presented their budget request to the Board of Finance. They are seeking the $13,941,374 spending plan, which represents a 1.96 percent or $267,839 increase over the current budget.

The largest increase in the selectmen’s budget is in the Town Government account, which would increase by $331,253 to $2,845,405, a 13.18 percent increase. The Capital Improvements budget would increase by the greatest percentage under the budget proposal. It would rise 48.49 percent to $650,035, a difference of $212,266. The greatest decreases would be in the

Pantry Participates in Feinstein Challenge EAST WINDSOR - The Five Corner Cupboard, located at the First Congregational Church of East Windsor, UCC at 124 Scantic Rd., East Windsor, is participating in the Feinstein Challenge again this year. Donations of food, cash, checks and pledges during March and April qualify for the Challenge. The more donations received, the more Feinstein money the Five Corner Cupboard will receive to help East Windsor individuals and families in need. As with other food pantries, the Cupboard is serving more and more families every month, so everything donated is greatly appreciated. Donations to the Five Corner Cupboard go directly to the recipients. With

your donation you can be a partner in the greatest grassroots campaign ever to fight hunger. Monetary donations can be sent to The Five Corner Cupboard, 124 Scantic Rd., East Windsor CT 06088. Donations of food can be brought to the Cupboard on Tuesday and Thursday mornings from 9:30 to 11 and Sunday mornings from 9:30 to noon, or call the church office at 860-654-0590 to make arrangements for donations. There are also drop boxes located at the Broad Brook Post Office, Broad Brook Books, the Warehouse Point Library, Big Y and Geissler’s (East Windsor) supermarkets, Elaine’s Pizza and various local churches.

miscellaneous account, which would be cut by $199,935 or 41.51 percent to $281,666 and Debt Service, which would be cut by $190,627 or 9.68 percent to $1,778,924. Under the selectmen’s budget proposal, the tax rate would increase 0.87 mills to 24.86. A mill represents $1 per $1,000 of assessed property value. The Board of Education also presented its budget that night. The school board is seeking a 4.77 percent budget increase to $19,726,451, a difference of $898,246. A public hearing on the budget will be

Rotary Club To Host April Fool’s Family Breakfast EAST WINDSOR - The East Windsor Rotary Club presents the April Fool’s edition Super Bowl Sunday Family Breakfast, rescheduled to Sunday, April 3, from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. at the East Windsor

High School cafeteria. Adult admission is $7; children under 7 years are free. Scrambled eggs, sausage, home fries, pancakes, fruit salad, baked breads, milk, orange juice, coffee and tea will be served.

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held at 7 p.m. April 5 at East Windsor Middle School. The Finance Board is scheduled to vote on the budget in preparation for the referendum at its April 20 meeting at 7 p.m. in Town Hall. The budget referendum is scheduled for May 10. Three 2010-2011 budget proposals were defeated in separate referendums, with the town charter provisions taking over after the third budget failed. The 2009-2010 budget with a 2 percent increase was then adopted, according to town charter provisions.

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Windsor, CT • (860) 688-4200 Chicopee, MA • (413) 533-6167 West Springfield, MA • (413) 746-2677

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East Windsor Trolley Museum Opens for its 71st Season EAST WINDSOR - The Connecticut Trolley Museum opens for its 71st year on Saturday, April 2. Pay one low fare to enjoy a three-mile round trip through the New England countryside on authentic trolley cars, ride once or all day. Enjoy a self-guided tour through the Bertinuson Visitors Center complete with trolley era displays, pictures and restored trolley cars. New inside this year is a New York, Ontario and Western bobber caboose. This car got its name from the way it would “bob” down the tracks. Its tracking was so bad that several states enacted laws prohibiting its use. Also on the grounds are a gift shop and a theater showing a short trolley-related film. Pack a picnic lunch to sit and enjoy while watching the trolleys arrive and depart from North Road Station. Included with admission is entrance into the Connecticut Fire Museum (on the same grounds) containing an impressive collection of firefighting equipment. The museum will be open Saturdays 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Sundays noon to 4:30 p.m. from opening day through June when it then opens weekdays also. It will be open during school vacation, April 1821 (closed Tuesday), from 10 a.m. to 3:30

New inside this year is a New York, Ontario and Western bobber caboose. This car got its name from the way it would “bob” down the tracks. p.m. www.ct-trolley.org or by calling 860-627Admission prices are: adults $8, seniors 6540. Group rates are available. $7, children (ages 2-12) $5 and under 2 is free. Additional information can be found at

e-mail your news to

northcentralnews@aol.com

Rotary Club to Build Accessible Playground ENFIELD - The Rotary Club of Enfield is excited to announce that it will be building an accessible playground in Enfield. The goal of this project is to create a place where children of all ages and abilities and their families can play together. The Rotary club invites interested members of the community to join the committee. Rotarian Ed Palomba is chairman of the playground committee. “I am excited to work with our club and our community to create this new space for children and families in Enfield,” Palomba said. The project was proposed by 20092010 club president Lindsey Weber. “I want our club to provide a place where families in our community can spend time together, get exercise, and enjoy the fresh air,” said Weber about her vision for the project. The club estimates that the planning, fundraising, and construction phases will take several years to complete. Representatives from the Rotary Club of Enfield are currently working alongside town officials to begin the planning process. For more information about the Rotary Club of Enfield, please visit www.enfieldctrotary.org.

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April 2011 North Central News

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ED’s Rare Coin and Jewelry Trader Buying and Selling in 2 Locations. 42 Bridge St., East Windsor, CT (860)654-0188 • (860)966-9064 174 North Main St., East Longmeadow, MA (413)525-2299 We buy and sell Old Coins, US, Canadian dian and and Foreign. Fo oreign. Stamp Collections, Silver Flatware, Jewelry, welry, Watches Watc chess and and Pocket Watches and other collectables.. We have have been been n buying for 35 years and have a large collector ollecttor base base which allows us to pay a much higher price.

Some Prices Paid (based on current market) $21 per US Dollar for Pre 1964 US Coins $300 - $2000 for Sterling Flatware Up to $1200 for pocket watches $1400 and Up for $20 gold coins. Please call or stop by 1 of our locations or call (860)966-9064 to schedule an appointment and get your best price. 6 North Central News April 2011

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East Windsor ShopRite of Enfield Earth Day Challenge 2011 ENFIELD - ShopRite of Enfield has announced sponsorships of community and nonprofit organizations for Earth Day activities through ShopRite’s Partners in Caring program ~ Earth Day Challenge. ShopRite of Enfield is locally owned and operated by the Miller family. Every year ShopRite provides local groups with trash bags, gloves, and refreshments for Earth Day cleanup projects. ShopRite of Enfield is thrilled to participate for the first time, as this is its first Earth Day since opening. The program is open to

all local organizations, and is anticipating sponsoring a record number in 2011. To enroll in the 2011 Earth Day program, which will begin on Friday, April 1, and continue through Saturday, April 30, please call 1-800-SHOPRITE and provide the following information: 1) Contact person’s name and phone number; 2) Name of organization; 3) Date of cleanup; 4) Date & time supplies will be picked up at ShopRite; 5) Number of participants; 6) Refreshments—water and cookie choice.

Enfield Loaves & Fishes Hosting Food Drive on April 9 ENFIELD - Enfield Loaves and Fishes Soup Kitchen is holding a food drive Saturday, April 9, 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. at ShopRite at 40 Hazard Ave. It is our hope to collect needed food items for Easter and future use. In 2010 we served 53,048 meals, with 27,684 of these meals being served to children. In addition, 50,341 snacks were also served to children.

Your help is greatly appreciated as “Hunger Has No Season.” On behalf of the Broad of Directors and all our guests, Enfield Loaves and Fishes extends its heartfelt gratitude to all who share in this worthwhile effort. Know that your kindness is most valuable and respected. May your generosity be increased many times over and returned to you.

Monetary gifts may be sent to Enfield Loaves & Fishes Inc. (Soup Kitchen), P.O. Box 544, Enfield, CT 06083 or through PayPal by clicking on “Donate” at www.enfieldloavesandfishes.com. During the month of April, all donations will be reported to Feinstein Foundation, which will subsequently distribute shares of the grant on a proportional basis.

Energy Assistance Program Ending for Winter Season EAST WINDSOR - The Town of East Windsor-Department of Human Services-The Energy Assistance program for the 2010/2011 winter season is coming to an end. All East Windsor residents who are in the following categories 1. Heat by Yankee Gas 2. Heat by Electric 3. Heat is included in rent 4. Have outstanding unpaid deliverable fuel bills from Nov. 1, 2010March 15, 2011 and wish to apply need to do so by April 28. Call East Windsor Human Services at 860-623-2430 for income guidelines and to schedule your appointment.

Wine and Chocolate Festival Benefits Skate Park EAST WINDSOR - A wine and chocolate festival will be held on Saturday, April 9, from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Golden Gavel, located at 149 North Rd., Route 140, East Windsor. Browse through a variety of specialty wines and tastings from some of the best in Connecticut. All tastings are free

with paid admission of $20. Designated drivers, seniors and children get a special 50 percent off discount so everyone can enjoy this fundraising event for the East Windsor BMX Skate Park. For more information or tickets, call Lori at 860-9825837.

Easter Bunny Fun Day Saturday, April 23 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Event Held Rain or Shine

A family fun filled day! Each child receives a small goodie bag, a sand art or craft to create, there is face painting and tattoos, train and bubble tables to play at and of course the Easter Bunny will be here so don’t forget your camera. You can even bring a picnic lunch to enjoy as you sit at the tables and watch the trolleys come and go. Enjoy Unlimited Trolley Rides and Touring the Teresalee Bertinuson Visitor Center and CT Fire Museum with your paid admission.

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Ellington OKP Presents ‘Where the Sun is Silent,’ a Look at Bullying ELLINGTON - Have you ever wondered if your actions or words help make the world a better place, or do you help make it worse? The Ellington High School drama club, Opening Knight Players led by William Prenetta, inspires its audiences to ask that of themselves. OKP could play it safe every year and produce happy-go-lucky productions with litN THE tle or no meaning. Some could stir emotion and some could make you laugh. But some could start such a chain reaction that you are never the same again. Taking a chance and stepping out of the norm and making their audiences think about their own actions is what Bill Prenetta and the OKP do best. On March 23 and 24 the stage was set for their original production “Where the Sun is Silent,� a play written by Prenetta and based on the life of Phoebe Prince, a young girl from Ireland who killed herself after being bullied. The play is based on fact, but he takes an entirely fictional approach to tell the story. After reading about the Prince tragedy, Prenetta researched it more and found her to be a complex young lady and was moved to write her story. “I hope I cap-

I

tured her intelligence, honor and pain,� said Prenetta. He feels bullying is a terrible problem in the schools and a play that explored this would lead to some discussion on the issue. “If we talk about it honestly, we can hopefully make schools safer for our children,� he said. I visited the students at a dress rehearsal a few days before the play and sat and with the CHOOLS chatted “bullies,� who are juniors Lyndsi Skewes and Cassie Flint and senior Kelly Stauffer. All three were still in costume and began their interview pointing out the symbolism in their costumes and characters with the book “Dante’s Inferno.� Phoebe Prince reads part of the book for a project in the play. She refers to the book throughout the production. “See my mane, it represents my character the lion,� said Stauffer, pointing to the fur on her sweater. In Dante’s story there are three animals: the lion, leopard and she-wolf. Flint played the leopard and wore a leopard headband. Skewes played the she-wolf and wore a gray shirt. All three also had some purple in their costumes, which represents power and royalty. If you watched closely during the performance you could see each girl move

S

Deborah Stauffer

Phoebe Prince, played by Kady Joy (far right), chats with her friends Meredith and Danny, played by Erin McGrath and Alec Marcus. like her animal. the part of a bully, could they understand Why animals? The girls explained that better what would bring a person to be a animals taunt and attack in packs. bully or what factors could be involved? Stauffer plays Erika, Skewes plays Jealousy and the sense of power were a Brittany, and Flint plays Mandy. All three few things mentioned. “If you can’t conare best friends in the play and each has a trol something in your life, then the power specific bully role. Stauffer’s character is of bullying gives you more control,� Flint more physical and pushes Prince around a said. “I can understand a bit, but why lot. Prince is played by senior Kady Joy. would someone’s morals take them to that Skewes plays the lead bully and doesn’t level?� Skewes adked. Stauffer said she need to say much: “I just have the look.� did not understand at all why people take Flint’s character is a bully, but a follower. their anger out on others like that. “My character is a bit ditsy,� Flint said. HIGH/page 15 The question was asked if after playing

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Paul Cincotta of Springfield, Mass., and Maureen Palizza of Vernon pose at the 2011 Greater Hartford MS Taste of Hope, held at The Society Room in downtown Hartford Thursday, Feb. 24. The pair is recently engaged. Cincotta is a seventh grade social studies teacher at Wilbraham Middle School in Wilbraham, Mass. Palizza is affiliated with Peter Wade, M.D., and Healy Macinski Rao Wade Gordon, a neurology practice in Hartford. The MS Taste of Hope event attracted more than 200 people from throughout Greater Hartford and raised more than $16,000 to help support the more than 6,000 Connecticut residents battling multiple sclerosis, a potentially debilitating disease. For more information on MS and the many ways to get involved, visit www.ctfightsMS.org.

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(860) 749-6549 10 North Central News April 2011

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Regional Home & Product Show On March 18, Enfield state Sen. John A. Kissel stopped by the grand opening of the 2011 Home & Product Show at Asnuntuck Community College. The North Central Connecticut Chamber of Commerce sponsored the March 18-20 show, which featured booths from 81 businesses in addition to six community booths. More than 2,000 people attended. Shown at the show’s ribbon cutting ceremony are, from left: Enfield Mayor Scott Kaupin, NCCCC President Sandy Zukowski, NCCCC Executive Director Kim Wiezbicki Trudeau, Sen. John Kissel, Somers First Selectman Lisa Pellegrini and Enfield Town Council member Cynthia Mangini.

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Regional Join the Cancer Society’s Relay for Life at Suffield Middle School the Relay For Life and help raise money for the American Cancer Society. The Relay For Life is a festive 24-hour event where fundraising teams meet to walk a track and continue their fundraising. The day’s events are open to the public and include food, children’s activities,

Sixth Annual Literacy Scrabble Challenge ENFIELD - The Literacy Volunteers of Northern Connecticut is hosting the sixth annual Scrabble Challenge on Thursday, April 28, from 6 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at the Holiday Inn Hotel on Bright Meadow Boulevard in Enfield as its main fundraiser for 2011. The evening will start with light appetizers, followed by a round of team Scrabble. Teams of 6-8 individuals work cooperatively on one board. Bring your own team, or let us match you up. Buying

extra letters and peeks at the dictionary will be available at a minimal cost. Prizes will be awarded to the top scoring board, as well as other special award categories. Dr. Martha McLeod, president of Asnuntuck Community College, will serve as Scrabble Challenge Master of Ceremonies. The Holiday Inn (formerly the Crowne Plaza, is the event Corporate Sponsor. For registration or event information, call Brian J. McCartney at 860-670-5455.

live bands, speakers, performers, and many opportunities to donate through the purchase of goods, auctions or raffles. The track is lined with the tents of the participating teams that are settled in to spend the night. During the Luminaria Ceremony held after sunset, the part of the event that may draw the largest crowd, the track is lined with candle-lit lanterns marked with the names of those we walk to honor or

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Ellington Friends of Music Hosts its First Pancake Breakfast Cabaret ELLINGTON - Ellington Friends of Music, the brainstorm of Ellington parent Jane Roets, presented a very musical morning on March 19. The first Pancake Breakfast Cabaret was held at the high school with more than 70 students performing. A few parents even took the stage. While the performances took place, those attending enjoyed pancakes, sausage, coffee and juice. Roets was N THE very pleased with the event, with more than 250 in attendance, and said the event will happen again next year. The Ellington Friends of Music gathered last spring with about 10 people at the first meeting and is a resurgence of a group of dedicated parents that existed years ago. There was a concern at this initial meeting about increasing budget cuts over the years. They felt music is one of the things always threatened to be cut or eliminated from the budget. As a result, they created their mission to enhance music in the schools and advocate for high quality music education programs. Once the group was formed, the members approached all the music teachers in town and asked what kind of support was needed. They decided to organize some fundraisers to supplement the resources provided to the music programs in the

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school budget. The pancake fundraiser was their first and highlighted musical talent from students in grades 4 through 12. Included in the lineup were many vocal, piano and guitar performances and even some break dancers. Students in Ellington can begin playing an instrument in fifth grade at Windermere Intermediate School under the instruction of music teachers Sharon Bigge and CHOOLS John Cheman. Bigge and Cheman not only teach music classes to children in kindergarten through sixth grade, but they also direct the bands and chorus in both fifth and sixth grade and provide music lessons for them. Over the years, as the class sizes has increased, the workload for both teachers has increased as well. “At a time when the economy dictates educational cuts in music and the arts, it is so refreshing to know that there is a group of dedicated parents and townspeople who support the creative mind,� Bigge said. Roets, who is a music teacher for preschool-age students, got the idea of the group from her sister who lives in California. There the teachers can raise funds for their music programs. “The teachers simply don’t have the time to do that here. They are already stretched,�

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Roets said. She feels that it is up to the parents and community to support the music teachers and band directors. If the music teachers and staff, especially at the elementary level, are not supported, then the students may not make it to middle school and high school with their music. The group hopes to support all the programs in town from kindergarten through grade 12. In addition to providing emotional support, the group plans to be ready to advocate for the school budget, raise funds and

provide performance opportunities for the students. Some thoughts for the future are to plan a coffee house or open mic event. Roets hopes to have a website up for the group this year. For more information on the Ellington Friends of Music or to make a donation, contact Jane Roets at JNJRoets@comcast.net.

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Ellington Proposed $13.4 Million Budget a 2.14 Percent Increase By Linda Tishler Levinson ELLINGTON — With a proposal that First Selectmen Maurice Blanchette describes as just enough to maintain town services, the Board of Selectmen on March 22 presented to the Board of Finance a $13,387,000 budget request for the 2011-2012 fiscal year. “As much as possible, it was very well received,” Blanchette said of the Board of Finance’s response to the spending plan. The proposal calls for a 2.14 percent increase or $280,631 over the current budget. Most of the increase is due to unionized contractual obligations, the first selectman said. Contracts for the town’s four employee unions come up for renegotiation within the next year. The union

covering the town’s constables expires this June, the others in June 2012. During the course of the current contracts, each of the unions took one year with no pay increases. The most significant increase in the selectmen’s budget is for resident state troopers, Blanchette said. Due to an extra pay period next year for the resident state troopers, who are paid under the state rather than the town pay schedule, that account is proposed to increase by $47,191 to $780,724, a 6.4 percent increase. The Town Clerk’s Office budget has been reduced by 5 percent from $178,249 to $169,258. The state has begun allowing towns to offer more online services, such as applications and renewals of licenses, resulting in a reduc-

tion of staff responsibilities for that office. “It’s a permanent reduction in hours,” Blanchette said. “A lot of them are being done online.” The Board of Education was scheduled to present its budget to the Board of Finance March 29. Town departments whose budgets are not included in the selectmen’s spending plan presented their budgets to the Finance Board earlier in March. A public hearing on the budget will be held at 8 p.m. April 12 at Ellington High School. Budget deliberations by the Finance Board will be held April 14 and 19. The annual Town Budget Meeting will be held at 8 p.m. May 10 at the high school. A referendum date, if needed, would be announced after that meeting.

Friends of Library Seek Donations of Material for Spring Sale and Book Cellar ELLINGTON - The Ellington Friends of Hall Memorial Library are seeking donations of books in good condition for its Spring Bag of Books Sale and for the

Book Cellar. The library is located at 93 Main St. in Ellington Center. Donations of good used books, CDs, DVDs, puzzles and audio books are accepted at the library

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whenever the library is open. The group cannot accept textbooks, magazines, condensed books, books with smoke odors or other books unsuitable for resale. Membership in the Friends of the Library is open to all and offers opportunities to support the library. The proceeds of the sale will provide programs and materials to the library that would not otherwise be available. The Friends of the Library operate a book store at the library four times week. They offer new and gently used books and

other media. The hours are Monday 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m., Thursday 2:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. to noon, and Sunday 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. For more information, please call the library at 860-870-3160.

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Ellington High School Drama Club Tells Story of Girl Targeted by Bullying (continued from page 9) I asked them if they were bullied and all three said they had been, in 6th grade. A vivid memory was shared by each one. Skewes explained there was a “hierarchy� formed in 5th grade: Those who were “popular� decided who was cool and who wasn’t. Can this type of “hierarchy� behavior lead to bullying? Skewes thinks so. Portraying bullies in “Where the Sun is Silent� has been a difficult and challenging task for Skewes, Stauffer and Flint. Because they are all good friends with Joy, it was an emotional roller coaster to be taunting and physically assaulting her. To get into character, they all had to concentrate and think of things that made them angry. Stauffer thought of the people who bullied her when she was younger. After each performance, a talk back was held where audience members had the opportunity to ask questions of the actors. They were asked if they have seen this

type of bullying at their own school. Several said yes and agreed that girls are “sneaky� and hide it very well. They also said cyber bullying happens quite frequently. An audience member asked after doing this play how many would be more apt to stand up for someone being bullied and most of the actors raised their hands. One actor said the main problem is most people, including teachers, do not want to get involved for fear of becoming a victim themselves of bullying. Erin McGrath, who played Phoebe Prince’s good friend Meredith, said she feels guilty that Phoebe killed herself. She feels Phoebe’s friends should have gone to someone. “It still bothers me. It was so preventable.� Finally, an audience member stood up and commended the students for bringing the community together on such an issue. Applause resulted. It’s quite possible many adults went home and thought of bullying memories in their own lives. Prenetta’s hope is that a dialogue will ensue from this play.

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Rosalind Wiseman, the author of “Queen Bees and Wannabes� and a bullying expert, was recently involved in a “Dateline� special where a hidden camera was placed with high school students to see what the bystander students would do if a classmate was bullied. Wiseman, who visited 5th and 6th grade Ellington students last October and spoke to parents in the evening about adolescent issues, is a strong believer in the power of bystanders. Unfortunately, a lot of bystanders, according to Wiseman, do not come forward because they don’t have confidence in the adults to do what’s right. She advises that it is never too late to speak up to a bully. There is a prevailing explanation why kids won’t come forward and that is because there is a code of silence that forbids them. No one wants to be a snitch. She thinks that while there is some truth to that, the reason for kids’ silence is because adults haven’t created an environment where kids think reporting will make the problem better instead of worse. Several of the Ellington schools have made efforts over the last year against bullying. In addition, Youth Services offers a variety of programs in school and after school addressing issues of bullying, social skills, self-esteem and leadership for elementary school students.

Aside from Rosalind Wiseman (offered by The Parent Connection), Windermere brought in Rachel’s Challenge for its 5thand 6th-grade students this past October. Rachel Scott was the first person killed at Columbine High School when two students, who apparently were bullied, went on a rampage at their high school and killed 12 students and one teacher. Rachel felt that kindness could go a long way and start a chain reaction of the same. As a result of the program, the Chain Link Club has started at Windermere to help students learn about kindness and making the world a better place. Also, Ellington Middle School has had ongoing efforts against bullying with their Free2B initiative and Ally Pole (please see article in the March issue for more information) and now Ellington High School has joined the efforts with the production of “Where the Sun is Silent.� Youth Services offers counseling services for individuals and families. You can reach them by calling 860-870-3130 or visit their website at http://youth.ellingtonct.gov. Ellington Schools’ website and OKP information can be found at www.ellingtonschools.org. Maybe Ellington has started a chain reaction.

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Ellington Lunch & Learn Programs at Senior Center Address Disability, Fall Issues ELLINGTON - It’s the early bird that catches the worm! With the welcome of spring, our Ellington Singers along with accompanist Barbara Caramante present “Spring Musicaleâ€? on Thursday, April 21, (1 p.m.) at the Ellington High School auditorium. Every year brings a beautiful collection of music. An open invitation! You are asked to bring a food donation as an entrance fee. Programs • Thursday, April 7, (12:30 p.m.) the Ellington Senior Center hosts a TRIAD Lunch & Learn program with a presentation by Rob Rodriguez on Disability Issues. • Tuesday, April 26, (noon) a Lunch & Learn program. Peter Visgillio of Integrated Rehabilitation Center in Ellington will be at the Ellington Senior Center to discuss Fall Prevention/Balance Testing. Peter has worked in the field of Physical Therapy for 25 years and has worked extensively in adaptive equipment and fall prevention. Sign-up is at the Ellington Senior Center. • Our Musical Insights program for Monday, April 11, 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. will feature Patricia Stoughton as she concludes Part III ~ Beethoven in the Classical

Period and his musical contributions. Monday, April 25’s program from 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. will feature the musical personalities of Judy Garland and Kate Smith. Carolyn Cook and Jack Cohen will collaborate on this presentation. • Attention all gardeners. The Ellington Senior Center Garden Thyme program is looking for new members to join it in caring for our beautiful flower and vegetable gardens. These gardens have been tenderly cared for year after year. We look forward to planting and seeing what blooms awaken this spring. Come join us Tuesday, April 5, (11 a.m.) for our next planed meeting at the Senior Center. • Dominos is received so well at the Senior Center that play has being expanded to 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. every Sunday afternoon at Beni’s Restaurant on Hartford Turnpike Road in Vernon. Contact the Senior Center if you have any questions at 860-870-3133. The regular time slot for Dominos is the first and third Tuesday of the month at 1 p.m. in the main room of the Ellington Senior Center. Health & Wellness • Blood Pressure clinics and Diabetic screenings continue to be held the second and fourth Tuesday of the month from 1:30

p.m. – 3 p.m. There is no charge for these services. This month’s scheduled dates are April 12 and April 26. A podiatry clinic is offered at the Ellington Senior Center the first Wednesday of every month at 9 a.m. The date is April 6. There is a charge for this procedure. Call the senior center and we will be happy to assist you. • Exercise classes are offered every Monday morning at 9:00 in the main room of the Senior Center. This is a very loyal group, under the direction of Alcyone Brennan, which continues to learn ways to stay in shape. Many of the exercises are

done while sitting in a chair. There is a charge for this class: $3 for Ellington residents and $4 for non-residents. • Tai-chi classes are offered, under the direction of Ed Evans, every Monday morning starting at 10:30 (beginners), followed at 11:30 by advanced classes. Taichi is a wonderful way to exercise, work on balance, learn to move and control your body. Come experience our Tai-chi classes. There is a charge for this class as well. It is $3 for Ellington residents and $4 for non-residents.

Become a Scantic River Streamwalk Volunteer ENFIELD - On Saturday, April 30, from 10 a.m. to noon at Powder Hollow Barn, 32 S. Maple St., Enfield, the Conservation Committee of the Scantic River Watershed Association (SRWA) will be holding an introduction and training session to become a volunteer for their Streamwalk Program. The first portion of the meeting will be an introduction to what a streamwalk entails with an opportunity to ask questions. The second part will be the actual training for those interested in participating. The river will be divided into 16 sections with teams gathering data in an

assigned section over the summer months. Completion date is Aug. 15. The Scantic River has its headwaters in Stafford and runs through the towns of Hampden, Mass., Somers, Enfield, East Windsor, and South Windsor in Connecticut. A streamwalk is an effective way to collect information on the existing physical condition of the river and streams in a given watershed. The data gathered can be used to identify impairment, resource needs, and to plan conservation measures. For more information, please contact Kirsten Martin at klab6@juno.com.

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Somers Howland Honored as Five Star Home/Auto Insurance Professional SOMERS - At a Howland & Sargent Insurance Group luncheon, state Rep. David Kiner (D-Enfield) presented an official citation from the Connecticut General Assembly to Mary Howland in recognition of her recent accomplishment. Howland was named a Five Star Home/Auto Insurance Professional in this month’s edition of Connecticut magazine. “The magazine’s recognition of Mary Howland is a testament to the values and ethics of the Howland & Sargent Group,� Kiner said. “The standard for which you have been recognized is one that you have put into practice for years, and that standard will lead to continued success in the future,� the citation says. Howland graduated from Babson College with a major in finance. After rais-

ing two children, she went into the insurance industry and worked at Howland & Sargent Insurance of Somers for the past 22 years. During that time, she has held the positions of personal lines customer service representative, office administrator, chief financial officer and partner. Mary has a high commitment to help people. She serves on several non-profit boards and is a fierce champion of her customer’s interests. She has passed all five examination requirements to hold the certified insurance service representative designation as conferred by the National Alliance for Insurance Education & Research. Rep. Kiner, who represents the 59th House District in Enfield, was invited to honor Howland at the March 4 company luncheon.

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At a Howland & Sargent Insurance Group luncheon, state Rep. David Kiner (DEnfield) presented an official citation from the Connecticut General Assembly to Mary Howland in recognition of her recent accomplishment.

Women’s Club Offering Two $1,000 Scholarships SOMERS - The Somers Women’s Club will again be offering two scholarships to high school students valued at $1,000 each. Applicants must be residents of Somers, and be accepted at an accredited two or four year college or university. The

applications will be available in the Somers High School Guidance Office. Completed applications must be received by April 30. Please mail applications and direct any questions to Fran Shaver, 6 Shady Dell Lane, Somers, CT 06071.

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Somers Dads, Donuts, Learning Combined for Fun at the Library By Barbra O’Boyle SOMERS - More than 40 dads and grandparents fully participated in the singalong songs, assisted their youngsters with pressing out Play-Doh figures, played games and enjoyed a few doughnuts along the way during the Dads and Donuts Day at the Somers Public Library on Saturday, March 12. More importantly though was the interactive time they spent with their children, aiding to stimulate their child’s educational experience at the library. The event was held to allow dads and grandfathers the opportunity to be involved with the children in their lives, along with lessons in social skills and literacy.

“We participated because I wanted to spend quality time with my son and have some doughnuts in an educational and learning environment,� Mike Clarity said. “It helps him to interact with children his same age, along with making reading fun.� “We were thrilled that so many parents signed up for the event,� said Children Librarian Marie Stromwell. “Before the library renovations, we would not have been able to allow so many to participate in the event. Now that the renovations are finished, we have a much larger children’s wing and room for more parents and children to join our events.� New to the event list is the Lego Club for children in grades 1-5. “This is a new program that combines

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At left, Ryan, 4, listens intently to the story being told at the Somers Public Library during the Dads and Donuts Day on March 12. At right, moving along with the song, Dad, Chris Castonguay plays with his children William, 4, and Carolyn, 2. literature with creativity, imagination and beginning engineering skills,� Stromwell said. “After hearing a story the children will spend time to construct a Lego project

related to the theme of the book. Then completed creations will remain on display in the children’s room until our next Lego Club meeting.�

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Somers Clyde ‘Bud’ Knorr Will Replace Tolisano on Board of Selectmen By Linda Tishler Levinson SOMERS — Republican Joseph Tolisano is leaving the Board of Selectmen, effective April 1. A member of the board since 2007, when he was appointed to fill the unexpired term of Ernest Allsup, Tolisano previously served as the town’s director of emergency management and chairman of the Civil Preparedness Advisory Council. “I’m going to miss him,� First Selectman Lisa Pellegrini said. “He was an invaluable part of the board.� The Republican Town Committee has nominated Clyde “Bud� Knorr to fill

Tolisano’s unexpired term as a selectman. A former vice-president of marketing for Anacoil Corp. of Glastonbury, where he worked for 30 years, he has managed a $67 million budget, Pellegrini said. “He’s a very good choice to assist in the strategic goals for the town of Somers,� she said. “I look forward to working with Bud in the future.� On April 1, the remaining selectmen — Pellegrini and Kathleen Devlin — will vote on the appointment. Energy-efficient lighting In conjunction with the solar energy grant, the town has installed energy-effi-

Friends of Library Spring Used Book Sale SOMERS - The Friends of the Somers Public Library will sponsor a Used Book Sale on the weekend of April 8-10. The location of the sale is again at the Somers Library located at 2 Vision Blvd. (same building, new address). The book sales are offered in the spring and fall each year. The preview is scheduled for Friday, April 8, from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. for a cost of $5. The open sale is on Saturday, April 9, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and on Sunday, April 10, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Prices for adult and children’s hardcover and paperback books will range from 25 cents to $2 with a separate section

of higher-priced books. Books will be available in a wide range of categories including fiction, literature, history, travel and more. On Sunday, all books are half price. All proceeds from the sale benefit the Somers Public Library. Parking at the library is free. The used book collection is scheduled for Saturday, April 2, from 9 a.m. to noon at the Somers Library. Donations of good used books, CDs, videos, DVDs, and audio books are accepted. For more information on the used book sale, please call the Somers Library at 860-763-3501.

“Working with people who care about trees�

cient lighting in the Department of Public Works garage. Through a Connecticut Light & Power Co. Conservation Project, the town received a $12,028 no-interest loan for the lighting improvements. The project is estimated to save the town $7,398 a year, allowing the town to

pay back the loan with the savings in three years, the first selectman said. The town is hoping to receive an additional solar energy grant. That project would pay for nearly all of the electricity needs for the public works facility, Pellegrini said.

Horizons CafÊ Returns to Somers High School SOMERS - The Somers High School Food Service and Management Program presents Horizons CafÊ, a student operated restaurant. It begins March 31, and operates each Thursday through April 28. It will be closed April 21 due to the school system’s April vacation. The students of the Somers High School Food Service Program prepare and serve such items as baked stuffed shrimp, filet mignon, and chicken francese. The cafÊ offers a pre-fixed menu for a

set price of $15 per person. The menu will include a beverage, soup, salad, and an entrÊe. Desserts are offered at an additional price. A children’s menu is also available. The restaurant, Horizons CafÊ, will be open from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. and reservations are suggested for they are limited to 75 seats per evening. Reservations may be made by calling instructor Lynn Tracy at 860-749-2270 ext. 4170. Make your reservations early.

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Somers The Somers Lions Club Welcomes Spring with a Hawaiian Luau By Barbra O’Boyle SOMERS - Though the grass outside was covered with snow, the Somers Lions Club celebrated the coming of spring with its ninth annual Spring Luau Fundraiser. Crowds of supporters dressed in flip flops, Hawaiian shirts and skirts along with colorful flowered leis and grass hats came to the event ready to welcome spring and join in on the Spring Luau festivities. “If we dress like we are experiencing warmer weather, then maybe it will come,” laughed Nick Watson. “This is a wonderful event and the money is for good causes, so putting on summer clothes in the middle of winter is not so bad.” “The annual event brings in funding that supports our community,” said Lions Club member and coordinator of the event, Tony Casciano. “The Lions Club traditionally serve the community for which they reside.” Amongst the vast array of raffle items given and purchased by the Lions Club were bottles of exclusive wines, gift cer-

tificates, grilling equipment, jewelry and gourmet foods. “Our community stores have been generous once again this year and we are thankful for their continued support,” Casciano said. “The Lions Club International is one of the world’s largest service club organizations, with more than 1.35 million members in more than 45,000 clubs worldwide,” Casciano said. “We have a long history of serving others, but we are best known for fighting blindness. We conduct vision screenings, donate equipment to hospitals and clinics as well as distribute medicine and raise awareness of eye diseases.” “We are also avid supporters of children through our scholarships, recreation and mentoring. We offer many programs including the Peace Poster Contest and Youth Camps,” Casciano said. “Within Somers we support Toys For Joy, the Seniors’ Christmas Party, Citizen of the Year, the annual Tree Lighting festivities, Visiting Nurses Association, along with

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Darlene Watson, Joyce Lowenstein, Nick Watson, Diana Nadeau and Chris Nadeau join in on the festivities at the Lions Club Spring Luau. Cub Scouts Pack 83.” Music Patrons with donations. In addition, the Lions Club also supThe next big events for the Lions Club ports Scholarships/Silver Bowls, various include the annual Somers Lions Pancake Somers school district programs, SHS Breakfast held on April 3 from 8 a.m.R&D class, SHS Students Supporting noon at the Somers High cafeteria along Students Presidential Classroom, Booster with the much sought after golf tournaClub, SHS Drama Club and the Somers ment in the spring.

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Somers Somers Mom Family Team Chair for March of Dimes CT Chapter SOMERS – Melissa Schechterle of Somers, mother of two and owner of Just Like Home Preschool and Kendall’s Closet Consignment (both in East Longmeadow, Mass.), has been named the 2011 Family Teams Chair by the March of Dimes Connecticut Chapter. In her role, Schechterle will support the fundraising efforts of family teams raising money for March for Babies on April 30 and May 1. Connecticut family teams raised more than $317,000 in 2010, helping the Chapter raise $1.1 million. Made up of friends and family members, family teams walk to celebrate, honor or remember the babies and children who

Church Sponsors Indoor ‘Big Tag Sale’ SOMERS The Somers Congregational Church will hold its annual Indoor “Big Tag Sale” from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, April 30. The church is located at 599 Main St./Route 190 near the intersection of Route 83 in Somers. There is ample parking and the tag sale will be held rain or shine. From furniture to household items to books and toys and so much more, the “Big Tag Sale” has something for everyone and continues to grow larger each year. Again this year, Beautiful Things in Somers has donated thousands of dollars in new merchandise.

have touched their lives. Everyone has his own story, but all share the same goal — stronger, healthier babies. Schechterle will work with other family team volunteers statewide to raise awareness of the March of Dimes mission, share fundraising ideas and support with walkers and communicate successes throughout the campaign. Schechterle knows the importance firsthand of the March of Dimes mission to give all babies a healthy start. Her son Cooper was born three months early, weighing 2 lbs, 9 oz. and dropped to 1 lb. 13 oz. after birth. He spent 118 days in neonatal intensive care at Baystate Medical Center and was rushed to Boston for specialized care as well. Now a happy and healthy six-year old, team “Cooper’s Mission” raised more than $10,000 in 2010 and Cooper was named the top youth walker in the state for his efforts. With support from his parents, events like “Cooper’s Crop,” a scrapbooking event, and “Cooper’s Classic,” an annual golf tournament, help raise awareness and funds for the March of Dimes. The team will also walk at March for Babies at Rentschler Field in East Hartford on May 1. “I’ve been volunteering for the March of Dimes since before I was even married

or had children of my own, for the simple reason that children are my business. Since I’ve been married and have my own family, as well as a connection to the mission through my children, Cooper and Kendall, the connection is one that has only gotten stronger,” said Schechterle. “Melissa, as owner of an early learning center, for years participated in WalkAmerica, now March for Babies. Little did she know the mission would come to impact her family so personally,” said Carrie Fuller, state director of the March of Dimes Connecticut Chapter. “Melissa is a dynamic and creative fundraiser and a wonderful choice to lead this incredible group of volunteers and walkers statewide.” Participants can register for March for Babies at www.marchofdimes.com/ct or www.marchforbabies.org. There are nine event sites statewide on April 30 and May

1 including an event at Rentschler Field in East Hartford on May 1. Registration for all events starts at 9 a.m. and walks will start at 10 a.m.

59th Annual Men’s Palm Sunday Breakfast SOMERS The Somers Congregational Church will be having its 59th annual Men’s Palm Sunday Breakfast on April 17. There will be a Communion Service starting at 7:30 a.m. in the sanctuary. All men of the community are invited to this service. After the service a breakfast, featuring scrambled eggs, ham, muffins and coffee will be served in the Foundation Room. Following the breakfast, Probate Judge Timothy R. E. Keeney will present a program on the consolidation of the court. Call the church at 860-763-4021 for more information.

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Somers ‘Arsenic and Old Lace’ Returns to Somers Village Players SOMERS - Celebrate 40 years of community theater with the Somers Village Players and “Arsenic and Old Lace” by Joseph Kesselring. It’s nostalgia all around. “Arsenic and Old Lace” opened on Broadway in 1941, shortly before the bombing of Pearl Harbor and the start of War World II. At that time some outrageous dark humor was welcome. Selected by the players as a favorite past production (1977) “Arsenic and Old Lace,” a dark comedy, stirs up many memories. This will be reflected in a black and white setting by Franc.

The show is directed by Gus Rousseau and produced by Dianne Preble. Original cast members Malcolm Chadbourne, Wendy Peterson and Shirley Warner are joined by Tyler Anderson, David Crowell, Regina Erpenback, Tim Lavery, John Le Pore, John McCone, Al Mulvey and Doug Stoyer. “Arsenic” tells the story of sweet old sisters with a penchant for relieving old gentlemen of the burdens of the world, a brother who thinks he is Teddy Roosevelt and another brother who resembles Boris Karloff. Bearing the responsibility for this

zany family is a madly-in-love nephew. This show tittilates with humor. The dinner theater will be held at Joanna’s Banquet Facilities a 145 Main St., Somersville. Evening shows are Friday, April 1, Saturday, April 2, Friday, April 8, Saturday, April 9, Friday April 15 and Saturday, April 16. A social hour is at 6 p.m. Dinner is served at 7 p.m. and the show starts at 8:15 p.m. With an entrance at the rear, the facility is handicapped accessible and has ample parking. The price is $35 and may be reserved by calling 860-749-0245. Reservations are

Wendy Peterson and Shirley Warner. required.

Somers High Drama Club Presents Rock and Roll Musical ‘Grease’ in May SOMERS - The Somers High School Drama Club, under the direction of Kathy Welch, will be performing the finger-snapping, toe-tapping, rock ‘n’ rolling musical “Grease” on Thursday, May 5, at 6 p.m.,

Friday, May 6, at 7 p.m., and two performances on Saturday, May 7, at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. at the Somers High auditorium. The book, music and lyrics were written by Jim Jacobs and Warren Casey. Set in

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the 1950s, “Grease” is a love story centered around Danny Zuko, the “cool guy” trying to reconcile his slick image with his starry-eyed feelings for Sandy, the “good girl.” Belting out such 1978 chart toppers as “Summer Nights,” “We Go Together,” “Beauty School Dropout” and “Greased Lightning,” Danny’s guys, the T-Birds, and Sandy’s gals, the Pink Ladies, sing and dance their way through Rydell High School, the Burger Palace and the TwiLight Drive-In, dealing with the timeless challenges of growing up that all teenagers face.

Tickets are $14, senior citizens and kids to grade 12 are $8, and will be available at the Somers Library on Mondays and Wednesdays from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. starting April 18, Saturdays, April 16, 23, 30, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., and Sundays, April 17 and May 1, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Buy tickets at Geissler’s supermarket in Somers on April 16 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., from any Drama Club member, or at the door one hour prior to showtime. For more information visit www.shsdramaclub.org, www.somersnow.com, or call 860-749-1992.

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Stafford Selectmen Seek 4 Percent Increase in Annual Town Budget By Linda Tishler Levinson STAFFORD — The Board of Selectmen is seeking an $11.5 million budget for the 2011-2012 fiscal year. The selectmen presented their budget to the Board of Finance March 23. The $11,505,969 budget is an increase of $450,344 or 4 percent over the current budget. The largest increase in the budget proposal is for

General Highways. Under the proposed spending plan, that line item would increase by $395,955 to $1,708,490. Police Protection would increase by $69,805 to $949,550. The Parks account would increase by $62,610 to $327,350. The Public Library account would increase by $64,315 to $511,985. Among line items that would decrease under the selectmen’s budget plan is the Assessors, whose budget would

be cut by $180,922 to $80,458. Fixed Charges would be reduced by $55,117 to $1,442,543. The budget for Stafford Family Services would be reduced by $33,480 to $345,555. Debt service would be reduced by $41,231 to $2,721,746. A public hearing on the selectmen’s budget is scheduled to be held at 7 p.m. on Monday, April 25, at the community center.

Arts Commission Presents ‘Elvis People’ STAFFORD - Few performers have had the impact of Elvis Presley, beginning with his first appearance on “The Ed Sullivan Show” in 1956. In April, Stafford Arts Commission will present a community theater production of Doug Grissom’s comedy/drama “Elvis People,” directed by Georgia Marie Michalec. Through a series of monologues and vignettes that take place during Elvis’ life and after his death, the audience will meet some of the funny and poignant characters whose lives were forever changed by the King. “Elvis People” examines both the legacy left to the American culture by a

pop music icon and the people who may have worshiped him or exploited him. The play contains some adult themes. Performances are: April 8, 9, 15 and 16 at 8 p.m. Location: Ben Muzio Town House (Old Town Hall) 221 East St. (Rte. 19), Stafford Springs. Advance ticket reservation is recommended. Ticket prices are $8 and $5. Seniors tickets are also available at the door. Additional parking is available at the Town Garage (Rte. 19) and Memorial Hall (Rte. 319) For ticket reservation or more information, please call 860-684-9500 or 860-6845211.

Practicing Rescues Stafford Fire Department No. 1 Captain Danny Carr is demonstrating how the department’s “Rescue Alive Sled” works in an ice rescue drill, as he saves First Assistant Chief Rick Hartenstein, who is playing the victim in the icy waters of Staffordville Lake on March 21. Amy Hartenstein photo

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Stafford Not Using Portable Classrooms Could Cost Town $1.14 Million To the Editor: For the last couple of months the Stafford Planning and Zoning Commission (PZC), and the Board of Selectmen (BOS) have been battling over the moving of portable classrooms from the old Borough School to a new location at the current school complex. Recently the PZC turned down a Special Use Permit and issued a Cease and Desist Order against the movement of these classrooms. At issue is whether the classrooms were moved in accordance with zoning regulations, but that is only part of the story and remains unresolved. The issue will come before the Zoning Board of appeals (ZBA) on April 7. The real story is the cost/benefit of relocating the classrooms and what is in the

best interest of the students and taxpayers of Stafford. Originally these buildings were purchased with a grant from the State with the understanding that they would be used for 10 years. They were used for two

The Board of Education (BOE) voted to use the buildings for students who now attend classes at the Old Town Hall located on Route 319 in Stafford Hollow. The cost of moving the buildings was estimat-

LETTER TO THE EDITOR years and have been vacant since 2007. The problem with letting the portables just sit lies in the terms of the grant from the State. The grant stated that the classrooms needed to be used for 10 years for educational purposes or the Town would in default of the grant restrictions, which would result in the returning of the grant money. In this case it’s approximately $83,000 based on the remaining 8 years of the grant agreement (if the grant were to be pro rated).

ed at $30,000, resulting in a savings to the taxpayers of $53,000 over returning the money to the state. The school business manager estimates that an additional saving of approximately $137,000 annually for the remaining eight years could be achieved if the buildings were to be used as classrooms for the students now attending classes at the Old Town Hall. This is a saving to the taxpayers of $1,096,000 over the eight years plus the $53,000 that wouldn’t have to be paid to the state for defaulting on the grant agreement. This totals approximately $1,149,000. Just like the Federal and State governments, the Town of Stafford is feeling the economic downturn, which has been described as the worst since the Great Depression. Because of this it appears the state is cutting funding to towns and Stafford’s funding will be cut $1,200,000. The question the taxpayers need to ask

is should we be throwing away $1,149,000 over moving these classrooms. The students will be better off and safer, the Board of Education is in favor of the classrooms, the Board of Selectmen approves, the Board of Finance approved the funds to move the buildings and there is a saving to the taxpayers of Stafford of approximately $1,149,000. You be the judge, what do you think? Leonard Clark 29 Westford Road Stafford Springs, CT 06076

School System Art Show at Library STAFFORD - The Visual Arts Department of the Stafford School System announces the All-district Art Show at the Stafford Public Library on Levinthal Run in Stafford. The artwork is a cross section of 2- and 3-dimensional artwork from Pre-K through grade 12. Art Specialists for the district are Liz Vannelli, Tannis Longmore, Amanda Fischetti and Dee Paradis. The artwork will remain on display through the end of April during the regular library business hours.

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Stafford Zumba For A Cause Attendees of the “Party Hearty� Zumbathon held on Friday, March 11, at the Johnson Memorial Community Medical Education Center in Stafford. Seventy-five percent of the ticket fee was donated, raising $1,117 to benefit the American Heart Association. Amy Hartenstein photo

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Stafford

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Stafford Savings Gives to Scholarship Foundation Mike Muzio, left, president of Stafford Savings Bank, presents Gary Shearer, president of Citizens’ Scholarship Foundation of Stafford, with a $10,000 donation. Stafford Savings Bank has supported the scholarship foundation since its inception in 1962. The foundation has awarded more than $1,000,000 to more than 1,000 local students helping them pursue their educational dreams. Photo by Krista Hicks

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STAFFORD – The Stafford Arts Commission’s final Coffee House evening for the 2010-2011 series will be on Sunday, April 24. Sandy Bailey will play from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. Her music and writing style have been described as “sweet, rich and smooth,� showing the influence of her formative years singing gospel music and her soulful upbringing. Since her first album release last spring, Sandy has played with some of Western Massachusetts’ most respected musicians. Dan Labich will be back at the Coffee House series again, from 8 p.m.-9 p.m., this time going solo. Regulars to Arts Commission events will remember Dan as vocalist and rhythm guitarist with the dynamic group “King for a Day� at both the Coffee House and Summer Concert series. With his background of rock, pop and

blues, this promises to be an hour of great American roots music, with the added bonus of Dan’s dynamic personality and infectious good humor. The Coffee House is located at the Ben Muzio Town House (Old Town Hall), 221 East St. (Rte. 19), Stafford Springs. The Arts Commission’s last Open Mike Night in the current series will be on April 24 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m., also located at the Old Town Hall. Musicians and spoken word artists are invited to present their work to an appreciative audience. Additional parking for these free events is available at the Town Garage (Rte. 19) and Memorial Hall (Rte. 319). Please consider donating a non-perishable food item to Stafford’s Food Bank. Thank you to all Coffee House audience members for previous donations. For more information, call 860-6849500.

Bunny Bash at Staffordville School STAFFORD - Inviting all families! On Saturday, April 9, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Staffordville School PTO is hosting a “Bunny Bash.� Come visit the Easter Bunny to have your picture taken or shop at one of the local crafters tables. There will be craft areas for the kids and baked

goods to purchase, with all proceeds to benefit Staffordville School. The PTO is collecting canned food for Stafford’s Safenet Ministries as an entry donation fee. For additional information, and for anyone interested in vending, please call Jennifer at 860-684-5194.

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Stafford Safe Net Food Cupboard Taking Part in Feinstein Challenge STAFFORD - The Safe Net Ministries Food Cupboard at 86 Main St., Stafford Springs, is participating in the 14th annual Alan Shawn Feinstein Challenge during April. Donations during this time period will count toward a tally of receipts sent to The Feinstein Foundation in Cranston, R.I. Alan Feinstein donates his own $1 million

back to volunteer agencies such as Safe Net Ministries Food Cupboard. Donors will be a partner with The Feinstein Foundation in the most successful effort to fight hunger, throughout the United States, for all time. As a non-profit federal taxexempt organization, Safe Net Ministries Food Cupboard is eligible to participate in this challenge.

“Bonsai 101� Workshop STAFFORD - Following on from the Art of Bonsai presentation in March, Stafford Arts Commission is offering a free, hands-on workshop – “Bonsai 101� with Bonsai Master Victor Eng. Workshop date is April 29 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Ben Muzio Town House (Old Town Hall), 221 East St., (Rt. 19) Stafford Springs. All necessary materials,

including a choice of plants, tools and Bonsai container will be provided. (Participants might wish to bring their own gardening gloves.) Additional parking for the Old Town Hall is available at the Town Garage (Rt. 19) and Memorial Hall (Rt. 319). For registration and information, call 860-6843049.

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whelming. Donating to this worthy cause this month will further increase the group’s ability to give to the community. A special drop-off date for food staples has been set: Sunday, April 17, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. You may call 860-851-9987 to drop off food at other times. Please mail money donations to Safe Net Ministries, Inc., PO Box 93, Stafford Springs, CT 07076. Please note: Feinstein Challenge on your check.

Clay Face Doll Workshop STAFFORD - The Stafford Arts Commission is offering a free clay face doll workshop on April 23 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. This second doll workshop will again be under the guidance of Pat Gardiner and will be an opportunity to create a unique standing guardian doll with a polymer clay mask and fabric body, using color crayons and fabric pens for decorative effects. All materials will be supplied. There will be a 30-minute lunch break. Location:

Ben Muzio Town House (Old Town Hall) 221 East St. (Rt. 19) Stafford Springs. Additional parking is available at the Town Garage (Rt. 19). For registration, call 860-684-5211.

Car Wash and Tag Sale STAFFORD - There will be a Girl Scout Car Wash/Tag Sale fundraiser on April 30 in the Stafford Town Hall parking lot. Stop in and support these young girls.

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Stafford Methodist Women’s Group Annual Egg Hunt

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STAFFORD - The Women’s Group of the First United Methodist Church in Stafford Springs will host its annual Easter Egg Hunt on Saturday, April 23, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. This fun event is for children of all ages, including those in the 6th grade. Food, coloring, a jelly bean guessing

contest, stories, and a visit from a “very special bunny� are all included in this exciting time for all. Come help us celebrate this blessed time of year. The church is located at 8 Church St. in Stafford Springs. Please call the church office at 860-684-2468 with any questions.

Common Grounds Rotary Garden Opening Day ENFIELD - The Common Grounds Rotary Garden will be celebrating the opening of the 2011 planting season on Opening Day, April 16. Typically celebrated in conjunction with Earth Day, the date is pushed up this year to avoid the Easter holiday. The group will be planting spring crops, cleaning up the area around the garden and building support of environmental initiatives through educational outreach. The celebration brings together diverse

segments of the population to celebrate our common home. Early registration for Sunny Patch Kids, the children’s program, will also take place. Volunteers are welcome to come lend a hand – no experience needed. The opening day activities are located at 299 Elm St. in Enfield. Common Grounds is located behind the Senior Center and adjacent to the Enfield Police Department.

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Education Second Quarter Ellington High School Honor Roll Announced ELLINGTON – The following students have been named to the honor roll for the second quarter at Ellington High School, according to a list provided by the school. Grade 9 High Honors Spencer LeBel, Amy McDonnell, Douglas Parent, Nicholas Pigeon, Erin Schirra, Sailesh Simhadri, Rachel Wardrop, Rachel Ziter Grade 9 Honors Alexis Amundarain, Samantha Anthony, Benjamin Bahler, Austin Binkowski, Courtney Binkowski, Jordan Brndiar, Leah Cawthorn, Jamie Choate, Winston Chow, Elizabeth Collin, Megan Crane, Aubrey Cycenas, Timothy Daigle, Tyler Daly, Alissa DelPiano, Sarah DiResta, Elisha Feenstra, Brian Fitzsimons, Julia Gillis, Kevin Gilson, Zachary Greco, Jami Keroack, Rosanna Macchiarella, Nathan Marcus, Kimberly McCoy, Erin McGrath, Alexia Merkouriou, Delani Oliver, Brandon Pho, Jennifer Potamianos, Trevor Printy, Katherine Quinn, Katie Remenik, Kelly Savage, Amanda Savino, Nicholas Schipper, Christian Schneider, Lanae Schneider, Laura Schneider, Katherine Stabinsky, Melanie Stone, John Vogel, Alexander Wachter, Yutao Wang, Brittany Yates Grade 10 High Honors Margo Bailey, Julie Bezanson, Andrew Cohen, Blaire Herter, Hannah Kogut,

Alexandra Larew, Justin Nicoletti, Andrew Parker, Carissa Raver, Ann Sawamura, Carolyn Schafer, Anna Schofer, Ann Skorulski, Kevin Stein, Kiara Stone, Joseph Taft Honors Kevin Arbeiter, Jessica Baker, David Cohen, Amanda Conti, Lisa DeConti, Olivia DeForge, Angelina DiBacco, Shelby Dorman, Joshua Feldman, Kiera Forstell, Benjamin Friedman, Renee Gayton, Leah Gerber, Alexis Gilliland, Devin Goldsnider, Robert Gosselin, Sarah Gosselin, Justin Graziani, Janna Grinaski, Keri Halloran, Kayla Hickman, Taylor Hildebrand, Heidi Hoffman, Amy Hornish, Jennifer Hulstein, Neal Hulstein, Neal Janiga, Karli King, Bailey Krasinski, Luke LaBranche, Ryan Lagan, Allison Lee, Brittany Lemire, Aaron Lickwar, Emily Lorenzet, John Mackintosh, Jessica Malone, Max Marholin, Courtney Matthews, William McAllister, Leah McCarthy, Gabriella McGuirl, Shannon McIlrath, Jonathan McPartland, Carly Moody, Lauren Motuzick, Zachary Palmer, Kaitlyn Powers, Mechelle Prouty, Margaret Quinn, Hannah Riley, Alissa Rogers, Gabriella Rubino, Sophia Rubino, Thomas Sack, Christopher Savona, Robert Schiessl, Kayla Sgarlata, Tiffany Simkewicz, Kristyn Stauffer, Allison Steinmetz, Nathan Sumislaski, Austin Tautkus, Benjamin Tempelman, Rachel

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Tshonas, Madeline Varney, Taylor Welti, Ashley Wilkos, Evan Willis Grade 11 High Honors Kathryn Angelica, Oliviana Bailey, Elizabeth Bedson, Michael Cleary, Emily Cohen, Katherine Deforge, Ryan DeLand, Jessie Donnelly, Jennifer Gentile, Austin Heffernan, Kristen Joyse, Courtney McGowan, Nishant Patel, Jeffrey Patrick, Catherine Payzant, Alexandra Stephan, Travis Wallace, Taylor Woronecki, Jessie Zwiesler Grade 11 Honors Nicole Angelica, Michael Bahler, Robert Bahler, Amanda Bellezza, Adam Betz, Nicholas Binkowski, Briana Bogrette, Haley Brown, Katherine Chamberlin, Chelsea Champ, Kelly Conley, Todd Costello, Heather Davis, Mitchell DiResta, Cayla Dixon, Erica Feenstra, Monica Ferrara, Andrew Fidanza, Cassandra Flint, Deborah Galat,

Emma Gardner, Josie Gerber, Alyssa Gilson, Justin Gottier, Robert Gworek, Rachel Hardy, Robert Herold, Samuel Kim, John Kloter, Kayla Knudson, Joseph Korzeb, Savannah Kresge, Meredith Kuraska, Matthew Lechkun, Benjamin Lorenzet, Meaghan Maguire, Matthew Mashayekhi, Joshua McCoy, Rebecca Moser, Garrett Palmer, Katrina Parker, Kasey Pekala, John Potkaj, Shea Riley, Cali Russell, Jacob Schneider, Jessica Shackway, Justin Skee, Lyndsi Skewes, Alexander Smith, Nicole Spada, Kevin Stabinsky, Venessa Steinmetz-Samuel, Christopher Tedone, Michael Thibodeau, Brian Tiedt, Zachary Topor, Sierra Unsworth, Holly Van Wyck, Tyler Vanagas, Talia Vazquez, Victor Viega, Mackenzie Whiting, Michaela Whiting, Robert Wyse, John Ziomek

ELLINGTON/page 35

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Education Somers High School Announces Its Second Quarter Honor Roll SOMERS – The following students were named to the second quarter honor roll at Somers High School, according to a list provided by the school. 9th Grade High Honors Brianna Allard Mitchell Anderson Stephen Bosomworth Kimberly Cisco Christopher DeGray Julianne Folger Kaitlin Gagne Caroline Gamble Samantha Gay Christine Goss Megan Guerrette Dominique Herbert Emily Jewell Kevin Laurita Amanda Lefemine

Anthony Mottolese Allison Nowak Kaitlyn Prucker Chelsea Quint Helena Rheault Amanda Roberts Brian Rossini Brandon Scanlon Anna Sibilia Lindsey Socha Jessica Trusch Wyatt VanFossan Lauren VanFossan Andrew Vibberts Kara Williams 9th Grade Honors Carley Ballard Marc Beaulieu Lauren Buettner Erika Bushey Melody Bych Michael Casciano Christopher Eastwood

Jessica Felch Austin Ficara Sarah Hayowyk Selena Hinkel Matthew Kopec Kathryn LaVallee Caitlin Leale Krista Lockyer Ryan Lynch Rebecca Novak Diana Porter Jessalyn Samson Victoria-Lynn Smith Rachel Smithline Kristen Steidler Emily Teel Olivia Tyler MacKenna Wysocki

Jane Chesley Dominic DeFilipi Priya Deonarine Christa Drummey Nicholas Elia Mark Erwin Nicole Gay Jennifer Jablonski Evan Koehler Laila Mai-Nguyen Sarah McCollum Connor Mitchell Kathryn O’Connor Colleen Regan John Rockett Cayla Rossini Kayla Savage Karen Trescott

10th Grade High Honors Kristine Aikins Gabrielle Bernier Joshua Caswell

10th Grade Honors Luke Alvaro Robert Baumann Mark Ceppetelli

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Nicholas Coleman Brendan Coverdill Ryan DeAdder Morgan DiBacco Katelyn Fawthrop Marisa Forti Samantha French Cameron Guerette Elizabeth Harland Christopher Higgins Zachary Iadarola Jacob Kalinowski Paige LaDue Rachel Mancini Julianna Masamery Brian McDuffee Jessica Minikowski Jennifer Mongillo Kylen O’Hearn Jessica Olynciw Sachin Panchal Emma Panto Cody Roy

Julianna Samson Kelsey Sloan Zachary Szymko Danielle Turley Jenna Varnauskas Nick Zachary 11th Grade High Honors Amanda Archambault Kaitlyn Boggio Sean Coverdill Kelly Egan Marissa Fragomeni Teresa Garlick Ryan Geib Evan Hayowyk Melissa Kloter Taylor Leaska Connor Lockyer

SOMERS/page 35

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Education Somers High School Honor Roll Announced for 2nd Quarter (continued from p. 34) Katie Loughrey Heather MacLauchlan Nicholle Maille Krista Morello Caitlin Moriarty Katherine Morton Jason Moustafa Sabrina Okun Jacqueline Schober Yuan yuan Shi Marta Stenz Kyle Sullivan Victoria Vendetta Karisa Welch Kiernan Wyllie 11th Grade Honors Jake Alvaro

Mackenzie Anderson Brian Belcher Emma Blauvelt John Cardwell Sara Crisafi Angela DiLorenzo Joseph Felix Mette Gaardsvig William Gallagher Alex Geas Thomas Gorski Kaylee Gosselin Brianna Guite Emma Hannan Alexander Killoh Magdalena Kruzel Victoria LaVallee Ryan Mailhot Michael Marsters Samuel Moser

Kayla Mountford Allyssa Norton Connor O’Grady Alana Petkis Ashley Ricard Kevin Roberts Sylvia Szleszynski Emily Vanasse Emily Vecchiarelli Deion Yard 12th Grade High Honors Kaylee Alberti Matthew Benoit Michael Benoit Arianna Bliss Andrea Braica Georgia Burke Neil Cardwell

Brian Coope Madeline Dawson Aaron Elman Kelsey Falcone Tricia Galinski Kyle Gaskell Thomas Gay Christopher Giza Julia Glybin Brianna Herbert Ashley Kinney Sara Laplante Justin Liquori Marissa Lucey Christopher Mashiak Jo-Ann Meunier Megan Mitchell Daniel O’Grady Austin Portal Molly Regan

Kelsey Richards Rosemary Richi Brandon Roberts Mary Rockett Siobhan Ryan Amanda Smith Kathryn Squillace Matthew Traceski Ashley Wright Samantha Zawistowski

Adam Guerrette Annette Hailer Kevin Huang Shaelyn Killoh Shelby LaDue Jennifer Lam Matthew Lynch Catherine Machnicki Lee-Ann Percoski Melissa Perry Elizabeth Poitras Andrea Reutter Cody Rush Millicent Sawtelle Kayla Stetson Brandon Stinson Andrew Thomas Zachary Thresher Madison Zachary

12th Grade Honors Quinn Aslin Courtney Blewett Kristen Conley Amanda Connor Patrick Drohr Morgan Falcone Olivia Fenton Madeline Folsom Linzi Furnari Taylor Geas

Ellington High School Second Quarter Honor Roll Students Named (continued from page 33) Grade 12 High Honors Lauren Arbeiter, Emily Baker, Sarah Bedford, Danielle DeCarli, Krystal Fraser, Ian Grinaski, Matthew Janiga, Kady Joy, Meghan Kacmarcik, Bhrighde Kehoe, Samantha King, Zachary Kraus, Kevin Lapointe, Nicholas Larew, Michele Macchiarella, Brian Malone, Justin Markowski, Morgan McPartland, Sarah Nolan, Brittany Rhodes, Joanna

Schneider, Casey Settle, Samuel Sirag, Sarah Smith, Natalie Snow, Christine Spartz, Heather Walters, Christopher Wing, Ying Ye Grade 12 Honors Kirsten Anderson, Sara Arbelaez, William Baker, Rachel Ballasy, Sydney Bassett-Wooley, William Beaudry, Nina Betancourt, Christopher Bruno, Marc Castonguay, Alyssa Chase, Alexandria Clemson, Meaghan-Rose Costello, Dakota D’Achiardi, Angela Daigle, Joanna

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Auto All-New 2011 Hyundai Elantra Bring Compacts to New Level The 2011 Hyundai Elantra is a compact warming up your car when you have heatcar that people have almost unrealistic ed seats because you’re more willing to expectations for while forgetting one key just get in and go. Now, every passenger in fact: It’s a $17,080 sedan that’s going to your car can have that feature for about match a lot of sedans much more expen- $18,500 delivered. sive in ride, performance and handling. Not to sound too much like a salesman, Just a couple of years ago, but the luxury doesn’t stop people had low expectations there. The 2011 Elantra also for Hyundai. Had this Elantra comes with leather seating surbeen introduced before the allfaces, side repeater mirrors (or new Sonata, the skies would mirrors with turn signals built BEHIND have opened and the selfin) and a Bluetooth hands-free The Wheel important automotive media phone system with voice gods would have shone a recognition. Folks, that’s just bright light upon it and proridiculous for a compact sedan claimed “Hallelujah!” Instead, that costs about $20,000 delivKEITH GRIFFIN there is almost a sense of ered. ennui among some of my OK, some of the less mathcompatriots as in, “This all you got?” challenged reading this may have noticed a Seriously folks? It’s a compact sedan jump around in numbers. Yes, the Elantra that offers more interior space than a does swing in price from a $14,830 model Volkswagen CC, Acura TSX, and a Nissan with six-speed manual transmission that Maxima. Not the Altima – it has more you’re probably only going to find in low, room than the Maxima when you combine low demand up to a $21,980 Limited passenger and cargo space. Premium that has bells and whistles like It’s a $17,080 sedan that, as part of a optional proximity key entry with elec$600 preferred equipment package, offers tronic push button start (a true automotive heated front seats [a yawn goes up] and luxury that has trickled down to the massheated rear seats. A collective sputter can es), a navigation system with 7-inch screen be heard. That’s right. For the first time and rearview camera. under $20,000, your rear-seat passengers With all this discussion of price, I have can bask in full-body warmth. overlooked one important thing: ride. I There’s an unintended fuel-economy spent time driving a base Hyundai Elantra benefit to heated seats. You waste less fuel with six-speed manual transmission model

PEOPLE’S AUTO AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR (Foreign Car Specialists)

The 2011 Hyundai Elantra gets 40 mpg, seats two adults and three children comfortably, and costs less than $20,000 pretty fully loaded. Photo © Hyundai around Philadelphia and up to Valley need to walk into a dealership and ask for Forge and back. Some have complained any Elantra to get 40 mpg highway. about the steering not being responsive but (For the latest new car news, follow me I didn’t find that to be true for a $16,080 on Twitter at aboutusedcars. You can also sedan (the model I was driving). The ride read the latest automotive news at was quiet even over some cobblestone TorqueNews.com, where I am a contriburoads thanks to sound deadening improve- tor, or learn about buying and selling a ments. used car at UsedCars.About.com.) The 2011 Hyundai Elantra is powered by a 1.8-liter, aluminum block, four-cylin- VITAL STATISTICS der engine that delivers 148 horsepower at Wheelbase: 106.3 inches 6500 rpm with 131 lb. ft. of torque at 4700 Length: 178.3 inches rpm. Is it going to rocket you down the Width: 69.9 inches road? No, but it is going to deliver ade- Height: 56.6 inches quate performance with, here’s the kicker, Curb weight: 2820 lbs. 40 mpg on the highway. Engine: 1.8-liter, four-cylinder That’s right. In true cliché style, I saved Horsepower: 148 hp @ 6500 rpm the best for last. The Hyundai Elantra, in Torque: 131 @ 4700 rpm all trim levels, from $14,080 to $21,600, EPA estimated mpg city/highway: 29/40 gets you 40 mpg on the highway (and 29 Base price: $14,830 mpg city). There’s no need to buy a special As-tested price: $16,080 eco model like you need to do with the Also consider: (a comparative vehicle) Chevy Cruze or the Ford Focus. You just Ford Focus, Chevy Cruze, Chrysler 200

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FA X : ( 8 6 0 ) 7 6 4 - 3 6 4 4 April 2011 North Central News

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Classifieds ClarissaĘźs Clay

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Tile Rite COMPLETE BATHROOM & KITCHEN REMODELING 38 North Central News April 2011

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40 North Central News April 2011

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