North Central News NOV '22 - ELECTION PREVIEW

By Laura Hayden

This month’s highly anticipated midterm elections will not only deter mine Connecticut’s highest offices and representation in the state legislature, but the state’s representation in Washington, D.C., as well.

All North Central Connecticut ballots will pose the same candidates for statewide contests: Connecticut’s governor and lieutenant governor, U.S. senator, secretary of the state, treasurer, comp troller, and attorney general.

All towns will also vote on the same question: Shall the Constitution of the State be amended to permit the General Assembly to provide for early voting?

East Windsor and Enfield will each pose an additional question (see Local Contests below).

For more information on the statewide and local candidates listed below, go to www.cbia.com/candidatelookup.

Statewide Contests

Governor and Lt. Governor

Democrat: Incumbents Ned Lamont and Susan Bysiewicz.

The pair also appears on the GriebelFrank for CT Party and Working Families Party tickets.

Republican: Bob Stefanowski and Laura Devlin.

Independent: Robert Hotaling and Stewart “Chip” Beckett. U.S. Senator Democrat: Incumbent Richard Blumenthal (who also appears on the Working Families Party ticket).

Republican: Leora R. Levy. Secretary of the State Democrat: Stephanie Thomas (who also appears on the Working Families Party ticket).

Republican: Dominic Rapini. Independent: Cynthia R. Jennings.

Gov. Ned Lamont Bob Stefanowski

Robert Hotaling

by Joshua

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A BIG VOICE FOR small businesses

JAIME FOSTER is always listening to local business owners to make sure their voices are heard.

“We now have a great advocate to help the solar industry, help us grow our company, and create jobs!”

“Representative Jaime Foster is a model of our ‘government of the people, by the people, for the people.’ She works diligently to allow homeowners a choice.”

“What makes Jaime so unique is that she proactively reaches out to small

owners for their opinion on bills that may impact them.”

by

A month-to-month guide to cultural events in the area.

Even during Fallfest it’s not too early to think about Winterfest

ELLINGTON — The Ellington Winterfest, with its daylong festivities, will get underway on Saturday, Dec. 3, along Main and Maple streets (Routes 286 and 140).

Winterfest will be topped off by Ellington’s annual town tree-lighting ceremo ny.

The tree-lighting ceremony will feature a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus at 3:45 p.m. on the gazebo green.

The annual “Torchlight Parade” will follow, streaming down Main Street at 5:15 p.m.

Many activities will be featured in venues around the center of Ellington throughout the day.

The Ellington Singers will kick off the Winterfest fun with a jolly holiday con cert on Friday, December 2, at 7 p.m. at Hall Memorial Library.

Visit the Town of Ellington website: www.ellington-ct.gov for a full schedule of events.

AllConnecticut Insurance Brokers

to East Windsor.

Evaristo Insurance’s Wizard of Oz display was one of the entrants in Ellington’s annual Scarecrow Contest.

Photo by Joshua Esan

East

Haunted Highway Chock Full of Characters...

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Courtesy photos

Sisters’ Turkey Drop set for Nov. 19

Holiday Marketplace coming to museum

ELLINGTON — The Holiday Marketplace at the Nellie McKnight Museum, 70 Main St. opens on Saturdays beginning Nov. 5 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. and Sundays beginning Dec. 3 through Dec. 19.

The Historical Society is offering the rental of antique cutter sleighs to enhance a business or home for the hol idays. Sleighs can be delivered to a busi ness or home by Nov. 21, in time to dec orate for the holidays.

having

— The Little Sisters of the Poor-St. Joseph’s Residence

Turkey Drop at St. Joseph’s Residence, 1365 Enfield St., Enfield, between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. on Nov. 19

to

The marketplace features a variety of holiday gifts, many Ellington-themed items, and products from local artisans, and is a major fundraiser for the Ellington Historical Society.

The marketplace includes a Vintage Wares Barn with vintage items at incredible pricing. The Historical Society accepts dona tions for the Vintage Wares Barn. Contact ellingtonhistoricalsociety@gmail.com if you have vintage items to donate.

Proceeds from the rentals benefit the Ellington Historical Society. Call (860) 559-6399 or email ellingtonhistoricalso ciety@gmail.com to arrange rental.

The Nellie McKnight Museum will also be an Ellington Winter Fest location on Dec. 3. Festivities will include refresh ments for adults and children, bonfires, car ols, and two food trucks. The house muse um, mercantile and Holiday Marketplace will be open beginning at 10 a.m.

A month-to-month guide to cultural events in the area.

Friend

Dr.

Alena Eastman

Drive-thru turkey takeout planned

SOMERS — The Congregational Church of Somersville will be holding a takeout only (drive-thru) turkey dinner on Saturday, Nov. 12.

Menu includes turkey with mashed potatoes and gravy, stuffing, butternut squash, cranberry sauce, pumpkin and cranberry breads, and pumpkin pie. Cost is $16 per meal; meals can be picked up at the church, located at 22 Maple St., Somersville, between 4-6 p.m.

To reserve dinners, contact the church office by calling (860) 749-7741 or emailing somcong@aol.com.

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Voters should make voices heard on Scout Hall proposal

EAST WINDSOR

— On Nov. 8, voters in East Windsor will have an opportunity to decide whether the town should move forward with the ren ovation and con struction of an addition onto Scout Hall, which would be repurposed as the town’s Community Center.

I strongly encourage voters of the town to voice their opinion on that question when you vote Nov. 8.

If the plan is approved, the newly renovated facility would house all three of our Community Services depart ments in one location (Social Services, Senior Services, and Parks and Recreation.)

Currently, they are located in two dif ferent facilities on opposite sides of town. This creates a clear hardship for constituents who need access to pro grams like renters’ rebate and Medicare, which requires multiple trips to multiple sites.

At the Senior Center alone, currently

located above the Broad Brook Fire Department, there is not sufficient space for seniors to have confidential tax or medical conversations without program participants overhearing them.

The approval of the proposed project will allow better customer service to people who are in need of social service intervention and will allow for a more expansive utilization of the Scout Hall location.

The Scout Hall Building Committee has been strongly in favor of this idea since its inception, and in fact first sug gested it to the town last winter. I want to thank them and recognize their part nership on this project. The town and the committee share a commitment to offering quality opportunities for youth, seniors, and socially disadvantaged people in our community, and this proj ect will go a long way toward meeting those shared goals.

The new arrangement to use the Scout Hall space for multigenerational pro gramming and service delivery makes sense from both a financial position and an organizational one. By streamlining

these services, we can position our town services to best address the needs of the community.

If approved, the project will renovate the existing Scout Hall building and effectively double its size to approxi mately 15,000 square feet, including the addition of office space and significant programming space.

The total project cost is expected to be $5 million, roughly one-third the cost of the project approved in Windsor Locks for the same purpose. I should also note that Windsor Locks is plan ning to spend at least $14 million on a senior center, whereas our proposal would spend $5 million for a Community Center.

The cost difference in East Windsor’s favor is largely due to the facts that the town already owns the building and the property, and most of the infrastructure is in place at the location already. That is not true in Windsor Locks.

Voter approval will authorize local construction dollars for the Community Center, without securing any state or federal funding (both of which remain

possibilities), and exclusive of $1.2 mil lion in local dollars already designated for the project.

To further enhance the location for younger families in East Windsor, we have been awarded state bond funding to install lighting on the full-size Abbe Road Soccer Field.

This has been a project on the town’s improvement list for quite some time, but funding constraints have always delayed it.

Special thanks to our state legislative delegation (Sen. Saud Anwar, and Reps. Jaime Foster and Carol Hall) for their advocacy on behalf of the town to secure these funds. Combined with the Community Center project, the lighting will be transformative for the entire venue.

Assuming local approval is forth coming on Nov. 8, the construction project would start very shortly there after, with a target date of opening the new facility at or about Labor Day in 2023.

Please remember to cast your vote for this project on Election Day.

Jason Bowsza

East WindsorEast Windsor

State senator, representative are delivering for town

I’ve been able to work with Sen. Saud Anwar and Rep. Jaime Foster very closely over the last several years. They deliver, and we are truly better off because of their efforts.

The last two years, they’ve been able to deliver meaningful aid to East

Windsor. In that time, we’ve received more than $2 million in state bond funds — the most ever for our commu nity. That money will fund the culvert replacement on Highland Avenue, the spillway replacement at the reservoir, the installation of a new playground at

East Windsor Park, and the addition of lights to the Abbe Road soccer field, already one of the nicest fields in the region. These projects had been on the town’s “to do” list for years. Now they’ll become a reality.

Anwar and Foster are staunch advo cates for public health and safety. They’ve worked to ensure potable water is available to everyone, bringing key stakeholders to the table to find solutions. Over the last few years, we’ve been working hard to extend con nectivity to public water into neighbor hoods with potability issues, and Anwar and Foster have taken the lead on that, helping to secure state and federal funds in the process.

Letter to the editor

thanks to their help, that bridge is scheduled to be replaced and rebuilt, easing emergency response times and avoiding potential disaster.

Both Anwar and Foster have also helped grow our business base in East Windsor. Through their advocacy, they passed legislation that will make East Windsor, and towns with our Town Meeting form of government, more competitive when looking to attract new development. That’s good news for our taxpayers, and for people who depend on municipal services.

Celebrating the boss

They’ve both successfully advocated to the Department of Transportation to replace Stiles Bridge, a much-needed improvement that will take place next year. The existing bridge has been deemed unsafe for heavy vehicles, including plows and emergency vehi cles, for longer than a decade. Now,

Good things are happening in East Windsor. With the continued leadership of Senator Anwar and Representative Foster, more will surely come.

The Town of East Windsor could not be better served by our legislative dele gation.

Jason Bowsza East Windsor

The writer is the town’s mayor.

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Co-workers took a moment to take note of Director of Recreation and Community Services Melissa Maltese (second from left) on National Boss Day.

Photo courtesy of Recreation and Community Services

Obit Obit

Frank D. ‘Skip’ Mansfield: devoted husband, quintesssential father

It is with great sadness that we share that Frank D. “Skip” Mansfield, age 88, died as he lived; peacefully and quietly. Frank passed away unexpect edly from heart complications on September 26, 2022 in his home, with his wife by his side. Frank was a devoted and loving husband and the quintessential father and grandfather; unconditional in his love and unwa vering in his patience and support. There are no words to express how much we will miss him.

Frank was born to Isabelle Susie (Webber) and Harry LeRoy Mansfield on February 4, 1934. He spent his childhood and adolescence on Chebeague Island, Maine; in a home that remains part of our family, and where countless years of memories across generations have been made. Frank attended school in a one room schoolhouse on the Island and gradu ated at the top of his class from Chebeague Island High School in 1952. Frank continued his education at Maine Maritime Academy in Castine with a full scholarship, gradu ating in 1955 with a degree in Mechanical Engineering. Frank moved to Connecticut shortly after ward to pursue a career in Engineering that would span more than 40 years. Frank worked for Hartford Steam Boiler as a Loss Control Engineer for more than 30 years before retiring and working as a highly sought after con sultant in his field into his eighties. He traveled extensively with the Merchant Marines during his college years and as a part of the Reserves after graduation, and continued throughout his life to travel the world both professionally and for leisure with his wife and family. Frank was also a 32nd Degree Mason, as well as a Shriner, and enjoyed his connections within these organizations.

Frank was highly intelligent in every way; he was as beautiful and expressive of a writer as he was cre ative in his ability to problem solve. Dad could “MacGyver” anything from fixing our car on the side of the high way with a piece of bubblegum to rewiring a house with electrical tape.

His work ethic was strong, and he taught us through his example the value and pride that comes from a hard day's work; whether it be at the office, in the yard, or completing countless projects at home. He taught us “not to take any wooden nickels”. He taught us that there’s more value in straight ening a bent nail than the pennies it costs for a shiny new one. He taught us that less is more; in every way. He was a tireless and patient listener, a thoughtful and selfless advice giver; in fact, he was selfless in all that he did and thought. He taught us, through his example, the honor in, and importance of, taking responsibility and caring for others above yourself. Dad put us all ahead of himself every day, with every thought and every decision. He was, very simply put, a good man.

Frank would move to Connecticut to pursue his career, and Connecticut became his home for decades to come. Frank married his first wife Betty Cleaves in May, 1956 and had his first two children with Betty; Julie and Vicki. Frank and his wife of 54 years, Barbara, married in October, 1968, after meeting on a blind date just six months before. They both shared the memory of their “love at first sight” story countless times through out their marriage. Theirs was a mar riage of utter devotion and tireless care

for each other, and their love was evi dent to all who knew them. Frank and Barbara raised their children, Jennifer and Darren, in Connecticut, with a brief stay in Georgia for a relocation through his work. They shared their loving home and cared for both Frank and Barbara’s mothers for many years as they aged. As their children mar ried and grandchildren were born, their life was busy and fulfilling; full of sports games, boy scout events, family outings, countless school events and graduations from preschool through graduate school, family vaca tions, and a shared world as devoted grandparents. Frank adored his grand children, and they loved, respected, and admired their Poppy with all their hearts. Their Poppy was their role model, their playmate, their caregiver, their biggest fan, and one of the most influential people to them as they grew. He is a part of each of us, and his legacy will live on through what we have learned through his example.

ºFrank was predeceased by his par ents Isabelle and Harry, his sister and brother in law, Katherine and Edward Lam, his cousin who was like a broth er to him, Eddie Lam, his mother in law, Bertha Anderson, sister in law, Nancy Anderson, and Julie and Vicki’s mother, Betty.

Left to mourn and feel the loss of his earthly presence is his wife, Barbara Mansfield, his children and their spouses, Julie and Randy of Gorham, Maine, Vicki and Walter of Scarborough, Maine, Jennifer and Gary of Somers, CT, and Darren and Marshae, of Cary, NC, his grandchil dren Jessica, Justin, Jacob, Luke, Emily, Allison, Zach, Madison, and Casey, his great-grandchildren, Jamie, Riley, Lily, Jace, Lucy, and Ivy, his brothers and sisters in law Richard and Mary Ann and Janet and Michael, and many cousins and nieces and nephews; all of whom are a part of Frank’s tight knit and close extended family.

For all your holiday needs, we will have a nice selection of apples, winter vegetables, cider, Ct made pies and breads, maple products, and honey. Also our delicious in store made apple cider donuts and many other delicious goodies. We will also have a huge selection of Christmas trees, wreaths, kissing balls and winter logs. Gift certificates are also available as well as many unique gift items.

Frank D. ‘Skip’ Mansfield

RANDRLANDSCAPINGSERVICES.NET

110 Years! Caring for the Community for

Since our doors opened in 1912, compassionate care has been our focus. Johnson Memorial Hospital provides a continuum of health care services to those living and working in North Central Connecticut and Western Massachusetts. We continue to provide the best-of-the-best care with convenience and value. Johnson Memorial Hospital remains committed to exceeding the expectations of our patients and their families. We provide world-class service in a peoplecentered, compassionate environment, right in your backyard.

We look forward to serving you and our community for another 110 years and beyond.

East WindsorEast Windsor

Senior Center news

EAST WINDSOR — The following programs offered by the Senior Center require pre-registration. Call the Senior Center at 860-292-8262.

CRT Lunch: Monday-Friday, noon, $3. Call 860-292-8279 by 11 a.m. the day before.

The center will be closed Friday, Nov. 11, in observance of Veterans Day, and Thursday, Nov. 24, and Friday, Nov. 25 for Thanksgiving.

EVENTS AND PROGRAMS

Stateline Senior Services Medicare Program: Tuesdays Nov. 8 and 22, 1 p.m.

Tech Time with Comfort Keepers: Friday, Nov. 4, 12:30 p.m.

Coffee Hour/Focus Group: Wednesday, Nov. 9, 12:30 p.m.

Cribbage: Wednesday, 10:30 a.m. Ask the Attorney: Thursday, Nov. 17, 10 a.m. (by appt.)

BINGO: Thursday, Nov. 10, 12:30 p.m.

Ask the Financial Adviser: Friday Nov. 18, 12:30 p.m. (by appt.)

Trivia with Teresa: Wednesday, Nov. 23, 10:30 a.m.

Monthly Birthday Social Featuring: Ashly Cruz: Thursday, Nov. 17, noon.

Book on the Go: “The Book Woman’s Daughter” by Kim Michele Richardson: Monday, Nov. 28, 10:30 a.m.

Coffee Hour: Wednesday, Nov. 16, 23, and 30 at 12:30 p.m.

SHOPPING

Big Y/Walmart: Mondays, 9-10:30 a.m. Geissler’s: Wednesdays, 9-10:30 a.m.

The Warehouse Point Fire Dept. recently recognized Capt. Jonathan Hibbard for completing 20 years of service with the WHPFD. Hibbard began his career as a firefighter and rose to the rank of captain, holding many positions including safety officer, EMS officer, and EMS coordinator. Hibbard was one of the original Fire Service maintainers when that program began. Hibbard is moving to his home town in New Hampshire to begin a career with the department there.

Photo courtesy of Warehouse Point Fire Dept.

Movie Matinee: “Where the Crawdads Sing,” Friday, Nov. 4, 9:30 a.m.

Mexican Train Dominoes: Tuesday Nov. 8 and 22, 10:30 a.m.

We’re Hooked/BYOP (Bring Your Own Project): Fridays, 12:30 p.m.

UNO Attack: Tuesdays, Nov. 15 and 29 at 10:30 a.m.

FITNESS/ HEALTH

Chair Yoga: Mondays, 10:30 a.m., $40 per 8-week session.

Strength and Balance: Thursdays, 9:30 a.m., $40 per 8-week session.

Wii Bowling: Mondays and Tuesdays, 12:30 p.m.

Personalized advice that fits your portfolio.

Well done, Capt. Hibbard

for REPRESENTATIVE

for by Walker For the 60th. Judi Kostek Treasurer. Approved by Len Walker.

Representative Ruth Fahrbach

Ellington Ellington

ELLINGTON —

As a member of the Advisory Board to the Rockville Agricultural Science and Technology Education program, I recently participated in a mock interview event at Rockville High School, where students were inter viewed by members of local business communities; participants were evaluat ed on their resumes, professional dress, and ability to effectively communicate.

It was a very valuable opportunity for the students to get real world expe rience and I was honored to be a part of this event.

Earthlight Technologies recently held a ribbon cutting and open house event for their new location. Tours were given throughout the facility, and their in-house experts were on hand to answer questions about their available services. It was a well-attended event with many local members of the com munity stopping by, and it’s always great to be able to support one of our

great local businesses. They also have fast charging stations available for elec tric vehicles. It’s an absolutely beautiful building with great facilities that really benefit the community.

The Ellington Trails Committee, in partnership with the Ellington Centennial Lions Club, were able to bring the perennial favorite Trail of

Treats event back this year. Close to 50 vendor booths were set up to hand out treats to our kids, providing a safe and free outlet for local families to partici pate in trick-or-treating activities at Robert Tedford Memorial Park. I want to thank the Trails Committee and Lions Club members, as well as all of the others who were integral in this

year’s success, including our CERT Team, the Boy Scouts, Ellington Recreation, the Fire Marshal’s Office and Public Works, all of the participat ing Town Departments and Emergency Service Agencies, as well as the Ellington Community Theatre mem bers for entertaining those in line.

Lori Spielman

Ellington Ellington New voter district added

ELLINGTON — As a result of the 2020 U.S. Census release and subsequent redistricting, there has been a third voter district added in town.

The new Local District Three has reapportioned about 1,700 voters who will now be represented by the 7th State Senate District.

These voters, residing in 36 streets in the commonly referred to section of Woodside Acres, will continue to vote at the Ellington High School but in a separate, clear ly designated section of the school. Voters have been individually informed of this change by letter.

The Connecticut Reapportionment Commission analysis of the population counts within the 7th State Senate District, serving Enfield, Somers, East Granby, Suffield, Windsor Locks, East Granby, Somers and parts of Granby and Windsor indicated a shortfall of people represented by the Connecticut Seventh State Senate seat.

This position is currently held by Sen. John Kissel, who is being challenged by Cynthia Mangini in the gen eral election on Nov. 8.

This slice of Ellington voters was previously part of Local District One represented by Connecticut Senate District 3. Sen. Saud Anwar currently holds that position and will face challenger Matt Harper in November.

This local district also votes at the Ellington High School.

Wine store theft

Connecticut State Police Troop C in Tolland reported that the individual pictured above was observed taking n $80 bottle of champagne from Neil’s Fine Wine and Liquors in Ellington around 3 p.m. on Oct. 12. Anyone who can identify the male is asked to contact Trooper O'Brien at 860-875-1522 or email patrick.j.obrien@ct.gov.

Photo courtesy of Connecticut State Police

HIDDEN STILL BOOZY BRUNCH

Ellington Ellington

Scarecrow Contest delights again

continued from page 27

Speaking of spooky season, we had another great Scarecrow Contest this year. With over 30 displays, there was something for everyone to enjoy while strolling the Town Green last month. I love seeing the creativity and community spirit everyone brings to the table during this contest. Attendees at the Fall Festival, held by the Ellington Historical Society at the Nellie McKnight Museum, were able to peruse all of the displays and

it was a wonderful day for all.

All town offices normally open on Fridays will be closed Nov. 11 for Veterans Day; there will be no delay in trash and recycling collection that week. Additionally, town offices will close at noon on Wednesday, Nov. 23, and will be closed Thursday and Friday, Nov. 24-25, for the Thanksgiving holi day (one-day trash & recycling delay on Thursday and Friday).

As always, please check out our web site for additional information on town events, services, and other offerings.

The American Karate entry had a little bit of a kick to it in the town’s annual Scarecrow Contest.

Photo courtesy of First Selectman’s Office

Ellington Ellington

Local firefighters continue 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb tradition

ELLINGTON — For the last eight years Ellington Firefighters have been involved in 9/11 Memorial Stair Climbs.

This tradition originally began shortly after 9/11 as a way for fire fighters to remember and honor the 343 brothers lost on that fateful day. Since then, it has grown in size to include multiple climbing sites throughout the U.S., usually in August and October annually.

Organized by the National Fallen Firefighters’ Foundation, the climb is not a race, but a way to recognize the sacrifices made by the fallen heroes and their families.

Participants climb 2,200 steps, or 110 flights, the equivalent height of the World Trade Center. A mix of civilians and firefighters make the climb, with most firefighters climbing in full gear and airpacks, which weighs approximately 60 pounds. Each climber carries a tag with the name, company assignment and pic ture of a firefighter who was lost that

day. At the end of the climb, partici pants read the name aloud and ring a memorial bell in their honor.

The climb honors not just the 343 lost that day but the over 300 mem bers of FDNY who have died in the line of duty due to 9/11 related illness es since then.

Ellington members have climbed in Portland, Maine, Lancaster, Pennsylvania, virtually due to COVID (on stair climbers at the firehouse), and most recently at the national 9/11 climb in New York. Held at Belmont Raceway, climbers made their way up and down the grandstands until the 2,200 steps are complete.

These events raise money for the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation and the Counseling Services Unit of the FDNY. Ellington members have raised over $10,000 for these worthy organizations.

Ellington firefighters are proud to carry on this tradition and find it a great way to not only never forget the sacri fices made that day, but also as a way to build teamwork and camaraderie.

Members of the Ellington Fire Dept. took part in a 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb. Photo courtesy of Ellington Fire Dept.

Enfield Enfield

corner Ballot question focuses on public safety complex

ENFIELD — The town’s public safety ballot question reads as follows:

“Shall the town of Enfield appropriate $15,100,000 for the construction of a regional Public Safety Complex and authorize the issuance of bonds, notes or temporary notes in an amount not to exceed $2,500,000 to finance the appropriation, with the bal ance funded by grants and other avail able funds?”

I want to take a few minutes to shed some light on why this is important to the Town, and why people should vote yes on Nov. 8.

The most important issue is the impact to the taxpayer.

The state wants to give Enfield $12.8 million in state funds. The Town Council understands that many people are opposed to tax dollars being used from any level of government. However, our position is that those state bond dollars are going to go some where, so Enfield taxpayers should get their fair share of those dollars to bene fit our building projects. If we don’t take it, you are still paying the bill, but

without the benefit.

The actual impact to the Enfield tax payer and your mortgage has yet to be determined and here’s why: We don’t know how prices have changed, or if there is an opportunity to reengineer the project.

Last year, it was projected that the state would pay $12.8 million and Enfield would put in $2.5 million.

So, if the price stays the same this year, it would depend on where the funding for the $2 million comes from; for example, if the Town Council takes it from fund balance (the town savings account) then there is no tax impact.

If the town chooses to bond the $2.5 million over 20 years that would increase the project expenses by $100,000.

If this question is approved, the Town of Enfield is only authorized to spend up to $2.5 million, and not a penny more.

If there is no state money, the project doesn’t happen.

Now onto the benefits of the project.

Our Emergency Medical Services (EMS) department is housed in a for mer fire house which is inadequate for its needs.

The bays can’t hold all the ambu lances, medication is not stored in a cli

mate controlled environment, and there is not enough space for trainings and other activities required by law and the regulations created by the Office of Emergency Medical Services.

The EMS crews have “made do” and done work-arounds for long enough. Any further deterioration and lack of efficiency has the real potential of impacting patient care.

At the Police Department, the new demands on policing means that the department has outgrown its building.

The emphasis on cybercrime and identity theft, new technology, increased demands for maintaining evi dence, and the addition of staff resources in the shape of DCF workers, social workers, and crisis intervention workers means more space is needed.

The numerous female police officers also deserve a locker room of their own and a place to stow their gear.

There are also new laws on the books that require increased training.

A larger training facility with an auditorium style layout will be a benefit to do in-house trainings instead of send ing officers all over the state, which will save money and time.

And there will be the added benefit of having a facility that can host larger groups.

Officers from other towns would pay to attend, and other agencies may be interested in renting it for their own purposes, which would generate rev enue for the town, since there are no similar facilities in the region.

And finally, the department’s firearms range is located in the back portion of the Transfer Station. This negatively impacts and limits a variety of trainings, since it can only be used during the day.

As seen with the recent tragedy in Bristol, officers need to be trained up for all scenarios, including shooting in the dark and ambush scenarios.

In order to continue to attract quality candidates to work in EMS and the Police Department, we need to provide them with the tools they need to do their jobs on the front line, while providing critical public safety services to Enfield.

Bob Cressotti

State Senator John A. Kissel

I’m Honored To

KISSEL

Endorsed By

“It has been an honor and privilege to represent the 7th district in the state Senate. North Central Connecticut is the best place in Connecticut to live, work and raise a family. Together we can make it even better. On November 8th, I ask for your vote so I can continue to be your strong voice in Hartford.”

for By Committee to Re-Elect Senator John A. Kissel, Scott Kaupin, Treasurer. Approved by John A. Kissel

Re-Elect JOHN A. Our State Senator

Fraternal Order of Police Uniformed Professional Fire Fighters Association of Connecticut

Association for Retired Teachers of Connecticut

CT Realtors

CT Independent Party Police Officers Association of Connecticut

Local athlete at Western New England joins fight against Alzheimer’s disease

HOLYOKE, Mass. — On Sept. 25, Cameron Gaylor of Enfield and the Western New England University men’s ice hockey team volunteered in the Walk to End Alzheimer’s event at Holyoke Community College.

Alzheimer’s is a form of dementia that affects memory, thinking, and behavior. An estimated 55 million people world wide are living with dementia. In the United States alone, more than 6 million people have Alzheimer’s, and over 11 million are providing unpaid care.

“Knowing that more than 6 million Americans have Alzheimer’s, and the impact that has on those with Alzheimer’s,

their caregivers, and their families, our players are always super eager to help in any manner they can,’ said Western New England coach Mike Young.

The event raised $184,824, which went directly to The Alzheimer’s Association. All funds raised further the care, support, and research efforts to end Alzheimer's.

Men’s hockey aided in registering participants, handing out snacks, cheer ing people on, as well as setting up and taking down the event. Men’s hockey was joined during the walk by women's ice hockey and both the WNE men’s and women’s wrestling teams.

Providing a necessary spark

A few members of the Enfield Family Resource Center’s Enfield Sparkler team attended the Spark Learning Conference at the Connecticut Science Center on Oct. 18 to share and learn how Sparkler is being used across the state to help families of children birth to age 5 support young children’s growth and develop ment.

Photo courtesy of Enfield Family Resource Center

Western New England University athletes at the Walk to End Alzheimer’s.

Photo courtesy Western New England University

Election 2022Election

Treasurer

Democrat: Eric Russell (who also appears on the Working Families Party ticket).

Republican: Harry Arora.

Independent: Jennifer Baldwin.

Libertarian: JoAnna Laiscell.

Comptroller Democrat: Sean Scanlon (who also appears on the Working Families Party and Independent tickets).

Republican: Mary Fay.

Attorney General

Democrat: Incumbent William Tong (who also appears on the Working Families Party ticket).

Republican: Jessica Kordas. Independent: A.P. Pascarella. Green Party: Ken Krayeske.

Polls will be open on Election Day, Nov. 8, from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. through out north central Connecticut. The locations of town polling places are listed below.

Registered voters who plan to vote in person on Election Day are remind ed to bring an ID.

Acceptable forms include a Social Security card, license, or any other preprinted form of ID that includes the name and address or name and signa ture, or name and photograph.

First-time voters who registered by mail will need to show proof of resi dence as well.

Acceptable forms include a current and valid photo ID that shows your name and address; or a copy of a cur rent utility bill, bank statement, govern ment check, paycheck, or government document that shows your name and address.

The pre-election voter registration cutoff deadline was seven days before Election Day.

If you have not yet registered to vote, Connecticut also has Election Day registration on Election Day itself for voters who need it, however.

If you miss the deadline for register ing for an election, you can register and vote in person on Election Day at your town’s Election Day registration loca tion that is listed on your town’s website.

Local Contests

East Windsor

Polling sites — District 1: Town Hall Annex (25 School St.); District 2: Town Hall (11 Rye St., Broad Brook).

District 1 U.S. Representative

Democrat: Incumbent John B. Larson (who also appears on the Working Families Party ticket).

Republican: Larry Lazur. Green Party: Mary L. Sanders. State Senator, District 3 Democrat: Incumbent Saud Anwar (who also appears on the Working Families Party ticket).

Republican: Matt Harper. State Representative, District 57 Democrat: Incumbent Jaime Foster (who also appears on the Griebel-Frank for CT Party, Working Families Party, and Independent tickets).

Republican: David E. Stavens. State Representative, District 59 Democrat: Matt Despard (who also appears on the Working Families Party and Independent tickets).

Republican: Incumbent Carol Hall. Additional Question on the East Windsor Ballot: “Shall the Town of East Windsor (the “Town”) appropriate $5,000,000 (the “Appropriation”) for the costs of an addition and renovations to the Scout Hall Youth Center (Community Center Project), authorize that up to $1,200,000 of the Town’s Capital and Nonrecurring Fund balance be used to finance a portion of the Appropriation and authorize bonds to be issued in in an amount not to exceed $3,800,000 to finance the balance of such Appropriation?

Ellington

Polling sites: District 1 and 3 –Ellington High School (37 Maple St. ); District 2 – Crystal Lake School (59 South Road).

District 2 U.S. Representative Democrat: Incumbent Joe Courtney. Republican: Mike France.

Libertarian: William Hall.

Green Party: Kevin Blacker. State Senator, District 3 (Voting District 1) Democrat: Incumbent Saud Anwar (who also appears on the Working Families Party ticket).

Republican: Matt Harper. State Senator, District 35 (Voting District 2) Democrat: Lisa Thomas (who also appears on the Independent and Working Families Party tickets).

Republican: Jeff Gordon. State Senator, District 7 (Voting District 3) Democrat: Cynthia Mangini (who also appears on the Working Families Party ticket).

Republican: Incumbent John A. Kissel (who also appears on the Independent ticket).

State Representative, District 57 Democrat: Incumbent Jaime Foster (who also appears on the Griebel-Frank for CT Party, Working Families Party,

and Independent tickets).

Republican: David E. Stavens.

Enfield

Polling sites — District 1: John F Kennedy Middle School (155 Raffia Road); District 2: Enfield Street School (1318 Enfield St.); District 3: Enfield Municipal Annex (formerly Enrico Fermi High School, 124 N. Maple St.); District 4: Henry Barnard School (27 Shaker Road); District 5 – John F Kennedy Middle School (155 Raffia Road); District 6: John F Kennedy

Saud Anwar Matt Harper

Election 2022Election 2022

At left, the sample ballot for Voting Districts 1, 3 and 4 in Enfield. The bal lot includes two questions, one on a state Constitution amendment regarding early voting and the other a local ques tion regarding the appropropriation of money for construction of an addition to the town’s Public Safety Complex.

northcentralnews @aol.com

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Regional Regional

Land Trust volunteers rebuild bridge

Northern Connecticut Land Trust volunteers cleared the trail and erected the Talcott Ravine Bridge again after the previous one was washed down the Tankerhoosen River. Trail maintenance is performed by volunteers. If you are walking a trail and see something that is needed, the Land Trust encourages you to send an email to info @northernctlandtrust.org

Courtesy photos

"I’m running because CT

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Election 2022Election 2022

Ballot in Enfield features state Senate race

Middle School (155 Raffia Road); District 7: Enfield Street School (1318 Enfield St.); District 8: Enfield Municipal Annex (formerly Enrico Fermi High School, 124 N. Maple St. ;

District 9 – Enfield Municipal Annex (formerly Enrico Fermi High School, 124 N. Maple St.); District 10 – Henry Barnard School (27 Shaker Road); District 11 – Henry Barnard School (27 Shaker Road).

District 1 U.S. Representative

Democrat: Incumbent Joe Courtney. Republican: Mike France.

Libertarian: William Hall.

Green Party: Kevin Blacker. State Senator, District 7

Democrat: Cynthia Mangini (who also appears on the Working Families Party ticket).

Republican: Incumbent John A. Kissel (who also appears on the Independent Party ticket).

State Representative, 58th District

Democrat: Incumbent Tom Arnone (who also appears on the Working Families Party ticket).

Republican: Robert A. Hendrickson. State Representative, District 59 Democrat: Matt Despard (who also appears on the Working Families Party and Independent tickets).

Republican: Incumbent Carol Hall.

Additional question on the Enfield ballot: Shall the Town of Enfield appro priate $15,100,000 for the construction of an addition to the town’s Public Safety Complex to provide space for the town’s Emergency Medical Services and Police Department and authorize the issuance of bonds, notes, or tempo

rary notes in an amount not to exceed $2,300,000 to finance the appropria tion, with the remaining $12, 800,000 to be funded by State grants and other available funds?

Somers

Polling site — Somers Town Hall (600 Main St.)

District 1 U.S. Representative Democrat: Incumbent Joe Courtney. Republican: Mike France. Libertarian: William Hall. Green Party: Kevin Blacker. State Senator, District 7 Democrat: Cynthia Mangini (who also appears on the Working Families Party ticket).

Republican: Incumbent John A. Kissel (who also appears on the Independent Party ticket).

State Representative, District 52 Democrat: Greg Dafoe Republican: Incumbent Kurt Vail (who also appears on the Independent Party ticket).

Stafford

Polling sites — District 1 – Stafford Public Library (10 Levinthal Run); District 2 – Stafford Community Center (3 Buckley Highway, Route 190); District 3 – West Stafford Fire Department (144 West Stafford Road, Route 190).

District 1 U.S. Representative

Democrat: Incumbent Joe Courtney. Republican: Mike France.

Libertarian: William Hall. Green Party: Kevin Blacker.

State Senator, District 35 Democrat: Lisa Thomas (who also appears on the Independent and Working Families Party tickets).

Republican: Jeff Gordon. State Representative, District 52 Democrat: Greg Dafoe Republican: Incumbent Kurt Vail (who also appears on the Independent Party ticket).

Suffield

Polling site — Suffield Middle School (350 Mountain Road, Route 168).

District 1 U.S. Representative Democrat: Incumbent Joe Courtney. Republican: Mike France. Libertarian: William Hall. Green Party: Kevin Blacker. State Senator, District 7 Democrat: Cynthia Mangini (who appears on the Working Families ticket).

Republican: Incumbent John A. Kissel (who appears on the Independent ticket). State Representative, District 61 Democrat: Jim Irwin.

Republican: Incumbent Tami Zawistowski (who also appears on the Independent Party ticket).

Cynthia Mangini John A Kissel

Blake Center hosts Academy for Science and Freedom fellow

HILLSDALE, Mich. — Martin Kulldorff, a founding fellow of Hillsdale College’s Academy for Science and Freedom and epidemiolo gist, spoke at the College’s Blake Center for Faith and Freedom on Oct. 6. Kulldorff lectured on “COVID-19 and the Forgotten Principles of Public Health.”

In his address, Kulldorff reviewed the Academy for Science and Freedom’s “Ethical Principles of Public Health,” co-authored by Kulldorff and other prominent scientists and public policy experts.

He argued that public health should focus on the health of the whole popu lation, with a particular focus on the most vulnerable groups.

“Public health is about overall health — all health. It’s not just about a single disease. We can’t just focus on COVID19 because there’s cancer, there's car diovascular disease, there’s mental health, and so on,” said Kulldorff. “In public health, the whole purpose is to take care of the health of the whole pop

ulation … that includes children and those who are most vulnerable, for COVID-19, it’s the older people who are most vulnerable.”

Kulldorff analyzed the response to COVID-19 and said the coercive public health and vaccination policies have caused distrust among the public.

“By forcing the code of vaccines,

there’s much less trust in other vaccines like polio vaccine, which is an impor tant vaccine,” Kulldorff said. “Public health has to be based on voluntary measures.”

Kulldorff concluded his remarks by addressing the conflict of interest in public health, arguing that it is impor tant to have open scientific discussions

and avoid dangerous censorship.

“We can’t shut down scientific dis cussions. When a new pandemic comes, we have a lot we don’t know about and we have to discuss it,” Kulldorff said. “When I have a scientific colleague that thinks differently than me, I don’t want to silence him or her; I want to debate him or her.”

Martin Kulldorff speaks on “COVID-19 and the Forgotten Principles of Public Health”at the Blake Center on Oct. 6.

Photo by Bridget O’Neal courtesy of Hillsdale College

Somers Somers

Local student receives scholarship to RIT

ROCHESTER, N.Y. — Katiya Zawrotny, of Somers, has received a partial scholarship to Rochester Institute of Technology to pursue per forming arts in vocal music.

Zawrotny, a graduate of Somers High School, is a first-year student in the computing exploration program.

Since 2019, more than 1,400 RIT stu dents have received performing arts scholarships, renewable for up to five

years, as long as the students stay involved in performing arts. The stu dents come from each of RIT's nine col leges, with the majority from engineer ing and computer sciences.

RIT President David Munson has said the best students are students who are also involved in performing arts, which allow them to think creatively. For details on the per forming arts program, visit: www/rit.edu/lib eralarts/school-performing-arts.

Somers Baptist Church installs its new pastor

SOMERS — Somers Baptist Church held an Installation Service for its new pastor, Colin Landry, on Oct. 16. Peter Landry and Russell Buisch officiated the service.

Colin Landry and family moved to Somers in August. Before coming to Somers, Landry was the pastor of the Evangelical Baptist Church in Newton, Massachusetts, from 20052021.

Landry grew up in Denver; his wife Tonia is from Hamburg, Germany, and they have five children, two of whom are still at home. Landry graduated from Virginia Beach Theological Seminary with a master of divinity.

He enjoys backpacking in the Colorado mountains, dogs, and the Denver Broncos. The Landrys’ favorite spots in New England include Newport, Rhode Island, Middlebury, Vermont, and Tanglewood.

Somers Baptist Church’s new pastor, Colin Landry, with his wife Tonia.

Photo courtesy of Somers Baptist Church

As an avid reader, Colin enjoys a variety of authors of whom several go by their initials: C.S. Lewis, N.T. Wright, and E.B. White. Also Charles Spurgeon and J.C. Ryle and James Herriot. Add Christopher Ash, Sinclair Ferguson, Fred Sanders. And recently, he’s discovered John Webster and Ivor Davidson.

Students crowd the auditorium during a presentation at Rochester Institute of Technology.

Photo courtesy of Rochester Institute of Technology

Somers Somers

SOMERS — On Sept. 29 the Somers Department of Veterans Affairs honored over 50 Vietnam War Veterans in its second Vietnam War Veterans Commemoration Ceremony in the Town Auditorium.

This was an opportunity for every American to recognize and thank our Vietnam Veterans and their families for their service and sacrifice during one of America’s longest wars.

The keynote speaker was Thomas J. Saadi, commissioner of the Connecticut Department of Veterans Affairs

Veterans received a presidential proclamation, a Vietnam veteran lapel pin, an honor certificate from Deptartmeny of Veterans Affairs, and a certificate of distinction from the town of Somers. Photos will also be taken and provided to each honoree.

Surviving spouses of those who served were also eligible for recogni

tion. This includes veterans classified as “Vietnam Era Veterans” — the period covered is Nov. 1, 1955, to May 15, 1975.

The 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War became official following the pas sage of the National Defense Authorization Act in 2008. By presiden tial proclamation in 2012, the commem oration extends through Veterans Day 2025. The tribute makes no distinction among veterans who served in-country, in-theater or were stationed elsewhere during those two decades. All answered the country’s call to service.

Somers Department of Veterans Affairs (encourages each American to remember and honor the 9 million American men and women – nearly 6 million of whom are living today – who served on active duty in the U.S. armed forces during one of the longest con flicts in our nation’s history,

Gary Carra Sr., above center was one of the veterans recognized at the event, as were Paul Thibodeau, below left with Lt. Gov. Susan Bysiewicz, and William R. Yorns with Bysiewicz.

Photos courtesy Somers Department of Veterans Affairs

Photos by Joshua Esan

Stafford Stafford

New season brings anticipated bridge completion

By Sal P. Titus

STAFFORD — There’s a lot to share

new season in the Town of

The most exciting — and anticipated — is completion of the Leonard Road Bridge. The project remains on schedule with an expected road opening this month.

Following an extremely busy sum mer, our Public Works Department is transitioning equipment and focus to cooler weather initiatives, like leaf pickup that will continue through this month.

Please check the Town website the Public Works/Town Facebook pages for the street-by-street schedule.

Sgt. Joseph Strogoff, who has

worked for the Connecticut State Police for approximately 12-1/2 years, has recently been selected and assigned as our State Police resident trooper ser geant.

Strogoff has served as a patrol super visor at Troop C, Troop K, and Troop D. Prior to his supervisory position, he was a resident trooper in Mansfield for seven years.

Strogoff said he would like to express his excitement as he begins working within the Stafford community and is looking forward to being able to provide a consistent point of contact for policing issues within the town.

As you may know, our town website recently underwent a transformation to improve communication, access to information, and ease of use.

You can easily find information on town meetings, departmental informa

tion, news, and much more.

Residents need to reregister on the new e-notification system to receive alerts and news relevant to our community.

Alerts can be sent via email or text, so you'll never miss a communication about an emergency event or town news item — this is especially impor tant as we approach the season of snow. To register for the e-notification sys tem, please visit staffordct.org/e-noti fy/index.php

The recently established Events & Celebrations Committee is looking for creative, hands-on volunteers wanting to build upon Stafford’s signature events and grow new opportunities for community gatherings.

The goal of this committee is to coordinate meaningful events and cele brations which benefit residents and businesses of Stafford while generating

positive publicity, tourism, and com munity engagement opportunities.

There are also vacancies on the Stafford Family Services Advisory Board, Recreation Commission, and more.

If you are interested in serving on a committee, please visit staffordct.org/gov ernment/boards___commissions/index.ph p for application details.

The Town of Stafford continues to publish quarterly newsletters, helping to share important information, depart mental achievements, community pro grams, events, and more with residents. The publication is available on the Town website, forwarded via the enotification system, and on social media platforms, with hard copies at Town Hall.

Please look for our quarterly distri butions later this month.

Regional Regional

Tattoo expo leaves indelible impression

The 10th annual Tommy’s Tattoo Convention took place Oct. 14-16 at the Connecticut Convention Center in Hartford. The event is organized by Tom Ringwalt.

Photos by Joshua Esan

Suffield Suffield

Hilltop Farm’s restored barn welcomes Oktoberfest

Suffield’s Oktoberfest on Oct. 15 was the first public event in the restored 20,000 square foot barn at Hilltop Farm. Oktoberfest was a joint effort by the Town of Suffield and The Friends of the Farm at Hilltop. There was music by The Dean’s List of Suffield, games from Parks & Recreation, seasonal beers and food provid ed by these local restaurants and food trucks: Cinco de Mayo Food Truck, CPC Craft Meats & Smokehouse, Pacifica asian cuisine, Pierogi Queen, SMOKE BBQ CAFE and Sylvias hot dogs.

Photos courtesy of The Friends of the Farm at Hilltop

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Tami Zawistowski.

Regional Regional

VERNON — Members of the Town of Vernon Fire Department “wet down” a new ladder tower truck dur ing a ceremony on Oct. 29, at the Nye Street Fire Station, 15 Nye St., Vernon.

Tower 541, shown at right, is assigned to the Snipsic Hook & Ladder Company, which was estab lished in 1913 in the Rockville section of Vernon.

The company’s first ladder truck was a horse-drawn apparatus.

The company obtained its first motorized ladder truck, built by Maxim, in 1923.

The new Tower 541 is a 2022 Pierce rear-mount aerial that recently arrived in Vernon. Crews have been training on the $1.1 million truck, which is scheduled to go into service shortly.

The new truck is replacing a 1994 aerial manufactured by E-One, which has served Vernon well, fire officials said.

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