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FREE
‘It’s been an honor to serve’
Guide INSIDE!
Chamber director steps down; an open letter from Mike Vezzola By Mike Vezzola
To our dedicated members, volunteers and local leaders: Earlier this month with a heavy heart I informed our Board of Directors that I would be submitting my resig-
VEZZOLA/page 41
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Mike Vezzola Photo by Gary Carra
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2 North Central News February 2020
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INDOOR FUN FOR EVERYONE! • Arcade • Carousel • Mini Bowling • Laser Tag • Carousel Cantina • Free Live Music
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February 2020 North Central News
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YOU DON’T HAVE TO BE A VIKING TO THROW AN AXE.
Grand Opening January 17th 6:30-8:30 pm
The storied Norse warriors may be intimidating, but throwing axes is anything but. We’ll help you get comfortable and having fun before you know it. And we have plenty of other activities, too — all designed to bring your friends together for a truly “axe-hilarating” experience.
We have snack items for sale and both non-alcoholic drinks and beer/wine.
4 North Central News February 2020
Great for ages 10 and up
Now Open! Odin’s Keep Axe House 630 Enfield St , Enfield CT
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Reserve your time to throw at www.odinskeepaxehouse.com
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North Central Publishing dba
P. O. Box 427, Somers, CT 06071 Phone: 860.698.0020
860.394.4262: FAX NorthCentralNews@aol.com
Email:
We are a free, monthly publication that is direct mailed to just under 45,000 mailboxes in East Windsor, Ellington, Enfield, Somers, Stafford and Suffield, Conn. We are also available at more than 100 high traffic locales throughout Vernon and Windsor Locks for free pick up. The North Central News was created in June of 2002 and continues to be both family-owned and locally operated. Publisher/Editor
Gary Carra Assistant To The Publisher
Jen Phillips Account Executives
Gary Carra Sr. Joan Hornbuckle (860) 805-1310 Contributer Writers
Laura B. Hayden Deborah Stauffer Commu Comm Communi Com Commun Community Communit Co O Ou Out Outr Outre Outrea Outreac Outreach
Joshua Torres Photographers
David Butler II Kayla Bonanno Circulation
Kathleen Pelizari Publishers Policy
(& other V-Day Tips for all you Procrastinating Casanovas)
By Gary Carra Welcome back to Random Raven, the column that aspires to be no less A strolling German Oom-Pah band adds some upbeat audio - and spurs several than your complete entertainment itinspontaneous “everyone stand up sing-a-longs”- at the Student Prince’s annual erary on a month-to-month basis. Hunter’s Dinner in Springfield. Photo by Gary Carra Kicking things off this installment...those “game” for a unique deer and the antelope...as well as bison, room for the flaming dessert, too! assortment of exotic edibles may want Mako shark and of course, frog’s legs. Tix are $70 per person and sell out to consider a short trek up I-91 North to An insider tip - make sure you save fast. To obtain yours, kindly point your Springfield’s storied Student browser to studentprince.com Prince/Fort Restaurant. True, How Sweet It Is the historic eatery is roundly Not sure if your significant other considered to be an area would be game for such exotic editreasure worth a stop any bles? Perhaps an assault on the sweet time of the year. But for the tooth is in order. month of February, the If so, Enfield’s own R Dee Winery Prince answers the call of the on Hazard Avenue has the perfect prewild in the form of “Game scription - pairing their stellar wines Month.” That means a spewith a lesson in designing (and concial ‘Wild Game’ lunch and suming, of course) a dark chocolate dinner menu every night. sweet and savory board on Thursday, And on select nights, includFeb. 20 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. ing Feb. 18 and 27 this year “Not only will you get incredible to be exact, the celebrated, In addition to primo vino and delectable edibles, food and a platter to take home,” they six-course “Hunter’s Dinner.” Miss America herself (flanked by NCN’s Jen Phillips note, “but you will also learn the This is literally the time and Publisher Gary Carra), Camille Schrier, graced skills you need to pull together a when the Chefs play with the Mohegan Sun with her newly crowned presence durdecadent platter for a future date ing the annual Sunwine Fest on Jan. 25. night or dessert party.” General admission tickets are $70, couples passes $95 and each admission includes one glass of wine. To purchase or discover more, find the event via the winery’s Facebook page, facebook.com/rdeewinery
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CLOSED MONDAYS • Tues, Wed, Thurs and Fri 10:30am-7pm • Sat 10am-7pm • Sun 11am-5pm
Somers’ Own Summer’s High Opens for Saving Abel Feb. 22 Last but not least, yours truly, your friendly neighborhood Raven, will utilize the occasion of his birthday, Feb. 22, to reuinte with some old chums and dust off his trusty guitar when my band, Summer’s High, opens for national notables Saving Abel at The Still on Springfield Street in Agawam. Other support acts include Reverend Dan & The Dirty Catechism, Odds of Eden. For more information, see the advertisement on page 13, this issue!
February 2020 North Central News
The information presented in the North Central News is presented for your consideration and does not neccssarily 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.
Random Raven Student Prince Got ‘Game’
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Drone Day & Open Cockpits Saturday Saturday, February 15th,
from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Specialists in Drone Technology will be presenting at 11:00 am and 1:00pm. Marily Pearson, Aviation Safety Inspector for the FAA, and Jason Otrin, owner/operator of On Course Drones will discuss; rules and regulations for recreational drone owners, and drone technology today. WWII Target Drones and Engines will be on display along with Recreational and Professional Use Drones for our guests to see up close. These demonstrations and programs are included in general admission. Select aircraft will be open for visitors including the WWII era Republic P-47D, the Vietnam War era Bell UH-1B “Huey” helicopter, as well as supersonic jet fighter the North American F-100 Super Sabre jet fighter. The New England Air Museum is open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Memorial Day through Labor Day. Closed on Mondays during the winter season. Admission is $16.00 for ages 15 to 64, $14.00 for seniors 65 and up and $10.00 for ages 4 to 14. New England Air Museum members and children under 3 are admitted free. Discounted admission is available for veterans and active duty military personnel.
36 Perimeter Road (o Route 75) Windsor Locks, CT
For more information, visit www.neam.org or call (860) 623-3305. The New England Air Museum is located in Windsor Locks, Conn. adjacent to Bradley International Airport. Take I-91 north or south to CT. exit 40 (Route 20) to Route 75 north.
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Valentine’s Day 6 North Central News February 2020
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East Windsor
Striving for an open-door policy First Selectman’s Corner
Jason Bowsza
EAST WINDSOR — Since taking office, establishing an open door and an ongoing dialogue with East Windsor’s business community has been a priority of
mine. Working with the East Windsor Chamber of Commerce, I’ve visited a crosssection of East Windsor’s business community. The philosophy around these visits is simple: to grow the business community, the town needs to have a clear understanding of the good aspects of doing business in East Windsor, and address head on those things that we can be doing better. I have sought to create a truly open door relationship with business in town. East Windsor is ideally located in the dead center of New England’s Knowledge Corridor, with two highway exits that provide easy access to our business community. And, we’re only a
short drive away from Connecticut’s only international airport. Our tax rate is comparable to or lower than our surrounding towns. In short, East Windsor is primed for economic activity, and we are making every effort to spread the word that we are open for business. East Windsor’s five villages have a historic charm about them that makes each of them unique. Some business owners have pointed to this uniqueness as a major factor in generating the opportunities they need to succeed. In Broad Brook Center, Merlot on the Water and the Broad Brook Opera House have emerged as bucolic venues for formal events. In Warehouse Point, Geissler’s Supermarket has spent decades employing many people who live within walking distance of the store, inspiring years of employee loyalty. As a general governing philosophy, I believe government is a customer-service industry, and in customer service there is always room to improve. To that end, in the coming weeks the
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Summer staff needed
EAST WINDSOR — The Parks and Recreation Department is hiring summer staff. Open positions include: camp director, assistant camp director, camp counselors, swim instructors, lifeguards, and gatehouse and snack bar personnel. Applications available at www.EastWindsorRec.com or www.eastwindsor-ct.gov/ and can be mailed to 25 School St., East Windsor, CT 06088. For details, call (860) 627-6662.
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town will be re-examining our processes to determine how we can reduce or eliminate pinch points that hinder business growth. We’ll be providing opportunities for pre-application meetings with prospective businesses, so that town staff and new businesses have a clear understanding of each other’s needs and priorities as the process begins, hopefully reducing some of the frustrations that can occur when trying to start a business. East Windsor has a lot to be proud of in our business community, but we will only continue to grow new development and best serve our existing businesses – and our taxpayers – if we are willing to review our practices continuously to ensure that we remain competitive and welcoming. Ours is a community with tremendous potential, and our best days are ahead.
EAST WINDSOR — The East Windsor Athletic Club is looking for nominees for the Class of 2020 Hall of Fame. Do you know someone that should be inducted? Nomination forms can be found at www.EastWindsorRec.com and mailed to: Melissa Maltese, c/o Parks and Recreation, 25 School Street, East Windsor, CT 06088. Nominations are due by Feb. 28. For details, call Maltese at (860) 627-6662.
February 2020 North Central News
Always A Sell Out! Includes Quincy Sun. Market March 22 Join us for a wonderful day at this unique dinner theatre in Newport
Culinary Institute in NY Tue. April 14
In short, East Windsor is primed for economic activity, and we are making every effort to spread the word that we are open for business.
Nominees sought for Hall of Fame
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East Windsor
Flower Show trip among events in bloom for Senior Center
EAST WINDSOR — The East Windsor Senior Center, 125 Main St., Broad Brook, is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. The Senior Center will be closed Monday, Feb. 17, for Presidents Day. Sign up for the following programs at the Senior Center or call (860) 2928262.
Events and programs Book Club: “Lisette’s List” by Susan Vreeland, Feb. 24, 10:30 a.m. AARP Tax Assistance: Mondays , 9 a.m. to noon. Call Senior Center to schedule an appointment. Heart Health Sponsored by Brookdale Senior Living: Feb. 18, 12:30 p.m., free. Trip to Connecticut Flower and Garden Show: Feb. 20, 9:30 a.m. Fat Tuesday Celebration: No CRT
lunch, Feb. 25, noon. February Birthday Social Featuring Ashly Cruz: Feb. 27; sign up by Feb. 24, entertainment begins at 12:30 p.m., free. Funding the Need for Care: Feb. 20, 12:30 p.m., free. Cribbage: Feb. 12, 19, and 26, 10 a.m. Open cards: Feb. 13 and 20, 12:30 p.m. Muffins and a Movie: “Judy,” Feb. 28, 9:30 a.m. Mexican Train Dominoes: Feb. 18, 10:30 a.m. Focus Group: Feb. 18, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Wii Bowling Tournament: At Enfield Senior Center, Feb. 12, 12:30 p.m. Valentine’s Day Tea Time: Feb. 13, 10:30 a.m.
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Sit and Stitch: Feb. 25, 10:30 a.m. One-on-one Law Session: Feb. 11, 12:30 p.m. (by appointment) Ask the Financial Adviser : Feb. 25, 12:30 p.m. Trivia w/Teresa: Feb. 13, 12:30 p.m. Mahjong: Feb. 7, 14, 21, and 28, 10:30 a.m. $$$BINGO: Feb. 7 and 21, 12:30 p.m. Uno Attack: Feb. 14 and 28, 12:30 p.m. Bring Your Own Project: Feb. 20, 10:30 a.m. Coffee with First Selectman: Feb. 11, 10:30 a.m. Shopping Big Y or Walmart: Feb. 10 and 24 , 9 to 10:30 a.m. Grocery Shopping at Geissler’s: Feb. 12, 19 and 26, 9 to 10:30 a.m.
Mobile Food Share at St. Catherine’s Parking Lot: Feb. 21, 1 to 1:30 p.m. Bus leaves center, 12:30 p.m.
Fitness/health Chair Yoga with Diana: Feb. 10 and 24, 10 to 11 a.m. $40 (8-week session) Wii Bowling: Feb. 10, 19, 24 and 26, 12:30 p.m., free. Wii Zumba: Feb. 11 and 25, 10:30 a.m., free. Silver Sneakers Exercise and Silver Sneakers Balance and Strength Class: Canceled until further notice. Foot care: Feb. 18, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. $29 charge, by appointment only. Call (860) 292-8262. Art Crafts: Feb. 11, 12:30 p.m. $5 Painting with Acrylics: Feb. 12, 19 and 26 at 10:30 a.m. FREE
Send Your News:
northcentralnews@aol.com
Upcoming Events Daily Lunch and Dinner Specials
Enjoy our Prime Rib and Seafood Specials Friday & Saturday nights from 5-9 pm
Banquet Rentals For any occasion! Accomodating 20 to 200 guests Weddings, Jack & Jills, Anniversary Parties and All Special Occasions
FEBRUARY Friday, 14th Valentine’s Dinner Show
Cher and Neil Diamond Saturday, 15th Valentine’s Day Show Aquanett - Rock Band
Friday, 21st - Rock Band LA Backstage Pass Saturday, 22nd - Classic Rock Band - MidLife Crysis Sat. 29th - Comedy Night Somers Booster Club
Repair, Sizing & Batteries
u Buy, Sell & Trade Jewelry u Engraving u Laser Repairs u Appraisals
Hours: Tues., Wed., Sat. 10-4; Thurs. 10-8; Fri. 10-5:30
145 Main Street, Somersville, CT For more info or to purchase tickets please call 860-763-5060 or Jeff at 860-305-1959
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Ellington
New year starts on fine note at Town Hall
First Selectwoman’s Corner ELLINGTON — Well, 2020 is here and I am looking out my window with not a cloud in the sky, freezing cold temperatures, with a forecast Lori Spielman fluctuating between snow showers and mid-40s temperatures over the next couple of weeks. Here at Town Hall we are starting the year on a fine note. The building has been renovated, on time and within budget and the changes are refreshing. New bathrooms, changes to the conference room and to the tax collector’s office will make conducting business easier and more efficient. All work was covered by a state grant. The Scarecrow Contest was better than ever this past fall. There were 38 entries, all terrific, and they survived the best and the worst of the weather
that October could give us. It was great to see all of the families and passers-by stopping to walk the green and look at the scarecrows, always smiling. Thank you, thank you to all who participated. You all made it really fun. The Holiday Lighting Contest was successful as well, although there were fewer entries, perhaps due to the short window between Thanksgiving and Christmas. After all, we all need more than three weeks between major holidays to get anything done. Winterfest is always a fun event and this past year was a great success. It is a wonderful time of year to visit the library, The Nellie McKnight Museum and the Congregational Church. The Torchlight Parade is loved by children and adults alike and I love seeing so many residents participate in this event. It represents the very best of Ellington and our community spirit.
With January comes the budget process and this year, as in previous years, the challenge will be to balance our budget at a time when state government is so unstable. There will be many hours put in by paid staff and volunteers alike to make this budget possible and I encourage people to attend the public meetings this spring. Also this spring, don’t forget to pencil in our annual Earth Day Fair in April. It will be a great chance to enjoy a pleasant day of food and fun while learning about the exciting new plans for the Nellie McKnight Museum and the planned improvement of the area around the War Memorials with hardscape and benches. The goal is to make our town center interesting, educational and customer friendly. I continue to be involved at the state level with the Capital Region Council of Governments and the Connecticut Conference of Municipalities. I enjoy the
meetings. It gives me the opportunity to build a network that benefits the Town of Ellington. Recently I was honored to be elected as co-chairman of the Crumbling Foundation Commission, which I have been involved with since its inception. I have great respect for all of my colleagues who face the same challenges as we do here in Ellington. Towns and cities face different problems but one thing that remains the same is the huge responsibility placed on the shoulders of those of us who are elected to serve our citizens. I take my job very seriously, as I have since being elected the first time. I appreciate everyone’s support and belief that I can help to make Ellington a better place to live. My family has been here for generations and I will be spending my life here as so many others will. I want this town to be the very best it can be for generations to come. Happy New Year, folks.
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Ellington
Ravioli arrival: DiFiore’s shop coming to town By Laura Hayden
ELLINGTON — The DiFiore Ravioli Shop in Rocky Hill, renowned in the Hartford area for its homemade sauces, pastas, ravioli, and prepared foods, is about to add a second location to its three-generation family business — in Ellington. The Ellington DiFiore Ravioli Shop, at the corner of Routes 140 and 83, will be open for business soon. There is also a DiFiore Ravioli Shop operating in Rocky Hill, and Dan DiFiore says he is excited to open the new shop in Ellington because his parents live “a mere 2 miles down the road.” Photo by Laura Hayden
Dan DiFiore, grandson of the original owners, says the Ellington store will be open in a matter of weeks. He is especially excited about its location because his parents live “a mere 2 miles down the road “ from the new site located at 287 Somers Road. It’s the town he grew up in.
Thank you NCN Readers for voting Danny’s Pizza The Best Pizza 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018 & 2019!
In 2011 Dan’s father and grandfather took their 30-year-old family restaurant/food preparation business (located on Franklin Street in Hartford) in a new direction. Their Italian specialty food store moved to the Rocky Hill location three years later. Like the Rocky Hill venue, the DiFiore Ravioli Shop in Ellington will offer at least 15 different fresh pastas, an additional 15 different ravioli, and 15 sauces, as well as a take-out menu. The Ellington shop also has a small bar and an outdoor bocce ball court. “We may be the only place where you can shop for dinner with a glass of wine in hand,” DiFiore said. The DiFiores are well known for their penchant to give back to the communities they serve. Last fall, while the Somers Road property was in the early stages of renovation, the DiFiores hosted a pet adoption event on the grounds. The family was on hand outside serving favorites like butternut squash raviolis and sausage and peppers to those who attended. By the end of the day 25 dogs and cats found for-
A video of Dan DiFiore preparing Italian specialties can be viewed on the business’ website, difioreraviolishop.com. ever homes and over $6,000 was donated to the Connecticut Humane Society. “We want to give back to our community, whether it’s for Alzheimer’s or the dog shelters,” DiFiore said in a recent interview aired on the River 105.9 radio. The DiFiore generosity extends to other causes as well. DiFiore says to keep an eye on the DiFiore Ravioli Shop Facebook and Instagram accounts for news on the exact date of the Ellington opening.
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February1-12.qxp_NCN new template 2/4/20 9:14 AM Page 11
Ellington
Ellington Native SOARS At Eastern
Tyler Hubley
A group of Eastern Connecticut State University student leaders served as student orientation counselors for the spring SOAR program. SOAR stands for Student Orientation, Advising and Registration and is designed to welcome new students and acclimate them to life at Eastern. Among the SOCs that led the spring SOAR session was Tyler Hubley, Class of 2020 of Ellington, who majors in biology. SOCs are students who are active leaders on campus. They are often advisors, peer mentors and resident assistants.
Irish Night St. Luke Church, 141 Maple St., presents Irish Night, March 14, in the church hall. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. Corned beef and cabbage with all the fixings and complimentary wine, beer, and soda will be available, no BYOB.
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Entertainment will be provided by the singing group “Irish To The Last Drop,” along with an Irish step dancing performance and a raffle. Tickets are $20 per person, advance purchase only. No tickets will be sold at the door. For details call (860) 8758552, weekdays between 9 and 1 p.m. Story hours Hall Memorial Library is offering story hours for various ages beginning in February. Babies & Books will be offered on Mondays 10:30-11:30 a.m., Feb. 10 to March 16. This is for children ages 9 months to 2½ years, along with an adult. Stories will be read, songs will be sung, and there will be time for play and getting to make new friends. Preschool Story Hour is planned for ages 3 to 5 years old, who are ready for an independent experience. This will be Tuesdays 10:15-11 a.m., Feb. 11 to April 7. This program features stories in
Ellington student Ayushman Choudhury was recognized at the VFW Department of Connecticut’s Annual Voice of Democracy and Patriot’s Pen Awards Dinner. Ayushman’s essay on the theme of “What Makes America Great” was awarded first place in District 3. He was sponsored by Post 10689 in Ellington.
many formats, such as flannel board stories, books, and puppets. Movement activities are included as well. A 2½ Year Old Story Hour is planned for children who are 2½ years old, along with an adult. It will meet Friday 10:15-10:45 a.m., Feb. 7 to April 3. This program includes stories, songs and a story, or a seasonal, related craft. Online registration is required for each of these programs and is open now. These programs are free. To register go to www.library.ellington-ct.gov., or call (860) 870-3160.
Dean’s List Amanda Moffitt of Ellington was named to the Cedarville University Dean’s Honor List for the fall 2019 semester. This recognition required Moffitt to maintain a 3.75 GPA for the semester while taking a minimum of 12 credit hours.
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The Area’s Own
- featuring Valley Advocate "Nightcrawler"/North Central News Publisher Gary Carra, Scott Silvia, Ben Simborski and Maxxtone's Nate Fay performs with Reverend Dan & The Dirty Catechism and Odds of Eden in support of
Platinum Selling Recording Artists SAVING ABEL at The Still in Agawam, Mass. Feb. 22.
Scott Silvia
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February 2020 North Central News
Maxxtone’s Nate Fay
13
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Enfield
Wood-n-Tap still on tap at Palomba Drive site By Laura Hayden
ENFIELD — Signs announcing a Wood–nTap restaurant would be coming to Enfield appeared on the window of a long vacant restaurant at 55 Palomba Drive late last summer. At that time, the opening was projected to be by the end of last year. Come the start of 2020, the signs are gone from the address once occupied by the former Royal Buffet, which closed in 2011. “Yes, the signs have been removed, but the Wood-n-Tap in Enfield is still expected to open in 2020,” said Jennifer Lamantini, director of guest services for the Connecticut chain of dining restaurants that opened its first “American casual” Wood-n-Tap Bar & Grill in Hartford almost two decades ago. Since then, partners Phil Barnett and Mike Hamlin have built the chain’s parent company — the Hartford Restaurant Group — into a roughly $32 million business with 10 restaurants and about 700 employees, according to an article in the January Hartford Business Journal. “There’s just been delay after delay,” said
Lamantini about the Enfield Wood-n-Tap. Enfield’s Assistant Town Planner Raquel Ocasio verified that the project is well underway. “We’re just waiting for their bond submission for landscaping,” Ocasio said toward the end of January. Final plans will move on after that. Part of the delay may be due to HRG’s most recently completed project in Farmington, where Barnett and Hamlin bought the former Apricots restaurant one day after it went on the market two years ago. After spending over a year renovating the 7,800-square-foot location, the venue reopened as a Wood-n-Tap in October. The Enfield Wood-n-Tap is next on the todo list. As reported in Journal Inquirer last summer, renovations will include a more visible entrance to the restaurant and a gable that will match the existing brick on the Goodwill store next door. In addition, the adjacent vacant parcel will be developed into an outdoor dining and entertainment space.
Renovations for the Enfield Wood-n-Tap restaurant are underway at 55 Palomba Drive in the Big Y Plaza. Photo by Laura Hayden
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14 North Central News February 2020
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Enfield
Town Council selects Tallberg as town attorney
Warm-hearted gifts for Safe Harbor
Enfield Junior Women’s Club is donating goods to the Enfield Safe Harbor Warming Center for the Homeless for the fifth year. Donations included 30 bags with new warm socks and toiletries, lip balm, tissues, hats, 104 packets of instant oatmeal, blanket, and four backpack. From left, Deb Talamini, EJWC president 2019-21, Pat Banning, Warming Center goods and services, Alison Wells, member of EJWC, and Sue Carlo, Warming Center goods and services. If you have items to donate please call 860-989-3703 and leave a message.
ENFIELD — The Town Council on Jan. 6 unanimously voted to appoint Attorney James N. Tallberg as the town attorney. Tallberg will serve for a two-year term. Tallberg has previously represented the Town of Enfield in various capacities since 1998. Mayor Michael Ludwick said he was pleased to welcome Tallberg to Enfield, having worked with him on prior cases. Ludwick said Tallberg’s “demonstrated litigation skills and great depth of legal knowledge makes Jim an ideal choice for this position.” Tallberg is a managing partner at Karsten & Tallberg, LLC. He graduated from Southern Connecticut State University and the University of Connecticut School of
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Law with honors. Admitted to the Connecticut Bar in 1996, Tallberg is admitted to practice in the federal trial and appelJames late courts, including the United States Supreme Tallberg Court. In addition, Tallberg has been board certified as a civil trial advocate by the National Board of Trial Advocacy since 2010. Bringing municipal experience from his hometown of Rocky Hill as a member of the Charter Revision Commission, of which he was elected chairman in 2015, he also served as a hearing officer by appointment of the Rocky Hill town manager. Tallberg still resides in Rocky Hill with his wife and daughter.
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Enfield
Novel Idea Book Club makes a good read
Asnuntuck group offers donations to juvenile detention centers
ENFIELD — Asnuntuck Community College’s Novel Idea Book Club, with support from Phi Theta Kappa, the college’s Student Government Association and Campus Activity Board, collected more than 300 books from the students, faculty, and staff at Asnuntuck Community College. Teen and tween books were donated to the Connecticut Judicial Branch’s Juvenile Detention Centers in Hartford and Bridgeport to enhance their libraries. Asnuntuck’s Interim Dean of Academics Teresa Foley presented the idea of a collection to student leaders. The Novel Idea Book Club coordinated the collection, which was led by Asnuntuck student Manny Feliu. Asnuntuck Professor John Sheirer and Dean Foley compiled a list of appropriate books. The campus community donated new or gently used books to the collection. “The students took great pride in their first campus-wide initiative and were overwhelmed and excited by the
Interim Executive Assistant to Asnuntuck’s Chief Executive Officer Sharntae Wilson; Juvenile Detention Program and Services Supervisor Kim Ellsworth; ACC Interim CEO Michelle Coach; Juvenile Detention Program and Services Supervisor Roger Maybin; student Judy Crowningshield; Director of Family and Juvenile Services Deborah Fuller; Juvenile Detention Classification and Program Officer Christine Slattery; Superintendent of the Harford Juvenile Detention Center Karl Alston; students Manny Feliu, Brendon Perrier, Elizabeth Calvin, and Juvenile Detention Classification and Program Officer Patti Uccello.
generosity of the ACC community. They are happy to share their love of reading and learning with students of all ages,” Foley said. The Judicial Branch’s Court Support Services Division Juvenile Residential Services Unit operates a range of voluntary and court-ordered residential programs and centers designed to meet the unique needs of juveniles who come into contact with the juvenile court system. JRS includes a network of programs and services, including two detention
16 North Central News February 2020
GRINDERS • SMOKED MEATS PIEROGI • KIELBASA
centers in Bridgeport and Hartford, and numerous contracted residential programs. Judge Bernadette Conway, who is chief administrative judge of juvenile vatters said, “The Connecticut Judicial Branch is thrilled that the students, faculty, and staff at Asnuntuck Community College took the time — and devoted
their energy — to collecting so many books to donate to the juvenile detention centers in Hartford and Bridgeport. It’s a win-win for everyone, but most of all for the young people in our care. We are tremendously appreciative and thank Asnuntuck for its hard work, heavy lifting, and goodwill in making this contribution.”
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Enfield
Music scholarship The Women’s Club of Enfield is offering the Carolyn Jackson Music Scholarship to seniors who will further their education in the music field. Applications are available in the guidance office at Enfield High School. The scholarship is awarded to seniors who will continue in instrumental, voice, education, or the technical field. Previous recipients may reapply. Applications must be returned to the guidance office by April 3. For details call (860) 745-5869. Late start classes The spring semester at Asnuntuck Community College
has begun but there is still time to register for courses. The college is offering late start courses that begin in February or March. Accelerated courses include: Yoga Level 1, Children’s Literature, First Year Experience, History of Film, and an on-ground course offered on Saturdays, Self and Others: Dynamics of Diversity. Late start online courses include: Art Appreciation, Art History, Principles of Environmental Science, Gangs and “Families,” Infant/Toddler Growth and Development, Behavior Guidance, Spreadsheet Applications, and Database Management. Late start courses are accelerated courses that meet for less time but cover the same material as in a traditional 15-week semester. Those interested should check with an adviser to make sure courses fulfill your program’s requirements. Visit www.asnuntuck.edu for details.
A December to remember at Parkway Pavilion
Parkway Pavilion Health and Rehabilitation Center residents spent December celebrating the holidays with many individuals and organizations. Celebrations which included the annual Elks Club Dinner, the Lions Club Christmas Party, and Happy Hour with Jeannie Murphy. The sounds of the season were heard with the Girl Scouts and students from Enfield High School caroling, as well as a Pratt & Whitney United Chorus Concert. Above, Daisy, Brownie, Junior and Cadette members of the Enfield Girl Scouts. Right, Becky Kittridge with Santa, Tommy Baker.
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Amy H. Carberry Fine Arts Gallery
Fallacies: Black Identity Extremist = Black Identity Enthusiast, Kiayani Douglas
February 3-29 Artist Talk February 27 at The Forum Kiayani Douglas has spent the last three years developing an interdisciplinary body of work called Black Identity Enthusiast. B.I.E. is a body of work geared towards curating conversations rooted in race history and privilege. She creates workshops where students of all disciplines can learn about American Black History, while making connections to Math, Science, History and literature. A series of student workshops and art faculty will be held throughout the month.
Supporting students. Transforming lives.
February 2020 North Central News
(Learning Commons)
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Celebrating 58 Years of Service 1962-2020
STARTING A PERMENANT TRUST To the Class of
2020 Applications must be completed on-line between February 1, 2020 and April 1, 2020. All applications are processed on our CSF of Stafford Springs Dollars for Scholars website at www.staffordsprings.dollarsforscholars.org To be eligible, you must be a resident of Stafford or Union and a senior graduating from high school in 2020. Students must provide FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) information. See our homepage for all details. Information is also available at the Stafford High School Guidance Department.
Like us on Facebook @csfstaffordspring
What types of Funds can be established? • Funds may be established in memory of a loved one who has passed away. • Funds may be established to recognize the commitment of your business, club, or organization to education. • Funds may recognize retirements, major events, or for any reason to help area students fulfill their educational needs.
How is a CSF of Stafford Fund established? To establish a CSF Stafford Trust Fund, contact either of the following people: Michael Introvigne, President at 860-851-9269 or Krista Hicks, Secretary at 860-684-8311 or mail your request to CSF of Stafford, P.O. Box 25, Stafford Springs, CT 06076. If however, you wish to start a fund at the time of bereavement it is not necessary to contact CSF right away. At the request of the next of kin the funeral director will include in the obituary notice, “Donations may be made to CSF of Stafford, P.O. Box 25, Stafford Springs, CT 06076.” This will quickly notify family and friends of your wishes. When ready, (usually after a few weeks) the family may contact Mr. Introvigne or Mrs. Hicks directly. The family’s wishes as to the type of memorial desired can be determined at that time.
Permanent Fund Memorials If you would like to perpetuate the memory of a loved one in a way which would provide a scholarship award each year to a local student, consider creating a Permanent Memorial Trust Fund with the CSF of Stafford. Donations totaling $5,000 are required to establish a permanent memorial fund. The donated money will be invested by CSF of Stafford, and the income will be used to provide a scholarship each year awarded on behalf of the fund bearing the name of the loved one.
How does the Permanent Fund work? The endowment program works on a simple concept. The original money gift is invested in an interest bearing instrument. Each year the interest generated by the investment is awarded as a scholarship. The original amount, or “principal” remains in the interest bearing instrument to generate more interest, which in turn will be awarded next year. Funds must total $5,000 before they generate a yearly scholarship.
My Fund does not equal $5,000? Officers:
22 North Central News February 2020
President- Michael J. Introvigne Vice President – Gary E. Shearer Vice President – Rosanne G. Roszczewski Treasurer - Jason G. Zamichiei Asst. Treasurer - Roland M Chirico Asst. Treasurer - Robert Ellsworth Secretary – Krista A. Hicks
Trustees:
Committees:
Gary E. Shearer Rosanne G. Roszczewski F. Joseph Paradiso, Honorary Max Remington Matilda S. Champagne Krista A. Hicks Michael J. Introvigne Jason Zamichiei Gerardi P. LaMorte Michael J. Muzio John H. Senechal Rachel P. Jezek
Scholarship Awards: Matilda S. Champagne, Chairperson Shirley Allard William Burkey Robert W. Campbell John H. Senechal Rachel P. Jezek Jill Carlson Walter F. Smith
Funds that are started and do not reach the $5,000 goal may be allowed to grow over a few years. If it appears that the fund will not reach the $5,000 plateau, the fund originators may decide to award the entire amount the following year as a scholarship or turn the money over to the CSF of Stafford General Fund to be used for continuing scholarships.
How do Funds grow? A fund grows when additional principal monies are contributed directly to the Fund. Many individuals, clubs, organizations, and businesses earmark their Annual Appeal contributions to a specific fund. Some fund sponsors conduct fund raising activities. Some businesses match their employees’ contributions ALL GIFTS ARE TAX DEDUCTIBLE
o YES, I want to establish a permanent fund
o YES, I want to contribute to an existing fund.
Name: Address: Phone: Email: I wish to contribute to the following fund(s):
Investment Committee: Gerardi P. LaMorte, Chairperson Jason G. Zamichiei Rosanne G. Roszczewski Michael J. Muzio Gary E. Shearer Robert Ellsworth
PLEASE RETURN YOUR GIFTS TO:
o My check will serve as my receipt.
No further acknowledgement is needed.
CSF of Stafford P. O. Box 25, Stafford Springs, CT 06076
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2020 FINANCIAL APPEAL PERMANENT MEMORIAL TRUST FUNDS 2019 Heuitson Family Scholarship Program Fund -------------------------- $11,483.45 Roscoe & Charlotte Hillebrecht ------------$6,507.00 David Hirsch --------------------------------$2,585.00 Janet Hopko --------------------------------$2,733.60 Richard Houle ---------------------------- $10,432.00 William N. Irving ---------------------------$2,498.00 Salvatrice “Sally” Italia ---------------------$5,295.00 Italian Benefit-Denis A. Gregory --------- $10,825.00 John E. Julian ----------------------------- $43,949.00 Michael & Vickie Julian ---------------------$7,582.00 Frederick & Jennie Kisselstein------------ $13,000.00 Robert F. Klecak ----------------------------$5,235.00 Linatex of America-Ashworth N. Stull -----$4,290.00 Robert C. & Nettie S. Lake “BobaNet” --- $15,780.00 Peter F. Locke Jr. ----------------------------$3,600.00 Patricia Lusa --------------------------------$6,010.00 Alexander D. MacDonnell ---------------- $22,000.00 Marc D. Magrone ------------------------- $29,850.00 Tina McEwen -------------------------------$2,078.00 Jason A. McQuaid ------------------------ $17,194.49 Ephrain & Marion Mirza ------------------ $16,809.00 David P. Mitchell -------------------------- $18,162.08 John B. & Bonnie B. Mitchell ---------------$5,310.00 Ronald A. Mitchell--------------------------$7,444.00 Donna C. & Francis J. Moriarty -------------$6,960.00 Ellen Champagne Moulton -------------- $17,383.00 Christopher M. Moquin --------------------$6,286.00 Anna A. Muzio --------------------------------$960.00 Benjamin A., Dianne C. and Mitchell A. Muzio -------------------------$4,217.33 Gladys Oehler ---------------------------- $11,650.32 William Frank Oehler--------------------- $11,650.00 Alexander Paolini --------------------------$2,000.00 Joseph J. Panciera --------------------------$8,672.00 Penny Hanley & HowleyAnna Chilkowitch -------------------------$5,021.00 Ann E. Phelps-------------------------------$5,054.00 Ronald Pirkey-------------------------------$4,354.00 Gregory Poland-----------------------------$3,390.00 Rev. Kenneth J. Post & John Harker --------$6,446.00 James Prenetta -----------------------------$8,620.00 Remington Family Program-------------- $26,546.00 William F. Richards -------------------------$2,528.00 Benedict and Josephine Schwanda --------$6,105.00 Charles W. and Jean C. Schwanda-------- $12,790.00 Ellen Senechal ------------------------------$7,302.00 Elmo & Marjorie Serafin--------------------$6,645.00 Shenipsit Striders-Beth Stage ----------- $12,751.00 Stephen B. Skelton ----------------------- $12,300.00 Walter J. & Eunice M. Skopek --------------$2,625.00 Joshua R. Smialek ------------------------ $12,292.79 Spallacci Family Fund ----------------------$8,199.64 Stafford Democrats-Doris Devera ----------$2,725.00 Stafford Lions Club Memorial ----------- $42,942.00
Armand J. & Mildred Cambria, Silvio S. DaDalt, Albert A. DeNunzio, Orlando Francini, Michael J. Gregorio, R. Price Milam, Sylvan A. Tetrault ---------------------------Stafford Men’s Softball-Walter DaDalt -----$9,782.00 Stafford Rotary Club-Dr. Joseph Amanti ---$9,500.00 Stafford Rotary Club-Ronald E. Ambrosi---$2,100.00 Stafford Rotary Club-Robert Campbell ----$4,500.00 Stafford Rotary Club-Etalo “Pic” Gnutti ----$2,602.00 Stafford Rotary Club-Joseph A. Introvigne $5,100.00 Stafford Rotary ClubDr. Wendelin G. Luckner ------------------$7,250.00 Stafford Rotary Club - Mario A. Posocco ---$2,630.00 Stafford Rotary Club-Robert B. Schwanda $7,750.00 Stafford Rotary Club-William Sorensen ---$3,650.00 Stafford Rotary Club-Earl Witt -------------$7,750.00 Scott C. Stelmak -------------------------- $16,474.20 Florence Mae & Charles Stevens --------- $11,698.00 Jennifer A. Stone ---------------------------$2,030.00 Eleanore Knowlton Stramiello ----------- $20,450.00 Eleanore Knowlton Stramiello ----------- $20,450.00 Emily L. & John R. Sullivan --------------- $10,895.00 Marla Sullivan ------------------------------$7,170.00 Sylvan A. Tetrault ---------------------------$4,317.60 Max and Shirley Thiesing ------------------$4,610.00 Leroy Tiziani --------------------------------$2,705.00 Lisa Marie Toman------------------------- $10,105.00 Henry J. Tonidandel ------------------------$3,000.00 Reno & Lillian Tonoli -------------------- $135,597.84 Victoria Tonoli ------------------------------$5,000.00 George Turschmann ------------------------$6,000.00 Francis “Jim” Vail----------------------------$4,256.00 Robert J. Sr. & Richard Verlik ------------- $12,330.00 VFW Post 9990 & Ladies Auxiliary. -Charles Furness ----------------------- $14,580.84 Shelly Vogel ------------------------------ $48,098.20 Alexander Warren --------------------------$6,735.00 Katie M. Waugh -------------------------- $10,863.02 Judy M. Webb ------------------------------$2,395.00 Peter A. Wierzbowski, Jr. ---------------------$175.00 Richard H. Willis ----------------------------$3,155.00 Windham/Tolland 8 & 40Kathleen Ann Dombek-------------------$8,408.00 Gordon A. “Buster” Woods -----------------$1,105.00 John W. Zelz --------------------------------$3,065.00
Therese G. Fishman ------------------------$3,014.73 Mary Ellen Glover --------------------------$3,000.00 Victoria Hine--------------------------------$1,900.00 Knights of Columbus Council 1395 ------ $15,483.00 North American Printed Circuits Employees--------------------------------$8,005.33 Package Machinery Co.---------------------$3,763.00 F. Joseph Paradiso --------------------------$6,150.00 Rosanne G. Roszczewski -------------------$5,200.00 Gary E. Shearer -----------------------------$5,375.00 Stafford Area Community ServicesThrift Shop ----------------------------- $41,639.00 Stafford Arts Commission ------------------$2,151.00 Stafford Band Boosters---------------------$7,787.00 Stafford Crusaders------------------------ $16,989.00 Stafford Fish & Game Club -----------------$7,697.00 Stafford Grange No. 1 ----------------------$4,440.00 Stafford High School-Class of 1986 --------$3,180.00 Stafford High School-Class of 2006 --------$3,738.70 Stafford High School-Class of 2014 --------$5,000.00 Stafford Motor Speedway ------------------$3,813.00 Stafford Motor Speedway & New London County Motorcycles -------$3,293.00 Stafford Public Health Association ------- $10,000.00 Stafford Republicans -----------------------$3,882.00 Stafford Rotary Club------------------------$5,750.00 Stafford Savings Bank ------------------- $150,592.48 Stafford Seniors Association, Inc. ----------$8,864.56 Stafford Springs Congregational Church- $11,514.00 Staffordville Elementary School -----------$4,482.00 Stafford Women’s Club ------------------- $12,249.72 Tolland Bank -------------------------------$2,644.00 TTM Technologies, Inc. ------------------- $19,439.67 Warren Corp. ----------------------------- $11,311.00 Warren Corp. Employees -------------------$5,188.00 West Stafford Parent Teacher’s Organization -----------------------------$4,945.00 Willington Financial------------------------$2,800.00 Willington Nameplate Inc. --------------- $15,676.00 Wolcott Lodge #60 -------------------------$5,141.00
OTHER PERMANENT TRUSTS
Subtotal ---------------------------------- $2,257,328
American Legion Post #26 --------------- $12,000.00 American Legion Post #26 Auxiliary -------- 5,987.00 Big Y Foods ---------------------------------$3,382.00 CSEA Local 2001 Stafford Chapter ---------$4,000.00 CSF of Stafford Springs Awards Committee ----------------------$5,000.00 Cuno, Inc. -----------------------------------$5,730.00 First Universalist Church of Stafford ----- $68,020.14
Lisa Cheman --------------------------------$4,885.18 Anthony S. Knowlton ----------------------$7,735.00
Subtotal ---------------------------------- $1,917,459 General Reserve Fund -------------------- $42,162.60 Estate of John M. Patten ------------------- $297,707
GRAND TOTAL -----------------------$2,269,948.42
February 2020 North Central News
VALUE MEMORIAL TRUST FUND 2019 Arlene D. Allard-----------------------------$5,962.50 Bernard & Josephine Armstrong -----------$3,584.00 Benjamin Arnold ---------------------------$6,117.00 Marilyn C. & Raphael A. Bachiochi --------$6,901.74 David W. Baker -----------------------------$8,185.00 Eric E. Baker --------------------------------$8,780.00 Robert Barber ------------------------------$5,795.00 Bruce L. Beaupre ------------------------- $47,944.40 Marshall “Mushy” & Dorothy O. Bellante -----------------------$3,888.27 Jeremy Bergeron ---------------------------$9,094.00 Larcene L. “Beenie” Bessette ---------------$4,087.00 Timothy Beverage ------------------------ $21,300.00 Nicholas H. Booth --------------------------$2,305.00 Jeffrey F. Braun --------------------------- $12,685.00 Zenna Brisson ---------------------------- $13,516.00 Arima O. Campo ----------------------------$5,290.00 Aldo & Julia Carocari -----------------------$1,630.00 Catholic Daughter’s of America Anna Hurchala ---------------------------$5,530.00 Mary Muzio Chamberlain ------------------$3,875.00 Arthur J. & Julia M. Clapprood -------------$9,199.00 Clifford A. and Mary L Collette -------------$8,918.00 Benjamin P. & Marguerite M. Cooley ---- $21,225.00 Tony Costa ----------------------------------$2,085.00 Francis H. “Frank” Curnan and Keith F. Curnan -----------------------$7,612.00 Jennifer Lee DaDalt ------------------------$1,530.00 Ronald D’Amico -------------------------- $27,221.00 Ronnie DaRos ------------------------------$8,754.00 Burton A. Davis -----------------------------$5,135.00 Theresa “Terri” Davis---------------------- $10,852.00 Mildred P. DeCarli------------------------- $20,249.00 Bruce A. DeTora-----------------------------$5,650.00 Marjorie P. Dobson -------------------------$7,748.00 Karl Jacob & Maria Fratz Doldt -------------$5,000.00 Barbara-Ann Kenny Elderkin---------------$7,175.00 Michael Peter Ference & Sandra J. Ference ------------------------$6,441.00 John & Matilda A. Spusta Festi----------- $12,266.00 John E. Festi --------------------------------$4,685.00 Harriet Fiore --------------------------------$3,985.00 Thomas L. Fitzgerald and Gregg T. Fitzgerald------------------------$2,285.00 Harry & Ida Fontanella ---------------------$5,380.00 Attilio R. Frassinelli----------------------- $10,054.00 Anna & Arthur Furness Sr.------------------$1,970.00 Marty Galotto ------------------------------$3,725.00 Stephen E. Galotto -------------------------$5,530.00 Wayne Gaudreau ---------------------------$6,770.00 Ruth K. Matteson Gnutti ----------------- $10,000.00 Roger B. Godin -----------------------------$5,780.00 Timothy R. Haraghey-----------------------$8,752.00 Timothy Hartley Zigadlo -------------------$7,445.00
23
February2020NCN13-26.qxp_NCN new template 2/3/20 6:11 PM Page 24
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Tourism
Starting Gate at GreatHorse earns WeddingWire honor
HAMPDEN, Mass. — The Starting Gate at GreatHorse has been announced as a winner of the WeddingWire Couples’ Choice Awards, an accolade representing the top wedding professionals across the board in quality, service, responsiveness, and professionalism reviewed by couples on WeddingWire. A leader in the global wedding planning industry, WeddingWire continues its celebration of local wedding vendors with the announcement of its 12th annual WeddingWire Couples’ Choice Awards winners. To determine these distinguished wedding professionals, WeddingWire analyzed reviews across more than 20 service categories — from venues and cater-
ers to florists and photographers —to find the most highly rated vendors of the year. These winners exhibit superior professionalism, responsiveness, service, and quality when interacting with the millions of consumers who turn to WeddingWire to help ease their wedding planning process each month. Wedding professionals who win WeddingWire Couples’ Choice Awards are members of WeddingPro, the leading B2B wedding brand. As the largest marketplace and community for wedding professionals, WeddingPro connects businesses with more than 13 million visitors per month who are planning weddings on WeddingWire and The Knot, as well as with hun-
dreds of thousands of pros in the industry. Through its online marketplaces, educational programs and community-building events, WeddingPro is dedicated to helping wedding professionals build relationships with couples and pros that grow their businesses. The Starting Gate at GreatHorse is honored to be one of the top wedding businesses in Hampden on WeddingWire.com. For more information about The Starting Gate at GreatHorse, visit WeddingWire. To learn more about the WeddingWire Couples’ Choice Awards, visit www.weddingwire.com/coupleschoice-awards.
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26 North Central News February 2020
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Feb2020NCN27-34.qxp_NCN new template 2/4/20 7:38 AM Page 27
Somers
Trash: a seismic shift in dealing with waste
First Selectman’s Corner
SOMERS — Trash is the next critical issue that must be addressed, and it will become more expensive for all of us. For decades, America and much of the developed world threw used plastic bottles, soda cans, and junk C.G. Bud Knorr mail in one bin. The trash industry then shipped much of the trash thousands of miles away to China, the world’s biggest consumer of scrap material, to be sorted and turned into new products. That changed last year when China banned imports of mixed paper and plastic and heavily restricted other scrap. We here in America — and Somers, in particular — are now being impacted because this has caused a seismic shift in how we deal with our waste and the eventual cost applicable to all of us. Cities and towns have been scrambling ever since to find new buyers for their waste and/or places to either burn it or deposit it in our state landfills that have been up to this point willing to accept it. Connecticut’s landfills are overflowing and essen-
In short, our waste system is unsustainable and all of us as consumers must be prepared for the inevitable results of how we dispose of our trash and the higher costs that that we will be faced with. tially maxed out, with the last major landfill in Putman trying desperately to expand, with local residents objecting. Connecticut has been shipping its trash out of state to Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Ohio but these states are making noise that they too will start restricting new shipments of trash. In addition, the MIRA trash to energy plant south of Hartford needs a major overhaul/upgrade that will cost hundreds of millions of dollars with the cost being borne by all Connecticut towns and municipalities which could and will increase taxes. In short, our waste system is unsustainable and all of us as consumers must be prepared for the inevitable results of how we dispose of our trash and the higher costs that that we will be faced with.
We here in Somers have a very efficient Transfer Station that operates at a significant deficit every year and that deficit is forecasted to increase significantly over the next few budget cycles unless we address the reality of the current and future crisis of how we handle and dispose of our trash. All of us as consumers and product manufacturers need to tackle this conundrum. As consumers we all can and should be more cognizant of the need for improved recycling and product manufacturers need to implement more efficient, effective, and compostable packaging to reduce the waste stream. The purpose of my essay is to better educate everyone of this looming crisis and to be prepared for the need to change our attitudes about trash.
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Feb2020NCN27-34.qxp_NCN new template 2/4/20 7:38 AM Page 28
Somers Public Library 2 Vision Boulevard, Somers, CT 06071 Email: jmmiller@biblio.org 860-763-3501 Fax 860-763-1718
www.somerspubliclibrary.org
CHILDREN’S EVENTS Playgroup – Wednesdays, Feb. 5th – Mar. 4th from 10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. A drop-in program for you and your child that offers free play, social interaction and time to explore library materials. Ages 6 months – 4 years. Take Your Child to the Library Day! Saturday, Feb. 8th - 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Library Scavenger Hunt & Winter Craft 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. Read to a Dog. Register now. 2:00 p.m. Movie Matinee: Abominable. Drop in. Free popcorn for the kids! Forest Park: Zoo on the Go Tuesday, Feb. 18th at 2:00 p.m. Zoo on the Go is an exciting, hands-on program that is interactive, fun and educational way for children and adults to learn about a wide variety of animals. For ages 3 & up. Registration begins on Feb. 3rd. Sponsored by the Friends of the Somers Library.
28 North Central News February 2020
Read to a Dog Saturdays, Feb. 8th & Mar. 7th - 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. Practice your reading skills by reading to a dog in a relaxed, “dog-friendly” atmosphere. All dogs have been trained, tested and certified by Healers with Halos. Participants may bring a book or select one at the library. The time slots are for fifteen minutes at 10:30, 10:45, 11:00, and 11:15. Registration required. Spring Session Storytimes Registration will take place beginning Monday, Mar. 16th for Somers residents and Tuesday, Mar. 17th for non-residents. Storytime sessions will begin the week of March 23rd. Children ages 12 - 24 months, will meet on Mondays at 10:30 a.m. Children ages 24-36 months, will meet on Tuesdays at 10:30 a.m. Children ages 3-5 years, will meet on Thursdays at 10:30 a.m. TEEN EVENTS Crafternoons Every Tuesday at 3:00 p.m. Each week, we’ll get together to craft, draw, or paint. Often we have a specific project, but there is always the flexibility to follow your own path.
Acoustic Jam Thursdays, Feb. 6th at 3:00 p.m. Once a month we get together with our acoustic instruments and play easy songs together. No experience is required! We even have a small number of instruments available for you use. Teen Acoustic Jam is for patrons in grades 6-12. Dropins welcome / registration encouraged. Call (860) 763-3501 or email som-teen@biblio.org. Teen Game Night Wednesday, Feb. 12th from 5:00 – 7:30 p.m. Every month or so, join us for an evening of board games and pizza. We have plenty of games to choose from like RISK, Marvel Comics Trivia, Scrabble, Jenga, Trivial Pursuit, Bananagrams, Checkers, Chess, Exploding Kittens, and more! Feel free to bring your favorite table-top games! Pizza and drinks will be provided. Registration required. Call (860) 763-3501 or email som-teen@biblio.org. Dungeons and Dragons Saturday, Feb. 22nd from 11:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. This is a new program at SPL. Dungeons and Dragons is an intensive role playing game that asks you to imagine fantastical worlds filled with monsters, magic, danger, and adventure. No experience is required, but do please let us know if you have experience when you sign up. Registration required. Call (860) 763-3501 or email som-teen@biblio.org. Last Thursday Movie Thursday, Feb. 27th at 3:00 p.m. On the last Thursday of the month, we screen a movie on the Blake Community Room theater. Titles are selected by an ongoing nomination process. Past Last Thursday movies have included Alita: Battle Angel, Detective Pikachu, Corpse Bride, and others. Drop in. ADULT EVENTS Craft and Chat! Thursdays from 10:00 a.m. to noon. Adult Coloring Club Fridays from 10:00 a.m. to noon. Ask a Librarian Do you need one-on-one assistance? Please call 860-763-3501 for more information. Book Discussions Friday, Feb. 14th at 1:30 p.m. Cozy Mystery – How to Murder the Man of Your Dreams.
Library Hours Monday - Thursday 10:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. Friday - Saturday 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Sun Closed Holiday Closings Closed - Monday, February 17 Predident’s Day Wednesday, Feb. 26th at 2:30 p.m. Fiction – Bel Canto. Friday, Mar. 13th at 1:30 p.m. Cozy Mystery – Maisie Dobbs. Friday, Mar. 20th at 1:30 p.m. Non-Fiction – TBD. Wednesday, Mar. 25th at 2:30 p.m. Fiction – Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine. Copies of each book will be available at the library. Please call 860-763-3501 to register for each book discussion. Winter/Early Spring Film Series Please call 860-763-3501 to inquire about what titles will be shown. Matinee dates: Tuesday, Feb. 4th at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 8th at 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, Feb. 18th at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, Feb. 22nd at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, Mar. 7th at 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, Mar. 10th at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, Mar. 14th at 11:00 a.m., and Tuesday, Mar. 17th at 2:00 p.m. Kim Larkin from Klassic Kreations Presents “A Downton Tea and Chocolate Pairing” Saturday, Feb. 29th at 2:00 p.m. A fun talk highlighting the history and health benefits of tea and dark chocolate. We will discuss how to brew a proper cuppa and have fun with Downton Abbey trivia! Includes samplings of English tea, chocolate, and even lemon curd. SPRING 2020 USED BOOK SALE Sponsored by the Friends of the Somers Library Collection is ongoing through Wednesday, Mar. 25th, during regular Library hours. Sale dates/times: Friday, Mar. 27th from 6:30 – 8:00 p.m. ($5.00 fee/free for Friends Members) Saturday, Mar. 28th from 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Sunday, Mar. 29th from 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
For a complete list of programs, please visit www.somerspubliclibrary.org
Feb2020NCN27-34.qxp_NCN new template 2/4/20 7:38 AM Page 29
Somers
Henny Penny on track for opening in the spring By Laura Hayden
The state’s 26th Henny Penny convenience store in under construction in Somers. Photo by Laura Hayden AAHA Accredited
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SOMERS — Construction of a Henny Penny convenience store and gas station in the center of Somers is well underway. The Somers Zoning Commission unanimously approved a proposal to bring the chain to town four years ago. Throughout last fall the long-vacant former Bank of America building at 595 Main St. was leveled. To date, the shell of a 4,000-square foot store has been built on the back portion of the lot. Four covered gas pumps will be part of the complex. According to town engineer Jeff Bord, “things are going along pretty well,” with the expectation of completion “sometime in the spring.”
The Somers Henny Penny, on the northeast corner of Routes 190 and 83, will be the 26th Henny Penny in the state. It’s also the second in the northcentral Connecticut, joining the Henny Penny on 75 Talcottville Road in Vernon. Henny Penny convenience stores are operated by Petroleum Marketing Group, Inc., a family-owned company that acquired the stores from Hendels, Inc. in 2018. The sites have served Connecticut residents since 1949. As part of its fuel distribution business, Hendels, developed a network of gasoline stations over the years. In 1982, Hendels converted a repair garage at one of its gas stations to a convenience store and the Henny Penny chain of convenience stores was born. The Somers Henny Penny will be a one-stop destination for food and gas at the intersection of Route 140 and Route 83. Photo by Laura Hayden
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Regional
Landmark mill takes on second life in Locks By Laura Hayden
WINDSOR LOCKS — Even before tenants started moving into the renovated Montgomery Mill Apartments in November of last year, Windsor Locks’ population was on the rise – moving counter to a downturn in the state. According to estimates from the U.S. Census Bureau, the town’s population went up 2.7 percent from 2017 to 2018, second only to Norwalk. Since then, the renovation of the old thread factory located at the crossroads of Routes 140 and 159 adds the prospect of even greater growth in the future. According to Kristie Rizzo of Beacon Communities, 70% of the 160 mixed-income rentals at the Montgomery Mill complex were already leased at year’s end, with over 57% occupied. Beacon Communities manages the building as well as 90 similar properties in 11 states, including a portfolio of restored historic buildings. The one- and two-bedroom apartments have a modern/urban/industrial ambiance with large windows, exposed brick or concrete walls, tall ceilings, plank flooring, and high-end kitchen and bathrooms. As the apartments fill, the residents are forming a community with the old mill town and among themselves.
MILL/page 31
The sign atop the newly renovated Windsor Locks mill reminds passersby of the building’s legacy. It reads The Montgomery Co. Est. 1871 Decorative and Electric Tinsels. Photo by Laura Hayden
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Feb2020NCN27-34.qxp_NCN new template 2/4/20 7:38 AM Page 31
F
Regional
‘People feel passionate about the building’ (continued from page 30)
“People know the building. Some of their families had worked there,” Rizzo said. She recently told the Hartford Courant, “People feel passionate about the building. We don’t commonly run into that, this emotional tie to a building.” Indoors, residents have been meeting each other during informal get-togethers like a resident brunch during the holidays, held in a designated gathering space on the fifth floor. The common area includes a communal kitchen and TV, available to the renters 24/7. A similar kitchen and communal working space are still under construction on the ground floor. The complex also includes a fitness center and dog park for residents’ pets. In the spring, a patio within walking distance to the Suffield entrance of the Windsor Locks Canal State Park awaits.
A timeline, above, marks the history of the Montgomery Mill in the main entryway of the apartment complex A common gathering room at the Montgomery Mill apartments in Windsor Locks, right, regularly brings residents together for events. Photos by Laura Hayden
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Feb2020NCN27-34.qxp_NCN new template 2/4/20 7:38 AM Page 32
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32 North Central News February 2020
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Feb2020NCN27-34.qxp_NCN new template 2/4/20 7:38 AM Page 33
Automotive
A few new thoughts on buying a used car
(StatePoint) When it comes to their next set of wheels, the majority of Americans would consider buying used despite harboring concerns about reliability and necessary repairs, suggests a new survey. The survey from Ally Financial and conducted online by The Harris Poll found that 69% percent of Americans would be likely to consider a used vehicle for their next auto purchase. The survey also found that the source of the used vehicle matters to consumers, with 53% of respondents saying they would feel most comfortable buying used at a dealership that sells both new and used vehicles. This was much higher than any other category, including purchasing the car from another individual (12%), a usedvehicle-only dealership (10%) and from an internet-based company (8%). “While there’s a lot of hype around internet auto sales within the industry, the majority of consumers are most comfortable purchasing at a franchise dealer that’s part of the community and where they can ask questions,” says Matthew Arnold, senior regional vice president of Auto Finance at Ally Financial. Those who currently own used cars largely cite value as the reason for their purchase, with 61% saying they opted for a used car because it was less
expensive than a new vehicle, and 34% saying they were able to get more car for their money. “With new vehicle prices approaching $38,000, it’s a good time to have a refreshed look at used vehicles,” Arnold says. “Vehicle quality from the factory has greatly improved in recent years and that is carrying over to the used vehicle market. Yet, there are still several common sense steps consumers should take before purchasing.” Arnold recommends the following steps when researching used vehicles: • Get a vehicle history report. The minimal cost is worth the investment, and some car dealers will provide it for free upon request. • Consider buying certified pre-owned. CPO vehicles are backed by the manufacturer and are a good option for used car buyers concerned about reliability. • Give yourself peace of mind. Vehicle service contracts can help cover unexpected repairs and replacements parts. • Do your homework. Go online and When it comes to purchasing a car, nearly 70% of Americans say they would be check independent sources on vehicle likely. to consider buying a used vehicle. reliability and dealership reviews. standret / iStock via Getty Images Plus You can also check the local market While a used vehicle can be a good the vehicle’s reliability. However, value for a specific model based on its mileage and condition. To get savvy idea for a lot of shoppers, it may require experts say that taking a few smart about car buying and ownership in gen- a bit of extra research, particularly if steps can offer you peace of mind and a you are harboring any concerns about better deal. eral, visit Ally.com/do-it-right/car.
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Feb2020NCN27-34.qxp_NCN new template 2/4/20 7:38 AM Page 34
Johnson Surgery Center at En eld.
34 North Central News February 2020
Outpatient services close to home. 148 Hazard Avenue En eld, CT 06082 jmmc.com/surgical-services
Get the facts. Learn the options. The Johnson Surgery Center at Enfield treats patients that are able to have outpatient surgery – allowing them to go home the same day as their procedure. Services we currently offer: ophthalmology, Endoscopy (colonoscopy), dental (pediatric), podiatry and some general surgery procedures such as hernia repair. Also, Orthopedic hand surgeries and pain management. For questions, contact us at (860) 763-7650.
Feb2020NCN35-44.qxp_NCN new template 2/4/20 8:21 AM Page 35
Stafford
Father-daughter annual dance scheduled
STAFFORD —Proudly sponsored by The Stafford Lions 24th Annual Father-Daughter Valentine’s Day Dance is scheduled for Saturday, Feb. 22, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at Stafford High School. The cost is $15 per couple, and add $5 for each additional girl. The fee includes one free picture. Girls in kindergarten through 5th grade are invited to bring their dad, grandfather, uncle, etc. Those taking part should dress in your finest and celebrate Valentine’s Day. Along with the dancing, there will be contests, and door prizes. Flowers will be provided for every girl. Refreshments will be served. The snow date will be Saturday, Feb. 29.
Stafford Savings Bank donates to scholarship fund
At the annual meeting of the Citizens Scholarship Foundation of Stafford Springs on Jan. 16, Stafford Savings Bank made a generous $15,000 contribution to its scholarship fund. Pictured is Winfield Trice, president of Stafford Savings Bank, presenting the check to Michael Introvigne, president of CSFS, and many of its trustees and volunteers.
Send Your News: northcentralnews@aol.com
February 2020 North Central News
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Feb2020NCN35-44.qxp_NCN new template 2/4/20 8:21 AM Page 36
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Feb2020NCN35-44.qxp_NCN new template 2/4/20 8:21 AM Page 37
Stafford
Proposed budget aims to update tech resources By Laura Hayden
STAFFORD — Superintendent of Schools Steven Moccio recently proposed a budget increase of just under $1.1 million for the 2020-21 fiscal year, for a total of $29 million. If adopted in its entirety, this would reflect a 3.83% increase over last year’s allocations. According to the superintendent, there is the potential for a credit of $237,581 from the Town of Stafford which would lower the budget increase to 2.98%. The two line items projecting the greatest increases are funds for school equipment and out-of-district tuition payments. The over 300% increase in spending for school equipment ties into the initiation of a multiyear technology replacement plan. According to the Moccio, this budget request would ensure that current and future EOL (or “end-of-life” technology) that has become obsolete would be updated, while also developing a cycle for future technology equipment
replacement. Moccio said, “In the past, the district has attempted to grow the device inventory, mostly through grants, with minimal ability to fund replacements, largely due to low budget increases.” He adds that the past monies have been used to maintain teacher-utilized devices while student-utilized computers only received minor upgrades in memory rather than replacement. According to Moccio, during this same time, state testing requirements have shifted from written exams to online testing, resulting in the need for additional mobile devices for students. The first year of the multiyear technology plan replaces all mobile devices designated as EOL. Moccio emphasizes that “Failure to replace these devices directly impacts the district's ability to complete mandated student state testing requirements. Additionally, should the devices not be updated, students will have limited ability to access online resources and applications and collaborate with other students through the use
of Google Apps for Education.” Another budget item — tuition funds for out-of-district student placements — will increase by $300,000, or up 30%, from last year’s budget, if approved by the school board. Moccio says this money would be used for special education students who must be placed in schools in other towns in order to meet their educational needs. The state requires districts to fund these placements when they are deemed necessary. It’s “one of the most volatile” areas of any education budget, Moccio recently told the Journal Inquirer, because it is tied to student needs that can change over time and is based on
who moves into town. The school board will discuss these items and others in the proposed budget at its Feb. 10 meeting. Final approval is required no later than the school board’s Feb. 24 meeting. The Board of Education proposed budget will then be sent to the Board of Finance for further review at the end of February or beginning of March. Public hearings on the entire combined town and school budget are set for March 18 and April 22, followed by an annual town meeting May 6. Final approval requires a referendum vote, scheduled for May 13.
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Suffield
Academy Award nominee
Greg Butler is a Suffield native and Suffield High School graduate who was nominated for his second Academy Award for his visual effects work on “1917.” In addition to the Academy Award nomination, Butler was also nominated for a BAFTA (British Academy of Film and Television Awards). Photo courtesy of Greg Butler
Suffield Players’ new effort puts the fun in dysfunction
SUFFIELD — The fun’s back in dysfunctional as The Suffield Players present the clever comedy “Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike” by Christopher Durang Performances at Mapleton Hall, 1305 Mapleton Ave., will be at 8 p.m. on Feb. 13-15, 21-22, and 28-29 at 8 p.m. There will be a 2 p.m. matinee on Feb. 23. Ticket price: $20 ($15 opening night). Discounts available for groups, seniors, and students, and season subscribers. For reservations, call (800) 289-6148 or (860) 668-0837 or visit www.suffieldplayers.org. Middle-aged siblings Vanya and Sonia share a home in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, where they’ve spent years bickering with each other and caring for their demented parents, recently deceased. Dramatic movie star sister Masha swoops home for a visit with her new boy-toy Spike, and old resentments flare up. A zany soothsayer servant and a sweet innocent young actress get mixed up in the mayhem, not to mention a blue heron
Jim Hyland, Mary Fernandez-Sierra and Lisa Parker in a scene from The Suffield Players’ presentation of “Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike.”
(Suffield,), stage management by Shaun O’Keefe (Enfield), costume design by Dawn McKay (Suffield) and sound design by Jason Fregeau (Longmeadow, Massachusetts), photography by Madeline Catania (Suffield) and Jerry Zalewski (Enfield). Produced by Ron and Karen Balaska (Somers). “Vanya, Sonia, Masha and Spike” is presented by special arrangement with Dramatists Play Service, Inc., New York. Recommended for ages 13 and up; some adult language.
and some wild turkeys. If you enjoy way-out and wonderful, this is the show for you The cast: Hope Burnside (North Stonington), Mary Fernandez-Sierra (Russell, Massachusetts), Jim Hyland (Newington), Lisa Parker (Suffield), Ryan Peloquin (Holyoke, Massachusetts) and Trish Urso (Windsor). Behind-the-scenes talents: Direction and set design by Kelly Seip (Springfield), assistant direction by Tom Hebert (Holyoke), technical direction and lighting design by Jerry Zalewski
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Suffield
Senior Center news The Suffield Senior Center is at 145 Bridge St. Hours: Monday through Thursday 8 a.m.-4 p.m.; Friday 8 a.m.– noon. Senior Center phone: (860) 6688830; mini-bus phone: (860) 668-3844; Email: Ppascoe@suffieldct.gov. Mini bus Mini bus trips require five passengers and are weather permitting. Call (860) 668-3844 to make a reservation. Feb. 10: MGM Casino, pick up begins at 9 a.m. Feb. 11: Manchester shopping, hoice of Evergreen Walk or Buckland Hills, pick up begins at 8:30 a.m. Feb. 15: Valentine Social, call office for pick up time. Feb. 18: Lunch, Crepes Tea House, pick up begins at noon. Feb. 20: Walmart shopping, pick up
begins at 8:30 a.m. Feb. 25: Lunch at Captain Jimmy’s, pick up begins at noon. Health screenings Blood pressure: Feb. 12 and 26, 11 a.m., sponsored by Suffield Community Aid. Foot care: Feb. 18. Fee is $29. Call to schedule appointment. Exercise classes Chair exercise with Melanie DeCosmo: Wednesdays, 11:20 a.m., walk-in. $2/class or donation of a nonperishable food item. Line dancing: Every Tuesday and Thursday, 10 a.m. $2/class. Tax help Volunteer AARP IRS-certified tax counselors will be available on Thursdays during February and March to provide free basic tax assistance and electronic tax preparation services. This program is intended to provide services to low/middle income taxpayers with special attention to those aged 60 and older. Taxpayers with lengthy and/or complex returns are advised to seek paid tax assistance. Call the Senior Center today to book an appointment.
CONNECTICUT CROSSROADS REALTY, INC
Chamber’s executive director steps down (continued from page 1
nation as executive director of the North Central Connecticut Chamber of Commerce. Just after the new year I was presented a position to return to my previous role in morning radio. Over the last four years its been an honor to serve as ED of the NCCCC. We have accomplished many of the goals that were set forth upon my hiring. Goals such as creating new energy within the organization, one that would lay the foundation for re-establishing a presence in our four-town region. Also creating a welcoming friendly environment for businesses small and large to come together, develop camaraderie, establish relationships, and most importantly coming together for a purpose. I am proud to say that we have accomplished those things and exceeded them, providing excitement and meaning for our organization and community. I am fully confident in the leadership at the helm of the NCCCC within our Board of Directors to continue the work we have been doing over the years. Our event
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