January 2013 North Central

Page 1

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Schools Fare Well on New Test Index By Linda Tishler Levinson

Wolters Visits Stafford Middle School

Neil Hoss, a selectman and president of youth basketball, invited former UConn and gold medalist basketball player Kara Wolters to Stafford Middle School on Dec. 14 to run a clinic for the SMS girls basketball team, as well as the St. Edwards and youth basketball travel girls. After learning many techniques and drills from Kara, she spoke to all the girls and let them all look at and hold her gold medal. The girls all got autographed pictures from Kara at the end of the clinic.

In This Issue

• EAST WINDSOR: Cash-strapped library’s turn to borrow? ............p. 4 • A gift from the Better Business Bureau on return and exchange strategies ..p. 6 • ELLINGTON: Superintendent casts vote against booths in schools ......p. 7 • ENFIELD: Who can the town’s mysterious Recycler be? ........................p. 13 • ENFIELD: Asnuntuck CC “Changing Lives” every Thursday................p. 14 • SOMERS: Cool beans! A benefit Chili Cookoff in January ............p. 17

• SUNDAY DRIVE: Local blogger says ‘Ciao!’ to Italian wine ..............p. 25 • Don’t get burned; advice on proper firewood purchasing ......................p. 26 • State warns against scammers posing as charities ............................p. 26 • STAFFORD: Holiday decoration contest winners shine ................p. 28 • STAFFORD: Mold mitigation has town police on the move ..........p. 30 • AUTOS: Beetle Convertible warms up to winter months ........................p. 33 • CLASSIFIEDS: ...........................p.35

• NEXT ISSUE • DEADLINE: Jan. 25, 2013 (860) 698-0020 www.thenorthcentralnews.com

Schools in North Central Connecticut generally fared well on the School Performance Index, the newest measure in educational performance instituted by the state Department of Education. In May, the state received a waiver on the federal No Child Left Behind Act’s requirement that schools make adequate yearly progress. In its place, the General Assembly adopted a Common Core of Standards for education this summer. The School Performance Index is part of that initiative. Scores are based on three years of students’ scores on the Connecticut Mastery Test and the Connecticut Academic Performance Test. The Education Department released the performance index in December. Scores on the index range from 1 to 100. According to the state Education Department, the state target is 88. Goals are set for improvement based on current scores. The index comes with a higher standard for schools. While NCLB sought for the students to reach the proficient level on

SCHOOLS/page 3

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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.

Regional

Schools Pleased With Results of State Test (continued from page 1)

the mastery test, the index aims for the goal level. East Windsor East Windsor Superintendent of Schools Teresa Kane said, “We saw growth in all of our schools last year” using the SPI. She said the scores demonstrated a dramatic increase over the threeyear period. The scores did designate Broad Brook Elementary School as a focus school for black students. Overall, Broad Brook students scored 70.6 on the index. Next year’s goal has been set for 72. East Windsor Middle School received a three-year SPI of 77.3 with a target of 78.2. The three-year average SPI for East Windsor High School was 70.7. The target SPI for the 2012-13 school year was set at 72.1. Kane said the overall scores show that the school’s academic improvement plans are working. Ellington “Overall, we’re pleased with the scores,” Ellington Superintendent of Schools Stephen Cullinan said. “I think the system is better than the previous system,” he said, since it measures multiple bands, not just moving toward proficient. Cullinan also said that while the state target for some schools is to maintain their scores, the schools will continue to work to improve. Center School received a three-year average SPI of 85.1 with a target of 85.4. Crystal Lake School received a three-year average SPI of 84.4 with a target of 84.7. Windermere School received a three-year average SPI of 89.7 with a target to maintain the score. Windermere Intermediate School received a three-year average SPI of 92.2 with a target to maintain the score. Ellington Middle School received a three-

year average SPI of 92.4 with a target to maintain the score. Ellington High School received a three-year average SPI of 83.3 with a target SPI of 83.7. Enfield Anne McKernan, chief academic officer for the Enfield Public Schools, said that all of Enfield’s schools scored in fairly comparable positions. She said the greatest differences were in the SPIs of the two high schools. Edgar H. Parkman School received a three-year average SPI of 87.3 with a target to maintain. Eli Whitney School received a three-year average SPI of 84.7 with a target of 85. Nathan Hale School received a three-year average SPI of 81.2 with a target of 81.7. Prudence Crandall School received a three-year average SPI of 85.5 with a target of 85.8. John F. Kennedy Middle School received a three-year average SPI of 84.4 with a target of 84.7. Enfield High School received a threeyear average SPI of 71.2 and a target of 72.6, while Fermi High school received a three-year average SPI of 77.3 and a target of 78.1. Somers Kathleen Pezza, curriculum director for

the Somers Public Schools, said the scores will be used to help principals put together their building goals. She said the middle school made targets in all subject areas and was “very successful.” Somers Elementary School received a three-year average SPI of 83.1 with a target of 83.5. Mabelle B. Avery Middle School received a three-year average SPI of 90.7 with a goal to maintain. Somers High School received a three-year average SPI of 86.9 with a target of 87. Stafford Stafford Public Schools Curriculum Director Michael Bednarz said he will use the targets as part of each school’s improvement plan. “It certainly is important data,” he said, adding in future years they will be able to use them in context as they get comparisons within each school to measure progress. Stafford Elementary School received a three-year average SPI of 81.6 with a target of 82.1. Stafford Middle School received a three-year average SPI of 91.1 with a target to maintain. Stafford High School received a three-year average SPI of 82 with a target of 82.5.

Library Offers Nursery Rhyme Program

ENFIELD - On Tuesday, Jan. 8 at 6:30 p.m. the Enfield Public Library will host a half-hour program of nursery rhymes, songs, and finger plays. This is a drop-in program that is designed to promote early language skills for ages birth to 2, accompanied by parents or caregivers. Please call the library at 860-7637518 for more details or visit the library’s website: www.enfield publiclibrary.org. January 2013 North Central News

3

East Windsor

Library Asks Town for Ongoing Support Due to Shortfall By Linda Tishler Levinson

EAST WINDSOR — The Warehouse Point Library may need town funding to continue its operations. Cindy Miller, trustee of the Library Association of Warehouse Point, spoke at the Dec. 4 Board of Selectmen’s meeting. According to the minutes of the meeting, Miller said while the library traditionally has been funded by a $1.5 million endowment, this no longer

provides adequate support for the library’s needs. She said expenses have been rising over the years, and it is becoming difficult to sustain its expenses. In addition to the endowment, Miller said the library holds fundraisers, the proceeds of which are used to buy books. Discussions about the library’s needs involved ways the town might be able to assist, including letting the

library piggyback on the town computer upgrade and purchasing with the town to gain savings. The selectmen asked the library association to return during budget presentations. They also asked the group to contact the Connecticut Conference of Municipalities to research how towns comparable to East Windsor fund their libraries.

Tour de East Windsor Raises $1000 for Lions Low Vision Centers

EAST WINDSOR - On Monday, Nov. 26, the East Windsor Lions Club presented a check for $1,000 to the CT Lions Low Vision Centers. The check was part of the proceeds of the East Windsor Lions Club’s inaugural Bike Ride For Sight, the Tour de East Windsor, which was held on Sunday, Sept. 30. The Tour de East Windsor is a non-competitive, community bike ride, which offers organized rides of varying lengths to ride participants over low-traffic, rural roads in East Windsor and Broad Brook. The ride lengths offered for this inaugural ride were 20 miles, 10 miles, and 5 miles, all starting and finishing at the East Windsor Park on Reservoir Road. The 30 riders who participated in this year’s ride, from 9 years of age up to 68 years of age, along with significant support from the

former New England Bank (now known as United Bank), enabled the club to raise more than $2,800 from this event for the sight-related causes it supports. Since the club’s founding in 1953, its members have diligently worked on fundraising events to benefit sight related causes. The club has sponsored eye screening available to the public, provided large print books to the East Windsor Public Library, and provided eyeglasses to residents in need. In addition, the club has supported the CT Lions Eye Research Center at Yale University, the Fidelco Guide Dog Foundation, and the CT Lions Low Vision Centers. Lions Low Vision Centers, which are located in Bristol, Danbury, New Britain, New Haven, Stamford and Torrington, teach visually impaired persons new ways

to use their remaining eyesight. They provide aids and devices that can increase

their independence and ease their daily living activities.

EAST WINDSOR – The East Windsor Parks and Recreation Department has announced the following programs. Outdoor Skating Rink: The portable skating rink will be located on the north side of the East Windsor High School. This facility will be available for use by people of all ages, and provides a free family recreational activity. The rink is available after school hours during the week, and during the evening as well. The rink is also available at any time during the weekends, or during school vacation. Check with the Parks and Recreation Department for the opening date. Winter Yoga: Classes will be held at East Windsor High School in Room D-4 from 6:15 p.m.-7:30 p.m. Monday classes will be held Jan. 7 to March 11 with no class on Jan. 21 and Feb. 18. Wednesday classes will be held Jan. 9 to March 6 with

no class on Feb. 20. The cost of this program is: residents $25 once a week or $40 twice a week; non-residents $30 once a week or $45 twice a week. Registration is through the Parks and Recreation Office or online with its Webster Bank Payment link. Please call 860-627-6662 with any questions. Winter Zumba: Classes are being held at the Town Hall Annex from 6 p.m.-7 p.m. Monday classes will be held from Jan. 7 to Feb. 25. Wednesday classes will be held from Jan. 9 to Feb. 27. Registration is through the Parks and Recreation Office, or online with its Webster Bank Payment link. Please call 860-627-6662 with questions. The cost of this program is: residents $35 once a week or $60 twice a week; non-residents $40 once a week or $65 twice a week; daily walk-ins are $5.

Winter Programs Offered by Parks and Recreation Department

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Ellington Senior Center Offers Tax Help, Trips & More ELLINGTON - The 2013 Tax Preparation Program is being held at the Town of Ellington Human Services Department (Arbor Common in the conference room). Appointments will begin Thursday, February 7 and end on Thursday, April 11. Appointment times are 9 a.m.-12 p.m. (last appointment taken). You must pre register for this program. Sign-up is at the Ellington Senior Center. Call (860) 870-3133 to secure your appointment time.

A Lunch & Learn program is scheduled on Tuesday, January 22 at 12:30 p.m. Guest speaker is State Representative Christopher Davis who will bring everyone up to date on legislative issues. Signup for this program is requested by January 15. Best Buy Technology classes now forming. Free classes will be held on Wednesday afternoons for the following dates. Basic Computer, Intro – Session 1, Jan. 23, Feb. 13 and 27. Basic Computer, Intro – Session 2, March 13 and 27; April

VERNON The Connecticut Association for the Education of Young Children recently honored the Indian Valley Family YMCA Vernon and Rockville Child Care Programs at their Annual Connecticut Early Childhood Professional Development Reception. The Indian Valley Family YMCA Child Care programs in Vernon and Rockville are NAEYC Accredited Centers serving children age 6 weeks through 6 years old. NAEYC accreditation of programs for young children represents the mark of quality in early childhood education. NAEYC accreditation began in 1985 with the goal of providing an accrediting system that would raise the level of early childhood programs. Accreditation is a long process where the center does self evaluation and must present portfolios of work. Assessors from NAEYC take a full day evaluating more

than a year of work. There are only a few NAEYC accredited programs in Vernon. The Indian Valley Family YMCA is one of 12 branches of the YMCA of Greater Hartford. The Indian Valley Family YMCA serves children, adults and families in the towns of East Windsor, Ellington, Enfield, Somers, South Windsor, Tolland, Willington, and Vernon with a full membership facility in Ellington, a childcare center in Vernon and a childcare center in the Rockville section of Vernon. The YMCA of Greater Hartford is a non-profit 501 (c) (3) charitable organization, which served more than 95,000 people in 33 towns of the Capital Region in 2011. For more information about the Indian Valley Family YMCA and applying for financial assistance, please contact Lisa Reinhardt at 860-871-0008.

YMCA Child Care Centers Honored with Award

10. To register, sign up in person at the Senior Center with Sam on Jan. 8 and 16. Pre-registration is required. Calling all Husky Fans! The Senior Center will be showing selected UCONN Men’s and Women’s Basketball games on the big screen at the center. Bring your own sandwich, snack and soft drink and join Rich and Desh for a day or night out. Contact the Senior Center for scheduled dates and times of the games. There is also a trip planned for Saturday, April 27 to the West Point Dress

‘Santa’s Little Helpers’

Parade. West Point Academy Cadet Review. These reviews/parades are part of West Point tradition and instill discipline and order within the Corps of Cadets. Lunch is served buffet style at the Hotel Thayer on the grounds of the U.S. Military Academy at West Point. The Hotel Thayer is a national historic landmark. Cost of this trip is $93.00 per person. This includes all taxes, gratuities. For reservations contact the Ellington Senior Center in person or call (860) 8703133.

Saint Martha School students (ictured from left-to-right: Asha Patel, Alessandra Good, Emma Palmer, Tanner Guzie, Frank Roberts, and Emily Rougeot) donated toys and other Christmas gifts to area families in need this holiday season. The project was part of the school’s “Families 4 Families Project” which combines students from Grades K through 8 into ten ‘families’ to build community and provide service to others.

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January 2013 North Central News

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BBB Has Advice for Holiday Gift Returns and Exchanges

Regional

Not every gift we gave or received over the holidays is going to fit or be useful. Gift recipients may want to exchange it, get a refund or obtain a store credit for any one of a variety of reasons. However, Connecticut Better Business Bureau reminds holiday shoppers that there are steps to take to make the returns process go smoothly. While retailers are under no obligation to take back merchandise, most do with some exceptions, such as hats, intimate apparel and items that are marked down for clearance. In some cases, a store may offer a credit rather than a refund and other limitations and exceptions may determine what may be returned and under what circumstances. Keeping this in mind, it is vital to know exchange and returns policies before making a gift purchase, whether buying a gift in-store or online. Familiarize yourself with stores’ policies – The terms, conditions, requirements and restrictions can vary widely, even within a chain. Some may allow a return for no reason at all at any time. Returns policies are usually prominently displayed at the checkout counter or on websites of online sellers. Print out a copy for your

records. Online gift returns may come at a cost – Shipping costs for returns to online vendors are usually borne by the person making the exchange. If you buy an item from a retailer’s online catalog, find out whether the gift can be returned directly to the store. Proof of Purchase and Packaging – At the very least, a receipt is usually required to return a gift. Keep all original packaging and accessories. If the gift is being returned in a sealed or hard shell package that has been opened, such as an electronic gadget, the store may impose a re-stocking or “open box� fee of anywhere between one percent and 50 percent of its value, because the items cannot be re-sold as new. The highest re-stocking charges are usually associated with made-to-order items. Don’t wait too long - While it is not necessary to run out to the store the day after you receive an unwanted gift, many stores have a limited timeframe from the date of purchase during which you may return an item. Ask about the length of the grace period for gift returns. You may require identification - A dri-

Wishing you

ver’s license is the most common type of identification needed for a return or exchange. However, other forms of ID may be accepted, along with your name, address and telephone number to complete the return. The Cooling-Off Rule - The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Cooling-Off Rule allows consumers to return items over $25 within three days of purchase. However, this applies to sales at a location that is not the seller’s permanent place of business. Exemptions and other information about the Cooling-Off Rule are available on the FTC website. If you run into a problem with a return at the customer service desk, ask to speak with a supervisor. In addition, merchants may be able to accommodate loyal customers, or customers with a credit account. Founded in 1928, Connecticut BBB is an unbiased non-profit organization that sets and upholds high standards for fair and honest business behavior. BBB helps consumers find and recommend businesses, brands and charities they can trust, offers objective advice and a wide range of education on topics affecting marketplace trust. BBB also offers complaint and dispute resolution support for consumers and businesses. Today, 114 BBBs serve com-

munities across the U.S. and Canada, evaluating and monitoring more than three million local and national businesses and charities. For more advice on finding companies and businesses, start your search with trust at www.bbb.org.

Monthly Teen Writers Workshop

ENFIELD - Fiction for Fun, an ongoing writers’ workshop for teens, will be held at the Enfield Public Library on the second Tuesday of each month at 4 p.m. Each 90minute session will introduce teens to topics such as planning your plot, developing characters, finding the right words, and using dialogue. No registration required. Participants should be age 12 to 18, but they do not have to be experienced writers to join this series. Teens of all ability levels have benefited from sharing ideas, receiving individual attention, or honing their craft. The workshop is conducted by Paula Sharon, a former Enfield resident who has published her own young adult novels. For more information about this or other events for young adults, please call the Enfield Public Library at (860) 7637517 or visit the library’s website at www.enfieldpubliclibrary.org.

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Ellington Roadrunners Sprint to Championship

On Sunday, Nov. 18, the Ellington Roadrunners A team defeated the Colchester Cougars 14-6 to win the NCFL championship. The Roadrunners team is made up of 1213-year-old players from Ellington, Somers, East Windsor and Vernon. This is the team’s sixth NCFL championship in nine years under head coach Brian Skeels.

Superintendent Wants Voting Moved Out of Local Schools By Linda Tishler Levinson

ELLINGTON — Superintendent of Schools Stephen Cullinan wants the schools to stop being the town’s polling places. Having voters going in and out the schools during the day is a safety issue, Cullinan said. To allow voters access to the school, the standard security system which locks doors automatically must be dis-

abled. This creates a lapse in security when voting takes place on a school day. Elington High School and the Crystal Lake School are currently used for voting. “This was prior to Newtown,” Cullinan said of the request, noting that he made a similar suggestion in 2007. During the November elections, a professional development day for teachers is scheduled. That way, students are not in

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the schools when voting is taking place. “I can’t do it two, three, four, five times a year,” Cullinan said, adding voting also takes place for the townwide budget referendum, other referendums and primary elections. “Please do not misinterpret anything about not cherishing the voting process,” he said. Instead, he is just asking that the town investigate other possible venues for that process. “We know that there are some inconveniences and probably some security considerations,” First Selectman Maurice Blanchette said. Blanchette has brought the matter to the attention of the Board of Selectman and of residents through the town newsletter. He is asking the town to see if there are other solutions, but questioned if there are any. “There are no great alternatives. They all come with limitations,” he said. There are about 9,400 registered voters in town and few large, nonpublic buildings, he added.

Farm building tax exemption The farm building tax exemption was approved unanimously at a Dec. 10 Town Meeting. The exemption applies to buildings solely used for farming up to a value of $100,000. The property must be actively used for farming and have expenses or gross receipts of at least $15,000 a year. The exemption would have to be approved annually for each farmer, most likely with applications taken in October or November.

New Women’s Club Members

ELLINGTON – The Ellington Women’s Club is happy to welcome two new members into its community service organization. Members were given their GFWC membership pins at the Dec. 5 meeting. The new members are Joan Robinson and Cheryl Nicewicz. For additional information about The Ellington Women’s Club, visit its website at ellingtonwomensclub.weebly.com,

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January 2013 North Central News

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Ellington

Remember, Honor and Teach

The Ellington Ad Hoc Patriotic Committee conducted its third annual ceremony on Dec. 15, in participation with the national Wreaths Across America campaign, by placing wreaths on the graves of local veterans. This ceremony provided an opportunity to Honor, Remember, and Teach about the special lives and sacrifices given by our local veterans. The Ellington Women’s Club participated in the event by placing wreaths to

YMCA Red Cross Life Guarding Certfication

ELLINGTON - The Indian Valley Family YMCA facility in Ellington will be holding a Life Guarding Certification Class, which will start this month. Ever wanted to learn the skills to save a life? With the YMCA and American Red Cross lifeguard certification courses you can do just that. Participants will learn life guarding skills, how to perform CPR on an adult, child and infant, how to use an AED, and necessary first-aid skills. This six-week class, to be held in the Y’s Aquatics Center in Ellington, runs Jan.

7 to Feb. 13. For more detailed information or to register, contact the Y at 860871-0008 or www.indianvalleyfamily.org. Upon successful completion of the course the participant will be certified in: • YMCA or American Red Cross Life guarding • American Red Cross CPR/AED for the Professional Rescuer • American Red Cross Basic First Aid and Oxygen Administration Cost: Y facility members $295, program members $335.

honor three of its family members. Ellington Center Cemetery has more than 450 veterans interred who are available for recognition. Pictured, from left, Ellington Ad Hoc Patriotic Committee (EPC) member Wiley Dumas, Alan Lewandosky, Ellington Women’s Club (EWC) member Lenice Ellis, Darlene Hull, Pat Tardif, Lois Goodin, (EPC) Wilson Flynn, David Grim, Jeffrey Martin, and Leonard Johnson.

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Enfield

Teachers Federal Credit Union Donates to ‘Toys for Joy’

ENFIELD - The Tobacco Valley Teachers Federal Credit Union (TVTFCU) donated a variety of toys that were collected from credit union members and staff, to the Enfield Police Department’s Toys for Joy program. This program has provided new toys for children in the Enfield area for over 56 years. Last year more than 1,000 children received toys due to the charitable donations of this program. “We have been holding a toy drive annually to support the Toys for Joy program. I would like to thank our members and staff as well as non-members for their generosity. We always receive a great assortment of toys!� said Myrijam Meserve, Manager/CEO, Tobacco Valley Teachers Federal Credit Union. For more information about the “Toys for Joy� program contact the Enfield Police Department at 860-763-8913. For more information about TVTFCU, visit their website (www.tvtfcu.org), find them on Facebook, call them at 860-2534780 or stop by their office, which is located at 182 South Rd. in Enfield. TVTFCU is a not-for-profit, memberowned, financial co-operative that has been serving its members since 1936. Financial services include savings and checking accounts, youth accounts. online account management, a variety of loans, mortgages and more. TVTFCU’s field of membership includes: All public and non-public school employees who work in the towns of Enfield, East Windsor, Windsor, Windsor

TVTFCU staff members Mireille Marquardt and Carol Love pose with the many toys that were donated by their credit union members, non-members and staff. Locks, Suffield and Somers; Employees, commissioners and volun- retired as pensioners or annuitants from Enrico Fermi High School and Enfield teers of the Enfield Fire Department. the above employment, members of their High School students; Other members include spouses of per- immediate families and organization of Employees of Community Health sons who died while within the field of such persons. Resources; and membership of this credit union, persons

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9

Regional

New Promotions Announced at Allied Community Services

The Board of Directors of Allied Community Services Inc., has appointed Dean M. Wern as CEO and Carol Bohnet as Chief Operating Officer, effective Nov. 26. Each had served in interim roles since September for the Enfield-based human service agency. Both Wern and Bohnet have extensive experience at Allied. Wern served as CEO from 1988 until his retirement in 2011. Bohnet joined Allied in 1994 as director of rehabilitation services and was appointed executive director of the corporation’s Allied Community Resources (ACR) subsidiary in 1999. As COO, she is responsi-

ble for operational oversight of both subsidiaries: ACR in East Windsor and Allied Rehabilitation Centers in Enfield. The Allied Board also announced the promotion of Donald M. Waddell Jr. from director to vice president of financial management services at ACR. Waddell joined Allied in 2002 as an accounting manager. As vice president of ACR, he is responsible for the administrative and contractual oversight of ACR’s programs and services. Allied has provided services and supports to children and adults with intellectual and other disabilities since 1964. Offices are located in Enfield and East

Windsor; group homes are in those two towns as well as South Windsor. The Allied group employs more than 200 staff members and has a combined operating budget of over $12 million. Services provided by the Allied Rehabilitation Centers subsidiary include residential, employment, day enrichment, school transition, transportation and business support. Allied operates several businesses including Allied’s Attic Thrift Store, Different by Design Jewelry and Allied Transportation Services, employing program participants while providing goods and services to the community.

Through its Allied Community Resources subsidiary, the corporation also supports several state Medicaid Waiver programs as a financial management services agency. ACR provides services to more than 4,000 individuals annually in Connecticut and Alabama. Their independence is enhanced through community-based support services, which allow them to remain in their own homes and live in their communities. More information and a further description of Allied’s extensive services can be found at www.alliedgroup.org.

WILLIMANTIC - In 2008, Eastern Connecticut State University’s Center for Early Childhood Education (CECE) was awarded a three-year, $3.9 million Early Reading First (ERF) grant from the U.S. Department of Education to implement the Community Partners for Early Literacy (CPEL) project. Eastern was one of only 31 agencies and public school districts throughout the United States to be chosen for “Early Reading First� grants out of nearly 400 applicants. In partnership with the Windham Early Childhood Center (part of the Windham Public Schools) and the Child and Family Development Resource Center (CFDRC) at Eastern, the CECE provided professional development and literacy coaching to 50 teachers and paraprofessionals and supported families in engaging in literacy activities at home. The CPEL program helped approximately 600 preschool-age children in Willimantic and provided Eastern undergraduate and graduate students from various majors with important experiential

learning opportunities. The students worked as oral language assessors, classroom substitutes and literacy kit managers, and were considered critical to the project’s success. Danielle Nardone ‘09 of Stafford Springs, participated as an oral language assessor and classroom substitute for the project. Under the leadership of CECE Program Coordinator Julia DeLapp and Maureen Ruby and Ann Anderberg, assistant professors of education, the project worked to improve the language and literacy skills of nearly 600 preschool-age children in Willimantic/Windham through an intensive, bilingual, family-based language and literacy preschool intervention program with impressive results. According to Anderberg, the project was designed with Windham’s diverse community in mind. While Latino residents constituted 13 percent of the Connecticut population in the 2010 Census, the percentage of Latino residents in Willimantic is nearly 40 percent and the

percentage of the school-aged population that is Latino exceeds 60 percent. Approximately 37 percent of the town’s residents speak a language other than English in the home. At the end of the study, the research showed positive results. Both the teachers and the paraprofessionals who participated in the project improved their literacy knowledge by more than 15 percent over the course of the project.

In addition, the children made tremendous gains in their “receptive vocabulary,� “rhyming� and “quality of book reading� with Spanish-speaking students making the most gains. Such findings enabled the researchers to draw conclusions about lessons learned from the project that can be implemented in preschool classrooms throughout the state.

Nardone Assists in ECSU’s Community Early Literacy Program

email your news to northcentralnews@aol.com

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Regional

Cox Awards 21 Grants to Employee Nominated Organizations

WEST WARWICK, RI - Cox Communications' employees recently selected 21 nonprofit organizations to receive $21,000 in grants as part of its Cox Charities Employee Grant Program, an extension of the company's philanthropic work in the communities where employees live and work. Cox employees have a well-earned reputation for being ambassadors in their communities. Annually, employees are given an opportunity to nominate organizations throughout Rhode Island and Connecticut that support education for $1,000 Employee Advisory grants. An advisory group comprised of Cox employees review and rank each of the nominations submitted. The committee evaluates and ranks each application on several key criteria before final selec-

tions are made. “We are proud to support our employees who donate their time and talent to positively impact our future generations,” said John Wolfe, senior vice president and general manager of Cox New EnglandCommunications Cleveland. “The Cox Charities Employee Advisory grant program is just one of the many ways Cox remains committed to its employees and the communities we serve.” Since 2001, Cox Charities New England has invested more than $5 million in grants and in-kind services to non-profit organizations benefiting the youth and education. The 2012 Cox Charities Employee Advisory grant recipients are the Boys & Girls Club of Meriden, Connecticut

Autism Spectrum, East Windsor Family Resource Center, Enfield Loaves and Fishes, Family Resource Center of Southington, MARC, and the Network Against Domestic Abuse of North Central CT. Cox Communications is a broadband communications and entertainment company, providing advanced digital video, Internet and telephone services

over its own nationwide IP network. The third-largest U.S. cable TV company, Cox serves approximately six million residences and businesses. Cox Business is a facilities-based provider of voice, video and data solutions for commercial customers, and Cox Media is a full-service provider of national and local cable spot and new media advertising.

Kent Retirement Planning Services, LLC An Independent Practice Serving North Central Connecticut & Western Massachusetts Voted the # 1 Financial Planner in North Central Connecticut for Six straight Years (2007-2012).*

Storm Prep

Somers Public works employee Bill Haiko (left) waits in his dump truck as UConn student and Somers Public Works Department part-time employee John Machnicki (not pictured) dumps ClearLane enhanced deicer with a bucket loader at the Somers facility in preparation for the upcoming winter storm that hit Connecticut between the holidays. Photo by David Butler II

Are You Retiring or Are You Already Retired? Get personal guidance to help prepare or repair your retirement investments for living a long and secure retirement. Review leading investment strategies to grow and protect your money and to provide retirement income distributions. Kent Retirement Planning is committed to providing our clients with the finest investment programs available. Schedule your financial check-up today! Contact us today by phone or online: 860.749.6961 or www.kentretirementplanning.com Wishing you a Happy and Prosperous New Year! *As selected in the Best of North Central News Readers Polls.

Securities and Investment Advisory Services offered through National Planning Corporation. NPC is a Member of FINRA & SIPC and a Registered Investment Adviser. Kent Retirement Planning Services, LLC and NPC are separate and unrelated companies. January 2013 North Central News

11

Enfield

St. Bernard Mitten Tree

The students at St. Bernard School collected hats, gloves, and mittens as part of their school-wide service project for Advent. The donated items will be given to the St. Vincent DePaul Society at St. Bernard Church to be distributed with their holiday baskets. Back row, from left to right, Rebecca Villanueva, Hannah Grossi. Middle row, from left, Gina Brooks, Priyanka Maharaj, Anna Brown. Front row, from left, Alek Pozzuto, Norah Lyke, Faith Daigneau, Justin Arnold.

Foster Parents Needed The Village for Families and Children is seeking to find dedicated and compassionate Foster Parents willing to open their home for our new and innovative foster care program. We will provide you with ongoing training and support groups, 24 hour on-call service, and a generous monthly stipend. Single,

Married, Renters or Homeowners are encouraged to apply. Call (860) 236-4511 or email to learn more. fostercare@villageforchildren.org

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12 North Central News January 2013

Everyday people have helped make a difference in child’s life. single, married, homeowners or renters... You couldn't be there for their past.... CALL NOW You CAN be there for their future!! to register for our upcoming pre-service training beginning in August Training starting in January Phone: 860-560-7324 ext. 1005 E-mail: melissaniver@nafi.com Website: www.NAFICT.org for more information

Enfield

Enfield Seeks Identity of Mysterious Recycling Rewarder By Linda Tishler Levinson

ENFIELD — Who is the Recycler? Mayor Scott Kaupin is asking residents to help identify the mysterious recycling resident who has been rewarding good recyclers with gift cards to area restaurants. “I’ve heard a lot lately about the mysterious recycling figure in Enfield. This individual has been taking out forgotten recycling barrels and keeping tabs on the recycling efforts of our residents,� Kaupin said in a written release. Kaupin asked residents to go to the town’s website, enfield-ct.gov, where they

can vote on who they think the recycler is. “Random people doing good acts of recycling are getting rewards,� said Chris Casey of Chris Casey Concepts, who is working with the town on its recycling efforts. The Recycler has so far given out gift cards to Hazard Grille, Country Diner and LuLu’s Restaurant. Dan DeGray, of Enfield, is among those who have received the gift cards. DeGray said he has to credit his wife, Dina, for their good recycling efforts. “She recycles everything,� he said. He said the gift card he received came

with a letter with a paw print on it, thanking his family for recycling well. “It looked like a third-grader wrote it,� he said. Casey said the Recycler might have been inspired by the town’s recent campaign to encourage recycling, following the introduction of single-stream recycling. The town is working with local schools to teach children about recycling. They are being asked to help name the panda that is Enfield’s recycling mascot. The class that submits the winning name will get a pizza party.

St. Bernard School Announces First Quarter Honor Roll

ENFIELD - St. Bernard School in Enfield has released its first quarter honor roll. The following students were named to the list, according to a list provided by the school. Grade 6 High Honors Tyler Esposito Grade 6 Honors Kishan Bhasin Nicholas Camp Ethan Cheffer Riley Doerner Jenna Fahey Megan Ferriera Hannah Grossi Michael Kaliff Jack MacDonald

Julia Morin Emmalie Pierz-Gaudet Gianna Rosato Cathryne Tronsky Rebecca Villanueva Grade 7 High Honors Emily Miller Kayla Randolph John Riley Grade 7 Honors Aurelie Barry Cian Beaulieu Kiley Brennan Miriam Dugas Killian Gomeau Quincy Jacques Owen Kinne

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Cooper Lorenz Brandon Lukacs Emily Noll Grade 7 Principal’s List George Camp Luciana Kaufmann Xochitl Llanas Haley Marinelli Naomi Rosado Grade 8 High Honors Sarah Alaimo Grade 8 Honors Salvatore Lastrina Meghan Brennan Erienne Dowe Lilyanna Lingua-Cutler Lillian Post Grade 8 Principal’s List Maansi Aghera Tabetha Benjamin Leah Cothran Kamryn Desrosiers Jamison Cote Nina MacDonald Rose Michaud Joseph Olesky Elizabeth Santy Nolan Skehan Jessica Williams

In addition, children are being asked to bring in plastic bags, which cannot be recycled in the town bins. These can be made into construction materials, such as that used to make decks, Casey said.

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January 2013 North Central News

13

Enfield

North Central Publisher This Month on ‘Changing Lives’

ENFIELD - There are always new happening at Asnuntuck things Community College, and now there are two new faces as well! Want to meet them? Tune in to Cox Public Access Channel 15 on Thursdays in January at 7 p.m. or visit www.asnuntuck.edu/changinglives. In the first half of the episode, we're introduced to Matt Hall, the new director of library services at Asnuntuck. Hall describes the path that led him to ACC, as well as outlining the changes he'd like to implement to the library and the services he’d like to provide to students and faculty.

Mediation Workshop Slated For Jan. 9

ENFIELD - The Connecticut Chinese Culture Association will present a Chinese Meditation Workshop at the Enfield Public Library on Wednesday, Jan. 9, at 7 p.m. The workshop will include a slide presentation introducing Falun Dafa and teaching of the five sets of movements and meditation. All programs at the Enfield Public Library are free and all are welcome. To register for this program, please visit the Circulation Desk, or call 860-763-7512. For more inforamtion on upcoming events, please visit enfieldpubliclibrary.org

Gary Carra, from Asnuntuck’s Office of Workforce Development and Continuing Education, left, and Matt Hall, the new director of library services at Asnuntuck, with “Changing Lives” host Martha McLeod, president of Asnuntuck Community College. Gary Carra, from the college's Office of McLeod highlighting the programs and www.asnunutck.edu/changinglives. Workforce Development and Continuing achievements of Asnuntuck Community Asnuntuck Community College, locatEducation, appears on the second half of College and its students and faculty. ed in Enfield, was established in 1972. the episode. Carra, who heads up the “Changing Lives” airs Thursday evenings ACC offers associate degrees and certifioffice’s marketing efforts, reviews his at 7 on Cox Communications Channel 15 cate programs to prepare students for career and shows off some of his efforts to in the towns of Enfield, Suffield, Somers, careers, transfer opportunities and lifelong get students to the college. Stafford, Union, Hartland, East Hartland, learning. “Changing Lives” is a monthly public Granby, East Granby, and Holland, Mass. The mission of the college is to offer access series hosted by Asnuntuck Clips from the show can also be seen quality education in an accessible, affordCommunity College president Martha online at able and nurturing environment.

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Enfield

Wreaths Across America

At left, State Sen. John A. Kissel (center) speaks with members of the Patriot Guard Riders at the “Wreaths Across America� ceremony held Dec. 11 at Enfield’s Parkman Elementary School. Wreaths Across America’s large tractor trailer full of wreaths, escorted by the Patriot Guard Riders, made one of its few Connecticut stops at the school while en route from Maine to Arlington National Cemetery. One hundred thousand wreaths will be placed on the graves of our nation’s fallen soldiers at Arlington. Students, teachers, veterans and local residents attended the event. After students welcomed the truck’s driver and honor guard outside the school, a program was held inside the school. Patriotic songs were played, students read letters to deceased veterans and Gold Star families were presented with wreaths. The ceremony was “solemn

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and celebratory all at once,� Sen. Kissel said. The wreath tradition started in 1992 by Morrill Worcester, owner of Worcester Wreaths in Maine. The mission’s theme is “Remember, Honor and Teach� the value of freedom in today’s world. For more information visit www.wreathsacrossamerica.org. Among the attendees at the Dec. 11 “Wreaths Across America� event at Enfield’s Parkman Elementary School, from left to right: Enfield Mayor Scott Kaupin, Sen. John A. Kissel, Enfield Town Councilor Cindy Mangini and Enfield Town Councilor Tom Kienzler.

Sam’s Soldiers Zumba for a Cause

ENFIELD - Please join Sam’s Soldiers, Fermi High School’s Rachel’s Challenge Club, and Kids First as they Zumba for Sam. Fourteen-year-old Sam is currently undergoing aggressive treatment for brain cancer. Help them to spread awareness and help defray his family’s mounting medical costs. Zumba with ZIN instructors Ana Ferris, Kiernan Rushford and Kelly Swanson at

Fermi High School’s gymnasium on Saturday, Jan. 12, from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Don’t Zumba? Come on out and show your support. There will be great raffles and items to purchase, with all proceeds to benefit Sam. Tickets are $15; $25 includes a tee shirt. For more information or to purchase tickets call 860-508-7081 or email emydrb@yahoo.com.

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ELLINGTON $179,500 This 3 bdrm, 2 bath raised ranch is just minutes to Crystal Lake. Plenty of extra space in the 24'x40' detached garage w/900+ SF of storage above for all your toys!!

COMMERCIAL/INVESTMENT PROPERTIES ENFIELD: 2-story Rt. 5 office bldg..............$729,000 SOMERS: 1800 sf bldg on Rt. 83.................$274,900 ELLINGTON: 4000+SF C-zoned house ......$395,000 E.WINDSOR: 1672 SF bldg on Rt 140 .......$325,000 NO. CENTRAL CT: computer business.......$ 65,000

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January 2013 North Central News

15

Library Hours:

Monday – Thursday 10:00-8:00 Friday 10:00-5:00 Saturday 10:00-3:00 Sunday 1:00-5:00

Library Closed:

January 1, New Year’s Day January 21, Martin Luther King Day February 18, Presidents’ Day

’Like’ us on Facebook and your name will be entered into a drawing for a gift certificate to a local business!

Book Discussions The next book discussion at the library will be Murder at the Vicarage by Agatha Christie on Wednesday, January 30 at 7:00 p.m. with a snow date of February 6. Denise Stankovics is the discussion leader. Copies of the book are available for loan. Also join us for a discussion of a popular nonfiction book on the third Thursday afternoon of each month beginning in February. Titles to be discussed will be available soon. Please call 860-7633501 to register or for further information. Book Talk with CT Author Robert Steele Former U.S. Congressman Robert Steele will discuss his new novel The Curse: Big-Time Gambling's Seduction of a Small New England Town on Wednesday, January 16 at 7:00 p.m. The novel is set against the casino gambling explosion that hit southeastern Connecticut during the 1990's and comes at a time when Connecticut's casinos face the prospect of heavy new competition from New York, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island. Signed copies of the book will be available for purchase at the library the evening of Mr. Steele's appearance. Snow date is scheduled for Thursday, January 17. Monday Matinees We will show the recently released film Hope Springs on Tuesday, January 8 and Magic of Belle Isle on Tuesday, January 22. The movies will be shown with closed captioning in the Blake Community Room beginning at 1:00 p.m.

Identity Theft: What You Need to Know Sam Chang, a representative from Thrivent Financial for Lutherans, will present a program on identity theft at the Somers Library on Thursday, January 31 at 4:00 p.m. Participants will learn how identity theft can occur, tips to protect themselves, and steps to take if identity theft happens to them. Please register online (www.somerspubliclibrary.org – Events Calendar) or by calling 860-763-3501.

Free Opera Afternoon Join opera teacher Mike Cascia for a screening of Vincenzo Bellini’s Italian “Bel Canto” opera Norma on Sunday, February 3, from 1:00-4:30 p.m. On Sunday March 3 Mr. Cascia will present Puccini’s Madama Butterfly, a 1904 “verisimo” (true to life) Italian style opera. Light refreshments will be served. The programs are free and open to the public.

Great Decisions Foreign Policy Discussions Are you interested in joining a series of discussions on world affairs? Call 860-763-3501 or come in to the Somers Public Library for a listing of foreign policy topics being discussed in 2013. If there is enough interest, the library will provide the books which will serve as the focal text for the discussions which will begin in the winter.

eBooks for Loan The library subscribes to the Overdrive downloadable eMedia catalog with items available for loan to Somers residents. Titles may be downloaded to either the Kindle or Nook eReaders, or other devices, for a 7 or 14 day checkout. You will need your Somers Public Library barcode and there is a limit of 5 titles per patron. Because of the high demand, most bestsellers have waiting lists. Overdrive is easily accessible from the library’s website, www.somerspubliclibrary.org.

16 North Central News January 2013

Family Movie Matinee Saturday, January 5, 1:00 p.m. We will show the movie Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Dog Days, rated PG, 94 minutes. No registration required. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.

Winter Storytime Session

Registration for the Somers Public Library winter storytime session will begin the week of January 7. Somers residents can register beginning Monday, January 7 and non-residents can register beginning Tuesday, January 8. Storytime sessions will run for eight weeks January 14 –March 15. Registration is required for all storytimes. Children ages 12-24 months will meet on Thursdays at 10:15 a.m. Children ages 24-36 months will meet on Wednesdays at 10:15 a.m. Children ages 3-5 years will meet on Thursdays at 1:30 p.m. or Fridays at 10:15 a.m. Snow Fun Storytime! Thursday, January 17, 3:30-4:30 p.m. A storytime for students in grades K-2. We will read Martin MacGregor’s Snowman and make a winter craft. Cookies and hot chocolate will be provided. Registration is required. Pancakes & Pajamas Family Night Tuesday, January 22, 6:00 p.m. Wear your winter pajamas for some pancake making, stories and songs. All ages are invited. Registration is required for this event.

Winter Reading Program January 7- February 28 Pick up your first reading sheet beginning Monday, January 7 and check out five books from the library. Return your completed reading log to the library for a special surprise. Candy Kiss Contest January 7 – February 13 Stop in and take a guess at the number of candies in the jar. Closest guess wins them all!

February is Love Your Library Month! Celebrate the love for your library by filling out a heart for our children’s room bulletin board. Your name will be entered for a chance to win a gift basket! Stop in the children’s room beginning February 1.

Take Your Child to the Library Day Saturday, February 2 • Dads & Donuts at 10:30 a.m. Children ages 2 & up are invited to bring their dads for stories, songs & a craft. We will also be serving donuts, coffee and juice. Registration is required. • Family Movie Matinee at 1:00 p.m. We will show the movie, Ice Age: Continental Drift, rated PG, 88 minutes. No registration required. Children under the age of 12 must be accompanied by an adult. Celebrate the Chinese New Year - Year of the Snake! Saturday, February 9, 1:00 p.m. Meet numerous species of snakes. Learn about these fascinating but often misunderstood reptiles. How do they locate prey? How do they eat? How big do they grow? Presented by Riverside Reptiles. Recommended for ages 4 & up. Registration is required for this event. Celebrate Valentine’s Day! Thursday, February 14, 3:30 – 4:30 p.m. Students in grades K-2 are invited to make a craft and special treats with chocolate! Registration is required for this event. February School Vacation Week Activities Watch for details on these special events: Dr. Seuss Family Night! Tuesday, February, 19, 6:00 p.m.

Lego® Club Wednesday, February 20, 1:30 p.m. Musical Petting Zoo with the Springfield Symphony Orchestra Thursday, February 21, 10:30 a.m.

Somers

Chili Cookoff Will Benefit Sandy Hook Fire Department By Linda Tishler Levinson

SOMERS - After the school shootings in Newtown, Michael Freedman, of Somers, wanted to do something to help. “I’ve heard from a lot people in town who want to do something,” said Freedman, chairman of the New England Regional Chili Cookoff, whose father lives in Newtown. The result is a Chili Cookoff to benefit the Sandy Hook Fire Department in Newtown. The event will be held indoors on a smaller scale than the outdoor cookoffs and

will feature the first 40 cooks who sign up. “In less than 12 hours, we had 28 cooks sign up,” Freedman said. Freedman was amazed at the response, he said, with most of what is needed to run the event having been donated. The Chili Cookoff will be held from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Jan. 19 at Pleasant View, 452 South Rd., Somers. Admission is $8. For information, contact Freedman at madmike@chilict.com. Four Town Fair The 175th Anniversary Four Town Fair will be held

Sept. 12-15. Organizers are seeking historical photographs, references, newspaper articles, stories and agricultural artifacts to document the fair’s history. They also are looking for residents, civic organizations and local businesses interested in becoming involved in the event. Interested persons may contact Marie Letellier at: 168 Prospect Hill Rd., East Windsor, CT 06088, 860-6270216, marieletellier4townfair@yahoo.com or P.O. Box 24, Somers, CT 06071. The deadline for submissions is May 1.

Town of Somers Commits to Clean Energy Communities Program

SOMERS – Somers’ First Selectman Lisa Pellegrini recently signed a pledge to commit the town to the Clean Energy Communities program, an Energize Connecticut initiative that incentivizes Connecticut municipalities to improve energy efficiency and promote the use of clean and renewable energy. Energize Connecticut helps homes and business save money and use clean energy. It is an initiative of the Energy Efficiency Fund, the Clean Energy Finance & Investment Authority, the State, and local electric and gas utilities,

with funding from a charge on customer energy bills. Under the expanded Clean Energy Communities program, Somers pledges to reduce its municipal building energy consumption 20 percent by 2018, and to voluntarily purchase 20 percent of its municipal electrical needs from clean, renewable sources by 2018. “By embracing energy efficiency and clean energy technologies, Somers has the opportunity to save money, save energy and help improve the environment,” Pellegrini said. “We are committed to achieving significant levels of pro-

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gram participation and continuing to educate our residents, businesses and institutions about the benefits of energy efficiency and clean, renewable energy.” Through participation in energy-saving and renewable energy programs, Somers can earn points towards rewards. For example, when residents or businesses in Somers install a clean energy system, enroll in the CTCleanEnergyOptions program, or sign up to receive a Home Energy Solutions assessment, they earn points for the town. For every 100 points earned for renewable initiatives, Somers will earn a clean energy system equivalent to a 1 kW solar photovoltaic system. Earned systems could include a solar photovoltaic array, solar hot water system, solar trash compactor or solar-powered lights. Similarly, points are earned when residents, businesses or municipalities participate in energy efficiency programs, such as the Home Energy Solutionssm, Small Business Energy Advantage or Retro Commissioning programs, all of which are energy improvement services designed to help people or businesses use energy more efficiently and save money on their monthly energy bills.

For every 100 points earned through participation in energy efficiency programs, Somers will receive a “Bright Idea Grant” of $5,000 that can be used toward a community-selected energysaving project, such as hiring an energy auditor to assess/benchmark municipal buildings or to leverage existing funds to make energy-saving improvements to a school. CL&P and CEFIA, the Clean Energy Communities program administrators will work with Somers to help the town meet goals laid out in its Comprehensive Energy Plan.

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Somers

Somers Women’s Club Once Again Supports Toys for Tots

SOMERS - At its December Christmas Luncheon meeting, the Somers Women’s Club continued its tradition of giving with each member contributing a gift to the Toys for Tots program. In 2012, the women exhibited their generosity and industriousness in many ways. Members knitted numerous helmet liners for servicemen in the armed forces and “chemo caps” for women undergoing treatment for cancer. Hundreds of comfortable splints were sewn for children recuperating from reconstructive facial surgery provided by Operation Smile. Called “no-no” bands, the splints prevent the patients from touching their faces while recovering. On an ongoing basis, members contribute food at the monthly meetings to distribute to local food shelves. The Domestic Abuse Prevention Network in Enfield has been the beneficiary of 150 pairs of socks donated on October 27, which is “Make a Difference Day.” The clubwomen also continually collect toiletries and prepare personal care packets for the abused women. In November, the Somers club assisted with the General Federation of Women’s Clubs of Connecticut two-year project, Homes for the Brave, a non-profit that provides homeless veterans with transi-

tional housing and vocational and case management services. Along with its juniorette branch, Earth Angels, the Somers Women’s Club was able to donate 25 blankets to the 42-bed facility located in Bridgeport. For more than 90 years, the members of the club have helped wherever a need was found. The Somers Women’s Club is a proud member of the General Federation of Women’s Clubs of Connecticut. Anyone interested is invited to attend the regular monthly meetings and consider joining the group. The Jan. 3 meeting will feature a Bingo game. Please call Charlotte Stopa at 860-749-3190 for further information.

Women’s Club Seeks Scholarship Applicants

SOMERS - The Somers Women’s Club is seeking candidates for a $1,000 scholarship to be awarded to a town resident from the General Federation of Women’s Clubs of Connecticut. Applicants must be females who have completed two or more years in an accredited institution of higher learning with a 3.0 average (or better) and are matriculating for a Bachelor’s or postgraduate degree. Applications are available by calling Maureen LaFlamme at 860-7497518 or Charlotte Stopa at 860-749-3190.

Arlene Yarnes, First Vice-President of Somers Women’s Club, stands with a bin of toys collected for Toys for Tots.

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Somers

Fire Marshal’s Office to Bolster Fire Prevention Efforts

SOMERS — The Somers Fire Marshal’s Office has received a $1,500 fire prevention grant from FM Global, one of the world’s largest commercial property insurers. FM Global representatives presented the award to Fire Marshal Robert Morpurgo and Deputy Fire Marshal Glen Reynolds at the Somers Fire Department on Dec. 6. The award will be used to assist with prefire planning to efficiently collect and track data related to local community buildings. The information will help the fire service respond in an emergency situation. Because fire continues to be the leading cause of property damage worldwide, during the past 35 years FM Global has contributed millions of dollars in fire prevention grants to fire service organizations around the globe. Locally, the company has awarded grants to a number of Connecticut-based organizations. “At FM Global, we strongly believe the majority of property damage is preventable, not inevitable,� said Michael Spaziani, manager of the fire prevention grant program. “Far too often, inadequate budgets prevent those organizations working to prevent fire from being as proactive as they would like to be. With additional financial support, grant recipients are actively helping to improve property risk in the communities they serve.� Through its Fire Prevention Grant Program, FM Global awards grants quarterly to fire departments—as well as national, state, regional, local and community organizations worldwide—that best demonstrate a need for funding, where

From left, Deputy Fire Marshal Glen Reynolds, Michael Spaziani of FM Global, Fire Marshal Robert Morpurgo. dollars can have the most demonstrable companies in America and is rated A+ “Best Global Property Insurer� by Global impact on preventing fire, or mitigating (Superior) by A.M. Best and AA (Very Finance magazine and was voted “Best the damage it can quickly cause. Strong) by Fitch Ratings. The company Commercial Property Insurer� in Business To learn more about FM Global’s Fire has been named “Best Property Insurer in Insurance’s 2010 annual Readers Choice Prevention Grant Program, or to apply for the World� by Euromoney magazine, Awards. a grant, please visit www.fmglobal.com/grants. For more than 175 years, many of the world’s largest organizations have turned to FM Global to develop cost-effective property insurance and engineering solutions to protect their business operations from fire, natural disasters and other types of property risk. With clients in more than 130 countries, FM Global ranks #572 among FORTUNE magazine’s largest

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out the Somers Village Players spring production of Over The Checkerboard by Fred Carmichael. The dinner theatre will be at Joanna’s Restaurant April 9, 10, 16, 17, 23 and 24. Directed by David Crowell

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Somers High School Announces First Quarter Honor Roll

Somers

SOMERS – Somers High School has announced the first quarter honor roll. The following students were named to it, according to a list supplied by the school. Grade 9 High Honors Mary Baumann Veronika Bedard Ethan Belisle Haley Burgmyer James Chaisson Michael Emery Emily Fawthrop Jacob Graham Nicholas Gray Madeline Griger Rebecca Heller Samantha Hojnowski Danielle Hollister Megan Jewell Holly King Abbey Maloney Matthew McGuane Faith McNamee Noah Morin Emily Pruden Emily Rossini Alexander Smithline Michael Szleszynski Allison Tarbox Aiden Tiernan Hannah Tyler Grade 9 Honors Amber Archambault Anthony Barile Spencer Beebe George Bosomworth Corey Brown Thomas Burgess Isabel Cesare Rahul Deshmukh Dinea Frasca Jadzia Genece Tyler Hannan Ashley Hinckley Bridget Logan Christopher Mailhot Jenna Martin Kristen Munson Mary Petersen John Poitras John Porter Francesco Rinaldi

Stephen Salvador Michael Schober Cameron Scott Catherine Thresher Michael Tolisano Nicholas Tomson Danielle Urbon Matthew Vecchiarelli Ellen Wheeler

Grade 10 High Honors Lindsey Blais Melanie Bonneau Hannah Collins Alexander Coverdill Bailee Crisinati Alec Kapino Morgan Knight Jeffrey Krol Andre Levesque James Morello Melissa Morton Samantha Pruden Benjamin Ranelli Emily Roche Samantha Salvador Sarah Schon Ethan Settje Solvej Sichler Amanda Sloan Sarah Squillace Tyler Tolisano

Grade 10 Honors Darcy Anderson Zachary Beebe Maria Bernier Mackenzie Coleman Timothy Craig Erin Eastwood Kirsten Guerette Meaghan Hanna Kayla Hevey Brian Hollister Anita Huang Nicolaus LaVallee Michael Lesco Shawn Marquardt Connor Marsters Kenneth McCarthy Alaina Murphy Jaclyn O'Grady Jason Paley Nathan Parks

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Grade 11 High Honors Brianna Allard Andrew Baker Stephen Bosomworth Michael Casciano Kimberly Cisco Christopher DeGray Austin Ficara Julianne Folger Samantha Gay Christine Goss Sarah Hayowyk Emily Jewell Caitlin Leale Amanda Lefemine Rebecca Novak Helena Rheault Amanda Roberts Anna Sibilia Kristen Steidler Corey Tomson Olivia Tyler Lauren VanFossan Wyatt VanFossan

Grade 11 Honors Mitchell Anderson Carley Ballard Marc Beaulieu Erika Bushey Laura DeCarli Christopher Eastwood Kaitlin Gagne Caroline Gamble Megan Guerrette Jamie Hein Dominique Herbert Aram Kerr Matthew Kopec Kevin Laurita Kathryn LaVallee

William McCloskey Jr. Anthony Mottolese Hannah Mulvihill Allison Nowak Kaitlyn Prucker Matthew Rafala Brian Rossini Jessalyn Samson Brandon Scanlon Tori Totten Jessica Trusch Andrew Vibberts Kara Williams Connor Wyllie

Grade 12 High Honors Kristine Aikins Julia Alexander Gabrielle Bernier Joshua Caswell Jane Chesley Ryan DeAdder Dominic DeFilipi Nicholas Elia Mark Erwin Marisa Forti Nicole Gay Jennifer Jablonski Paige LaDue Victoria Lyons Julianna Masamery Shannon McCallum Sarah McCollum Dominique Miner Kathryn O'Connor Jessica Olynciw William Paskewitz Cayla Rossini Nicholas Salvador Julianna Samson Kayla Savage Michael Sawicki Megan Seagrave Kelsey Sloan Heather Smith Jenna Varnauskas Timothy Waters Nick Zachary Grade 12 Honors Anthony Andrade Mark Ceppetelli

SOMERS/page 23

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Somers

Local Store Unveils Newtown Benefit Candle

SOMERS - Scent-Sations Inc. has just released a special “In Memory Of” candle to honor the victims of Sandy Hook Elementary School. This 16 oz. jar candle features white wax, a lilac floral scent and a special label with two children holding hands with a tagline of “A brief time in our arms ... Forever in our hearts.” This is a

powerful reminder of just how fragile life can be. All proceeds (approximately $20 per jar) will be donated to the families of those affected. The candle is $25 and may be ordered online at www.SandyHookCandle.com or locally from Meg Munson at 860-3056530.

SOMERS - A family style roast pork supper, served with mashed potatoes, gravy, winter squash, salad, breads/rolls, beverage and apple crisp will be hosted by the Congregational Church of Somersville, 22 Maple St., on Saturday, Jan. 12. Two seatings are offered, at 5 p.m. and 6:15 p.m.

Reservations should be made by calling the church at 860-749-7741 or emailing somcong@aol.com. Cost is $12 for adults and $5 for children ages 5-10. The church is handicap accessible. Take out orders can be placed ahead of time and picked up between 5:15 p.m. and 7 p.m. on the evening of the dinner.

Congregational Church Hosts Roast Pork Supper

Somers High School Honor Roll (continued from page 22)

Somers Lacrosse Spring Registration

SOMERS – Somers Lacrosse will hold an information day and walk-in registration on Saturday, Feb. 2, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Kibbe Fuller Community Center in Somers. You can also register online from Jan. 2 to Feb. 15. There will be lacrosse program information, equipment rentals and uniform samples. Somers lacrosse clothing will be available for purchase. Contact Elaine Beebe at somerslax@sbcglobal.net with general questions. For questions regarding sign-ups, financial assistance or donations contact Kevin Foye (director, boys league) at 860-749-8029 or k2foye@cox.net or Joleen Speight (director, girls league) at 860-803-6441 or joleen.speight@phoenixwm.co.m

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Regional

Courtney Applauds Defense Authorization Act as Victory

WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Joe Courtney and the House of Representatives today passed the FY13 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), bolstering eastern Connecticut’s industrial base. The bill includes measures drafted by Rep. Courtney as a member of the House Armed Services Subcommittee on Seapower and Expeditionary Forces –and supported by the bipartisan Congressional Shipbuilding Caucus – to ensure steady submarine production in 2014, and authorizes up to 10 Virginia Class Submarines as part of the Block IV multi-year contract for 2014-2018. The NDAA sets the federal budget for the Department of Defense for the fiscal year beginning on Oct. 1, 2012. The NDAA includes $4.8 billion in funding for the Virginia-class attack submarine program, including $3.2 billion to build two submarines in 2013 and $1.6 billion in advanced production funding for submarines in 2014 and 2015 -- including $777.8 million above the President’s budget request to restore a second 2014 submarine that was removed as part of the budget request earlier this year. The bill marks the third-consecutive year of fully funding doubled submarine production – a goal Courtney worked on

for nearly five years, beginning in his first year in Congress – and ensures a stable, two-a-year production rate through 2018. “Steady production of two submarines a year is not just good for Electric Boat; it also has a massive economic impact that ripples across our state and our country,” said Congressman Courtney. “I am proud to have worked on a bipartisan basis to reverse a misguided decision to remove one of the 2014 submarines from the shipbuilding plan. “Additional design work on the OHIO replacement program has already directly led to EB’s expansion into Pfizer’s New London complex, and fostered a hiring boom that is obvious on EB’s online job postings. The new work already underway and the work bolstered by today’s vote solidify those gains, providing security for our region’s economy and for the men and women of EB who routinely complete submarines ahead of schedule and under budget.” Below are selected provisions of the bill: Virginia Class Submarine. The NDAA authorizes $4.8 billion for the Virginia Class submarine program. This total includes $3.2 billion for two submarines in 2013, and $1.6 billion for advanced procurement of additional sub-

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marines. Of that total, $777.8 million is provided to restore a second 2014 submarine that was removed from the plan as part of the budget request. In addition, the bill provides the navy with multiyear procurement authority to enter into the next “block” of submarines, maintaining a stable 10 boat, 2-a-year production rate through 2018. The bill also permits the Navy to use incremental funding for Virginia class submarines to be procured during fiscal years 2013 through 2018 if the secretary determines that such an approach would permit the Navy to procure an additional Virginia class submarine in FY 2014 and intends to use the funding for that purpose. Development of the replacement Ohio-Class SSBN. The bill authorizes $565 million for the Ohio Replacement Program, which will develop the replacement of the current fleet of Ohio Class Submarines. These submarines are expected to begin construction in 2021, with significant research and development work at Electric Boat over the next several years. Joint Strike Fighter. The conference report authorizes $5.9 billion for 29 F-35 Joint Strike Fighters, which are powered by Pratt and Whitney engines. Of that total, the report authorizes $3.4 billion for 19 Air Force variants, $1.1 billion for the Navy variant, and $1.5 billion for the Marine Corps STOVL variant. Helicopters: UH-60 Black Hawk — $1.2 billion for 59 Black Hawks for the Army and Guard, equal to the president's request. MH-60S Knighthawk — $454 million

for 18 Navy Knighthawk helicopters, equal to the budget request. The multimission Sikorsky MH-60S is used by the Navy for combat search-and-rescue, special-warfare support and airborne mine countermeasures. MH-60R Seahawk — $1.01 billion for 24 Navy Seahawk helicopters, $170 million and five more than the budget request to equip Navy cruisers that are retained as part of the report. The MH-60R features advanced radar, missiles and low frequency sonar. Connecticut Air National Guard. The final conference report supports an Air Force plan to base eight C-130H cargo aircraft at the 103rd Airlift Wing of the Connecticut Air National Guard at Bradley Airport. In the 2013 budget, the Air Force proposed eliminating the unit’s planned mission –the C-27J cargo aircraft – and assigning it a unit of MC-12 intelligence gathering aircraft as part of a larger reorganization of the Air National Guard. However, that plan was heavily criticized for its unbalanced approach to the Guard, and both the House and Senate versions of the bill froze the plan pending further review. A subsequent plan submitted by the Air Force to Congress on Nov. 2 made substantial changes to their original plan. The conference report allows the Air Force to implement that plan, including the eight C-130H aircraft for the Connecticut Air National Guard, with additional changes meant to augment the airlift capabilities of the Air National Guard as a whole.

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Local Blogger Travels to Sample Italy’s Outstanding Wine

Sunday Drive

and up into the feet of these happy, resilient people, runs through their veins and out from their hands to imbue Brunello di Montalcino with a soul so deep as to be inaccessible to mere language. If you want to experience the deepest dimensions of one of the world’s greatest wines, Brunello di Montalcino, you must embrace its history. One cannot be known without the other. It was during the 1950s when a handful of visionary local wine producers, understanding of Brunello’s great potential, began bottling their own wines which got things back on track. Italy’s appellation system of wine law was passed in July 1963 and in July 1980, Brunello di Montalcino was the first Italian wine to be awarded DOCG status or Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita, Italy’s most elite category of wine, guaranteeing authenticity. Brunello di Sant’Antimo and Moscadello di Montalcino FF218317 sets itself Montalcino - by navigating to the excellent Job No.: apart as aHartford, wine madeCTwebsite maintained by Consorzio del Vino Engagement City: from a single vine called Brunello di Montalcino, available in Media: Sangiovese, locally Italian, English and Chinese, at referred to as “Brunello.” The varied soils www.consorziobrunellodimontalcino.it. Insertion Date(s): and microclimates of Montalcino transmit Not able to travel to Italy to sample its to Brunello a unique, terroir-driven finger- fine wines? A local alternative is the print. Interpreted by each producer, the upcoming Mohegan Sun Winefest Jan. 25 Brunello wines I tasted were deliciously different and yet maintained the typicity required by Italian wine law, reflecting the greatness of the Montalcino territory, its people, history, traditions and culture, in a wine that can be produced only there and nowhere else. You can learn more about Brunello di Montalcino and other outstanding wines of the region – Rosso di Montalcino,

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at www.mohegansun.com/sitelet/winefest/ Joel Mack writes about Italian wine AdatSize: wine blog www.vintrospective.com and contributes content to other Internet Section: and print interests. He conducts specialized wine tastings for private and corporate clients and teaches a series of wine classes at Asnuntuck Community College.

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The Sunday Drive is retitled “ S u n d a y Drive/Monday Flight” for this month’s issue. Local wine blogger Joel Mack shares a personal reflection on di Brunello Montalcino, one of Italy’s greatest wines. It is based on observations and conversations during a recent media trip to the region of Tuscany, sponsored by Consorzio Brunello di Montalcino. Before Montalcino became an international food and wine destination, before its lands hosted great vineyards, there were other things: When the vine blight phylloxera arrived in the 1930s to devastate the vineyards, interrupting whatever early fame Brunello may have won, there was despair. And there were hard times when post-war poverty held Montalcino in its grip, and tears, too, for what the earth would not give. Weary parents and children, silently uncertain they could carry on. Abandoned farms. Isolation. Doubt. If you want to know anything at all about Brunello, if you want to really taste Brunello di Montalcino, then you must first know its history and not forget it. Because the Italians have certainly not forgotten, nor have the newcomers to this territory. As if they ever could. Brunello’s history, the traditions and values which derive of it, flow somehow from the earth

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January 2013 North Central News

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3 E

Regional

Consumer Protection Dept. Offers Firewood Buying Advice

HARTFORD - Here are a few tips for making sure you get a fair load of quality firewood without getting burned. First, you need to know the length of wood that you need. The standard length for firewood is 16 inches, but some larger wood-burning stoves can take wood as large as 20 inches or more. Make sure you specify the length when ordering. You need seasoned firewood, which has been stacked and dried for at least six months or more. By law, wood should be sold only by the cord or halfcord, not by the truckload. This protects you from getting shorted. A cord is a stack of wood that measures 4 feet high by 4 feet wide by 8 feet long and totals 128 cubic feet in all. A standard half cord measures 4 feet high by 4 feet wide by 4 feet long and is 64 cubic feet.

Cord = 128 cubic feet Half Cord = 64 Cubic Ft. Whether you order your wood chopped into lengths to fit your stove or fireplace, once it’s delivered and stacked, it still must measure a total of 128 cubic feet in order to be a full cord. Before you buy, check prices with multiple wood dealers in your area. Seasoned firewood in Connecticut is selling between $220 to $300 a cord, depending on the type of wood and area of the state. If you have access to a truck, go down to the wood lot, check out the wood, and take it home yourself. Make sure you stack your firewood on pallets to keep it off the ground. You won't get a true measurement unless it’s stacked.

If you’re going to have firewood delivered, be home when it arrives, pay a little extra to have it stacked upon delivery, and then measure it. If you ordered a full cord and it isn't 4 feet high, 4 feet wide and 8 feet long or a total of 128 cubic inches, don't pay for it until the full cord is provided. Finally, be sure to obtain a signed receipt for your firewood, which includes the name, address and phone number of the business, the name of the business owner, the amount of wood delivered and the amount you paid. It never hurts to cover every angle when making a purchase of this type. If you have any problems or concerns, please give the Department of Consumer Protection a call at 1-800-8422649.

State Cautions Residents on Charitable Giving: Beware of Potential Scams

HARTFORD - Connecticut Department Consumer Protection (DCP) of Commissioner William M. Rubenstein and Attorney General George Jepsen are cautioning residents that scammers may already be seeking to exploit the Sandy Hook Elementary School tragedy for their own purposes. “This is a time of mourning for the people of Newtown and for our entire state,” said Attorney General Jepsen. “Unfortunately, it’s also a time when bad actors may seek to exploit those coping with this tragedy. We are very thankful for all of the offers to help and urge those looking for ways to help to take some simple precautions to ensure that their donations will find their way to those in need.” “In the wake of the shocking and horrific shooting in Newtown, tremendously compassionate individuals and groups from across the nation have stepped up to assist,” said Commissioner Rubenstein. “Donors should apply a critical eye and take precautions before providing any money in response to emails, websites, door-to-door collections, mailings or telephone calls in the name of helping those devastated by the tragic Newtown shootings. We are extremely grateful for the generosity shown to the people of Connecticut, and especially the Newtown

community. We want donors to be certain their support is going to the appropriate place.” The State offers the following suggestions for donating on behalf of victims: Donate to well-known, established charities; it is the best way to ensure that your donation is used appropriately. Find a charity with a proven track record that is making help available to the families and community of Newtown. When giving to any organization, specify the purpose of your donation (e.g “for the victims of the Newtown shooting”), and do so in writing whenever possible. Be extra cautious when responding to email and telephone solicitations on behalf of supposed victims. These methods of solicitation are more likely to be part of a scam. Delete unsolicited e-mails and don’t open attachments, even if they claim to contain video or photographs. The attachments may be viruses designed to steal personal financial information from your computer. Watch carefully for copycat organizations. Criminals are likely to set up bogus sites to steal the identities and donations of generous, unsuspecting individuals. When giving online, be sure to find the charity’s legitimate website. You can access accu-

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rate links to the sites of each bona fide at Charity Navigator charity (www.charitynavigator.org). Social media sites can also perpetuate scams. Do not blindly give via these vehicles. As with any charity, investigate the groups behind such pleas to ensure that they come from a legitimate organization. Both the need for donations and the opportunity for giving will be present for some time. Therefore, do not feel pressured into making contributions; reputable charities do not use coercive tactics. If you feel pressured at all, you are most likely being scammed. Do not give your personal or financial information to anyone who solicits contributions. Avoid cash donations if possible. Pay by debit or credit card, or write a check directly to the charity. Do not make checks payable to individuals. The Department of Consumer

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Protection maintains information on charities that are registered with the state and the minimum percentage guaranteed to go to that charity. The Department’s website, https://www.elicense.ct.gov, provides charity registration information and displays any active solicitation campaign notices for a registered charity or their paid solicitor. Additional information is also available at Charity Navigator, http://www.charitynavigator.org; the Federal Trade Commission: http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/microsites/cha rityfraud; and the Better Business Bureau’s Wise Giving Alliance at http://www.bbb.org/us/charity. While the outpouring of grief, concern and support for the families affected by this tragedy will be enormous, so will be the potential for fraud. Please report suspicious solicitations to your local police and to the Department of Consumer Protection at 1-800-842-2649.

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Attorney General, Commissioner Warn of Identity Theft Dangers

HARTFORD - As the New Year starts, Revenue Services Commissioner Kevin B. Sullivan and Attorney General George Jepsen are reminding Connecticut taxpayers to be more vigilant in protecting themselves and others from identity theft and fraud. “Hardly a week goes by that my office doesn’t hear about a data privacy breach where hackers or scam artists attempt to gain access to social security numbers, credit card numbers, and bank accounts,� said Attorney General Jepsen. “Some use sophisticated cyber attacks to get information, while others may search garbage cans, use misleading emails or fake Web sites, or even just look over an unsuspecting consumer’s shoulder.� Said Commissioner Sullivan, “The Department of Revenue Services (DRS) is continuously improving our protection of taxpayer information and our efforts to fight tax fraud. In 2012, we were able to stop more than $7 million in fraudulent refunds from being issued. But cyber criminals become more sophisticated all the time.�

Commissioner Sullivan noted that the agency worked with Attorney General Jepsen’s office to create website information that helps taxpayers help themselves not become victims of identity theft. The site links to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) where taxpayers can obtain free credit reports and to the Attorney General’s website identity theft page where individuals can find out what to do if they may be victims of identity theft. The Department as also adopted a zero tolerance policy for employees who compromise taxpayer identity information and is now requiring participation in an extensive cyber-security training program across the agency. “An ounce of prevention equals a pound of cure,� Attorney General Jepsen said. “By becoming informed and taking simple steps, consumers can help ensure than their personal information is protected – be it when filing their tax documents in the coming months or when just going about a day-to-day routine.� Commissioner Sullivan also thanked Governor Malloy and the State Legislature for action during the recent spe-

cial session to support a new anti-tax fraud initiative proposed by the Department. "Some taxpayers may experience a small delay in refunds and some additional security review but before getting their refunds because of our improved anti-fraud screening. But I know our taxpayers will agree that any inconvenience is more than outweighed by preventing fraudulent refunds from being stolen by criminals.� Attorney General Jepsen and Commissioner Sullivan also urged federal and state taxpayers to file early. Said Sullivan, “More and more taxpayers who delay are discovering that criminals using stolen identity information have already beat them to their refunds. Filing early is one way taxpayers can help themselves not to be the victims of identity theft and tax fraud.� For more information on protecting yourself from identity theft and secure income tax filing through the state’s Taxpayer Service Center, visit the new identity theft web page at www.ct.gov/DRS/identitytheft.

Administration Creates State’s First Veterans Cabinet to Coordinate Services

HARTFORD – Governor Dannel P. Malloy and Lt. Governor Nancy Wyman today unveiled a new state website created to give military veterans one-stop access to the wide range of veterans’ services and benefits offered by the state and federal government agencies. The website – veterans.ct.gov – will link veterans and their families to other

state and federal agencies offering services in areas such as employment and job training, health care and education. The announcement was made at Tunxis Community College’s Veterans Oasis Center, a dedicated space on campus for veterans and active military service men and women to study, network and socialize as they integrate into the college experi-

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Governor Dannel P. Malloy – Co-Chair Lt. Governor Nancy Wyman – Co-Chair Adjutant General, Connecticut National Guard Commissioner, Department of Veterans Affairs Commissioner, Department of Labor Commissioner, Department Mental Health & Addiction Services Commissioner, Department Revenue Services Commissioner, Department of Motor Vehicles Commissioner, Department of Administrative Services Commissioner, Department of Public Health Commissioner, Department of Social Services Commissioner, Department of Banking President, Board of Regents Executive Director, Office of Military Affairs In April, Malloy issued a directive to the heads of each state agency instructing them to consider hiring and recruiting veterans who have recently returned from military service or will be returning in the near future and are looking for employment.

19 Crystal Lake Road Stafford Springs, CT 06076

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Stafford

Holiday Decoration Winners

Two of the winners of the Stafford Community and Civic Affairs Commission's Holiday House Decorating Contest. First-place winners were the Dadalt Homestead of 59 Willington Ave., above, and third-place winners George and Charlotte Avery of 158 West Stafford Rd. Photos by Barbara Bresnahan

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Stafford

Live Music Coffee House Features Nenad Bach, Marci Geller

STAFFORD - In January Nenad Bach and Marci Geller are performing at the Ben Muzio Town House (Old Town Hall, 221 East St., Stafford) at 7 p.m. on Jan. 27. The Stafford Arts Commission sponsors the monthly coffee house series. Nenad Bach is a folk/blues/soul artist whose albums have reached No. 1 in Europe. He has performed with Luciano Pavarotti, Bono and The Edge (U2), Brian

Eno, Indigo Girls and many other famous artists. He performed at Woodstock ‘94 and he opened for the Miss Universe Pageant in Europe. Marci Geller is a contemporary singer/songwriter. Her first solo project since the disbandment of her popular trio “Lucky 13” has received wide praise. The Independent Songwriter Magazine named her “Editor’s Choice” for its favorite song-

writer of the last decade. Please come and enjoy these free performances in Stafford.

Coffee and tea will be provided.

Nenad Bach is performing Jan. 27 in Stafford.

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Stafford

Mold Mitigation Prompts Temporary Move for Stafford PD By Linda Tishler Levinson

STAFFORD - The police have a temporary home on Levinthal Run. The headquarters for the department has been moved to the new building in the school complex, First Selectman Richard Shuck said. The move was due to environmental issues in the permanent police building. “We’re working to mitigate the mold that was in the police department,� Shuck said. While the move was made prior to the Newtown

tragedy, Shuck said the stronger police presence near the schools came at a time when the town is reconsidering school safety. “We want to make sure that we make the right decision,� he said. “We want to reassure the parents we are being proactive.� Flood mitigation The town is working with the Capitol Region Council of Governments on a flood hazard mitigation plan. Stafford has about 30 percent of the Class C dams in the state, Shuck said. Class C dams are those whose fail-

Checking Out The Gold

Former UConn basketball player and gold medalist Kara Wolters went to Stafford Middle School on Dec. 14 to run a clinic for the SMS girl's basketball team, as well as the St. Edwards and youth basketball travel girls. After learning many techniques and drills from Kara, the girls got a chance to look at and hold her gold medal. The girls all got autographed pictures from Kara at the end of the clinic.

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ure could lead to loss of life or property. CRCOG has received a flood mitigation grant. “That will also open us up for other avenues of grant money,� he said. The town is working on road drainage, culverts and cleaning of stream beds to help limit the possibility of falling trees that could destroy bridges. “The more we can save the river banks from eroding,� the less sedimentation will get into ponds, he said.

Stafford

Stafford Middle School Second Quarter Honor Roll Announced

STAFFORD - Kenneth Valentine, principal of Stafford Middle School, announces the names of the following students who have achieved honor roll status for Term 2. HIGH HONORS GRADE 6 Paige Beaudoin Tyler Jay Campos Ashlyn Cartier Julianna DeSantis-Raymond Steven Downs Emma Everhart-Deckard Isabelle Garreffa Marissa Kallenbach Lynesey Maloney Abby Rose Lauren Smida Gabrielle Thayer HONORS GRADE 6 Sydney Bascom Kyle Bradley Colton Engel Ashley Fecko Grace Gardner Cody Gebo Ryleigh Gilman Tiahna Guzzo Connor Hartnett Jeffrey Kology Joshua Lehmert Julia Lybarger Melanie Macfeat Loren Pontz Julien Rivas Elizabeth Sladek Zachary Sladek Talia Szozda Michael Vincenti Nicholas Wyse \HIGH HONORS GRADE 7 Nicole Barber

Adrianna Barnett Sarah Gallison Abigail Hatch Alexandra Kulman Stephanie Ramsey Darby Villar HONORS GRADE 7 Zachary Briggs Samantha Campanaro Adam Carter Hannah Davis Carlie Dreyfus Lauren Everhart-Deckard Terrell Flint Nathaniel Flynn Autumn Gagnon Haley Grant Colin Lanagan Michaela Lauf Jacob Leroux Kathryn Liebler Mason Messier Kaylee Miller Blair Stuart Jennifer Titus Rachel Ulitsch HIGH HONORS GRADE 8 Michael Bachiochi Rachel Bergeron Jacob Conklin Matthew Frank Danielle Garnelis Valerie Girard Justin Grant Katelyn Henderson Ethan Lawlor Megan Lueckel Cameron MacGregor Wendelin Marmol Saylee Missell Timothy Noto

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New England Barn Dances With Live Music

STAFFORD - The Stafford Arts Commission is sponsoring a series of New England Barn Dances which will take place at Memorial Hall (275 Orcutville Rd, in Stafford) on Jan. 19, Feb. 16, March 16, and May 18 at 7:30 p.m. No experience is necessary to join the dancing. There are a variety of excellent callers and musicians for the events. Ralph Sweet will be calling in January with “The Reel Thing.� In February, Sue Hill & Friends will perform with Bob Livingston calling.

In March, Tony Parkers is calling with Sue Hill & Friends.

Scouts Spaghetti Dinner

STAFFORD - The Boy Scouts of Troop 81 in Stafford will be sponsoring a spaghetti dinner on Jan. 12. It will be held at the St. Edwards church hall on Church Street in Stafford from 5 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $8 for adults, $6 for seniors and $5 for kids. Take-out dinners will be available.

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OK, so it's obviously winter here in was to agree with him but then after a short New England, which begs the question: 15 minutes behind the wheel it dawned why write about a convertible when tem- one me – this is a great engine that is probperature are at or below freezing? Well, ably going to make 80% of Beetle most people are going to live with a con- Convertible owners happy, especially vertible 12 months a year and Volkswagen because it's the least-expensive option just introduced the Beetle Convertible. with a starting price of $24,995. It's a vehicle I'm comfortOK, so there is more to say able pronouncing ready for about the powertrains but lets New England winters, espedwell for a moment on other cially the TDI version that has aspects of the VW Beetle more than enough torque to Convertible, now in its third EHIND tug you threw snowy condigeneration since its resurrecThe Wheel tions. And, cold weather or tion. Compared with the 2006 warm, it's always nice to disversion, the latest Beetle cover a base model that's more Convertible is 3.3 inches wider than satisfactory. at 71.2 inches; 1.1 inches KEITH GRIFFIN Automotive journalists lower at 58.0 inches tall; and aren't supposed to like the base engine. It 6.0 inches longer at 168.4 inches overall. goes against our arrogance for more power From the outside there's no mistaking and sophistication. Give us a V12, twin this vehicle for what it is. After all, the turbos, a dual overhead cam that makes Beetle is iconic for Volkswagen. You're sushi. Anything but the base engine. never going to have trouble identifying Well, count me among what will proba- one. But the changes for 2013 bring the car bly turn out to be a small minority but forward without detracting from its herwhen it comes to the 2013 VW Beetle itage. Smoothing the roofline makes it Convertible, recently introduced at the Los look less a bubble you want to pop. Angeles Auto Show, sign me up. So, how does it drive? Could you use While there are perfectly good reasons the VW Beetle Convertible as a daily drivto purchase a VW Beetle with the frugal er in New England? Normally that would 2.0-liter TDI that gets 41 mpg highway be tough to judge from driving it around when mated with the six-speed manual Southern California but for once the transmission (yet producing 236 lb. ft. of weather gods weren't smiling sunshine torque); and the powerful 2.0-liter TSI down on the Golden State. The cabin was turbo that makes 200 horsepower and 207 quiet in a steady rain. Plus, I felt confident lb-ft of torque, the base engine with its 2.5- driving it on foggy roads in the hills liter inline five-cylinder that makes 170 around Malibu. horsepower and 177 pound-feet of torque There are practical touches on the is the right choice. Beetle Convertible. A split-folding rear My driving partner during the Beetle seat—new on this Beetle—allows the car Convertible media launch around Santa to carry bulkier and larger items than is Monica, Calif., said he didn't want to drive normal with a convertible. There's another the 2.5-liter base engine because it would nice engineering touch. The optional wind dilute how much he liked the Beetle screen folds into quarters and has its own Convertible overall. My initial sentiment shelf in the trunk. It doesn't take up valu-

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able space, which encourages its more frequent use. On a sunny winter day, a wind screen and heated seats realistically allows one to drive a convertible at the freezing point. (OK, a knit cap helps, too.) Embrace your summer self. Get a Beetle Convertible to help you plow through the winter. And, as a reminder, this is not your mom's VW Beetle. Men should feel perfectly comfortable driving one – especially the TDI on twisty roads with the manual transmission left in third gear. VITAL STATISTICS Wheelbase: 100.0 inches Length: 168.4 inches Width: 71.2 inches Height: 58.0 inches

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Curb weight: 3206 to 3340 lbs. depending on model Engine: 2.0-liter turbo, 2.5-liter inline five cylinder, or 2.0-liter turbodiesel Horsepower: 140 to 200 depending on model Torque: 177 lb. ft. to 236 lb. ft. EPA estimated mpg city/highway: 2128/27-30 (depending on model) Base price: Starts at $24,995 (before options) As-tested price: Goes up to $27,895 for TDI model (before options) Also consider: (a comparative vehicle) Fiat 500c, Mini Cooper convertible, Ford Mustang convertible – in the base trim level

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36 North Central News January 2013

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